It is hard to believe that summer is ending and it is officially Back to School time! Like many of you, Casa de Esperanza is gearing up for a busy fall ahead. After over a year with no in-person events or visits, our Residential Neighborhood is once again open to visitors and volunteers who are vaccinated (masks are required). And, we are looking forward to the return of m Strategic Partner's Cars and Clays in September and our 11th Annual Chili Cook-Off in November. Information on both (outdoor) events can be found below. We hope to see you there!

Fall is also the time that we start planning for our annual Building Hope for Children Gala. Next year's event will be extra special because 2022 marks Casa de Esperanza's 40th year of providing hope and a home for children in crisis. We are so grateful to Mary Ellen & Scott Prochazka for their leadership as our 2022 Building Hope for Children Gala Chairs. A monumental anniversary celebration calls for an epic honoree, and we couldn't be more excited to honor a group of individuals we know you all love and appreciate – our Hands of Hope House Parents. These selfless and dedicated individuals are the frontline support and lifeblood of Casa de Esperanza. We hope you’ll join us in helping to make this 40th birthday celebration bigger and better than ever in their honor! Save the Date for May 1, 2022, and stay tuned for more information about next year's birthday celebrations.

It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child. While the return to school is typically an exciting time for children, our Aftercare families often struggle to provide the needed school supplies and uniforms for their children. Thanks to some generous organizations and donors who have donated backpacks, supplies, and funds for school uniforms, these children will start school ready to go!

Thank you all for being part of the village that helps to ensure that the children who need us have been cared for and safe for nearly 40 years.

With sincere gratitude,