State of The Hope Zone

On May 15, 2025, Omega CDC hosted over 100 participants at the State of the Hope Zone event, a day filled with reflection, learning, and hope for the future of Northwest Dayton. We came together to celebrate our progress and renew our commitment to the 6,700 children and 3,400 families we’ve pledged to support on their path to self-sufficiency.

We were honored to welcome Tauheedah Jackson, Deputy Director of EdRedesign and Director of the Institute for Success Planning at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Her powerful presence and insights reminded us how important it is to center children and families in everything we do and how our words, actions, and intentions shape their experience of the world.

The day began with a bus tour through the Hope Zone, where participants saw firsthand the strengths and assets within the community. From schools and churches to local organizations and services, the tour was a powerful reminder of the potential already here. Following the tour, we gathered at Bethesda Temple for a Lunch and Learn session, where we shared stories, data, and a vision for the future.

The momentum in the Hope Zone is undeniable. More than 186,000 people have participated in community events, and 14 resident leaders have been hired to guide local efforts—proof that this movement is powered by those who live here. In fact, 71% of workgroup members are Hope Zone residents, with nearly a third being youth under the age of 25. Looking ahead, the vision is bold but clear: increase literacy by 45% by 2027, reduce youth violence starting this summer, expand safe spaces for youth, boost homeownership, and create more employment opportunities. Every step forward is building a stronger, more hopeful future for our community.

This work is supported by a $29 million Promise Neighborhood grant from the U.S. Department of Education, matched by more than $90 million in local support. We now have 45+ partner organizations and 10 operational sites committed to making this vision real.

We’re also part of a national movement, connecting with 28 other communities across the country through the Success Planning Community of Practice. Together, we’re showing that place matters and that when we invest in community assets, listen to residents, and focus on long-term impact, real change is possible.

 The Hope Zone is more than a project, it’s a promise.