Founded in 2015, Char Hope Foundation grew from one family's deeply personal experience into a place where men and women battling addiction can rediscover purpose, responsibility, and hope. For founders Derek Hopkins and his wife, the idea began after welcoming a young man into their home one Christmas. While they tried to help him rebuild his life, they noticed something unexpected.
"The one thing that consistently gave him purpose, hope, and stability was caring for the cattle and livestock on our farm," Derek Hopkins said. "Through daily responsibilities with the animals, he found something that traditional recovery methods hadn't provided: a sense of worth, routine, and connection to something bigger than himself."
That realization inspired a recovery model centered on livestock, farm work, life skills, and compassionate support. Hopkins said the daily routine does more than keep residents busy. It helps them see themselves differently. "The farm doesn't just teach people how to stay sober. It helps them discover why their life is worth rebuilding," Hopkins said.
That transformation is perhaps best reflected in one resident's journey. She entered the program facing more than 10 years in prison, initially viewing it as a way to satisfy the court. As she embraced the work, she grew into a leader, eventually becoming House Manager. At sentencing, the judge recognized her progress and allowed her to remain at the farm instead of serving a lengthy prison sentence. Today, she leads the very program that helped change her life.
For Hopkins, stories like hers reinforce the foundation's mission. "The men and women we serve are not 'lost causes' or 'problems to be hidden.' They are sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, and neighbors who deserve a real chance to heal."
Char Hope offers other opportunities, as well, including counseling, workshops, network building, and post-program support, and they continue to work to build and improve the program they offer. “We’re most proud that Char Hope remains rooted in its original mission: using the farm, livestock, hard work, and genuine care to help people rediscover their worth and purpose. Every year we refine the program, but the heart stays the same -- offering hope and healing to those who are ready to do the work.”
Looking ahead, Char Hope plans to expand its reach while remaining true to its founding purpose. "[An] investment in Char Hope is an investment in safer neighborhoods, stronger families, and lives restored," Hopkins said. "Together, we can create a future where more people in our county find lasting hope and recovery."
Together, we can create a future where more people in our county find lasting hope and recovery.