One Hope United launches Hope House United to expand innovative care model nationwide

One Hope United launches Hope House United to expand innovative care model nationwide

Family-based approach delivers stronger outcomes for youth with complex needs

CHICAGO, IL — One Hope United announced the launch of Hope House United, a new division dedicated to expanding its innovative Hope House model across the country, bringing more effective, community-based care to youth with complex behavioral and emotional needs.

Child welfare systems are evolving from large residential settings toward smaller, family-based environments that provide more individualized support and improved long-term outcomes. One Hope United has been at the forefront of this transformation through its Hope House model—a proven approach that creates stable, relationship-centered homes for youth who need it most.

“Hope Houses are redefining the way care is delivered for young people with complex needs,” said Damon Cates, President and CEO of One Hope United. “With the launch of Hope House United, we are building on that success—expanding this model so more youth have the opportunity to experience stability, connection, and a path forward.”

One Hope United currently operates 10 Hope Houses in Florida and 4 in Illinois. Hope House United will focus on scaling the model into new communities and states, strengthening the operational infrastructure needed to support growth, and continuing to advance care for youth who have often experienced significant instability and trauma.

In February 2026, One Hope United launched a partnership with the University of Illinois Chicago to study and refine the Hope House model. This collaboration will help ensure consistent, high-quality, evidence-informed care while contributing to broader learning across the child welfare field.

One Hope United also announced that Sarah Tunning has been named Founding Chief Operating Officer of Hope House United. Tunning will lead the division’s growth and operations, bringing extensive leadership experience and a strong track record of advancing organizational strategy and performance.

“Sarah is a trusted and accomplished leader who has played a key role in strengthening our organization,” Cates said. “She brings the vision and operational expertise needed to scale this work thoughtfully and effectively.”

Hope Houses are designed to provide youth ages 13–17 with a stable, family-style living environment supported by trained foster parents and a dedicated care team. The model emphasizes relationship-building, trauma-informed care, and the development of life skills that support long-term success. The Hope House model has demonstrated strong outcomes in areas including mental health and reduced involvement with the justice system.

“Hope Houses are more than a place to live. They are a place where young people can finally experience a sense of security and belonging,” said Sarah Tunning, Founding Chief Operating Officer of Hope House United. “For many of the youth we serve, consistency has been missing. Here, they can build trust and start moving toward a stronger future.”

The launch of Hope House United marks a significant step in One Hope United’s strategy to expand high-impact programs and serve more youth and families across the country.

One Hope United is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and families through early childhood education, foster care and adoption, residential care, and behavioral health services. Founded in 1895 and headquartered in Chicago, One Hope United serves more than 10,000 children and families each year across Illinois and Florida. Learn more at www.onehopeunited.org.

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