This year’s I Remember Mama celebration was filled with so much love, generosity, and community care. Thanks to the incredible support of donors, volunteers, and community partners, the moms in our programs were treated to luxurious gift bags, a beautiful lunch from Ruins, and amazing cookies from Mother Bear’s Bakery. More than anything, they were reminded that they are seen, valued, and deeply cared for.

We are especially grateful to everyone who made gifts in honor or memory of someone they love. Your dedications have created a moving tribute to the people who continue shaping our lives through love, strength, and memory. You can view these dedications on our website.

There is still time to be part of this year’s campaign. Donations supporting I Remember Mama will be accepted through the end of the month, helping us continue bringing comfort, dignity, and moments of joy to the women we serve.

From all of us at VOA, thank you for helping make this year’s celebration so meaningful! 💝

In honor of Mother’s Day, meet Lori 💐

We’re honored to share the story of one remarkable woman, whose journey through the Hope House Respite Center is a powerful reminder that healing rarely happens all at once. It happens step by step, with courage, uncertainty, support, and people willing to walk beside you through it all.

In this short interview, she shares how she came into the care of Hope House Respite Center, the challenges of navigating housing and recovery, and what it meant to finally receive the call that her apartment was ready. Just before Mother’s Day, she moved into a place of her own and was joyfully reunited with both of her beloved dogs, a mother and daughter pair who had been separated during her stay while one remained safely with her at Hope House.

Her goodbye to staff was emotional, filled with gratitude, hope, and the promise to come back and visit once she’s settled. Stories like hers are a reflection of what Hope House Respite Center exists to do: provide women with safety, stability, compassionate care, and support through every uncertain step on the path home.

Eye Contact Is Moving to Spring!

Big news for one of our most beloved events. Eye Contact will be moving from its traditional autumn date to the spring season. Please mark your calendars now for April 2027. A new venue will be announced soon, along with a refreshed version of the event you already know and love.

Eye Contact has always been a powerful celebration of art, creativity, and the voices of those often overlooked. We’re excited for this next chapter and can’t wait to share more details with you as plans unfold!

Nothing says “we believe in your mission” quite like a giant check!

A huge thank you to WaFd Bank for awarding Crosswalk a $2,500 grant to support youth in our community! We’re so grateful for partners who continue showing up for young people with compassion, encouragement, and real investment in their future.