For 25 years, Place of Hope has stood as a pillar of compassion and resilience, transforming the lives of children, youth, and families across South Florida. Since its founding in 1998, this extraordinary organization has touched over 150,000 people, offering not just shelter but also a pathway to healing, independence, and success. Under the inspired leadership of Founding CEO Charles L. Bender, Place of Hope has built a legacy defined by innovation, hope, and unwavering dedication.
With campuses spanning Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Hobe Sound, and the Treasure Coast, Place of Hope is the region’s largest and most diverse organization of its kind. Whether helping youth transition out of foster care, supporting single mothers through crises, or leading groundbreaking human trafficking prevention programs, the organization’s mission is rooted in the belief that every person deserves dignity, safety, and the opportunity to thrive.
Among its many milestones, Place of Hope has facilitated over 375 adoptions, giving children permanent, loving homes. Its Villages of Hope program provides transitional housing and life skills to homeless youth and families, while its Shade Tree initiative, launched in 2022, offers material and emotional support for single mothers and families in crisis. In 2012, it made history by opening Florida’s first safe house for domestic minor sex trafficking victims, a bold step in the fight against modern-day slavery.
This year, Place of Hope is also celebrating the expansion of its partnership with Crime Stoppers and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, a program that offers up to $7,500 in rewards for actionable tips leading to the rescue of trafficking victims. These efforts have already doubled the number of tips in Palm Beach County and are poised to create ripple effects across the state.
“Our mission has always been to honor God by providing the love and stability vulnerable children and families need,” says Bender. “As we look ahead, our focus remains on expanding our reach and deepening our impact.”
As Place of Hope enters its next chapter, its commitment to breaking cycles of abuse, neglect, and exploitation shines brighter than ever. With unwavering community support and over $100 million raised during its debt-free operation, the organization is poised to continue inspiring hope for decades to come.
For more information, visit www.placeofhope.com.
Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness. - Desmond Tutu