Caring Times - Fall 2023

Fall 2023

CARING TIMES

FALLING INTO A NEW SEASON AT HOPETREE

Highlights from programs and developments at HopeTree Family Services

CONTENTS Caring Times Fall 2023 Caring Times is published by HopeTree Family Services at 860 Mt. Vernon Lane, Salem, VA 24153.

Advancement@HopeTreeFS.org Phone: (540) 389-2112 Select photos may represent volunteers and not actual clients of HopeTree.

President and Chief Executive Officer Jon Morris Chief Advancement Officer Lisa Clause Editor Chris Dodd HOPETREE FAMILY SERVICES 860 Mount Vernon Lane PO Box 849 Salem, VA 24153 hopetreefs.org (540) 389-5468 © Copyright 2023 by HopeTree Family Services. All editorial rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission. Opinions expressed may or may not reflect the views of HopeTree.

5.

From the CEO

6.

About HopeTree

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Virginia's Silent Crisis

The state of foster care and the urgent need for foster parents.

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The Journey of a Sponsored Residential Provider Meet Joey and Hunter: HopeTree's first sponsored residential family.

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Building Stronger Bonds HopeTree's lastest offering, Family Centered Treatment, is working to reunite and keep families together.

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Chaplains Corner

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HopeGrows Recap Caring Times - Fall 2023

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15.

Tori Hope Petersen speaking at HopeGrows 2023

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HopeTree Family Services, the premier faith-related human services organization in Virginia, offers a wide range of ministries for at-risk children and youth and their families across the state.

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FROM THE CEO

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s we embrace the vibrant colors of fall on our Salem campus and prepare to usher in a season of gratitude and giving, I am delighted to extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt thanks to you through the pages of our Caring Times. I love this season at HopeTree! Not only are the views and beauty of our campus unmatched, but this time of year also allows us to reflect on the incredible work being done at HopeTree and the unwavering support of individuals like you.

In these pages, you will find stories that illustrate the transformative power of Family Centered Treatment, the heartwarming relationships of one of our Sponsored Residential families, and a glimpse of an amazing evening at our signature fundraising event, HopeGrows. These stories are testaments to the remarkable impact we can achieve when we come together as a community, bound by a shared commitment to the well-being of families in need.

We could not be effective in our ministry without your continued support. Your financial contributions have helped us provide essential services to families, children, and individuals who are facing challenges and seeking a path to hope and healing. Your generosity enables us to make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.

However, your support goes beyond dollars and cents. Your prayers and volunteer efforts have created a powerful sense of community and hope at HopeTree. Every prayer uplifts our spirits, and every volunteer hour is a testament to your dedication to our mission. Your involvement, partnership, and support are not just appreciated; it's cherished.

As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of social services and mental health, your support is our guiding light. Together, we can continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals and families who depend on our care and compassion.

This fall, as the leaves fall and the world transforms, let us stand united in our commitment to spreading hope.

Whether you choose to donate, lend your time, or offer a prayer, your contribution is invaluable. Your unwavering support sustains our mission and fuels our passion to show the love of God, foster hope, and empower families, youths and adults to lead fulfilling lives.

Thank you for being a beacon of hope, a source of strength, and a partner in our journey. Your support is the reason we continue to grow and make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.

Sincerely,

Jon Morris President & Chief Executive Officer Caring Times - Fall 2023

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ABOUT HOPETREE Our Misson

Through God’s love, we foster hope by empowering families, youth, and adults to lead fulfilling lives.

Our Vision

To be a beacon of light in the community so all may have hope for a bright tomorrow.

Core Values Ministry

Stewardship

We are servant leaders. We strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus and demonstrate Christ’s love to everyone we come in contact with. We believe we are here for the purpose of going the extra mile while serving those in our care and one another.

We recognize that HopeTree and the resources we are blessed with are not our own. We commit to apply our time, money, talents, and other gifts wisely.

We will work collectively to grow the resources entrusted to us so we can continue this good work.

Excellence

Accountability

We pursue excellence. We commit ourselves to personal. professional, and organizational growth in order to be the best provider of human services in Virginia. We will constantly measure, evaluate, and refine our approach and focus on solutions.

We are accountable to God, our funders. our clients, our board, and one another. We will do the right things at the right time for the right reason. And when we fall short. we will be honest and make it right.

People

We love and care about people. All people have dignity and deserve our respect. Each HopeTree employee is important. We will be intentional in earning the respect of our team members, colleagues, partners, and those we serve. We will assume positive intent of everyone we engage, as we accept that everyone is doing their best. We value healthy relationships, team work, collaboration, support, and creating a healthy work environment.

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OUR PROGRAMS

Therapeutic Foster Care is out of home care by foster parents who received specialized training to provide care for a wide variety of youth while their families work to resolve the issues that brought the child into care.

Our Family Support Program offers individualized coaching and skill development for parents or other caregivers to develop and enhance parenting skills and capacities. We operate offices in Salem, Martinsville, and the greater Richmond area.

Therapeutic Group Homes, located on our Salem campus, provide long-term care for youth aged 11 to 17 years old with an IQ above 67 who need a structured setting in order to best cope with their emotional and behavioral challenges. We enable residents to find stability and make healthier life choices.

HopeTree Academy, is a fully-accredited secondary educational program for students in grades 7 through 12 that require an alternative or specialized setting in order to achieve academic success while they cope with their individual circumstances.

Developmental Disabilities Ministry serves the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities and their families. With community-based homes across Virginia, DDM allows for maximum quality of life, growth, and independence through individual choices and life desires.

Sponsored Residential homes provide 24-hour support for one or two adults who are intellectually and/or developmentally disabled. These individuals may be transitioning from a natural family environment or from a program that has recently closed or downsized.

HopeTree Family Services' Board of Trustees The following individuals selflessly give of their time, talent, and expertise to provide guidance and direction to HopeTree Family Services.

R. Wayne Brockwell Attorney Midlothian

Rev. George H. Fletcher, III Retired Pastor Zion Crossroads

Dr. Kathy Matthews Social Services Director Richmond

Carla Shepherd Financial Professional Roanoke

Dr. Herbert O. Browning Retired Pastor Midlothian

Ann McGee Green Attorney Roanoke

Morgan M. Meador Attorney Richmond

Mark R. Warren Pastor Red House

Ronald J. Clark Project Manager/Consultant Hampton

Sydney Gustafson Attorney Chesterfield

John G. Mizell, Jr. Attorney Richmond

Dr. Patrick Wood Pastor Smithfield

Stephanie Pitsenberger Cook

Attorney Roanoke

Derek T. Hicks Portfolio Manager Roanoke

Mia Pumo Education Consultant Salem

William J. DeWorken Business Owner Chesterfield

Dr. Melissa A. Jackson Adjunct Professor Richmond

Trinette Randolph Program Manager Richmond

Michael Dean Elmore Social Services Director Roanoke

Retired Social Services Director

L. Richard Martin

Patrick N. Shaffner Retired Business Owner Roanoke

Chesterfield

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VIRGINIA'S SILENT CRY:

The Urgent Need for Foster Parents

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ll across Virginia, there is a silent crisis unfolding, one that often goes unnoticed amidst the backdrop of serene landscapes and historic towns. It is a crisis that touches the lives of the most vulnerable among us, the children who have faced unimaginable hardships and adversity. We're talking about the dire shortage of foster parents in Virginia, a pressing issue that demands our immediate attention and collective action.

The Unseen Crisis Across the state of Virginia, there is an alarming deficit of foster homes to accommodate the growing number of children in need. For these children, the absence of a stable and loving home environment can have profound and

lasting effects on their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. The shortage of foster parents exacerbates their trauma, and it's time to shine a light on this issue.

Statistics Tell the Story The numbers are telling. As of May 2023, Virginia had more than 5,000 children in foster care, and that number is steadily rising. However, the number of available foster homes falls drastically short of what's required. A gap of nearly 1,000 foster homes are still needed.

In some areas, there are waiting lists for children who need a safe haven, while many are placed far from their communities, schools, and support networks due to a lack of local placements.

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The Impact on Children The consequences of this shortage are farreaching. Children in the foster care system face greater challenges in terms of education, health, and emotional stability when they are constantly moved from place to place. The shortage of foster parents means that children are often left feeling abandoned and uncertain about their future, which can lead to a host of developmental and psychological issues.

421 DAYS Average length of stay for a youth in

HopeTree's Foster Care Program (FY23)

Source: dss.virginia.gov/geninfo/reports/children/fc.cgi

How You Can Help: 1. Spread Awareness: Share this article and information about the need for foster parents in Virginia on your social media, in your community, and among your friends and family.

2. Support Foster Care Agencies: Connect with us at HopeTree foster care and learn about their needs and how you can help. This could be through volunteering, donations, or providing respite care for our existing foster parents.

3. Consider Becoming a Foster Parent: If you've ever thought about becoming a foster parent, take the first step by reaching out to us to learn more about the process or attending one of our Virtual Information Sessions.

4. Advocate for Policy Changes: Advocate for improved foster care policies, funding, and support at the local and state levels. These changes can help provide better support to both foster parents and the children they care for.

Becoming a Foster Parent If you're considering becoming a foster parent, the process can be both rewarding and challenging. There are resources and support networks available to guide you through the journey. You don't need to be a superhero; you just need to have a big heart and a willingness to make a difference.

The urgent need for foster parents in Virginia is a pressing issue that demands our attention and action. By becoming foster parents, supporting existing foster families, and advocating for better policies, we can create a brighter future for the children who desperately need our help.

Let's work together to ensure that every child in has the opportunity to experience the love and stability of a safe and nurturing home.

The Need for Foster Parents Foster parents are the unsung heroes of our society. They provide a nurturing, stable, and loving environment for children who have experienced trauma and neglect. They offer these children the chance to heal, grow, and thrive. Virginia needs more individuals and families who are willing to open their hearts and homes to these vulnerable children.

5062

Number of children in foster care in Virginia (May 2023)

To learn more about becoming a foster parent,visit www.HopeTreeFosterCare.org Caring Times - Fall 2023

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The Journey of a Sponsored Residential Provider

Joey VanDyke and Hunter Burger

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n the quiet suburbs of Richmond, VA, amidst the neatly manicured lawns and cozy family homes, a remarkable story of compassion and care is unfolding.

Meet Joey VanDyke, HopeTree’s pilot sponsored residential provider who has opened his heart and home to Hunter Burger, an adult with intellectual disabilities. By becoming a sponsored residential provider, Joey is not only changing Hunter’s life but also reshaping our understanding of community, inclusion, and the power of human connection.

What is Sponsored Residential?

Sponsored residential services are an interesting alternative to the group home setting for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Sponsored residential services are often compared to adult foster care in that it provides an opportunity for an individual to live with a private family or single caregiver instead of a home with other residents.

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Caregivers are hired and trained through agencies that are licensed by the state. These caregivers or "sponsors" provide all of the direct care just as the staff in the group home. Sponsors also have the flexibility of providing more one-on-one attention and more opportunities for community integration.

An Adjusted Career Path Joey’s journey as a sponsored residential provider began with a school that specialized in working with people with autism where he worked as a Teacher’s Assistant. This is where he met the Burger family and Hunter roughly 10 years ago where he would also pick up Hunter after school. "What motivated me to go into sponsor residential was that I was looking for something that was fulfilling, gave purpose, and made a difference," explained Joey.

A Part of Each Other’s Lives What was once a quiet house in the suburbs soon transformed into a home filled with laughter, shared meals, and a genuine sense of belonging. "We really developed a bond – one that I didn't and have not had that bond with anybody else," said Joey. "I really just wanted to continue helping him" Joey has provided a family-like atmosphere where everyone feels valued and cherished.

"We really developed a bond – one that I didn't and have not had that bond with anybody else."

-Joey VanDyke Sponsored Residential Provider An average day for Hunter and Joey starts with getting out of bed, preparing Hunter's medicine, helping him use the rest room, dressing, and breakfast. The two can be found doing most anything - whether it's going to the pool, going to brunch, watching sports, or just hanging out at home.

Individualized Care and Support One of the hallmarks of HopeTree’s approach is their commitment to individualized care. Each individual has a tailored care plan that addresses their unique needs, interests, and goals. The person-centered planning process considers the individual’s strengths, capabilities, preferences, lifestyle and cultural background. Sponsored providers are tasked with creating an environment that allows for maximum quality of life and growth through individual choices and life desires.

Sponsored homes provide each person with the opportunity to learn self-advocacy, choice, healthy life habits, behavioral selfmanagement and also develop critical life skills necessary to function as independently as possible.

Community Engagement During the week, Hunter works with the Community Engagement staff from HopeTree. "This allows Hunter to go out into the community and be able to find cool things to do," explains David Glass with HopeTree's Community Engagemetn team. "It gives him the opportunity to go out with the goal of finding unique opportunities and being able to explore. We get to help teach them a lot of things about what it is to be outside in the community and how to interact appropriately with other people. Above all he just really has a great time doing it."

It's not just interspective experiences that Hunter enjoys, but it also helps to develop his social skills.

"There are also benefits with being able to teach him how to communicate properly with other people," said David. " A lot of the times that he's out with us he's talking because he's excited and I really think it's something that enriches his life."

Joey and Hunter's journey as a sponsored residential family is a heartwarming reminder that the most profound changes can start at any time.

Joey's dedication to creating a loving and inclusive environment for Hunter is a beacon of hope, proving that with love, understanding, and a willingness to open our hearts, we can truly make the world a better place, one home at a time.

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Building Stronger Bonds The Power of Family Centered Treatment

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n an ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, one approach has been consistently proving its worth at HopeTree: Family Centered Treatment (FCT.) This familycentric model, which prioritizes the involvement of family members in the care process, is increasingly gaining recognition for its numerous benefits.

FCT a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the healing power of togetherness. In the face of life's greatest challenges, families united in their unwavering support can not only weather the storm but emerge from it stronger, more connected, and deeply transformed. The impact of this approach transcends medical records and treatment plans; it touches the very essence of what it means to be a family—loving, caring, and healing together.

What is Family Centered Treatment?

Family Centered Treatment (FCT) addresses the needs of a family as a whole, recognizing that what affects one family member affects all family members. The program is home- and community-based by nature, providing a more intensive m ­ ultiple hours per week-and collaborative approach to addressing family system breakdown.

FCT serves as a prevention, stabilization and reunification model. Fitting beautifully into HopeTree'scontinuum of services, we can continue to partner with the Department of Social Services, schools, and other community partners to prevent children and families from coming into the child welfare system. If a child is already in care, we can implement FCT as a way to support foster families in stabilizing a youth within a home to prevent traumatic disruptions of placement. This model is also used as a stepdown form of treatment from higher levels of care, such as HopeTree's Therapeutic Group Homes. The transition home is often the most difficult for youth, and children often return to care. Crucial in supporting families through intentional preparation for the child returning home, FCT helps address generational traumas. From this position, we can target the specific area(s) of family functioning, identified by the family, as the greatest barrier for the child to return home.

FCT: The Power to Reunite

A model of resilience and transformation, one family's journey from disorder to newfound hope and unity has been one of HopeTree’s best successes. This inspiring story began with parent coaching at HopeTree, eventually leading to the successful reunification of a mother and her three children who were all placed in foster care.

The mother's path to this triumphant reunion was fraught with adversity from her early years, as she navigated in and out of institutions and grappled with the enduring challenges of her mental health. Her reputation was one of aggression, anger, and explosiveness, making the prospect of reunification with her children seem daunting.

However, the tide began to turn when the mother, against all odds, built a bond of trust with a HopeTree parent coach. This dedicated coach served as a guiding light, assisting the family in transitioning towards a Family Centered Treatment (FCT) program. The process of reunification started with one child at a time, ensuring a gradual and well-planned approach to family restoration.

Under the FCT program, the mother undertook a remarkable journey of self-improvement, learning how to parent, reconnect, and provide for her children.

Simultaneously, the children themselves embarked on a journey of healing, discovering how to trust their mother, share their deepest feelings, and navigate the turbulent waters of transition.

FCT enabled us to become a true family for the first time.

-Mom of family that participated in FCT The momentous day arrived when their participation in Family Centered Treatment concluded, and the family was finally reunited. Overwhelmed with emotion, the mother shared her gratitude, stating that she would never have been able to have her children back if it weren't for HopeTree and the FCT team's unwavering support. She further emphasized that it was FCT that enabled them to become a true family for the first time. These children, who had never truly lived with their mother, had spent their lives with other family members or in foster care, and even endured their mother's absence during her incarceration.

The story of this family serves as a powerful reminder that, with the right support and dedication, even the most challenging circumstances can be transformed into stories of triumph and hope.

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CHAPLAIN'S CORNER JOEL ELMORE CHAPLAIN & ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR

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t is with great joy and a heart full of hope that I introduce myself as your new Chaplain. My journey to this role has been shaped by a deep passion for ministry and a profound commitment to bringing the light of Christ to those who need it most.

To give you a little about my background, I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Covenant College. This was the start of my academic journey that allowed me to explore the depths of the human soul and its need for spiritual healing and hope. My educational path continued at Liberty University, where I earned a Master of Divinity in Pastoral Counseling. Throughout my time in seminary, I had the privilege of receiving the Charles Keesee Fund Scholarship, an honor that holds special significance for us here at HopeTree, as it bears the name of our own chapel.

I was ordained at Mill Creek Baptist Church in Fincastle, VA, where I had the distinct pleasure of serving as the Minister of Youth and Discipleship.

This experience allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative power of faith and the hope it brings to individuals and communities.

My roots in the Baptist General Assembly of Virginia run deep, and I am proud to be a part of this faith tradition, which places great emphasis on love, compassion, and community.

As I step into my role as Chaplain at HopeTree, I find myself inspired and humbled by the unique opportunity before me. We are privileged to serve many residents each day who have faced unimaginable suffering and hardship. It is my fervent belief that every day, in my role as Chaplain, I have the privilege to point our residents to the hope and love of Christ. It is through this ministry of hope that

we can help our residents regain a sense of purpose and faith in Christ's transformative power.

To achieve this mission, I have several exciting initiatives in mind: Firstly, I aim to continue strengthening the relationships we have with local churches and to establish new partnerships. It is through these connections that we can more effectively fulfill our mission statement: "Through God's love, we foster hope by empowering families, youth, and adults to lead fulfilling lives." Specifically, I am working closely with church leaders to provide spiritual care to our DDM (Developmental Disabilities Ministry) residents more consistently throughout the state.

Another endeavor I am enthusiastic about is bringing back the monthly chapel for our dedicated staff. In the past, this was a wonderful opportunity for our staff to come together for worship, encouragement, and fellowship. It is my hope that we can rekindle this source of spiritual nourishment and community.

Part of my redefined role as Chaplain includes planning and organizing activities. This aspect of my job primarily focuses on our Therapeutic Group Homes, where I work to provide engaging and meaningful activities for our residents. In recent months, these activities have included trips to the Starcade, attending a hockey game, participating in "Fields of Faith" (an event hosted by the Roanoke Valley Fellowship of Christian Athletes), and celebrating with a Halloween party. Looking ahead to December, we are excited about the upcoming Christmas party, a visit to Illuminights, and a nativity scene event.

I am deeply honored to be a part of the HopeTree family and am enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with each of you in bringing hope and faith to our residents and staff. Together, we can create a positive and transformative impact on the lives of those we serve .

Thank you for your warm welcome and for allowing me the privilege of serving as your Chaplain. I look forward to walking this journey of faith and hope together with you.

In His Service, Joel Elmore Chaplain & Activities Coordinator Caring Times - Fall 2023

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HOPEGROWS 2023

ith more than 150 guests in attendance, we held our first HopeGrows fundraising event on September 7 at the Taubman Museum in Roanoke, Virginia. The event brought together philanthropists, community leaders, and compassionate individuals who share a common goal of elevating HopeTree’s programs while making a positive impact on those they serve.

The dinner and silent auction fundraiser raised $56,000 to support the mental and behavioral health services HopeTree provides to families across Virginia. Silent auction packages included a mix of experimental packages and goods, including items such as event tickets, hotel stays, helicopter rides, autographed guitars, jewelry, art, and more. Guests were also entertained by the jazz offerings of Flat Five Jazz from Lynchburg, Virginia.

Additional support for the event came through generous sponsorships from our partners at WSLS 10, The Roanoke Times, Atlantic Union Bank, Platinum Heat & Air, United Healthcare Community Plan, McGriff Insurance Services, and Truist.

News anchor for WSLS 10, the Roanoke NBC affiliate, Jenna Zibton served as master of ceremonies in a night that was highlighted by keynote speaker Tori Hope Petersen. Tori is the best-selling author of Fostered and a sought-after National Speaker inspiring audiences to change the world by simply loving their neighbor. Winner of the Mrs. Universe pageant and a Track and Field AllAmerican in college, Petersen is an advocate in foster care, telling her story about being a former foster youth and overcoming obstacles through her faith.

The biggest surprise came in the form of Emaleigh Smith when she was honored with a fullride scholarship to the University of Lynchburg by the President of the university, Dr. Alison Morrison-Shetlar. At the age of 12, Emaleigh was the first child ever featured during 30 Days of Hope on WSLS 10, the Roanoke NBC affiliate, when the project started in 2017. 10 News partners with HopeTree for 30 Days of Hope, where every November they show children in Virginia who can be adopted.

We are grateful to our event sponsors and attendees, whose unwavering support made HopeGrows possible.

Their commitment to HopeTree’s mission and dedication to transforming lives demonstrates the power of collaboration in effecting real change. We look forward to seeing everyone in Richmond at next year’s HopeGrows in September 2024!

150+

ATTENDANCE

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SILENT AUCTION PACKAGES

$56,000 RAISED

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PO Box 849 Salem, VA 24153

TO MAKE A REFERRAL

Phone: 1-877-859-1002 Email: referrals@hopetreefs.org

ADMINISTRATION Salem 860 Mt. Vernon Lane PO Box 849 Salem, VA 24153 Phone: (540) 389-5468

Richmond/Chester 1030 Old Bon Air Road PO Box 35615 N. Chesterfield, VA 23235 Phone: (804) 201-9006

THERAPEUTIC GROUP HOMES Salem Phone: (540) 387-4993 Fax: (540) 387-5082 After Hours/ Weekend Placements Phone: (540) 444-4697

HOPETREE ACADEMY Salem 862 Mt. Vernon Lane PO Box 849 Salem, VA 24153 Phone: (540) 389-4941

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES MINISTRY Salem Phone: (540) 238-8472 Richmond/Chester Phone: (804) 201-9006

THERAPEUTIC FOSTER CARE Salem 860 Mt. Vernon Lane Salem, VA 24153 Phone: (540) 387-4993 Fax: (540) 387-5082 Martinsville 300 Franklin Street, Suite 220 Martinsville, VA 24112 Phone: (276) 790-3720 Richmond/Chester 1030 Old Bon Air Road N. Chesterfield, VA 23235 Phone: (804) 201-9006 Fax: (804) 717-5121