33 Years and Counting: Board Member Lever Stewart’s Journey with Home of Hope

Imagine starting with a simple idea and watching it blossom into a lifeline for numerous families. That’s exactly what Executive Board Member Lever Stewart has experienced over his remarkable 33-year journey with Home of Hope. What began as a modest children’s shelter, driven by the enthusiasm of a few PTA moms, has evolved into a comprehensive support system that truly transforms lives.

Home of Hope, formerly known as Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, started as an emergency children’s shelter aimed at offering immediate relief to children who had endured trauma or abuse. Initially, it was primarily government-funded, providing crucial support during a time of need. 

However, as the state system shifted its focus from emergency shelters to foster care, Lever, who has served as Chair of the Board, Finance Chair, Facilities Chair, and Development Committee Head, saw a critical need for change. 

“You just can’t take a child who has been through abuse and trauma and stick them in a home with an untrained parent and hope that they’re somehow gonna be okay,” Lever explained.

These families needed more structure, and this realization led to a pivotal transformation of the organization. 

Home of Hope’s program morphed into a holistic model caring for both the child and the mother. Home of Hope provides not only shelter but also essential services like career preparation, parenting classes and financial planning. Lever has seen the results of this effective approach. 

“We have a very low recidivism rate and a high success rate of moms that have come in, received necessary counseling and job training and re-established themselves and their children,” Lever proudly states. 

Home of Hope has profoundly impacted his life. 

“You are changing the future by serving youth and their moms and helping them become productive contributors to society again. It’s compelling,” Lever said.

Lever also addresses the perception that fighting homelessness is futile. 

“I think the two biggest things I’d want people to understand is we have a track record, and we have a very good success rate in making a permanent difference,” said Lever, “Does that mean we’re serving every possible person? No, because this is such a pervasive issue.”

However, Lever is passionate about combatting this crisis one family at a time. 

“It’s a bit like the starfish story,” Lever said. “You might not be able to throw back all the millions of starfish on the beach, but it makes a big difference to the one you do.” 

Lever also deeply respects the Home of Hope staff. 

“I cannot say enough about the commitment of the staff, especially those who have served through tough times,” he emphasized. 

“They are not doing this for the salary but for the mission and a personal commitment to helping others.”

Leaders like Executive Director Maureen, who have been with the organization through various challenges, embody this dedication.

Lever, along with the rest of the Home of Hope family, is looking forward to seeing how the organization continues to grow and thrive.

Want to support Home of Hope? Consider becoming a monthly donor and visit homeofhopegcs.org/donate.