THE HOPE ZONE WAY

WE ARE CHANGING THE NARRATIVE TOGETHER: THE HOPE ZONE WAY by Rachel Ward

At a time when headlines and social media tell stories of youth lost to gun violence, fights in our schools, and communities struggling to find unity — something powerful is happening in the Hope Zone. Tonight, nearly 150 people gathered at Grace United Methodist Church for our monthly Hope Zone workgroup.

What we witnessed was not despair — it was determination. It was love. It was Hope in action.

Over 30 teens showed up — not just to listen, but to lead. They dreamed up a “Safe Summer” challenge to inspire their peers to get involved in positive activities like volunteering and attending programs at the YMCA and Recreation Centers. These young people are showing us the way.

Adults, parents, neighbors, and community leaders sat side-by-side to discuss ways to strengthen mental health supports, encourage family and life planning, and promote financial stability for all Hope Zone families. And when it was time to clean up? Everyone pitched in — folding chairs, stacking tables, sharing laughs.

It felt like a Beloved Community — a place where we all belonged. Residents. Omega CDC team members. Partners from Sinclair College, Dayton Public Schools, the City of Dayton, YMCA, Wright Patt Credit Union, Abundant Life Ministries, child care centers, Learn to Earn Dayton, and many more. It was a beautiful sight.

WE will change the narrative.
We will RE-LITE the Hope Zone.
We will see the Promise of Hope in our community — and we’ll do it together.

Let’s continue to *be the change* we want to see. The Hope Zone is rising — and everyone has a part to play.