Our Story
Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars and change the world. ~ Harriet Tubman
Inspire Hope began after a group of Warrensville Heights residents came together to form an initiative in response to issues and concerns within their community. Lack of activities for youth in the neighborhood, rising crime and a lack of resources for young parents were among the concerns.
After three years of serving the community, the group of volunteers obtained their 501(c)3 and became Inspire Hope. Currently, Inspire Hope provides social emotional learning programs in Cuyahoga County.
Francesca Demming,
Founder & Executive Director
Francesca Demming, a graduate from Kent State University, serves as the founder and executive director of Inspire Hope. Ms. Demming has several years of experience working with youth and families. She has worked with youth in the Cleveland Juvenile Justice Center, youth in foster care and with women and youth who have experienced domestic violence and human trafficking. Ms. Demming leads and facilitates social emotional programming and works within the education field as well.
Mission Statement
To inspire hope by empowering children, young adults, and
families using academic, social, and emotional learning
opportunities.
Vision Statement
Youth and families are successful and healthy members of the community physically, emotionally, spiritually and academically.
Who We Serve
Inspire Hope serves youth ages 6 to 14 and their families in Cuyahoga County.
How to Help
- Volunteer Your Time
- Donate books, games etc.
- Monetary Contributions
Our History
2017
Warrensville Hts. Youth Initiative Formed
Monthly events began as a collaborative effort of community members called the Ward 4 Youth Program. Events included a Back to School Drive, African American History Program, Arts and Crafts, Harvest Festival and more.
2018
Weekly After-School Programs & Field Trips Began
In 2018, the weekly youth program began which offered after school programming, a community garden and monthly field trips.
2020
501(c)3 Formed
In January 2020, the Warrensville Hts. Youth Program became Inspire Hope, an Ohio nonprofit corporation, tax-exempt under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3).
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Future Initiatives
In the coming year, Inspire Hope plans to expand programming in other communities.
Statistics - Youth Served
93.5%
African-American
98.4%
classified as
economically disadvantaged
19.9%
living below the
poverty level
70%
Of our youth are raised in single parent homes
4 in 10 children
have experienced 2 or more Adverse Childhood Experiences
100%
Future Leaders