When I first learned about Family Hope Foundation over a year ago, it was by pure happenstance–and what a blessing that turned out to be! As I began to understand more about the mission and work of Family Hope Foundation, and its incredible impact on the lives of so many families, I knew it was an organization I needed to not only know more about, but become a part of.

The numbers alone are impressive! We’ve granted more than 1,800 therapy scholarships. We host 3-4 fun, stress-free, and inclusive events each year. We collaborate with more than 70 therapy providers throughout our eleven-county service area. We’ve partnered with Celebration Cinema for more than ten years to offer multiple discounted sensory movie showings to families throughout the year. We’ve come a long way in fifteen years, and we have so much farther to go!

What’s even more important, though, is that behind these numbers are meaningful stories. Behind these numbers are real people.

I’ve had the privilege to virtually meet Gramm, one of our very first scholarship recipients many years ago, and learn how the therapy for his spina bifida truly changed his life. He is now nineteen, working full time, and recently purchased his own truck. He is a true inspiration! 

I was honored to visit one of our therapy providers and be allowed a quick peek at Vivian’s therapy in action. Her mom has said that she just loves seeing the proud look on Vivian’s face once she accomplishes something she’s worked so hard for. May we all “Live like Viv!”

I was delighted to meet Mateo and his family, along with many others, at our Polar Express movie event last December. So many smiles and so much fun! 

For the majority of the past twenty-five years, I’ve felt called to walk alongside people that may be in the margins–those that bump up against barriers, those that have limited access to opportunities, those that often aren’t given a chance to fully participate. This is where my heart is and why it was a perfect match with Family Hope Foundation, who believes wholeheartedly in the idea that “Not only are you invited, but you truly belong.” 

I’ve valued the opportunity to immerse myself in the disability community; what I’ve loved even more, though, has been the opportunity to connect with families and scholarship recipients–that’s what really stirs my heart, and I know as a friend to Family Hope Foundation, it’s what stirs your heart, too.

At its core, Family Hope Foundation is about providing HOPE, believing in the value of all people, and understanding the deep need for community. 

HOPE is not just a word we like to use–it’s a living, breathing part of who we are and everything we do. It’s in each and every child, individual, and family we meet. It’s in the stories we write, the events we host, the resources we do our best to provide. It’s in the community we continue to build. It’s in our unwavering belief in the ability, value, and worth of each and every person. 

No matter how you might be involved with Family Hope Foundation, please know that it’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of real people. 

There is nothing we can’t accomplish together. Every family we support, every life we touch, is a chance to bring about meaningful change. You get to choose to give HOPE … which is something I know I’ll choose time and time again! 

Warmly,
Jennifer Roudebush
Executive Director