HopeTree Receives Anne Felder Fund Grant to Enhance Developmental Disabilities Ministry Homes
Home > HopeTree Receives Anne Felder Fund Grant to Enhance Developmental Disabilities Ministry Homes
SALEM, Va. (March 31, 2025) – HopeTree Family Services, a leading provider of mental and behavioral health services, is honored to receive a grant from The Community Foundation’s Anne Felder Fund. This funding will support much-needed updates to HopeTree’s Developmental Disabilities Ministry (DDM) homes in Fredericksburg, Virginia, providing communal furniture for residents of the Kelly and Cates Homes. These improvements will enhance the comfort, quality of life, and sense of community for the individuals who call these homes their own.
“HopeTree Family Services appreciates the partnership and support from The Anne Felder Fund and The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region,” said Randi Paxton, Chief Operating Officer of HopeTree Family Services. “The Community Foundation’s investment in Fredericksburg’s DDM program continues to demonstrate their dedication to the legacy of service for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
HopeTree’s Developmental Disabilities Ministry operates 17 homes throughout Virginia, offering residential services, life skills training, and community engagement to help individuals achieve greater independence while ensuring their dignity and well-being. Each home is licensed and monitored by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, ensuring the highest standards of care.
The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region manages charitable giving for Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline counties, as well as the City of Fredericksburg. The Anne Felder Fund is dedicated to improving the lives of intellectually disabled and disadvantaged individuals in the Fredericksburg area, making a lasting impact through strategic investments in local programs.
HopeTree Receives Coca-Cola Consolidated Grant to Support Foster Care Initiatives
Home > HopeTree Receives Coca-Cola Consolidated Grant to Support Foster Care Initiatives
SALEM, Va. (March 7, 2025) – HopeTree Family Services, a leading provider of mental and behavioral health services, is proud to announce that it has been awarded a grant from Coca-Cola Consolidated in Roanoke, Virginia. This funding will directly support HopeTree’s Treatment Foster Care program in the Roanoke region, which provides essential services to foster children and the families who care for them.
“Our mission is to ensure that every child in our program receives the stability, support, and guidance they need to thrive,” said April Estrada, director of foster care at HopeTree Family Services. “This generous grant from Coca-Cola Consolidated will strengthen our ability to provide high-quality, family-based foster care and offer critical resources to both foster children and parents.”
HopeTree Family Services operates foster care offices in Salem, Martinsville, and the greater Richmond area, supporting foster families across Virginia. In 2022-2023, the program assisted 132 youth, working toward long-term solutions such as family reunification and adoption.
Coca-Cola Consolidated, the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, has been committed to serving communities across the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic regions for over 122 years. Through partnerships like this, the company continues to make a meaningful impact on local families and children in need.
About HopeTree Family Services
HopeTree Family Services, the premier faith-related human services organization in Virginia, offers a wide range of ministries for at-risk children and youth and their families across the state. Programs include Treatment Foster Care, Therapeutic Group Homes, Developmental Disabilities Ministry, HopeTree Academy, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and Family Centered Treatment. Visit www.hopetreefs.org for more information.
Chris Morris, Education Supervisor at HopeTree Academy
Christopher Morris, an Education Supervisor at HopeTree Academy, has spent his career building relationships with students. His recent connection with a young boy from HopeTree’s residential program underscores how personal care and intentionality can change lives. With the support of Dr. Challen Mabry, Chief Clinical Officer of HopeTree Family Services, Morris exemplifies the profound impact of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI®) in fostering connections and empowering youth.
A Troubled Start
The student, a 12-year-old with a history of foster care disruption, struggled with emotional regulation and social connection. After a challenging weekend, he refused to attend school. Despite efforts from clinicians, he remained withdrawn, raising concerns about his mental health and well-being.
Dr. Mabry, familiar with the boy’s positive rapport with Morris, reached out for assistance. Morris didn’t hesitate. “I walked over to the cottage, sat beside him on the sofa, and started a conversation,” Morris recalls. Their shared background—both having roots in the same community—sparked a bond. “We talked about where we grew up, and his face lit up. That connection deepened our relationship.”
What is TBRI®?
TBRI® is an attachment-based, trauma-informed intervention that is designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children. TBRI® uses Empowering Principles to address physical needs, Connecting Principles for attachment needs, and Correcting Principles to disarm fear-based behaviors. While the intervention is based on years of attachment, sensory processing, and neuroscience research, the heartbeat of TBRI® is connection.
TBRI® is designed to meet the complex needs of children who have experienced adversity, early harm, toxic stress, and/or trauma. Because of their histories, it is often difficult for these children to trust the loving adults in their lives, which often results in perplexing behaviors. TBRI® offers practical tools for parents, caregivers, teachers, or anyone who works with children, to see the “whole child” in their care and help that child reach his highest potential.
The Power of Showing Up
Instead of pressuring the boy, Morris offered understanding and support. He encouraged the child to return to school, framing it as a choice: “If you won’t do it for yourself, do it for me.” The approach worked. The next day, the boy came to school, smiling and carrying an unopened Dr Pepper, a meaningful gesture for someone with few personal possessions.
“He shared the soda with me, which meant a lot,” Morris says. “It wasn’t just a drink—it was a symbol of trust and gratitude.” Dr. Mabry highlights the importance of these small yet transformative moments. “Chris modeled connection over compliance, showing the student that he mattered. That’s what TBRI is all about—building trust and meeting kids where they are.”
Beyond Academics
Since that day, the student has thrived, attending school consistently and forming healthier relationships. Morris continues to provide individualized support, greeting students by name and prioritizing their needs. “No matter what I’m doing, it’s not as important as what a student needs at that moment,” he says.
Dr. Mabry emphasizes that creating connections doesn’t require a professional degree. “Chris’s willingness to sit with the boy, listen, and share a moment made all the difference. It’s a reminder that anyone can play a role in transforming lives.”
A Philosophy in Practice
Morris’s dedication stems from his belief in the transformative power of relationships. After over three decades in public education, he has embraced TBRI as a guiding framework. “I’ve learned that connection is key,” he says. “If students know you care, they’re more likely to respect boundaries and work through challenges.”
For Morris, this philosophy extends beyond his professional life. “The boy reminds me of my own son,” he shares. “That personal connection drives me to show up and support him, just as I would for my family.”
A Model for HopeTree
Morris’s actions serve as a powerful example for HopeTree Academy staff, who gather daily to reflect on TBRI® strategies and celebrate successes. “Chris’s involvement demonstrates the importance of modeling the behaviors we want to see,” says Dr. Mabry. “He’s not just an administrator—he’s in the trenches, making a real difference.”
Through the combined efforts of HopeTree Academy and HopeTree Family Services, students like this young boy are finding stability, connection, and a sense of hope. It’s a testament to the power of intentional relationships and the belief that every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported.
As the leaves change colors and we gear up for the holidays, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year. Fall is also the perfect time to think about giving back. And guess what? Your last chance to make those tax-deductible donations before 2024 wraps up!
At HopeTree Family Services, we’ve had a year filled with promise, growth, and impact thanks to incredible supporters like you. Whether you’ve volunteered, donated, or spread the word about our mission, we are so grateful. But as the end of the year approaches, we’re reaching out to you one last time to help us continue transforming lives.
What’s In It for You?
What’s In It for You? We know that giving is about the heart, but let’s not forget the benefits to your wallet too! Your year-end donation is not only an opportunity to support those in need, but it’s also tax-deductible. That means you can lower your tax bill while making a direct impact on our community. It’s truly a win-win!
Where Does Your Gift Go?
Your donation helps us fund a variety of life-changing programs:
Therapeutic Group Homes for Youth: Our dedicated teams provide safe homes and caring support for at-risk youth.
HopeTree Academy: Our Academy team empowers a-risk youth with personalized education and support, helping them thrive academically and emotionally.
Treatment Foster Care Services: We work with compassionate families who provide loving homes for children in need.
Developmental Disabilities Ministry: We support adults with developmental disabilities, helping them lead fulfilling, independent lives.
Sponsored Residential: HopeTree provides individuals with developmental disabilities a supportive, family-like environment where they can thrive and live independently with personalized care.
Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy: At HopeTree, we harness the healing power of horses to foster emotional growth and well-being for individuals facing life’s challenges.
Family Centered Treatment: Our FCT team strengthens families by providing intensive, in-home support, and therapy to help them overcome challenges and build healthier, more resilient relationships.
Why Now?
By donating before December 31st, you not only get valuable tax deductions, but you help ensure that our programs are fully funded and ready to make an even bigger impact in 2025. Every dollar counts, and every act of generosity brings us closer to fulfilling our mission.
So, as you wrap up 2024, will you help us finish strong? With your support, we can continue to provide support for those who need it most.
How Can You Help?
It’s easy! Visit our website to make your year-end contribution.
Prefer a more traditional route? You can also send a check or money order using the business reply mail envelope attached to this newsletter. Whether it’s $25 or $2,500, your gift will go directly to the programs that are changing lives every day. Let’s make this holiday season one of hope, love, and generosity!
From our family to yours, thank you for being part of HopeTree’s circle of support. Together, we are changing lives, one donation at a time!
How HopeTree Helped a Determined Youth Reach Ole Miss
Picture shows Rocky Belcher in front of a University of Mississippi School of Law backdrop. Credit: Rocky Belcher
In a time where many struggle to find their footing, Rocky Belcher’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. Today, Rocky walks the campus of the University of Mississippi as a pre-law student, thanks in large part to the unwavering support he received from HopeTree. His journey, however, began with immense challenges.
Growing up in Franklin County, Virginia, Rocky’s childhood was marked by instability. Raised in a single-parent household, he faced hardships that many would find insurmountable. At just ten years old, he and his siblings were taken from their mother due to unsafe living conditions and entered the foster care system. “Life wasn’t good,” Rocky shared, reflecting on his early years. Despite being uprooted multiple times, he clung to football and school—his only constants.
HopeTree came into Rocky’s life during one of his darkest periods. After struggling with depression and a suicide attempt, Rocky found himself with nowhere to turn. Enter HopeTree, which not only provided him with a safe place to stay but also gave him the tools and support he needed to start addressing his trauma. “One of the great things that HopeTree does is show kids it’s okay to talk about what’s happened to them,” he said. “They create a space where you feel cared for and listened to.”
“Every step I take on campus…wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of HopeTree and its supporters. You’re not just changing my life; you’re changing the lives of so many others like me.“
– Rocky Belcher
While at HopeTree, Rocky’s resilience began to shine. He achieved “level four” in the organization’s therapeutic system, a recognition voted on by peers and staff that celebrated his growth and maturity. This milestone symbolized his ability to overcome his past and embrace his potential.
But Rocky didn’t stop there. Despite being the first in his family to pursue higher education, he didn’t let the daunting application process deter him. His dream of attending Ole Miss became reality, inspired in part by watching The Blind Side. When financial barriers threatened his future, HopeTree stepped in again, providing a critical scholarship that covered a significant portion of his tuition.
“Every step I take on campus is a step in the right direction,” Rocky reflected. “It’s a step that wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of HopeTree and its supporters. You’re not just changing my life; you’re changing the lives of so many others like me.”
Today, Rocky is on a mission. His experiences have inspired him to pursue a career in law, with hopes of advocating for others who feel voiceless. “Kids like me need someone who believes in them,” he explained. “If someone believes in you, it can change everything.”
Looking to the future, Rocky envisions starting a nonprofit to support at-risk youth, providing resources such as tutoring, clothing, and funding for college essentials like computers. “There are so many kids out there with all the potential in the world. They just need an opportunity,” he said.
Rocky’s story is more than a tale of personal triumph; it’s a reminder of the incredible impact a community can have when it invests in its young people. For donors, supporters, and friends of HopeTree, his journey is proof that your contributions create ripples of hope and transformation.
As Rocky works toward his law degree, he carries with him the lessons learned at HopeTree: that everyone has worth, every dream is valid, and every step forward—no matter how small—is a victory.
Picture shows Rocky Belcher and a friend during a Franklin County High School graduation. Photo credit to Rocky Belcher
Home > HopeTree Awarded Grants from Multiple Foundations
Grant contributions awarded for HopeTree programs that enhance quality of life for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and expand educational programs.
SALEM, Va. (June 18, 2024) – HopeTree Family Services, a leader in mental and behavioral health services, is proud to announce they have won received grants from multiple foundations that will assist with various projects to enhance HopeTree programs. Beneficiary programs include the Development Disabilities Ministry (DDM) and HopeTree Academy.
A grant won through The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region will provide funding for updates designated for the Kelly Home, a Fredericksburg, Virginia-based DDM group home for adults with intellectual disabilities. Proceeds from this grant will go toward renovation projects that will enhance the quality of life for the home residents including painting and trim updates. Additionally, a grant won through the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia will fund a back-up generator for the Horne Home in Martinsville, Virginia. This project supplies a much-needed secondary power supply, to ensure residents’ comfort.
“The DDM program through HopeTree Family Services wishes to express our gratitude for the long-standing support and collaboration with The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region and The Community Foundation Serving Western Virgina,” said Kristen West, Director of HopeTree’s Developmental Disabilities Ministry. “These investments in the DDM program demonstrate their continued dedication to the legacy of service for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We look forward to continuing our relationship and are deeply appreciative for these investments.”
The Kelly and Horne Homes are part of HopeTree’s Development Disabilities Ministry (DDM,) which provides residential services while encouraging independent living for adult individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The DDM program’s main priority is to provide a comfortable and supportive environment where individuals can make choices in their daily living for maximum quality of life, supported by staff and resources. Each group home is licensed and monitored by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. HopeTree operates 17 DDM homes throughout Virginia.
The Community Foundation serves the Rappahannock River Region by managing charitable giving in Virginia for the counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg. The Anne Felder Fund provides support to improve and enrich the lives of the intellectually disabled and disadvantaged population of Fredericksburg. The Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia supports non-profits in the Roanoke and Martinsville service region through various grant and donor fund programs.
HopeTree has also been awarded a grant by the Kiwanis Club of Roanoke, that is designated to provide funding for expansion of HopeTree Academy’s science program through the purchase of five new microscopes.
“HopeTree Academy was sincerely honored to have been selected to receive the Kiwanis grant to purchase microscopes for our students,“ said Dr. Laurie McCracken, Director of HopeTree Academy, “Thank you for your generosity in allowing our students to be able to use the microscopes in the science lab, enabling them to learn better through hands-on experiences. Our students were thrilled to be able to visualize all kinds of tiny objects, such as cells, microorganisms, tissue structures, materials, and electronics.”
Please join us in congratulating HopeTree Academy’s graduating seniors! Graduation was held on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 and we are so proud of these students and what they have accomplished. We also want to recognize Charlie Smith as the first winner of the Warren C. Watson, Jr. Scholarship and Dee Ann Smith as she retires from HopeTree Academy!
Whether they are joining the workforce or continuing their education, we wish each of them well on their future endeavors as they venture out into the world. Congratulations to Nick Robertson, Charlie Smith, and Nick Sparks!
HopeTree Shines Light on Foster Care Awareness Month: Urges Community Action in Becoming Foster Parents
Home > HopeTree Shines Light on Foster Care Awareness Month: Urges Community Action in Becoming Foster Parents
SALEM, Va. (May 15, 2024) – As May marks Foster Care Awareness Month, HopeTree Family Services is calling attention to the critical need for foster parents and inviting individuals and families to explore the rewarding journey of fostering a child in need. With thousands of children across the nation longing for stable and loving homes, HopeTree is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of foster care and empowering communities to make a difference.
Foster Care Awareness Month serves as an opportunity to highlight the significant role that foster parents play in the lives of vulnerable children and youth. According to recent statistics, there are over 5,000 children in the foster care system in Virginia alone, and the need for caring and supportive foster families continues to grow.
“Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential,” said April Estrada, Director of Foster Care at HopeTree Family Services. “Foster Care Awareness Month is a reminder of the urgent need for more individuals and families to step forward and open their hearts and homes to children in foster care. By becoming a foster parent, you have the power to make a profound and lasting impact on a child’s life.”
HopeTree Family Services, a leading nonprofit organization specializing in foster care and adoption services across Viriginia, is committed to supporting and equipping individuals and families throughout their foster care journey. Through comprehensive training, ongoing support, and personalized resources, HopeTree strives to ensure that every foster parent feels empowered and prepared to provide a stable and loving home for children in need.
“Choosing to become a foster parent is a life-changing decision, and we are here to guide and support you every step of the way,” added Estrada. “Whether you’re considering fostering for the first time or have prior experience, HopeTree Family Services offers the resources and expertise to help you navigate the foster care system and make a positive difference in a child’s life.”
Individuals and families interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent with HopeTree Family Services are encouraged to visit www.hopetreefs.org/foster-care or to call 540-389-5468 for more information. By opening your heart and home to a child in need, you can be a beacon of hope and stability during their time of uncertainty.
Join HopeTree Family Services this Foster Care Awareness Month in making a difference in the lives of children in foster care. Together, we can build brighter futures and create a world where every child knows the love and support they deserve.
About HopeTree Family Services HopeTree Family Services, the premier faith-related human services organization in Virginia, offers a wide range of ministries for at-risk children and youth and their families across the state. Programs include Therapeutic Foster Care, Therapeutic Group Homes, Developmental Disabilities Ministry, HopeTree Academy, and Family Centered Treatment. Visit www.hopetreefs.org for more information.
Media Contact Chris Dodd, Director of Marketing & Communications HopeTree Family Services p. (540) 389-5468 ext. 2190 e. chris.dodd@hopetreefs.org
HopeTree Appoints Paxton to Vice President and Chief Operations Officer
Home > HopeTree Appoints Paxton to Vice President and Chief Operations Officer
Randi Paxton
SALEM, Va. (April 16, 2024) – HopeTree Family Services, a leader in mental and behavioral health services, has appointed Randi Paxton as Vice President and Chief Operations Officer. In this role, she is responsible for leading the agency’s programs and services lines that include Therapeutic Foster Care, Therapeutic Group Homes, Developmental Disabilities Ministry, HopeTree Academy, and Family Centered Treatment. Paxton will work with countless internal and external teams to improve and implement changes to increase efficiency and productivity.
Paxton has 22 years of experience working with youth, adults, and families in residential and community-based settings. Before joining HopeTree, Paxton served in a variety of leadership roles in a community-based mental health organization for the past seventeen years, most recently as Executive Director. In addition to her leadership experience, Paxton has worked as a clinician working with high-risk populations, primarily children and families.
“We conducted an exhaustive search for our VP & COO and I could not be happier with Randi’s appointment,” said Jon Morris, President and CEO of HopeTree. “We ultimately chose Randi because of her strengths in balancing the goals of developing people and strong teams while producing growth and quality outcomes that improve the lives of those we serve. Randi is not only a great fit to our current culture, but she will help us build and improve our culture moving forward.”
“Through my career I have devoted my life to helping underserved populations and improving the communities I have lived in,” said Paxton. “I believe that the core of human decency is kindness and compassion, but also serving as the foundation for strong leadership and strong organizations. That’s why my focus will be working with each of our programs to strengthen our services and their quality, ultimately supporting our goal to be the premier faith related human service provider in Virginia.”
A Roanoke native, Paxton holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from James Madison University. She previously served on the Board for the National Alliance on Mental Illness for six years, and on the Board of Directors for the Virginia Association of Community Based Providers for a total of eight years. Passionate about advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves, Paxton believes it takes everyone’s involvement to change the landscape of human services to ensure that vulnerable populations have the resources needed to be successful in life.
HopeTree Appoints Estrada to Director of Foster Care & Adoptions
Home > HopeTree Appoints Estrada to Director of Foster Care & Adoptions
April Estrada
SALEM, Va. (April 5, 2024) – HopeTree Family Services, a leader in mental and behavioral health services, has appointed April Estrada as Director of Foster Care & Adoptions where she will be responsible for ensuring the Foster Care program operates in accordance with all licensing and best practice regulations and must ensure that all offices have consistent practices led by leaders who embody the mission and core values of HopeTree. Estrada will work with internal and external teams to improve and implement changes for HopeTree’s Foster Care program with a focus to increase efficiency and productivity.
Estrada has nearly 30 years of experience in foster care and human services, working with youth, and families in residential and community-based settings. Prior to joining HopeTree, Estrada served as the Foster Care Director at Impact Living Services where she started the foster care program. In this role she managed all operations and admissions, wrote policies and procedures, onboarded foster parents, and implemented electronic records for all the organization’s programs.
“I am so excited for April to join our team and be the next leader of our Foster Care Program,” said Jon Morris, President and CEO of HopeTree. “She not only has tremendous passion for serving children and families, but she has a proven track record of leading and growing foster care programs and she is a trusted leader and voice in child welfare across the Commonwealth.”
Estrada admires HopeTree’s dedication to living out the mission and core values and feels that it is easily discernable to anyone in the community who interacts with the organization. “Whether it’s their services, programs, or the people, I have always had deep respect and appreciation for HopeTree,” said Estrada. She says that she is excited about being part of a culture that focuses on enhancing the lives of clients, communities and staff through servant leadership, intentional relationship building, striving for excellence, being good stewards of what we are given and being accountable to each other and others they serve. “Cultivating relationships is the most important thing any of us can do to bring health and healing to any situation. HopeTree gets that.”
Estrada holds a Master of Science degree in Clinical Psychology from Radford University. She has served as past president of the Virginia Association of Licensed Child Placing Agencies, along with serving as a member of Governor Youngkin’s Safe and Sound Task Force, the Floyd County Family Assessment Planning Team, and the Piedmont Region Child Fatality Review Team.
