Spring 2020 Newsletter

Message from the CEO

2019 was a busy and productive year for Hope Services. One of our most significant achievements was CARF accreditation, a distinction that sets Hope Services apart from many other service providers, showing that we meet internationally-recognized standards for quality and accountability. We were also pleased to be "Top-Rated" by GreatNonprofits. Another highlight was the successful inaugural “In Concert with Hope.” Over 400 sponsors, partners, and attendees raised over $400,000. In my 18 months at Hope, developing a staff team and culture I’m proud of, I’ve seen real results. I feel proud of our achievements and very appreciative of all the hard work put in by the entire Hope Services team, one of our greatest strengths as an organization. Combined with the consistent support of donors, I feel buoyed by what we can do ahead. I look forward to continued success in 2020. With your assistance, Hope will grow and continue to help our clients achieve their goals and become integrated members of the community.

Charles “Chip” Huggins, JD
President/CEO

EMCC: A Person-Centered Service

Employment, Media & Community Connections is an important program at Hope. It uniquely combines media training and employment to improve the quality of clients’ lives. Education, volunteer activities, and paid work enable them to become valuable members of the community. Let’s meet some of the current participants.

Jordan K.

“Hope has helped me overcome challenges and obstacles to help me achieve a pathway to stardom!”

Jordan K. was born in San Jose 24 years ago. Diagnosed with autism, he came to EMCC Whittier from a post-secondary program at San Jose Community College. Hope’s biweekly counseling sessions helped him gain part-time employment. He’s worked at our HopeTHRIFT store in Fremont, doing recovery and putting out new merchandise onto the sales floor. He’s worked as a backroom associate at TJ Maxx in Santa Clara... Read more

Volunteer Opportunities

If you’re in Northern California, we would enjoy having you be a part of Hope Services. It’s a fulfilling and educational experience for all ages, including students. We need volunteers for our programs, at our June 13th In Concert with Hope event, and at HopeTHRIFT stores. See this page for more details and an application form.

Helpful Tips

Consider the following tips when engaging people with disabilities.

  • Allow time for them to speak. They may need more time.
  • Avoid the urge to interrupt or complete a sentence.
  • Ask for repetition if you don’t understand. Don’t fake it.
  • Be aware that you may need to use a variety of communication methods such a writing notes, emailing, or texting.
  • Be patient and encouraging.

Did You Know

892 Hope clients are currently working – 27% of our total client base.