HOPE NC

I've had the unique opportunity to be involved with this community-based non-profit for several years and in several roles. First, I started as a volunteer during the pandemic and as I obtained a more detailed understanding of the goals of the organization, I had the honor of being named to the board.

This non-profit is focusing on increasing the quality of life for all families dealing with an intellectual developmental disabilities through identifying and building inclusive and affordable housing. The amount of work done by by the volunteers and the small staff has been truly amazing throughout the years. The administration of this nonprofit stretches every donation to the fullest and is working to insure that all individuals with IDD can live life to the fullest-with a true sense of belonging.

Hope NC created by a phenomenal group of women who have put on display how small beginnings can lead to phenomenal achievements when compassion is channeled into action, focus, and motivation to power forward no matter what challenges come in the way. Always bringing a family atmosphere centered around fun mixed with valuable information with the goal of companionship of parents and love ones; the monthly outings always appear to uplift and empower everyone who attends. Fall brings the amazing workshop which has grown every year, well organized using up to date technology, interesting vendors and a wonderful lunch!! This is a class act!!

HOPE NC has sponsored two housing conferences (with another on the way) that focus on housing options for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These conferences have helped to galvanize many individuals and organizations to work on this issue across the state. Furthermore, HOPE NC has started a forum for these organizations to share their knowledge and efforts, while also playing a role as an advocate amongst state politicians. Our state of North Carolina has benefitted from their efforts, and I am sure there is much more to come.

HOPE NC addresses a critical issue: where will adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) live when aging caregivers can no longer care for them? This highlights the severe shortage of inclusive housing options for adults with I/DD.

HOPE NC's innovative approach to promoting accessible living deserves recognition. Their key strengths include:

Visionary Impact: Creating an inclusive housing model for both I/DD individuals and older adults.
Creative Problem-Solving: Devising innovative solutions and building partnerships to provide more housing options.
Passionate Advocacy: Highlighting the housing crisis while expanding its organizational impact.
Collaborative Excellence: Uniting diverse groups to create comprehensive housing solutions.

HOPE NC's dedication to integrating individuals with I/DD and older adults into communities is commendable. Their leadership, problem-solving, advocacy, and collaboration have significantly improved lives.

By providing diverse living options and ensuring inclusion, HOPE NC is transforming communities and setting an example for addressing this critical issue.

I wholeheartedly endorse HOPE NC and look forward to their continued advancements in providing inclusive, community-integrated housing solutions for those with I/DD and older adults.

As a co-founder and board member, I've had the privilege of witnessing the incredible evolution of this nonprofit. What began as a shared vision among three passionate individuals has blossomed into a vibrant organization with far-reaching impact. HOPE NC has cultivated a robust network of support, uniting community stakeholders, housing leaders, families, and disability agencies in a common purpose.

This organization has become a beacon for those seeking intentional and inclusive communities, fostering connections and empowering individuals throughout the state. Under the capable leadership of Executive Director Laura Wells and a dedicated board of directors, HOPE NC is steadily achieving the ambitious goals we set back in 2018.

I'm immensely proud to be part of this journey and eager to see the continued growth and positive change that HOPE NC is bringing to our communities.

We are so impressed with HOPE NC! They are looking for creative solutions to the housing problem face by people with different abilities. They have a vision that NC has never had before and they are trying to educate the NCDHHS, other organizations, and parents. Together, we can hope they lead us to solutions!

I'm the parent of an adult son with autism. My main interest in this group is because of their focus on increasing supportive and community-based housing options. This group is working hard to advocate for change in the state of NC, which is way behind other states in terms of the availability of adequate housing. This group is making progress in advocating for change and in creating opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so I fully support the work they're doing and applaud how much they've already accomplished in just six years since HOPE NC was founded. This group is well respected and has become a leader in the state. I'm proud to be involved with HOPE NC and look forward to the changes they will continue to bring about in the future.

HOPE is helping my adult son with autism to be able to live in his own apartment in the community. They are working to develop housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities which is a large need across the US.

Hope NC is collaborative, innovative and -above all - focused on the needs of their constituents.

In these troubling times, it was wonderful to find an organization as professional and caring as Hope in finding adult housing alternatives for my sister. What could have been a daunting effort became a great relief.

I'm glad to write a review for this worthwhile organization with of my good friends are co-founders. Their efforts have raised my consciousness about the needs for creative, local housing communities specifically designed for adults w/ disabilities. I have been impressed with the organization's sincerity of purpose, clear focus, and dynamic leadership. I completely endorse this community effort to build housing for a critically underserved population.

There's such an enormous unmet need for housing for adults with developmental disabilities! Thank you HOPE NC, for working tirelessly to provide hope for wonderful, loving and deserving people like my nephew.

My sister has intellectual disabilities and can't live at home with my aging mother any more. I've been looking for resources and found Hope North Carolina to be a very helpful site.

As a parent of an adult child with an intellectual and developmental disability, HOPE gives me hope for the future of my son. Finding sustainable, inclusive housing is rare for those with disabilities. I support HOPE's goal to create an innovative community for those with and without disabilities.

Hope NC is working to help me realize my dream of living in an inclusive community where I will know my neighbors and feel welcome and safe.

I am the Co-Director of HANDmeUPs Thrift in Raleigh, NC. We employ adults with autism and other intellectual disabilities. We have been following the progress of HOPE NC and are not only impressed by what this group is doing but really believe in it. There aren’t enough living options for persons with disabilities. Group homes often treat residents like children and the homes of parents, although positive in many ways, are not options for the long-term; after all, we expect our children to outlive us. HOPE NC is looking to a create a community-based solution. I encourage others to get involved. You don’t even need a family member with a disability. You just need to believe in the right of dignity for all.

Outstanding nonprofit that really is working to keep parents informed of options available , while also urging us to advocate when there are opportunities to do so.

As a parent who has an adult child with an intellectual and developmental disability living in the triangle area of North Carolina, I am grateful to support the vision of HOPE as they work to create an inclusive community for my child and others.

As a parent with a adult special needs son, I am grateful for this group as we have a lot of work to do to try to get him independent living with supports and a roommate. Everybody has been very nice and provided me with info I did not know.

As a parent of an individual with developmental disabilities we are always fearful of where he will live and what will happen when we are no longer able to support him. HOPE has recognized this need and is working to create an intentional community where all people, this with and without disabilities can live in a community. We love their mission and hope it will come to fruition!