There are some moments that feel big, and this is one of them.

By “big,” I mean something that matters deeply to me. And because of that, I’ve found it a little hard to know exactly what to say. I just knew I wanted to say something.

I keep going back to those early days—before 2010, before Family Hope Foundation existed. Back to a time when it was a dream.

I can still picture those conversations. There wasn’t a roadmap —just a shared sense that families needed more, and a belief that maybe, together, we could build it.

And we did.

Not all at once, and not because of one person. Little by little, something meaningful took shape because people showed up, stayed committed, and cared deeply.

Families trusted us with their stories, their hopes, and the things that mattered most. Therapy providers shared their expertise and partnership. Donors believed in the possibility of what could be built. Board members gave their time, energy, encouragement, and care.

Together, you helped create something necessary. Something lasting.

That’s always been the heart of Family Hope Foundation. It’s never been about a handful of people. It has always been about the collective. The many people who firmly believe that children with disabilities and their families deserve support, connection, and the opportunities to thrive.

What has been built belongs to all of us.

And because I care so deeply about this place—the families, the people, the mission, the big picture and the smallest of details—it hasn’t been easy to find the right words for this next part.

While it wasn’t my original plan, I’ll be retiring in January.

This organization has become a part of my DNA. So, even now, it feels a little strange to say this out loud. But it also feels right, much like it did when I stepped back from leadership and trusted where things were headed.

When I look at Family Hope Foundation today, what I feel most is gratitude. What has been built is steady and real. It has been shaped by people who care. People who show up. People who stay committed.

I’ve just been one part of this, and I’m deeply thankful I got to be.

Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your belief in what is possible when a community comes together for families.

Family Hope Foundation will always have a piece of my heart. And I will always be grateful for what we built together.

With gratitude,
Jane Eppard

P.S. The last few years I’ve had the joy of collaborating with two of the best co-workers, Jen and Madeline. Our team was solid, and it felt good. When I sit back and take the long view, I see really exciting things for them, the organization, and especially the families we serve. Family Hope Foundation is here to stay.