Episode 74 is a special one because it’s really at the intersection of what this podcast is truly about. People going outside of their comfort zone and doing things that matter to them and make them fulfilled as well as doing good in this world and trying to make an impact in a positive way. I had the chance to speak with two of the founding members of H.O.P.E (Housing Options for People with Exceptionalities), Dotty Foley and Orah Raia, and learn about their story and the “Why” behind this great mission.

Contact H.O.P.E:

Co-Founders:

• Diane Winans
• Dotty Foley
• Ginny Dropkin
• Orah Raia

Email: hopenc18@gmail.com

Website (launching soon): Hopenorthcarolina.org

H.O.P.E Information

• https://brianondrako.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/HOPE-One-page-fact-Sheet.pdf
• https://brianondrako.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/HOPE-brochure-4.pdf

Additional resource for Parents with Exceptional children:

Website: ECAC: https://www.ecac-parentcenter.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecacparentcenter/

The Vision:

• HOPE’s vision is to create an inclusive, mixed income community where all individuals, including those with developmental disabilities, can live meaningful and purposeful lives. The vision for this community was born from the belief that where we live matters, that all people should have the choice to live in a community of their choosing, with access to affordable housing.

The Solution:

• HOPE’s mission, interest and commitment is to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by addressing the urgent and unmet need for affordable, accessible housing.
• Creating an inclusive, supportive housing solution for individuals with disabilities must begin at the local level and requires creative strategies that combine public and private financing.
• HOPE will achieve its mission by intentionally engaging neighbors of all abilities, ages, and incomes to create a supportive community. We are bringing together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, advocates and partners to adapt an innovative, award-winning housing model that’s already being successfully employed in supportive housing developments around the country with different vulnerable populations.

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If you enjoyed this interview you may also like my Just Get Started Podcast Interview with Juliana Fetherman, Founder of Making Authentic Friendships