About Journey of Hope
Journey of Hope was founded on the belief that no person’s life should be defined by abuse, trauma, shame, or fear. We exist to bring awareness to abuse, support those seeking healing, and create practical pathways toward restoration and independence.
Our work is rooted in compassion, faith, education, accountability, and community. We understand that healing is not always immediate or simple. It is a journey — one that can become possible when survivors have safe support, trustworthy resources, and people who believe in their future.
Our Vision
We envision communities where abuse is no longer hidden, survivors are supported without judgment, families have access to education and healing, and individuals are empowered to create safer, healthier lives.
Journey of Hope brings together community leaders, faith leaders, educators, advocates, service providers, and caring supporters to create a coordinated response to abuse and its long-term effects. Our goal is not only to help people recover from trauma, but also to help prevent abuse before it begins.
What Guides Us
Seven values shape every conversation, program, and partnership at Journey of Hope.
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Healing
We believe people can recover, rebuild, and rediscover hope.
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Restoration
We help individuals move beyond survival toward renewed purpose and healthy relationships.
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Wholeness
We support emotional, spiritual, relational, and practical growth.
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Prevention
We educate communities to recognize abuse, interrupt harmful patterns, and protect future generations.
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Dignity
Every person deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and care.
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Confidentiality
We honor the privacy and safety of those who seek support.
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Community
Healing is strengthened through trusted relationships and shared responsibility.
A message from our founder
Why Journey of Hope Exists
Journey of Hope was born from a personal understanding of how deeply abuse can affect a life. Founder Ava Smith experienced trauma and abuse in childhood and understands the isolation, fear, anger, shame, and brokenness that can follow.
Through her own healing journey, Ava discovered the life-changing value of faith, support, education, and service to others. Her vision is to ensure that people who have experienced abuse know they are not alone, and that they can find the support, skills, and encouragement needed to move forward.
My journey has included pain, trauma, and seasons when I did not know how to move forward. But through faith, healing, support, and a commitment to helping others, I discovered that the past does not have to define the future. Ava Smith, Founder and President