I see the sustained, great work of New Hope Housing, year in and year out. I see them working with clients ranging from single parent families, clients dealing with substance abuse and serving our growing homeless Veteran population--making a difference, and changing lives for the better. I see them in the community working hard to raise awareness of the real reasons behind homelessness. I see them in the media, educating the public on how they can help. The professionals and volunteers that make up the extended New Hope workforce are exemplary, their campaigns to end homelessness are award winning, and they are deserving to be named one of the USA's Great Nonprofits!

Few things in this world are as frightening as having nowhere to call home. When you run out of family, friends and couches and no money for a room, you feel absolutely alone in this world. It is a devastating state of mind. New Hope Housing allows those who find themselves in this situation a way out. They walk through the doors scared, apprehensive, not sure what tomorrow will bring. They find themselves surrounded by people who care for them, who will help them get on the path to sustainable housing. At New Hope they evaluate where they want to be in life. They make the plans and commitments needed to arrive at their desired destination. With the help of a dedicated staff they are able to leave the shelter with an affordable housing arrangement and a new outlook. Peace of mind is New Hopes greatest service for those who were once afraid of what tomorrow would bring.

As a relatively new board member, I am striving to learn all I can concerning the mission of New Hope Housing. However, I can state that the things that I have aleady been involved in reinforces my opinion that this organization serves its community with a dedicated spirit representing the true belief that their mission is to "serve all who need even those who are are non acccepted by others." Their goal of trying to move people from being homeless to being independtly able to have a place to live as well as have a job is never ending. The staff, from the Executive Director to the counseling staff have dedicated themselves to help in this process. I am proud to be a board member of this organization and will strive as long as I am on the board to do all I can as a volunteer to assist New Hope Housing fullfill its goals.

I first encountered New Hope Housing Inc. over a year and a half ago. As a Fairfax County professional in the human services field I found out quickly the great supportive service New Hope Housing provides. I have relied on the Kennedy Shelter to help place numerous clients into safe and secure transitional and permanent housing. The staff within the New Hope Housing sector have a professional and service oriented demeanor. New Hope Housing Inc. is a viable entity and a pillar of hope in the human service community. Oliver Reid
Senior Case Manager VASAVOR Program
OAR of Fairfax County, Inc.

Two years ago I was a single mother with two children who lived a life of instability and uncertainty; until I was given refuge by NHH. I was treated with respect and dignity. The educational programs like Out of Proverty allowed me to reflect on where I was and the many opportunities that were available in the future. My children did not live in shame because of the wonderful services that were provided they thought they were in Summer Camp! My kids were given so much love. While NHH helped me get myself together they made sure my children were stress free. I struggled on my own, but while in the care of NHH I gained peace, a sense of community, and I was no longer in a state of hopelessness about my situation. The staff built me up and gave me valuable resources and support that I carry with me to this day. I am proud to say that when I left those doors I walked away from homelessness for good and have been stable and holding up on my own two feet ever since. I will NEVER forget all of the things this amazing organization has done for me.

As Outreach Chairman for my faith community, we have worked with New Hope Housing on many occasions. New Hope operates efficiently to promote housing options for those in need in our community. Their efforts are significant to move individuals and families from homelessness to home, through shelters, transitional housing, emergency assistance. NHH conducts training for their clients in job and family skills to make the transition possible. The staff works with community volunteers to provide reading support and tutoring for school age children, and life skills mentoring for adults on a one on one basis. They provide a respectful environment for their clients. They are challenged to meet the growing needs in northern Virginia but do so with grace and kindness.

Even though I'm 11, I was a volunteer with my mom and dad at a fundraiser for New Hope Housing. It's great to have fun and help others. Everyone should help New Hope Housing cause they do really good things for people.

As a Girl Scout Leader, we have volunteered with New Hope Housing at their Mondlach family shelter. I think they do fantastic work in assisting families during the tough economic times. As a parent, I like to see organizations teaching parents how to build a strong family.

I came out of prison after almost 20 years. When my parole plan changed, I found myself homeless. But I found a refuge in New Hope Housing's Kennedy Shelter. They provided for my basic needs, while encouraging me to do what it took to stay out -- which I have for over 2 1/2 years. While certainly true that I had to make the mental and moral adjustments necessary to stay out, without the practical, tangible help of New Hope Housing, I believe my obstacles would have been insurmountable. I currently thrive as a law-abiding member of society, having attained a management position in a national retail store. I cannot overstate the importance of New Hope Housing in this achievement.