Caring Times - Spring 2024

CARING TIMES

18. HOPETREE HAPPENINGS

8. THE MINISTRY OF PRESENCE

The faith journey for residents and discovering healthy faith communities.

9.

MONTH OF MISSIONS

Clearview Wesleyan Church in Martinsville partners with HopeTree to share insights into our impactful work.

10. GROWTH & IMPACT

Highlights from HopeTree's FY2022-2023 Impact Report.

Caring Times Spring 2024

5. FROM THE CEO

6. ABOUT HOPETREE

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

Honoring Mr. Warren C. Watson, Jr.'s life and philanthropy with a scholarship for graduating high school students.

The plan to transform HopeTree's Salem campus into a more walkable, sustainable community.

Our faith partners help bring the comforts of home to the youth at HopeTree.

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.

FROM THE CEO

Supporters Dear Partners and Supporters,

Legacy is a powerful force that shapes our present and impacts our future. It is the essence of what we leave behind, the impact we make, and the lives we touch. At HopeTree Family Services, we exist and thrive today because of the legacies of so many individuals, churches, and organizations who have partnered with us over the years. In this edition of our Caring Times, we are thrilled to share with you three inspiring stories that exemplify the spirit of legacy within our organization.

First, we highlight the enduring legacy of Warren C. Watson, Jr. Warren's passion for education and unwavering commitment to helping others have left an indelible mark at HopeTree. In his honor, HopeTree proudly awards a scholarship to one of our deserving graduates each year. Through this scholarship, we not only commemorate Warren's memory but also empower future generations to pursue their dreams and create positive change in the world.

Next, we bid a fond farewell to our esteemed Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Johnnie Nash. After four decades of dedicated service to HopeTree, Johnnie is retiring, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, integrity, and compassion. His impact on our organization and the countless lives he has touched will be felt for years to come. We express our deepest gratitude for his tireless efforts and wish him a fulfilling and joyous retirement.

Finally, we are excited to share our plans for the future as we embark on a journey to redesign and integrate our campus. With a vision to enhance our facilities, repurpose our historical buildings for future use, and create new opportunities for new services, housing, and commercial possibilities, we are committed to building a stronger, more vibrant community for all. Through this ambitious endeavor, we honor the legacy of HopeTree while embracing the promise of tomorrow.

As we reflect on these stories of legacy, we are reminded of the profound impact that each of you, our partners and supporters in our ministry, has had on our mission. Your unwavering dedication and generosity have enabled us to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals and families. Together, we are shaping a brighter future and leaving a legacy of hope for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to the mission of HopeTree Family Services. Together, we can build a legacy of compassion, empowerment, and opportunity for all.

With gratitude,

Jon Morris President & Chief Executive Officer

ABOUT HOPETREE

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.

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

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy is a form of mental health psychotherapy featuring interactions with equines. Clients work towards therapeutic goals in a session by interacting with the equines. It is an alternative to traditional, sit down talk therapy; however, the goals are the same as talk therapy.

During sessions clients often see the equine(s) as metaphors to something related to their goals. Some activities are designed and incorporated by the team to help the client reach their therapeutic goals, but these activities never involve mounted work.

HopeTree Family Services' Board of Trustees

Dr. Kim Baskette Professor & Program Director Roanoke

R. Wayne Brockwell Attorney Midlothian

Dr. Herbert O. Browning Retired Pastor Midlothian

Ronald J. Clark Project Manager/Consultant Hampton

William J. DeWorken Business Owner Chesterfield

Michael Dean Elmore Social Services Director Roanoke

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

Sydney Gustafson Attorney Chesterfield

Tracy Hale Insurance Broker Salem

Derek T. Hicks Commercial Real Estate Roanoke

Dr. Melissa A. Jackson Adjunct Professor Richmond

L. Richard Martin Retired Social Services Director Chesterfield

Dr. Kathy Matthews Chief Clinical Officer Richmond

Morgan M. Meador Attorney Richmond

John G. Mizell, Jr. Attorney Richmond

Mia Pumo Education Consultant Salem

Trinette Randolph Program Manager Richmond

Laura Riha Educational Support Specialist Roanoke

Patrick N. Shaffner Retired Business Owner Roanoke

Carla Shepherd Financial Professional Roanoke

Dr. Patrick Wood Pastor Smithfield

Richard Wright Reitred CEO Richmond

OUR FOUNDATION

O ur Vision

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

O ur Misson

Through God’s love, we foster hope by empowering

To achieve this goal, we must work together to achieve our strategic objectives.

To achieve this goal, everyone in the organization must embrace and live our core values.

THE MINISTRY OF PRESENCE

JOEL ELMORE CHAPLAIN & ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR

On an average day, I field about 10-15 questions. Some of those questions are theological, and others are generally about life. Out of the hundreds of questions I have fielded, the best question I received this year was, “Pastor Joel, how do I keep doing devotions when I leave HopeTree?” This question brings me a lot of joy because it highlights an excitement and curiosity about faith that I have experienced from many of our residents. It also highlights the opportunity to connect students to faith groups such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes, YoungLife, and local churches.

As the chaplain, I meet residents where they are by consistently showing up at the lunch table, the basketball court, or just spending time in the school. In these moments, a lot of real ministry happens. From just showing up, there are often conversations that are stirred by residents seeking to understand who they are, who God is, and what it looks like to have a relationship with Jesus. In these conversations I tackle a lot of misconceptions about God, such as do I need to do more good than bad to go to heaven. Thankfully, the answer to that question is “no, we can trust that Christ's death and resurrection was sufficient to pay for our sins and to give us a new life.”

Many seeds are planted in these moments, and the work of praying that they will grow begins. As an organization, we are just a piece of the puzzle in each one of the residents’ lives and faith journeys. We are on their journey for a short period, making it crucial to help our residents discover healthy faith communities that can support them as they grow in the faith. And that is why, as a Chaplain at HopeTree, my biggest goals have been to strengthen relationships with local churches throughout the state.

As I look ahead, my focus remains on strengthening relationships with local churches and faith communities throughout the state. These partnerships are crucial in supporting our residents as they continue their faith journeys. Together, we will continue to walk alongside our residents, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support as they deepen their relationship with God.

Joel Elmore Chaplain & Activities Coordinator

MONTH OF MISSIONS

During the month of February, Clearview Wesleyan Church in Martinsville graciously partnered with HopeTree Family Services for their annual 'Month of Missions'. Each Sunday in that month, a representative from HopeTree joined the church service to share insights into our impactful work.

We'd like to recognize some of the staff that participated:

• Samantha Edwards, Regional Director of Development, gave an overview of HopeTree, our programs and organizational mission.

• Amy Carroll, Equine Program, talked to the benefits of Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy.

• Dr. Challen Mabry, Chief Clinical Officer and Alyssa Pond, Business Development Associate, discussed HopeTree's Clinical Services, Therapeutic Foster Care, and Sponsored Residential Program.

• Brooke Smith, Regional Director of DDM, gave an overview of our DDM Program.

This month was a wonderful opportunity for us to share the stories of change and impact that your support has helped us to create.

The more we can educate other about the vital programs we are a part of, the more we can strengthen the bonds within our community. We are so thankful to be able to come together with Clearview Wesleyan Church to celebrate the work we both to touch lives.

GROWTH & IMPACT

We are thrilled to share with you a sample of the impact that your generosity and support has made possible at HopeTree Family Services in our FY2022-2023 Impact Report.

Throughout the year, HopeTree Family Services has remained steadfast in its mission to provide essential services to those in need. Through our diverse programs including Foster Care, Therapeutic Group Homes for youth, private day education through HopeTree Academy, support for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and a variety of clinical interventions for those we serve, we have changed the lives of so many, offering them hope, support, and opportunities for growth.

Therapeutic Group Homes

Clinical Services

Developmental Disabilities Ministry

Therapeutic Foster Care

HopeTree Academy

Outpatient Counseling Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)

Adult Group Homes

Sponsored Residential Community Engagement

These outcomes are a testament to the dedication of our staff, the resilience of the individuals and families we serve, and the unwavering support of donors and community partners.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to our mission of transforming lives and building brighter futures for those in need. With your continued support, we will strive to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and create lasting positive change in the lives of even more individuals and families.

This report is just a sample of the outcomes and growth we've experienced over the past year. We encourage you to view our full impact report at www.hopetreefs.org/Impact-reports or scan the QR code with your smartphone or tablet.

Honoring a Legacy

The Warren C. Watson, Jr. Scholarship Fund

In the fabric of every community, there are individuals whose lives leave an indelible mark of compassion, service, and dedication. Such was the essence of Warren C. Watson, Jr., a man whose legacy continues to inspire through the establishment of the Warren C. Watson, Jr. Scholarship Fund. This fund stands as a testament to his life of philanthropy and commitment to nurturing future generations.

Warren Carl Watson Jr. was more than just a name; he was a beacon of light in his community. Born on June 23, 1929, in Bedford, VA, his journey was one defined by selflessness and service. His tenure as a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army, stationed in Korea, demonstrated his bravery and commitment to duty. Through meritorious service, he played a vital role in ensuring the tactical and strategical functioning of critical military operations.

Beyond his military service, Watson's life was a tapestry woven with threads of kindness and generosity. His professional career with the Virginia Telephone and Telegraph Company spanned nearly five decades, retiring as a customer service supervisor in 1988. However, it was his endeavors outside the realm of his professional duties that truly set him apart.

Watson's heart for volunteerism knew no bounds. From local initiatives like the Shenandoah Baptist Mission to international missions in places like the Czech Republic and Germany, his altruistic spirit touched lives across the globe. Whether it was rebuilding homes after natural disasters or renovating seminaries, Watson was always at the forefront of efforts to alleviate suffering and bring hope to those in need.

His dedication to service was not confined to distant shores. Watson was deeply involved in his local church, Marlow Heights Baptist Church, where he served as a Trustee, deacon, Sunday School teacher, and choir member for many decades. Despite not having children of his own, he embraced the role of

mentor and father figure to countless individuals, leaving an enduring legacy of love and guidance.

In 2023, the world bid farewell to Warren C. Watson, Jr., but his impact continues to reverberate through the lives he touched and the causes he championed. It is in this spirit of remembrance and honor that Mr. Watson's cousin, Elois Woodard, and her husband, Wayne, worked with HopeTree to establish the Warren C. Watson, Jr. Scholarship Fund.

This scholarship, available to graduating high school students involved with HopeTree Family Services, symbolizes Watson's belief in the power of education and his unwavering commitment to fostering growth and opportunity. By providing financial support to deserving individuals, the fund ensures that Watson's legacy of compassion and service lives on in future generations.

Each year, one graduating senior is awarded the Warren C. Watson, Jr. Scholarship, representing not only a recognition of academic achievement but also a celebration of character and community involvement. Through this scholarship, recipients are encouraged to carry forward the values exemplified by Watson – integrity, compassion, and a dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.

As we reflect on the life and legacy of Warren C. Watson, Jr., we are reminded that the true measure of a person's life lies not in the wealth they amass or the accolades they receive, but in the impact they have on the world around them. The Warren C. Watson, Jr. Scholarship Fund stands as a fitting tribute to a man whose life was a testament to the transformative power of service and kindness. In honoring his memory, we inspire future generations to follow in his footsteps and continue the legacy of making a positive difference in the world.

Warren C. Watson Scholarship Fund

Created to honor Mr. Watson’s life and philanthropy. This scholarship is available to a graduating high school student that has been involved with HopeTree Family Services through any program.

Warren C. Watson, Jr.

A VISION FOR HOPE

In the tranquil landscapes of Salem, Virginia, a remarkable transformation is underway. The HopeTree Rezoning Project, a visionary initiative aimed at repurposing space on HopeTree's Salem campus and nurturing community bonds, is taking root. The plan is based on the core design principles of “new urbanism” that embrace walkability, sustainability, connectivity, and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings. Along with updating HopeTree facilities, the plan envisions a mix of market-rate homes, recreation amenities and public gathering spaces. The plan is designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing landscape to not only take advantage of the property’s views, topography and green spaces, but to minimize the community’s impact on the environment.

Why Now?

The question has been asked, why is HopeTree considering this kind of project now? The reality is, we are at another inflection point in the history of our organization. In the last 30 years, HopeTree has changed tremendously. The work we do today is much more challenging and much more specialized than at any point in our history. Residential care in a congregate, campus style setting is no longer the preferred method to serve youth and adults. Additionally, funding sources have mandated that group homes be integrated into the communities to aid in their care.

• While there will continue to be a need for shortterm residential care, HopeTree will never have hundreds of children living on the Salem campus again. The most we will be able to serve on the Salem campus is 16 residents. Previously, when

children came to the Baptist Home, most stayed until they turned 18. Today, the youth that come to HopeTree stay on average, six months.

• Most of the buildings on campus were constructed between 1900 and 1966 and are not equipped to provide quality residential, mental and behavioral health care today. Furthermore, we have six buildings that are vacant and will never be used by HopeTree for services again.

Throughout this process, we have continuously been mindful of three goals for this project:

1. Honor our History.

We want to honor HopeTree’s history by staying on the property where it was founded in 1890. We will not tear down any of the beautiful and historic buildings on the campus and will continue to tell the story of HopeTree’s rich and meaningful history. Plans include investments in a new museum and place placards on all of the historic buildings to tell the story of what they once were.

2. Position HopeTree for the future.

We will do this by investing millions of dollars to create new, modern homes for residents and spaces for team members to serve the community. We also plan to invest in new, nontraditional methods of therapy to better serve youth and families.

3. Do something that the community would be proud of.

We will do this by partnering with the community, city leaders, team members, and development team to bring something unique and meaningful to the City of Salem.

Walking A New Path

At the heart of the project are design principles that prioritize walkability, sustainability, connectivity, and repurposing of existing structures. The plan not only aims to revitalize HopeTree facilities but also envisions a thoughtfully curated mix of market-rate homes to foster a diverse community. Recreation amenities and public gathering spaces throughout the property will create a more vibrant, inclusive, and connected sense of community.

The project's plan includes the development of mixed-use areas designed to meet the diverse needs of Salem's population. This vibrant development will feature a mix of residential, recreational facilities, and a few small commercial establishments, fostering a dynamic environment where residents can live, work, and play in close proximity. Whether it's a corner grocer, a cafe, the walking trails, or green spaces, this new plan will create a dynamic new destination for the City of Salem.

“This process began with three goals. Number one, to honor HopeTree’s history. Number two, to position us for the future. And number three, to create something Salem will be proud of. The current zoning for this property would result in a far less desirable outcome—upwards of 200 homes with dozens of driveways cutting into Red Lane. Just building housing does not meet our third goal and isn’t better for Salem.”

-JON MORRIS, PRESIDENT & CEO, HOPETREE FAMILY SERVICES

Furnish the Future: A Transformation into Comfort and Hope

For the residents in HopeTree's Therapeutic Group Homes, their journey has brought them to HopeTree so that they may have a structured setting to best learn to cope with their emotional and behavioral challenges. At full capacity, HopeTree can accommodate up to 16 youth in two group homes - one for girls and one for boys. The average stay is three to six months with the ultimate goal to get residents back home, into treatment foster care, or independent living with support for college or vocational training.

Youth arrive at the group homes with severe behavioral issues and complex trauma. From the start, we want them to feel comfortable and at ease. We want to provide an inviting environment and surroundings in which they will live. While we excel at enhancing the emotional, educational, physical, social, and spiritual development of each adolescent, the facilities themselves were in urgent need of updates and replacement.

We set about updating the two group home cottage accommodations in 2023 and found that it would cost approximately $10,000 to refurnish both

buildings. Thanks to the generosity of Friendship Baptist Church in Glade Spring, Virginia and of an anonymous donor, we were able to reach $6,000 toward our goal by July of that year - but still another $4,000 off the total needed.

In November, Millfield Baptist Church came through to take us over the finish line. Each year, Millfield celebrates Thanksgiving with a covered-dish supper the Sunday before Thanksgiving, with a dessert auction following the meal. On this evening packed with food, fun, and fellowship, nearly $8,000 was raised, with half going to HopeTree - taking us to our goal of $10,000.

From here we were set to purchase beds, dressers, nightstand, and more for all 16 youth. Once the furniture was purchased from Virginia Furniture Market, their employees generously helped to cover the costs of delivery.

Thank you so much to the efforts of Franklin Dowless and the congregation at Millfield Baptist, Friendship Baptist Church, and Virginia Furniture Market to help us bring the comforts of home to the youth at HopeTree!

HOPETREE HAPPENINGS

HopeTree was recognized as the Nonprofit of the Year by the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce. The prestigious award was presented during the Chamber's 2023 Business Awards Breakfast, held March 15, 2024, at the Salem Civic Center.

The Nonprofit of the Year award recognizes organizations that have demonstrated outstanding commitment to serving their community and making a positive impact on the lives of others. HopeTree Family Services was selected not just for their contributions to the City of Salem, but the positive impact on the 1,000’s of lives they have served. A nomination from a long-time HopeTree employee said “HopeTree truly cares about the people they serve as well as their staff. My opinion is that it is one of the best places to work and I am blessed to be here.”

"We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition from the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce," said Jon Morris. "This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters who work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of the children, adults, and families we serve."

STAFF UPDATES

Please join us in congratulating Shannon and welcoming Randi, April, and Maggie to HopeTree!

Randi Paxton Vice President & Chief Operations Officer

April Estrada Director of Foster Care & Adoption Services

Shannon Updike Chief Compliance Officer

Maggie Cox Director of Family Centered Treatment

Thank You, Johnnie Nash!

After 40 incredible years of dedication, hard work, and countless memories, Johnnie Nash has retired. Before joining HopeTree in 1983, Jonnie was a history teach with Montgomery County Schools. It was with this background he found a calling to utilize both his education and experience in serving the youth at HopeTree. Johnnie held several positions during his tenure, starting in direct care, then to management, and ultimately, being promoted to Vice President and Chief Operations Officer.

Over the years, Johnnie worked with every program at HopeTree - from Foster Care and Adoptions, Residential Services, HopeTree Academy, Christian Education, Activities, Clinical Services, and Developmental Disabilities Ministries (DDM).

Johnnie wasn't just immeshed in the programs. He also overssaw supportive services such as Food Services, Cleaning Services, and use of gymnasium, swimming pool, ball field, chapel, the use of other campus facilities by outside organization. You would be very hard pressed to find an area of HopeTree that was not affected by Johnnie's influence.

At the end of the day, Johnnie's favorite thing about HopeTree was having the opportunity to help the youth and adults HopeTree serves. It was his joy to work with them for a better quality of life and to be the very best that they could be.

Thank you, Jonnie Nash. We wish you nothing but the best and congratulate you on a remarkable career!