Summer is in full swing at Casa de Esperanza, and it is heartwarming to see our children playing on the playground and our weekly volunteers return to the neighborhood. Water play and picnics are common activities at this time of the year, and our children thrive with the interaction.

Another sure sign that summer is here is the arrival of a new group of Hands of Hope House Parents, ready to jump into their service year at Casa de Esperanza. At the beginning of the month, 7 new House Parents arrived from five states and completed their two week training. We look forward to welcoming additional House Parents in July and August.

Hands of Hope House Parents are the primary caregivers of the children that come to Casa de Esperanza for a safe, loving place to live while their parents receive the help and guidance they need from our caseworkers to improve their living situations. Every new House Parent will undergo intense training for two weeks followed by a total immersion in the Casa de Esperanza neighborhood to learn about everything from keeping a child safe, to the effects of childhood trauma, to daily care of children and more. Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for House Parent highlights and stories, and please help us welcome our new House Parents when you are in the neighborhood.

As I retire after 27 years of service at Casa de Esperanza, I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support of our mission. I leave knowing that Casa de Esperanza is in good hands with a dedicated staff, board of directors, and the leadership of Melissa Simon, our new Chief Executive Officer. I wish you all the best.

With sincere love and gratitude,