Looking Back with Gratitude: A Year of Faith, Growth, and Community in 2025
January 9th, 2026
God moved in so many incredible ways during 2025—more than we could ever capture in a single post. Yet as we reflect on the year behind us, our hearts are full of gratitude for what He has done through Elevate Hope House and through you. Each month carried meaningful moments that strengthened families, deepened community, and advanced our mission to walk alongside young moms and their children.
Here’s a snapshot of 2025 and what your generosity made possible.
January 2025 | Kicking Off the Year with Creativity & Connection
We began the year with several unique opportunities with Grace Marie’s Parteas. One fun example, we hosted and created a magical birthday partea for two beautiful girls. It was a joyful and creative way to connect with the community while sharing the heart of Elevate Hope House – and of course using our DIY kits made by our volunteers and mamas too! Moments like these remind us that service can be fun, relational, and full of purpose.
Our DIY Jewelry Nights also continued to grow—bringing small groups together to volunteer, create meaningful keepsakes, and support a mission that matters. Every bracelet and necklace made carried both beauty and impact.
February 2025 | Celebrating Life’s Milestones
Because of your generosity, we were able to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments—birthdays, kindergarten graduations, and new beginnings. In 2025, we rejoiced over three new births, including a set of twins, and celebrated countless birthdays along the way. These moments of joy and normalcy are powerful reminders to our moms and children that they are seen, valued, and loved.
March 2025 | Called to More
At Called – The Launch Year at Bethel University, women of all generations gathered to embrace the calling God has placed on their lives. As Elevate Hope House empowers young moms and their children through community, Called mirrors that same heart—encouraging faith, purpose, and leadership. Events like this deepen mentorship and remind us that no calling is too small or too delayed when God is at work.
April 2025 | Growing Relationships Through Creativity
Each month, our team of volunteers continued to build relationships and raise awareness for our mission with Grace Marie’s Parteas & Boutique by bringing our ministry to craft shows across the community. Volunteers and guests alike enjoyed creative DIY experiences—like our favorite Bath Salt Bar—turning simple moments into meaningful conversations. Every craft, every smile, and every connection helped spread hope.
May 2025 | A Midnight Move & a Permanent Home
In one of the most memorable moments of the year, Joanne’s Place moved at midnight—the night before our Annual Garden Partea—from the parking lot of Spring Lake Park High School to its permanent home in Ham Lake, MN. This milestone marked a new chapter of independence and stability for our graduates from the Shared Living Model, and it was only possible because of faithful supporters like you.
June 2025 | Serving Together
We were honored to bring our staff and mamas to volunteer at Compassion Coffee’s first gala. Our residents volunteer monthly, and serving alongside a sister organization allowed them to model generosity, leadership, and community engagement. Your support doesn’t just impact Elevate Hope House—it multiplies throughout the community.
July 2025 | Joanne’s Place Ribbon Cutting
We celebrated the ribbon cutting of Joanne’s Place, our first affordable housing model for graduates. This independent living option allows residents to continue practicing financial responsibility, spiritual growth, and personal development while mentoring newer residents. With staff support and accountability, this home reflects long-term stability, stewardship, and hope for the future.
August 2025 | Partners Who Make Homes Possible
Business partners and in-kind donors played a vital role this year. Gifts like a donated fence from Martz Fencing helped keep little ones safe at Joanne’s Place, while partners such as Prestige Drywall, Laskinski, and many others helped make it possible to open our second home and step forward in faith toward our third—Carol’s Place, opening Fall 2026. Every contribution truly matters.
September 2025 | Stretching the Vision
Melinda and Elevate Hope House were honored to be one of only 12 nonprofits selected to present at the Amplify Mission Network. The mentorship, prayer, and strategic guidance received stretched our long-term vision in powerful ways.
“The conversations were a true blessing, the prayer was deeply appreciated, and the joy I felt leaving the event is honestly hard to put into words.”
— Melinda McDermott
These relationships will continue to shape Elevate Hope House for years to come.
October 2025 | Building Hope at Carol’s Place
A huge milestone arrived when the first wall went up at Carol’s Place in Spring Lake Park. Watching physical walls rise reminds us that God is actively building spaces of safety, healing, and hope for families. We are deeply thankful for this partnership and what’s still to come.
November 2025 | Honoring a Legacy at Sandy’s Place
We celebrated the Sandy’s Place Dedication Ceremony with Oak Haven Church, honoring Sandy—a beloved pillar in their history. Years ago, her husband shared a dream of housing families in the old parsonage. In 2025, that dream continues to bear fruit.
Sandy’s Place provides structured transitional housing where young moms grow in confidence, skills, and independence—guided by hands-on coaching, relationship-building, and faith-filled support.
December 2025 | A Joyful Close to the Year
We closed the year with our first Christmas Market, partnering with La Fontaine Event Center and local artisans. Moms, families, volunteers, and community members came together to celebrate the season and support our mission. It was a beautiful, joy-filled reminder that hope shines brightest when shared.
Thank You for Being Part of the Story
Every step of 2025 was made possible by your prayers, generosity, and belief in this mission. As we step into 2026, we do so expectantly—trusting God to continue expanding what He has already begun.
Thank you for walking with us. We can’t wait to see what He does next.
A Season of Hope: Christmas Market & Build A Bedroom Campaign 2025
December 14, 2025
This past season reminded us that even in the coldest moments, community warmth shines through.
Our Christmas Market brought together local artisans, small businesses, families, and friends with a shared purpose: to gather, support one another, and give back. While winter weather made for a challenging day, the heart behind the market never wavered. Vendors showed up with grace, visitors braved the cold, and together we created space for connection, joy, and generosity.
Alongside the market, our Build A Bedroom Campaign continued to shine a light on an urgent and deeply personal need—providing safe, comforting bedrooms for young moms and their children experiencing homelessness. A bedroom is more than four walls and a bed; it is a place of rest, dignity, and healing. Because of this community, real progress was made toward creating spaces where families can finally exhale and feel at home.
As we look ahead to 2026, we are filled with gratitude and renewed hope. The Christmas Market and Build A Bedroom Campaign are growing into more than events—they are reminders that when a community comes together with compassion, lasting change is possible.
Thank you to our vendors, partners, donors, and supporters for believing in the power of presence, purpose, and love. We can’t wait to build, gather, and serve alongside you in the year ahead.
The First Wall Goes Up at Carol’s Place
October 12th, 2026 – With Spring Lake Park High School
There are moments in this work that stop you in your tracks — moments when vision becomes visible, when prayers take physical form, and when hope quite literally starts to stand upright.
This week, we celebrated one of those moments: the first wall of Carol’s Place went up, and it went up alongside an incredible group of students and educators from Spring Lake Park High School.
For months, Carol’s Place has lived in drawings, conversations, fundraising goals, and late-night prayers. It has lived in our hearts as a promise — a future home where families experiencing homelessness will find safety, dignity, and a place to breathe again. And now, for the first time, it lives in wood and nails and laughter and teamwork.
Students Building More Than a Wall
The Spring Lake Park High School students didn’t just show up to build. They showed up with curiosity, generosity, and pride. Many of them were swinging hammers, measuring boards, and lifting frames for the very first time — and they did it with focus and joy.
As the wall took shape, so did something else: a deeper understanding that this building matters, and that they matter in its story.
Each stud placed, each nail driven, represents more than construction progress. It represents a community choosing to invest in families they may never meet — families who will one day sleep safely behind these walls.
Why This Wall Matters
Carol’s Place is being built to serve young moms and their children — who need more than a temporary solution. They need stability. They need space to heal. They need a place that says, “You belong here.”
This first wall is a milestone because it marks the shift from planning to presence. From “someday” to “it’s happening.”
And the fact that students were part of this first step? That feels especially meaningful. They are learning — not just how to build, but how to serve, how to show up, and how to be part of something bigger than themselves.
Gratitude That Runs Deep
We are deeply grateful to Spring Lake Park High School — to the students, teachers, and leaders who made this day possible. Thank you for lending your hands, your hearts, and your time. This wall will stand for years, but the impact of your involvement will last even longer.
As we stood back and looked at that first wall, there were smiles, photos, and a few quiet moments of awe. God is moving. The community is moving. And Carol’s Place is rising.
This is just the beginning — and we can’t wait to keep building, together.
EXCITING UPDATE: Carol’s Place Construction is Ahead of Schedule!
September 10th, 2025
We’re thrilled to share some incredible news about Carol’s Place!
🎉 We’re ahead of schedule! The lumber has been delivered to Spring Lake Park High School, and our Partnership Agreement has been officially signed once again. This milestone marks the beginning of something truly special.
What makes this project extraordinary:
For Students: High school students will gain hands-on experience in the construction trades as part of their education, learning valuable skills that could shape their future careers.
For Our Community: This isn’t just about building a house – it’s about building hope. Every nail hammered by these students will directly impact the lives of 6 young mothers and their children who will call Carol’s Place home by next fall.
For Gen Z: This project demonstrates how their work creates real, lasting change in their community. These students are building more than walls – they’re building futures for families not much different in age from themselves.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning! Carol’s Place will continue to serve families for years to come, providing safe, stable housing and support when it’s needed most.
Stay tuned for more updates as we document this incredible journey of students, families, and community coming together to make a difference.
God is good ✨
Follow along for regular updates on Carol’s Place construction and the amazing impact being made by our student builders and community partners!
Join Us for Harvest Hope: A Fall Fundraiser That Will Change Lives Forever
Join Harvest Hope: Where Fall Fun Builds Life-Changing Impact
October 4th, 2025 | Ham Lake, Minnesota
Picture crisp autumn air, children’s laughter, food truck aromas, and a community united for something extraordinary. This is Harvest Hope – Elevate Hope House’s 7th Annual Fall Family Fundraiser – and it’s more than just another fall festival.
Building Carol’s Place, One Square Foot at a Time
October 4th marks the official kickoff of our mission to build Carol’s Place, a groundbreaking 6-bedroom hybrid transitional house opening Fall 2026. This safe haven will transform the lives of six young mothers and their children, providing stable housing and comprehensive support as they build toward independence.
Every $100 donated = 1 square foot of hope. Your contribution creates corners where children will dream, kitchens where families will gather, and bedrooms where children will finally sleep safely.
A Day Packed with Purpose
🎪 Family Fun Zone: 10+ carnival games, princess appearances (Ariel by the dunk tank!), three bounce houses, and professional face painting
🍔 Food Truck Festival: Five incredible food trucks serving everything from comfort classics to unique local flavors
🎯 Bean Bag Tournament: Our legendary competition tradition since 2017 ($50 entry fee, bragging rights included)
🛍️ Shop with Impact: Elevate merchandise, homemade bake sale treats, and “Harvest Hope” seasonal treasures
🎟️ Massive Raffle: 50 incredible prizes (top 10 revealed 48 hours before the event!)
🌊 Epic Dunk Tank: Nominate your pastor for a hilariously good cause
Why This Matters
Housing instability affects thousands of young mothers in our region. Carol’s Place will provide safe housing, life skills training, educational assistance, and career development – breaking cycles of instability for entire families.
When these families succeed, our community grows stronger. Children perform better in school with stable homes. Mothers pursue education and careers with reliable housing. Communities flourish when everyone has a foundation to contribute.
Your Impact
Every ticket, game, and meal on October 4th directly funds Carol’s Place. You’re not just having fun – you’re breaking generational cycles, creating academic opportunities for children, building community strength, and investing in tomorrow’s leaders.
Get Involved
Attend: Bring your family for fall fun that changes lives
Sponsor: Business sponsorship opportunities still available
Donate: Raffle items or direct gifts at elevatehopehouse.org/donate
Volunteer: Help make October 4th unforgettable
Compete: Register your Bean Bag Tournament team
Can’t Make It?
Your presence can still be felt in every brick of Carol’s Place. Make a gift at elevatehopehouse.org/donate – because everyone deserves a place to call home.
Mark your calendar: October 4th in Ham Lake
Come ready to harvest hope, build futures, and be part of something bigger than any one of us – but possible only because of all of us.
Ready to get involved? Buy tickets at elevatehopehouse.org/events or contact us at contactus@elevatehopehouse.org
Join Us for Harvesting Hope: A Fall Fundraiser That Changes Lives
August 29th, 2025
October 4th | Ham Lake | A Day of Fun, Food, and Forever Impact
Picture this: crisp autumn air, children’s laughter echoing across a fall field while they dunk their pastor for 5th time, the aroma of food truck favorites wafting through the breeze, and the unmistakable energy of a community coming together for something bigger than themselves. This is Harvesting Hope – and we can’t wait to see you there.
More Than Just a Fall Festival
While our October 4th event promises all the autumn magic your family craves, it represents something profound: the official kickoff of our mission to build Carol’s Place, a groundbreaking 6-bedroom hybrid transitional house set to open Fall 2026. This isn’t just another fundraiser – it’s the beginning of a movement that will transform the lives of six young mothers and their children, providing them with safe, stable housing and comprehensive support as they build toward independence.
A Day Packed with Purpose and Play
🎪 Family Zone Adventure Your kids will be in paradise with 10+ carnival games, princess appearances (including Ariel by the dunk tank!), not one but three bounce houses from trusted local providers, and professional face painting. Every game played and every smile captured helps us move closer to breaking ground on Carol’s Place.
🍔 Food Truck Festival We’ve secured three incredible food trucks with two more joining the lineup – because great causes deserve great food! From classic comfort foods to unique local flavors, there’s something to satisfy every craving while you support our mission.
🎯 Competition and Community Test your skills in our legendary Bean Bag Tournament ($50 entry fee) – a beloved tradition dating back to our very first fall fundraiser for Elevate Hope House in 2017! Bragging rights and prizes await the champions in this classic competition that’s been bringing our community together for years. It’s friendly competition for an unfriendly problem – housing instability for young families.
🛍️ Shop with Impact Browse our Elevate merchandise booth, dive into our bake sale featuring homemade treats from community volunteers, and explore our special “Harvest Hope” sale featuring fall bulbs, seeds, pumpkins, and seasonal treasures. Every purchase plants seeds of hope.
🎟️ Raffle Excitement Get ready for our massive raffle featuring 50 incredible prizes with values ranging from thoughtful to jaw-dropping! We’re unveiling our top 10 items online 48 hours before the event – trust us, you’ll want to see what we have in store! With 50 chances to win, these aren’t just prizes; they’re opportunities to win big while giving even bigger.
Why Carol’s Place Matters Now More Than Ever
Housing instability affects thousands of young mothers and their children across our region. These aren’t statistics – they’re neighbors, friends, and community members who deserve a chance to thrive, not just survive. Carol’s Place will provide:
Safe, stable housing for six young mothers and their children
Comprehensive support services including life skills training, educational assistance, and career development
A hybrid transitional model that bridges the gap between crisis intervention and complete independence
Community integration that breaks cycles of instability for both mothers and children
When these families succeed, our entire community grows stronger. Children perform better in school when they have stable homes. Mothers can pursue education and careers when they have reliable housing. Communities flourish when every member has the foundation they need to contribute their unique gifts.
Your Presence = Their Future
Every ticket purchased, every game played, every raffle entry, and every food truck meal enjoyed on October 4th directly funds the construction and programming of Carol’s Place. But more than your dollars, we need your presence. We need a community that shows up – literally and figuratively – for our most vulnerable neighbors.
This isn’t charity; it’s investment. We’re investing in six families today who will strengthen our community for decades to come. We’re planting seeds of hope that will grow into forests of opportunity.
Mark Your Calendar
When: October 4th
Where: Ham Lake
Why: Because everyone deserves a place to call home
How: Bring your family, bring your appetite, bring your competitive spirit, and bring your heart
The pumpkins will be perfect, the games will be exciting, and the food will be delicious. But the real harvest we’re celebrating is hope – hope for young mothers who need a stable foundation, hope for children who deserve security, and hope for a community that refuses to let anyone fall through the cracks.
Harvesting Hope isn’t just our event name; it’s our promise.
See you October 4th in Ham Lake, where fall fun meets life-changing impact. Together, we’re not just attending a festival – we’re building futures, one family at a time.
Follow us on social media for real-time updates and sneak peeks of our raffle prizes!
Harvesting Hope: Help Us Build Carol’s Place — One Square Foot at a Time
There’s something about fall — the crisp air, the turning leaves, the way it calls us to gather close and reflect on what really matters.
At Elevate Hope House, fall also marks something powerful: a season of renewal, of togetherness, and of a growing dream that’s beginning to take shape — Carol’s Place.
On October 4th, we’re inviting you to join us for a day that’s more than a fundraiser. It’s a celebration. A movement. A moment to link arms with community, share stories of transformation, and take one step closer to opening the doors of a home built on hope.
A House Becomes a Home — With Your Help
Carol’s Place isn’t just a building with walls and windows. It’s a vision — a shared home for six families, opening in October 2026, where mothers and their children can find rest, healing, and a fresh start.
But to make this home a reality, we need a village.
And here’s where it gets real: Every $100 donated builds one square foot of this sacred space. That means every dollar, every act of generosity, is part of the story that will be told inside those walls for years to come.
What to Expect on October 4th
Imagine a day filled with laughter, music, and community — where kids run through carnival games and bounce houses, neighbors gather around food trucks, and hearts are stirred by real stories of redemption and resilience.
That’s what Harvesting Hope: Elevating Generations is all about.
You’ll find:
🎉 A Family Fun Festival for all ages
🎶 Live Music that brings joy to the autumn air
🍽️ Delicious Local Eats from your favorite food trucks
🎯 Games, Bounce Houses & More
🗣️ Testimonies from women whose lives have been transformed
💛 Opportunities to give, connect, and belong
It’s a fall day that fills your heart — and helps fill a home.
👉 Register now: elevatehopehouse.org/events
There’s Still Time to Become a Sponsor
Do you own a business or know someone who does? We’re still welcoming sponsors to join us on this journey. There’s a few weeks left to come alongside this mission in a meaningful way — and we’d love to add your name to our circle of supporters.
📩 Reach out today to learn more about sponsorship opportunities and how you can make a visible impact.
Can’t Make It? You Can Still Be Part of the Story
Even if you can’t join us in person, your presence can still be felt in every brick and beam.
➡️ Make a gift now: elevatehopehouse.org/donate
$100 = 1 square foot — Your gift builds a room, a memory, a moment of peace for a mother and her children starting over.
Let’s Harvest Hope — Together
When we gather in love and action, something extraordinary happens. We don’t just build homes — we build possibility. We plant seeds that grow into second chances. We elevate generations.
So mark your calendar. Bring your people. And come ready to be part of something bigger than any one of us — but possible only because of all of us.
See you on October 4th. Let’s build Carol’s Place — one square foot at a time.
Ready to get involved? Visit elevatehopehouse.org to learn more about Elevate Hope House and our mission to support young mothers and their children experiencing homelessness.
A Message to Our Community
August 15th, 2025
From Joanne’s Place to Carol’s Place: Building the Affordable Housing Our Community Needs
“Grace” sits in her living room at Joanne’s Place, watching her 5-year-old daughter help her 2-year-old son stack blocks on the carpet of their very own home. During the Pandemic, “Grace” was sleeping at a hotel that a local shelter was able to set her up in for 2 nights, wondering if she’d ever be able to give them the stability they deserved.
Today, she lives in the “first ever” affordable housing home for Elevate Hope House residents that allows her to continue building toward her dream of becoming a police officer. But more than the affordable rent, “Grace” has something even more precious: she’s not alone.
When I stop by Joanne’s Place, I see “Grace” writing with chalk on the driveway with her kids. I see her carrying out her own routines for her kids that she has been able to build for her family in a safe and stable home without fear that they are only here for a few nights. I see a community of people from churches and businesses who each decided that they would support this home for this family in this season by sharing the resources that they have today. From siding to plants to roof shingles to appliances – our community made this home a reality for “Grace” and her family – and future families of Elevate Hope House.
“Grace” isn’t just living independently – she’s living connected, loved, and supported by a community that will be cheering her on for years to come.
But as I watch this beautiful picture of what’s possible, I feel that familiar bittersweet emotion. Joy for “Grace” and the other mamas that are working on goals within Elevate Hope House, but heartbreak for all the other mamas since we opened who we couldn’t offer the same opportunity as “Grace,” after she achieved her goals at Elevate Hope House.
The Success of Joanne’s Place – And Its Limits
When we opened Joanne’s Place, our community celebrated with us. Finally, we had created the missing piece – truly affordable housing where our graduates could transition to independence without sacrificing everything they’d worked so hard to achieve. The model works beautifully. Young moms pay rent based on their actual income and their children stay in familiar schools, churches, and communities.
“Grace” represents everything we hoped Joanne’s Place could be. She’s building savings, her children have consistent friends and routines, and she’s surrounded by a community of women who understand her journey. When her daughter starts kindergarten next month, we will be there to celebrate – because that’s what family does.
But here’s what keeps me up at night: Joanne’s Place is only one affordable housing opportunity. Our first home can only support three families at a time for up to two years. And every month, more graduates like “Grace” complete our program, ready for this exact next step, and the options for affordable housing are few and far between.
The Gap We’re Working to Fill
We are incredibly grateful to our community for celebrating the opening of Joanne’s Place with us. It proved that our affordable housing model is an answer to prayer – that when young families have access to truly affordable rent, they don’t just survive, they thrive and contribute to our community in amazing ways.
But Joanne’s Place, as successful as it will be, is only one affordable housing model, and a growing need to serve more families who are ready for independence but stuck in an impossible housing market.
This is where we find ourselves again – supporting amazing young moms through our residential program, watching them flourish and graduate, but having limited options for what comes next. We’ve solved part of the equation beautifully, but we need to scale the solution.
Carol’s Place: The Next Chapter
So while we prayerfully wait for an answer to multiplying our affordable housing model in the years ahead, we are so excited that “Carol’s Place” is right around the corner and will serve 6 families experiencing homelessness, set to open by the end of 2026!
Carol’s Place will expand our reach to serve more young families in our community who simply need a stable, affordable place to call home. Like our first home that opened doors in 2020, we will be able to educate more moms with resources and tools and community connections as they work on goals towards self-sufficiency.
Imagine the impact: 6 more families with a place to call home for up to 2-years. 6 more moms who can pursue education or career advancement without worrying about rent consuming their entire paycheck – and the added benefit of saving along the way with donor matching funds, too. 6 more sets of children who can have consistent addresses, consistent schools, consistent stability.
While it still won’t solve our need for more affordable housing, it does provide an ability for us to say “yes” to more families in need living in their cars, hotels, or couch hopping… combine Carol’s Place with more Joanne’s Places and we have a model for local, community driven, success.
Your Seat at the Table Matters More Than Ever
Our Fall Fundraiser on October 4th isn’t just about supporting our current work – it’s about making Carol’s Place a reality and building toward even more affordable housing solutions for young families in our community in the years ahead.
But here’s the thing: we need everyone to show up. Not just our regular supporters (though we love you!), but new faces, new partners, new community members who believe that young families deserve stable, affordable housing.
We need you to purchase your ticket today. And then we need you to bring friends. Bring your coworkers, your neighbors, your family members. Bring anyone who cares about creating solutions to our community’s housing crisis.
Because “Grace” shouldn’t be the exception – every graduate should have the chance to stay connected to the community that helped raise her up. Because families who work hard and invest in our community deserve the chance to build stable, supported lives here.
The Community We’re Building Together
When we opened Joanne’s Place, we proved that our community believes in second chances and smart investments. The young moms living there are thriving, contributing, and raising children who believe in possibility.
Carol’s Place will expand that impact. And after Carol’s Place? We dream of even more affordable housing models, more solutions, more ways to ensure that young single mom families don’t have to leave our community just because they can’t afford to stay.
But dreams require partners. Vision needs community support. Carol’s Place needs you at that table on October 4th, bringing friends who share your values and your commitment to practical solutions.
Join us October 4th. Bring everyone you know. Help us turn Carol’s Place from a dream into reality. Help us build a community where success stories like Sarah’s become the norm, not the exception.
Because somewhere out there tonight, there’s another young mom working hard to build a better life, wondering if she’ll have anywhere affordable to go when she succeeds.
Let’s make sure the answer is yes.
With Sincere Gratitude,
Melinda McDermott
Founder
Tickets for the Elevate Hope House Fall Fundraiser are available now on our Event Page. Purchase yours today, then bring friends who want to be part of building affordable housing solutions. Together, we can make Carol’s Place – and so much more – a reality.
Join Us for Our 7th Annual Fall Fundraiser: A Day of Fun, Community, and Hope
August 8th, 2025
With just a few weeks left of summer, we can already start to feel the crisp air coming and anticipate the leaves turning. We’re excited to announce that our biggest event of the year is just around the corner! JOIN US OCTOBER 4TH as Elevate Hope House presents our 7th Annual Fall Fundraiser at the stunning Willow Tree Winery in Ham Lake, Minnesota.
“HARVEST HOPE” FOR YOUNG MOMS EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS IN OUR COMMUNITY.
This isn’t just our event tagline – it’s our mission in action. Just as farmers gather their crops in the fall, we’re coming together to harvest hope, resources, and community support for families who need it most.
More Than Just a Fundraiser – It’s a Celebration with Purpose
This year’s event promises to be our most exciting yet, bringing together families, friends, and community members for a day filled with entertainment, delicious food, and meaningful connections. But what makes this gathering truly special is the impact every ticket purchase and donation will have on young mothers and their children in our community who are experiencing homelessness.
What to Expect at This Year’s Event
🎯 Raffle & Win Opportunities
Our exciting raffle will feature incredible items donated by local businesses and community supporters. From gift baskets and dining experiences to unique services and getaway packages, there’s something for everyone to enter to win while supporting a great cause.
🎵 Live Music Stage with Christian Bands
Get ready to tap your feet and sing along as talented Christian musicians take the stage throughout the day. Our live music lineup will provide the perfect soundtrack for fellowship and celebration.
🎮 Bean Bag Tournament
Calling all competitive spirits! Our bean bag tournament is back by popular demand. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just want to have fun with friends, this tournament adds an extra layer of excitement to the day.
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun Zone
We believe in bringing the whole family together for this special day. Our dedicated family fun area will keep children of all ages entertained with activities, games, and surprises designed just for them.
🌮 Food Truck Valley
Your taste buds are in for a treat! We’ve assembled an amazing lineup of food trucks offering diverse cuisines to satisfy every craving. From savory favorites to sweet treats, there’s something delicious waiting for everyone.
🛍️ Purchase with Purpose
Don’t miss our merchandise tent where you can shop Elevate Hope House branded items and other special products. Every purchase directly supports our mission – it’s shopping that makes a difference! Take home a piece of the event while contributing to the cause.
Why Your Participation Matters – Building Carol’s Place
EVERY $ RAISED WILL GIVE MORE FAMILIES A PLACE TO LIVE AND RECEIVE SUPPORT AS WE BEGIN BUILDING CAROL’S PLACE THIS FALL! This exciting new addition to our housing network represents our commitment to expanding our reach and impact in the community.
Every dollar raised at our Fall Fundraiser directly supports Elevate Hope House’s mission to serve young mothers and their children experiencing homelessness in our community. The funds from this event will help us:
Begin construction on Carol’s Place – our newest home that will provide safe, stable housing for additional families
Expand our programming to reach even more families in need
Provide essential services that help young mothers achieve stability and independence
Create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive
When you attend our fundraiser, you’re not just enjoying a fun day out – you’re investing in hope, healing, and second chances for families who need it most.
The Impact of Community Support
Since our founding, Elevate Hope House has been blessed by the incredible generosity of our community. Young mothers who come to us often arrive with nothing but the hope for a better future for themselves and their children. Through your continued support, we’ve been able to provide:
Safe, stable housing during critical transition periods
Life skills training and educational support
Childcare assistance and parenting resources
Job placement help and career development
Mental health and wellness programming
Community connections that last long after residents move on
Getting Involved
Ready to be part of this amazing day? Here’s how you can participate:
Get Your Tickets: Scan the QR code on our event flyer or visit ELEATEHOPEHOUSE.ORG/EVENTS for ticket information and registration details.
Spread the Word: Share this event with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people who know about our mission, the greater impact we can make together.
Consider Donating: If you can’t attend but want to support our cause, consider making a direct donation to help us reach our fundraising goals.
Volunteer: We’re always looking for volunteers to help make our events successful. Contact us if you’d like to lend a hand on event day.
A Beautiful Setting for a Beautiful Cause
Willow Tree Winery provides the perfect backdrop for our fall celebration. Located in Ham Lake, Minnesota, this picturesque venue offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that embodies the spirit of community we cherish at Elevate Hope House.
Looking Forward – Harvesting Hope Together
As we approach our 7th annual fundraiser, we’re filled with gratitude for how far we’ve come and excitement for what lies ahead. This year’s theme of “Harvest Hope” perfectly captures what this event represents – a time to gather together, celebrate our community’s generosity, and reap the benefits of collective action in support of vulnerable families.
Each year, this event brings our community together in powerful ways, reminding us that when we unite around a common purpose, incredible things happen. With the groundbreaking of Carol’s Place on the horizon, this year’s fundraiser holds special significance as we take concrete steps toward expanding our ability to serve more families.
The young mothers and children we serve face significant challenges, but they also possess incredible strength, resilience, and determination. With your support, we can continue providing them with the foundation they need to build brighter futures.
Save the Date and Join the Movement
Saturday, October 4th, 2025, isn’t just a date on the calendar – it’s an opportunity to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Whether you come for the music, stay for the food, participate in the tournament, or simply want to connect with like-minded community members, your presence makes a difference.
Together, we’re not just raising funds; we’re elevating hope. We’re showing young mothers that they’re not alone in their journey. We’re demonstrating to their children that their community cares about their future. We’re building a stronger, more compassionate Minnesota, one family at a time.
We can’t wait to see you at Willow Tree Winery on October 4th. Come hungry for great food, ready for fun activities, and prepared to be inspired by the incredible impact we can make when we come together.
For more information and to register, visit ELEATEHOPEHOUSE.ORG/EVENTS
Let’s elevate hope together!
A Dream Realized: Celebrating the Opening of Joanne’s Place
August 1st, 2025
Strength, dignity, hope, and rest – these weren’t just words spoken at a ceremony, but the very foundation upon which a community’s vision has become reality.
A Night to Remember
Wednesday evening, July 30th, will forever hold a special place in our hearts. As the sun began to set, our community gathered for something truly extraordinary – the ribbon cutting ceremony for Joanne’s Place, Elevate Hope House’s first affordable housing model. This isn’t just any housing development; it’s a carefully crafted bridge for families who have met their self-sufficiency goals but still need affordable housing within the supportive community where they’ve built their foundation for success.
What began years ago as fervent prayers, meticulous planning, and unwavering faith has finally blossomed into a tangible beacon of hope for families in crisis.
When Community Comes Together
The scene that unfolded before us was nothing short of extraordinary. Picture this: neighbors standing shoulder-to-shoulder with church leaders, community advocates deep in conversation with construction trade partners, and elected officials sharing stories with everyday heroes. All of these diverse voices, united by one powerful vision – providing safe, stable housing for young single mothers aged 18 to 24 who face seemingly insurmountable barriers to secure housing.
Since early 2024, Housing First Minnesota has been an integral part of this project, helping unite our community in ways we’ve never experienced before. This partnership perfectly exemplifies what becomes possible when diverse groups set aside differences and rally around a common purpose.
The evening was filled with heartfelt words from remarkable individuals who made this dream possible:
Pastor Emeritus David Briley from Oak Hill Baptist Church
Jeff Gustafson, Pastor at Northgate Church
Sofia Humphries, Senior Director of Community Impact at HFMF
Eric VanBrocklin and Scott Wicklund, dedicated teachers at SLPHS
Nate and Shelby Ruppert from Lennar
Aimee Panek, Executive Director of Ham Lake Chamber of Commerce
Rep. Peggy Scott from the Minnesota House of Representatives
Melinda McDermott, Founder of Elevate Hope House
Jim Nelson, son of Joanne Nelson
And most importantly, the first mom who now calls Joanne’s Place home
Honoring a Beautiful Legacy
The name “Joanne’s Place” isn’t just a title – it carries profound meaning that extends far beyond these walls. This home honors the memory of Joanne Nelson, a woman whose life beautifully exemplified the very values we hope to instill in every family we serve.
Joanne’s story began in New Brighton, where she grew up before meeting her future husband, Milton, at Spring Lake Park Baptist Church in 1955. Their meeting sparked the beginning of a beautiful 58-year marriage built on love, faith, and service. Even when money was tight, Joanne and Milton opened their hearts and wallets, generously supporting their church, an orphanage in Honduras, and a school in the Philippines.
Joanne’s deep love for the Lord found expression through countless acts of service. Her generosity touched her community in ways both big and small – from baking her famous cookies and caramel rolls to lending a helping hand with sewing projects, always generous with her most precious resource: time. She volunteered tirelessly for organizations throughout the community, but nothing brought her more joy than spending time with family, especially her beloved grandchildren.
As her children shared with us, “Nothing would make her happier than to see young mothers given more opportunities like this.” In Joanne’s Place, her legacy of love, service, and generosity lives on.
More Than Four Walls and a Roof
As guests crossed the threshold of Joanne’s Place for the first time, they encountered something that goes far deeper than architecture. There’s a designated space near the entrance to remove your shoes – a simple yet powerful symbol of truly coming home. Just above the coat hooks, visitors are welcomed by words that capture the very essence of our mission: “She is clothed in strength and dignity…”
These aren’t merely decorative words adorning a wall; they represent both the transformation we believe is possible for every young mother who walks through our doors and the enduring spirit of the woman whose legacy lives on in this place. Joanne’s Place isn’t simply about providing shelter – it’s about creating an environment where dignity is restored, hope is rekindled, and inner strength is discovered, just as Joanne Nelson would have wanted.
The Heart of Our Mission
Elevate Hope House exists to serve young, single mothers and their children in Anoka County who desperately need safe and stable housing. These courageous women, aged 18 to 24, are raising children while facing significant barriers to secure housing. They’re not looking for handouts – they’re seeking hand-ups, opportunities to build better lives for their families.
What moved us most deeply during the ceremony was hearing leader after leader – representing vastly different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives – repeatedly using the same powerful words: “dignity,” “hope,” “rest,” and “strength.” This wasn’t coordinated messaging or carefully planned talking points; it was the authentic recognition of what this place truly represents to our community.
The Power of Partnership
The success of Joanne’s Place stands as a living testament to what becomes possible when people work together. This project has united our community in unprecedented ways, bringing together the Housing First Minnesota Foundation, the Construction Trades Program at Spring Lake Park High School, land development partner Lennar, and countless other supporters who believed in this vision when it was just a dream.
We’re especially grateful to the Housing First MN Foundation for their unwavering partnership and for sharing these precious moments with our community. Their support has been absolutely instrumental in transforming this dream into reality.
Looking Toward Tomorrow
As we step boldly into this new chapter, our hearts overflow with gratitude for the journey that brought us here and excitement for the lives that will be transformed within these walls. We feel incredibly blessed to have this first home open, and we’re prayerfully hopeful that our second home will open this winter, allowing us to serve even more families in need.
Joanne’s Place represents just the beginning of something much larger. Each young mother who finds refuge here, each child who experiences stability and security for perhaps the first time, each family that discovers hope in the midst of crisis – they are the true measure of our success.
Investing in Our Community’s Future
When we address homelessness and housing instability, we’re doing much more than providing temporary relief – we’re making a strategic investment in our community’s future. By ensuring that young mothers have a stable foundation, we’re creating opportunities for their children to thrive, break generational cycles of poverty, and contribute to society in meaningful ways.
The work we do at Elevate Hope House extends far beyond simply providing housing. We’re in the business of community building, relationship development, and empowerment. We’re committed to seeing potential where others might see problems, and offering hope where despair has taken root.
Join Us in This Mission
As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we also extend a heartfelt invitation to our broader community. Whether through volunteering your time, making donations, offering prayers, or simply spreading awareness about our mission, there are countless meaningful ways to become part of this transformative work.
Every young mother deserves to be “clothed in strength and dignity.” Every child deserves a stable home where they can grow and dream. Every family in crisis deserves hope for a brighter future.
God is good, and we are incredibly thankful for this next chapter. We’re grateful for the growing partnerships He continues to bless us with as we follow His call to serve young mothers and their children in our community.
Get Involved
To learn more about Elevate Hope House or to discover how you can get involved with our mission, visit us at [contact information] or follow us on social media. Together, we can ensure that every young mother in our community has access to the safe, stable housing that every family deserves.
#thankful #strengthanddignity #endinghomelessness #communitymatters
History in the Making: Joanne’s Place Opens Its Doors This Wednesday
July 25th, 2025
The only thing you need to know tonight? Something incredible is happening this Wednesday, and you’re invited to be part of it.
A Moment We’ve All Been Waiting For
It’s finally here. After months of planning and anticipation, Joanne’s Place is ready to welcome the community through its doors. On Wednesday, July 30th at 4:00 PM in Ham Lake, Minnesota, we’ll officially open Elevate Hope House’s second location – and our groundbreaking first affordable housing model that will change how we serve families in our community.
Our First Affordable Housing Model – But We Pray Not Our Last
When we cut that ribbon on Wednesday, we’re opening doors to something revolutionary: Joanne’s Place represents our very first affordable housing model. This milestone means families who have put down roots in our community through our hybrid transitional home can now continue to thrive right here, in the neighborhoods they’ve called home for up to two years.
Joanne’s Place isn’t just another building – it’s a bridge. A bridge that allows families to transition from our supportive transitional housing into long-term affordable housing without having to leave the community connections they’ve built. We’re keeping families together, keeping kids in their schools, and keeping the support networks intact that are so crucial for lasting success.
This is our first step into affordable housing, and we pray it won’t be our last. We envision many more opportunities like this in the future, creating pathways for families to not just survive, but truly thrive in the communities where they belong.
Who’s Joining the Celebration?
We’re thrilled to welcome incredible partners including the Housing First team, Ham Lake Chamber of Commerce, and local champions who have supported our mission. But most importantly, you – the heart of our community – are invited to join this historic moment.
An Exclusive Glimpse Into the Future
Here’s what makes this ceremony even more exciting: everyone who attends will get an exclusive sneak peek at our vision for our third home, with construction starting this Fall. You’ll get the inside scoop on our next expansion before anyone else hears about it.
Join Us for History in the Making
Come hungry – we’ll have light refreshments waiting. Bring your family, bring your friends, bring anyone who believes in the power of community to create change. This is your invitation to witness something amazing and be part of a celebration that honors both how far we’ve come and where we’re headed next.
Wednesday afternoon isn’t just about cutting a ribbon – we’re officially opening a new chapter in our community’s story. See you there, hope builders. Let’s make history together.
Joanne’s Place Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Wednesday, July 30th at 4:00 PM
Ham Lake, Minnesota
Light refreshments provided
Everyone welcome
A Historic Moment: Joanne’s Place Opens as Elevate Hope House’s Second Home
July 18th, 2025
When Wednesday, July 30th arrives, it will mark more than just another ribbon cutting ceremony in Ham Lake, Minnesota. At 4:00 PM, our community will witness a pivotal moment in the expansion of hope for young mothers and their children in crisis.
The Mission Behind the Milestone
Elevate Hope House’s mission is to elevate hope for young, single moms and their children in crisis, by providing a safe home and an empowering support system, while each mom learns self-sufficiency and renews, restores, and regains her self-worth through the love of Christ. The organization serves young, single moms in Anoka County, MN, specifically those who are 16 to 24 years old, have children, and are facing barriers to safe housing.
This isn’t just temporary shelter – Elevate Hope House provides hybrid transitional housing and programming for families in crisis, offering more than a shelter. Mothers and their children can stay with Elevate Hope House for up to two years while they work on self-sufficiency skills and achievements. With a foundation in faith, they offer unique volunteer opportunities and rely on private donations to continue their mission.
From One Home to Three: A Growing Vision
The journey began in 2020 when Elevate Hope House in Ham Lake opened its doors to its first family during an unprecedented time for our world. This home was renovated with great support from Oak Haven Church, Oak Hill Baptist Church, Northgate Church, St. Patrick’s, Knights of Columbus, and so many other small businesses and organizations. 2024 concludes 4 years since they opened doors to young moms and their children in the community during the pandemic.
Now, Joanne’s Place represents the second chapter in this expanding story of hope. But the vision doesn’t stop there. During the grand opening ceremony, attendees will get an exclusive first look at plans for a third home, scheduled to break ground this fall.
The Power of Partnership
The grand opening celebration brings together key partners who share Elevate Hope House’s vision of creating lasting change:
HousingFirstMNFoundation: Housing First Minnesota Foundation has announced a partnership with Elevate Hope House, looking forward to seeing the house become a home in Ham Lake in January 2025.
Ham Lake Chamber of Commerce: Supporting local community development and economic growth
Community leaders and supporters: The backbone of this grassroots movement
Beyond the Ceremony: What This Means for Our Community
Every ribbon cutting ceremony tells a story, but this one speaks to something deeper than just new construction. It represents:
Community Unity: When organizations, churches, businesses, and individuals come together around a shared cause, extraordinary things happen. The renovation and opening of Joanne’s Place exemplifies what’s possible when a community decides to act on its values.
Tangible Hope: For young mothers facing homelessness, domestic violence, or other crises, Joanne’s Place isn’t just a building – it’s a pathway to stability, self-sufficiency, and renewed confidence.
Multiplied Impact: Thanks to supporters, Elevate Hope House is able to provide housing and programming for 3 young moms and their children every day. With Joanne’s Place opening, this capacity will grow, meaning more families will have access to the comprehensive support they need.
Future Growth: The preview of the third home shows that this isn’t just about meeting current needs – it’s about building sustainable infrastructure for ongoing community support.
Join the Celebration
The grand opening on July 30th at 4:00 PM isn’t just an event – it’s an invitation to be part of something bigger than yourself. Light refreshments will be provided, and families are welcome. The more people who witness this moment, the stronger the network of support becomes for the young mothers who will call Joanne’s Place home.
This celebration represents years of prayer, fundraising, volunteer work, and community collaboration. It’s a testament to what becomes possible when people refuse to accept that young mothers and their children should face crisis alone.
Looking Forward
As we prepare to cut the ribbon on Joanne’s Place, we’re not just opening a second home – we’re expanding hope, creating opportunity, and building community resilience. The preview of the third home reminds us that this work is far from finished, but every step forward makes a difference in real lives.
For more information about the grand opening event, visit elevatehopehouse.org/events. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or learning about Elevate Hope House for the first time, July 30th represents a chance to witness history in the making and be part of a movement that’s transforming lives in our community.
The ribbon cutting may last just a few minutes, but the impact of Joanne’s Place will echo through generations of families who find hope, healing, and a fresh start within its walls.
Can’t make it to the grand opening? You can still support Elevate Hope House’s mission through donations and volunteer opportunities. Visit their website to learn more about how you can help expand hope in our community.
Fireworks, New Beginnings, and the Power of Community Support
July 11th, 2025
What a way to celebrate the 4th of July! This Independence Day will forever hold a special place in our hearts at Elevate Hope House, as we witnessed not one, but two incredible moments that remind us why we do what we do.
A Holiday to Remember
Our celebration began when we opened the doors to Joanne’s Place to welcome a mama and her two precious kiddos into our family. There’s something magical about watching a family step through our doors for the first time – hope mixed with uncertainty, relief mixed with the courage it takes to accept help. But as we’ve learned time and again, it’s in these moments of vulnerability that the most beautiful transformations begin.
And if that wasn’t enough blessing for one holiday, our newest family addition decided to make their grand entrance this past 4th of July! Ten perfect fingers, ten perfect toes, and a heart full of love. Talk about adding extra sparkle to our Independence Day fireworks!
More Than Just Shelter
We’re reminded daily that children truly are a gift from above, and there’s nothing more beautiful than being able to wrap our arms around families who need a little extra support. At Elevate Hope House, we’ve learned that community support isn’t just about providing a roof over someone’s head – it’s about creating a foundation for lasting change.
Every family that walks through our doors brings their own story, their own dreams, and their own potential. The mama who just moved into Joanne’s Place? She’s not just seeking shelter – she’s fighting for her family’s future. The new baby who chose Independence Day as their birthday? They’re already teaching us about perfect timing and new beginnings.
Every Dollar, Every Wall, Every Dream
Here’s what gets us excited about the future: every single dollar donated to Elevate Hope House doesn’t just help one family – it creates a ripple effect of hope throughout our entire community. When we think about our next home, we envision something extraordinary happening within those walls.
Every wall in our next facility will be able to provide multiplied support compared to what we can offer today. Imagine expanded family rooms where children can play safely while their parents attend life skills workshops. Picture larger kitchen spaces where families can learn to cook together, building both nutrition knowledge and precious memories. Envision educational spaces where homework help transforms into college prep, and where computer labs become gateways to career opportunities.
The Multiplication Effect
The beautiful thing about community support is how it multiplies. One generous donation helps us expand our capacity. More capacity means more families served. More families achieving stability means stronger communities. Stronger communities mean more people who can pay it forward, creating an endless cycle of hope and healing.
When we invest in a family today, we’re not just changing their immediate circumstances – we’re investing in their children’s futures, their potential contributions to society, and their ability to someday help others climb out of difficult situations.
Your Part in the Story
Every person reading this has the power to be part of someone’s transformation story. Whether it’s a monthly donation, volunteering your time, sharing our mission with friends, or simply keeping our families in your prayers – every act of support matters.
The mama who just moved into Joanne’s Place will remember the kindness of strangers who made her fresh start possible. The family with the new baby will tell their child someday about the community that surrounded them with love during their most vulnerable moments.
Looking Forward
As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we’re constantly amazed by the generosity of our community. Every dollar donated, every volunteer hour given, every prayer offered – they all add up to something much bigger than the sum of their parts.
Our vision for the future isn’t just about bigger buildings or more programs. It’s about creating a place where every family knows they’re valued, where every child understands their potential, and where every parent has the tools they need to build a stable, loving home.
Join the Celebration
God has been so good to us, and we’re just grateful to be His hands and feet in our community. As we celebrate these recent blessings – new families, new life, new beginnings – we invite you to be part of the story that’s still being written.
Because when we come together as a community, when we choose to see every family as worthy of support and every child as deserving of hope, that’s when real fireworks happen. That’s when we create the kind of Independence Day celebration that lasts far beyond the holiday – one that creates freedom from poverty, freedom from homelessness, and freedom to dream big.
Welcome to the Elevate Hope House family, to our newest residents, and to everyone who makes this mission possible. Here’s to new beginnings, community support, and the incredible things that happen when we choose to care for one another.
Every wall matters. Every dollar matters. Every family matters. And together, we’re building something beautiful.
Ready to be part of the story? Learn more about supporting Elevate Hope House and discover how your contribution can multiply hope in our community.
A New Kind of Independence: Celebrating Freedom and Fresh Starts at Joanne’s Place
July 4th, 2025
This Independence Day, we honor all who have served and continue to serve our great nation. Your sacrifice makes our freedom possible. Because of your service, we can ask this question: What does true independence look like?
This week holds special meaning for all of us at Elevate Hope House. As our nation celebrates 249 years of freedom, we’re celebrating another kind of independence – the kind that comes when a mother and her two precious children step across the threshold of their new home at Joanne’s Place, leaving behind uncertainty and stepping into hope.
Freedom Found in Faith
Just as our founding fathers trusted in God when they declared independence, this courageous mom has placed her trust in God’s plan for her family’s future. Her journey to Joanne’s Place hasn’t been easy, but it’s been guided by the same faith that has always been our foundation at Elevate Hope House. We believe that true independence comes not from our own strength alone, but from knowing that we are never alone in our struggles.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11). This verse has never felt more real than watching this family begin their new chapter.
More Than Just a House – A Launchpad for Dreams
Joanne’s Place is more than housing; it’s a safe place where healing happens, where children can play safely, and where a mother can rebuild her confidence knowing she has a community surrounding her with love and support. Every room in this home has been prepared with prayer, every detail considered with the heart of Christ’s love for families in need.
As we watched her children explore their new bedrooms, their laughter echoing through halls that will soon be filled with homework sessions, birthday parties, and bedtime stories, we were reminded that this is what independence truly looks like – the freedom to dream again, to plan for tomorrow, and to believe that better days are ahead.
An Invitation to Witness Hope in Action
We invite you to join us for a very special celebration as we officially dedicate Joanne’s Place with a ribbon cutting ceremony on July 30th, 2025, in Ham Lake, Minnesota. This isn’t just about cutting a ribbon – it’s about witnessing what happens when a community comes together, guided by faith, to create something beautiful.
Come see what your prayers, donations, and volunteer hours have built. Meet the families whose lives are being transformed. Experience firsthand the joy that comes from being part of God’s work in our community.
True Independence Through Community
This Independence Day, as fireworks light up the sky and families gather for barbecues, we’re reminded that the greatest freedom isn’t found in isolation but in knowing we belong to something bigger than ourselves. For this mom and her children, independence doesn’t mean going it alone – it means having a community that believes in their potential and a God who has prepared a place for them to flourish.
The same spirit that moved our nation’s founders to declare that “all men are created equal” and “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights” moves us today to declare that every family deserves a safe place to call home, a community to call family, and hope for tomorrow.
Be Part of the Story
Mark your calendars for July 30th and come celebrate with us in Ham Lake. Bring your family, bring your friends, and come ready to witness what hope looks like when it has an address. Together, we’ll cut the ribbon on Joanne’s Place, but more importantly, we’ll celebrate the ribbon being cut on a new chapter of life for this precious family.
At Elevate Hope House, we know that true independence comes through depending on God and on each other. This Independence Day, we’re not just celebrating our nation’s freedom; we’re celebrating the freedom that comes when love builds a home, faith lights the way, and community makes all things possible.
*For more information about the ribbon cutting ceremony or how you can support families transitioning to independence, contact Elevate Hope House or visit our Events Page HERE Together, we’re not just housing families – we’re elevating hope, one home at a time.*
What Does Love in Action Look Like?
June 27th, 2025
Our volunteers are God’s love in action.
For Sarah, a working mom of three, it looked like rolling up her sleeves every Tuesday evening to teach young mothers how to stretch a grocery budget into nutritious meals for their families. “When I show them how to make a hearty soup that feeds four for under $8, I see more than just cooking skills developing,” Sarah shares. “I see confidence growing. I see mothers realizing they can provide well for their children.”
For a retired couple, The Johnsons, it looked like sliding into the driver’s seat every Thursday morning, transforming anxiety-filled trips to job interviews and medical appointments into encouraging conversations about dreams and possibilities. “That 20-minute drive becomes sacred space,” one resident shared. “By the time we arrive, I don’t just feel like someone experiencing homelessness – I have hope and encouragement from a new village that cares about me and shows up for me.”
For some of our high school students, it has looked like showing up on Saturday mornings not with grand gestures, but with patience and presence – reading stories, playing with kids at the playground, and sometimes playing games with moms, while the kids take their naps. “These kids just need to know they matter,” Emma says. “Sometimes the biggest gift is simply being there, being consistent, being safe.”
And for our mom small groups that volunteer together, it has looked like gathering around kitchen tables every Wednesday evening, opening Bibles and hearts together. “We’re not just studying scripture,” one volunteer shared. “We’re discovering together that even in the hardest seasons, we’re not forgotten. We’re not alone. And our stories aren’t over.”
The Ripple Effect of Showing Up
What these volunteers understand is something profound: transformation happens not in the big, dramatic moments, but in the consistent, loving presence of people who choose to see potential instead of circumstances.
When a volunteer teaches a young mom to meal prep on Sundays, she’s not just sharing recipes – she’s showing her children that nutritious family dinners are possible, even on the tightest budget. Those children will grow up knowing what it looks like to prioritize health and family time around the table.
When volunteers provides reliable transportation, they are not just offering rides – they are demonstrating what it means to be dependable, to keep your word, to show up for others. The young mothers served learn that they too can become people others count on.
When teens invests in children during their most vulnerable season, they are not just providing childcare – they are planting seeds of stability and self-worth that will bloom for decades to come.
When small groups open God’s word with mothers who have every reason to feel abandoned, they are not just leading Bible study – they are helping rewrite the narrative of worthiness and hope that these women will pass on to their children.
Your Role in the Story
Every volunteer at Elevate Hope House started with one simple decision: to show up. Not with all the answers, not with unlimited resources, but with willing hearts and available hands.
The beautiful truth? You don’t need special skills to make a generational impact. You need only to believe that the young mothers and children at Elevate Hope House are worth investing in – because they absolutely are.
What if your Tuesday evenings could change a family for generations?
What if your Saturday mornings could rewrite a child’s story?
What if your faithful presence could transform how a young mother sees herself and her future?
At Elevate Hope House, it already is.
Become a Monthly Partner
Set up your recurring donation and become part of the foundation that keeps hope building [HERE]
Sign Up to Volunteer – Choose your availability and interests, and we’ll connect you with opportunities that fit your heart and schedule [HERE]
Learn More – Visit Elevate Hope House to see firsthand the transformation that happens when community comes together [HERE]
Together, we’re not just providing temporary housing. We’re providing hope, dignity, and the chance for families to write a completely different story for their futures – one loving interaction at a time.
The $10 That Changes Everything: How You Can Transform Families for Generations
June 20th, 2025
What if I told you that $10 could change a family for generations? It might sound impossible, but at Elevate Hope House, we see this miracle happen every single day.
Building More Than Houses – Building Futures
Right now, we’re in the middle of something extraordinary. Teams from Building Companies, Housing First, Spring Lake Park and Elevate Hope House are meeting to create plans for House #3, and every hammer that will strike, every nail being purchased, every board that will be placed is creating a future foundation for hope. But here’s the beautiful truth: this isn’t just about building structures. We’re building safety, stability, and second chances for families who need them most.
Your monthly gift of just $10 allows this construction to continue this Fall, expanding our capacity to welcome more families into a place where transformation begins.
What Happens When Families Find Their Safe Haven
Picture this: A little girl sits still as gentle hands brush through her hair, her eyes bright with the kind of peace that only comes from knowing you’re truly safe. This is what happens at Elevate Hope House.
Children feel safe. For many of the kids who come to us, this might be the first time they’ve experienced true security. They can play without fear, sleep without anxiety, and simply be children again.
Moms know where they will sleep each night. The crushing weight of uncertainty lifts from their shoulders. No more wondering if tonight will be spent in a car, a shelter, or somewhere unsafe. They have a key, a bed, and most importantly, a future they can plan for.
Families know they have support when they need it. Whether it’s help finding employment, navigating healthcare, or simply having someone to talk to during the hardest moments, our community wraps around each family with practical love and unwavering support.
The Heart of Community: Where Volunteers Make Magic
Some of the most beautiful moments at Elevate Hope House happen in the kitchen. Picture a volunteer and a mom, flour on their hands, laughter filling the air as they make cookies together. It’s more than baking – it’s building relationships, sharing skills, and creating the kind of community connections that help families thrive long after they move into permanent housing.
This is where you come in.
Two Ways to Change Everything
The First Way: Become a Monthly Financial Partner
Your consistent support of $10, $25, $50, or whatever amount works for your budget becomes the steady foundation that allows us to:
Continue construction on House #3 and future homes
Provide services for families to achieve their goals towards self-sufficiency
Maintain safe, comfortable living spaces
Offer programs that help families build independent, successful futures
Monthly giving means families can count on us being here when they need us most. It means we can say “yes” to that mom with two kids who needs a safe place tonight. It means we can continue building hope, one family at a time.
The Second Way: Volunteer Your Time and Heart
Our residential home needs people like you to help create the warm, supportive environment that makes all the difference. Whether you have an hour a week or a day a month, there’s a place for you:
Share a Meal: Join families for dinner, bringing not just food but conversation, laughter, and the reminder that they’re part of a caring community.
Play and Connect: Spend time with children who just need someone to play a game, help with homework, or listen to their stories. Your presence shows them they matter.
Lend Your Skills: Whether you’re handy with repairs, great at organizing, or have professional skills to share, there’s always something that needs doing to keep our homes welcoming and functional.
Become a Family Advocate: Share your knowledge – cooking, budgeting, job interview skills, or any life skill that could help families build their independence.
Join Elevate’s Community Today
This isn’t about being generous – it’s about community. It’s about recognizing that we all do better when we all do better. When you become part of Elevate’s community, you’re not just helping families in crisis; you’re investing in the fabric of our entire community.
Every monthly partner, every volunteer, every person who chooses to get involved is saying something powerful: “Your family matters. Your future matters. You belong here.”
As planning begins for House #3 because people like you believe in the power of hope. Families are sleeping safely tonight because people like you decided $10 a month was worth changing someone’s world.
Ready to be part of something bigger?
Become a Monthly Partner – Set up your recurring donation and become part of the foundation that keeps hope building HERE
Sign Up to Volunteer – Choose your availability and interests, and we’ll connect you with opportunities that fit your heart and schedule HERE
Learn More – Visit Elevate Hope House to see firsthand the transformation that happens when community comes together HERE
Together, we’re not just providing temporary housing. We’re providing hope, dignity, and the chance for families to write a completely different story for their futures.
What if $10 could change a family for generations?
At Elevate Hope House, it already is.
From Surviving to Thriving: The Ripple Effect of Home and Community
June 13th, 2025
Over the past two weeks, we’ve talked about building walls that provide safety and creating community that offers belonging. Today, let’s look at what happens when these two foundations come together—when families move from simply surviving to truly thriving.
The Transformation in Action
Let’s return to Michelle’s story, but fast-forward 6 months. When Michelle first arrived at Elevate Hope House, she had no reliable transportation to get her toddler to doctor appointments – she hadn’t even started the permit process to take steps towards driving now and into the future. Our residential program started with the basics of self-sufficiency—volunteers provided rides to essential appointments, helped her navigate the permit process, and supported her through driving lessons.
Once Michelle had her license and reliable transportation, she could focus on her career goals and completed her business administration program. Her toddler is now thriving at a local preschool that partners with Elevate Hope House to ensure relationships and support continue outside our four walls. Volunteers make achieving goals like this possible so that she can then begin finding the right program to begin an Education Path towards becoming a CNA.
Breaking Generational Cycles
Perhaps the most significant impact is how stable housing and community support can break generational cycles of instability. When we provide a child with stable housing during their formative years, we’re not just helping one family—we’re potentially changing the trajectory for future generations. Children who grow up with housing stability and community support are more likely to graduate high school, pursue higher education, achieve financial stability as adults, and less likely to experience homelessness themselves. Every family we serve today represents multiple generations of impact.
The Ongoing Need and Your Role
While we celebrate transformation stories like Michelle’s, the need continues to grow. Families with children experiencing homelessness in Minnesota grew by 27% from 2022 to 2023. When you contribute to Elevate Hope House—whether through financial gifts or volunteer time—you’re not just helping one family. You’re creating stability that allows children to succeed academically, building community that supports entire families, breaking cycles that could affect generations, and contributing to stronger, more connected communities.
The Investment That Keeps Growing
Your $10 secures screws that becomes part of a wall. That wall provides safety for a child who grows up to become a nurse, a teacher, or a leader in their community. Your volunteer time provides support that helps a mother complete her education and break the cycle of instability for her family. The walls we build today house the dreams that will reshape tomorrow. The community we create today nurtures the leaders, innovators, and change-makers of the future. Ready to be part of transformation that lasts generations? Whether through financial support or volunteer involvement, join us in creating ripple effects of hope that extend far beyond what we can imagine.
Beyond Four Walls: Building Community for Families Who Need It Most
June 6th, 2025
Last week, we talked about the importance of building physical walls—the boards and screws that create safe spaces for families. But what happens after the construction is complete and a family gets to move into a room of their very own? For many young mothers, walking into a new home can feel both like a dream come true and a daunting new chapter.
When Home Feels Lonely
Picture Michelle, a 22-year-old single mom with two young children. She’s finally received communication that a room at Elevate Hope House was available, but she doesn’t have family nearby to help her celebrate and be part of her journey to become self-sufficient in the months ahead. No grandmother to watch the kids while she grocery shops. No sister to call when her toddler has a fever at 2 AM. No extended family to invite over for a House Dinner during the week.
Michelle represents thousands of families in Minnesota who lack the support systems many of us take for granted. When families experience homelessness, they often lose more than just their housing—they lose their community connections, their support networks, and sometimes their sense of belonging.
The Isolation Challenge
Research shows that social isolation affects single mothers at disproportionate rates. Without extended family or established friendships, these mothers face:
Daily Challenges Alone: Simple tasks like grocery shopping become complicated when you have no one to watch your children
Emergency Situations: When a child gets sick or needs to be picked up from school unexpectedly, there’s no backup plan
Financial Stress: No one to share resources with or ask for help during tight months
Emotional Burden: The weight of making every decision alone, with no trusted advisor to talk things through
Limited Opportunities: Difficulty attending job interviews, community events, or even church services without childcare support
For children, this isolation can mean missing out on birthday parties, playdates, and the rich relationships that help them develop social skills and confidence.
The Power of Intentional Community
Building community for isolated families doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentional effort and sustained commitment. And this is why our volunteers are the foundation of our program. Without them, the community we desire to create for our families wouldn’t be possible – and we are incredibly grateful!
Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is help with everyday needs. This might include:
Offering to babysit so a mother can attend a job interview or run errands alone by taking a shift at Elevate Hope House
Sharing resources like children’s clothing, books, or household items when a new family moves in or as they prepare to move to their forever home
Providing transportation to appointments, grocery stores, or community events – the majority of our families come to us without their own form of transportation so this one is HUGE for our organization
Teaching practical skills like budgeting, home maintenance, or cooking
Building Relationships, Not Just Programs
True community happens in relationship, not in formal programs. This means:
Inviting families to join us for casual activities like park visits or backyard barbecues
Including children in age-appropriate activities with our own kids when we volunteer
Creating space for mothers to share their experiences and wisdom with each other in small groups – church invites are highly encouraged!
Being present during both celebrations and difficult times as you get to know our families through volunteering
Creating Ongoing Connection
Support makes a difference when it is consistent and reliable:
Regular check-ins that aren’t crisis-driven. We ask our volunteers to volunteer no less than 1x a month – bi-weekly is great!
We love when our volunteers can share their traditions with our families! From joining us at the Pumpkin Patch to Decorating Christmas Cookies – these traditions sometimes become our families traditions and we are blessed that you share your heart with each and every one of them.
Create opportunities for our families to contribute their own gifts and talents to the community
What This Looks Like in Practice
Imagine if Michelle’s story continued like this: Within her first month in her new home, neighbors invited her family to a community potluck. Someone offered to watch her kids so she could attend a job fair. A few families included her children in their weekly park visits. During her son’s first illness in the new home, someone brought over soup and offered to pick up medicine.
These aren’t extraordinary acts—they’re simple expressions of community that can transform a family’s experience from isolation to belonging.
Beyond the Walls We Build: Your Role in Building Community
You don’t need special training or extensive resources to help build community. You need availability, consistency, and genuine care. Simply start by completing a volunteer application or “Learn More” Inquiry – and we’ll take the next step together.
The walls we construct provide safety and privacy, but community provides connection and belonging. Both are essential for families to truly thrive.
When we help build a house, we’re creating the space where life happens. When we help build community, we’re ensuring that life is rich, supported, and full of hope.
Every family deserves both: walls that provide security and community that provides belonging. Your involvement in building both makes the difference between a house and a true home.
Moving Forward Together
As we continue supporting Elevate families, let’s remember that our role doesn’t end when construction is complete. The most meaningful work often begins when families move in and start building their new lives.
Whether you contribute $1 toward a screw or nail, $10 toward a board, or $1,000 toward a wall, you’re also investing in the community these families will need to flourish.
Ready to build both homes and community? Join us in creating environments where every family can thrive—surrounded by both strong walls and strong relationships.
Building Hope: One Wall at a Time
May 30th, 2025
Every home begins with a foundation. For thousands of families in Minnesota, that foundation is within reach—but they need our help to build it.
The Reality in Minnesota
The numbers tell a clear story: 4 out of every 10 people experiencing homelessness in our state are children and youth under 24. From 2022 to 2023, families with children experiencing homelessness grew by 27%. These aren’t just statistics—they represent real mothers and children who need stable housing.
As Christians, we’re called to care for those in need. Building homes is one of the most practical ways we can live out our faith and make a lasting difference in our community.
Why Good Walls Matter
When you’re building a house, walls serve an important purpose beyond holding up the roof. They create private, secure spaces where families can rest, children can focus on homework, and parents can plan for the future without constant worry about where they’ll sleep next.
For a young mother who’s been living in temporary situations, moving into a home with solid walls represents stability. It means her children can attend the same school, make friends in the neighborhood, and have a consistent place to call home. Good construction creates the foundation for good lives.
Your Investment in Action
Here’s how your contribution directly translates into home construction:
$1 – A Single Screw
For just one dollar, you can secure a screw that will help stabilize part of a child’s future home. That screw becomes part of the foundation of hope and a safe place they can come back to each day.
$10 – One Board at a Time
Ten dollars adds a board to a wall. Board by board, safety and security become reality for an Elevate Family in 2026. Each board brings the structure closer to completion, creating the rooms where families will live, eat, and grow together.
$100 – A Square Foot in Our Home
A hundred dollars can complete an entire square foot —whether that’s in a bedroom where children can have their own space with their mama, or a kitchen where families can gather for meals in community.
$1,000 – Complete Wall Systems
One thousand dollars builds an entire wall, complete with insulation and finishing. This creates the secure, comfortable spaces that help families thrive in their new home.
The Long-Term Impact
Stable housing changes everything for families. Children in permanent homes perform better in school. Parents can focus on career development and building savings. Families can participate in their communities and put down roots.
When we help build homes, we’re investing in the future of these families and our community. We’re creating environments where children can succeed and parents can build the stability they need to become self-sufficient.
The Bigger Picture
Building homes is about more than construction—it’s about restoring hope and creating opportunity. Every family deserves a safe place to live, and every child deserves the stability that comes with having their own home.
The work we do today creates ripple effects that last for generations. Children who grow up in stable homes are more likely to succeed academically, build healthy relationships, and contribute positively to their communities.
How You Can Help
Whether you can contribute $1 or $1,000, your gift makes a difference. Every donation goes directly toward construction costs, and every dollar helps us get closer to completing homes for families who need them.
We’re not just building houses—we’re building futures. Your support helps create the foundation that families need to move forward with confidence and hope.
Ready to Build?
Elevate’s next Home for Families project is underway, and we need partners who share our commitment to helping families achieve stable housing. Your contribution, whatever the amount, becomes part of something that will serve families for years to come.
The Journey to Opening Joanne’s Place by July 2025
Take a look at the journey with some video captures and images that share a snapshot into our journey over the last year and a half leading to opening our 2nd Home – Joanne’s place.
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