Our History Begins Here
Homes of Hope (HoH) is a grassroots organization that has been serving McLean County for nearly three decades. HoH was established in the early 90s by a group of loving parents who were concerned about the future of their children, once they were no longer able to care for them. Gathering while their sons and daughters were in activities at church, they determined the need for an agency to provide a more spiritually focused lifestyle and to treat employees as the immensely important resource that they are. An early proposal was to use only private funding as a model in Canada did (L’Arche). The reality soon became apparent that both sources of funding were necessary to achieve HoHs goals. The “founding mothers” persevered and, with much community support, the dream of securing their children’s future became a reality. In 1995, Homes of Hope opened their first home, a Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA), giving four people the chance to have independence, a home to call their own, community inclusion options and much more. Today, Homes of Hope provides support for up to 25 residents across six homes throughout McLean County.
HoH aims to maintain a safe and independent living environment for each of our residents. This includes 24-hour care provided by our compassionate, well-trained staff. We promote guided decision-making, self-advocacy, and community involvement. We encourage and assist individuals in achieving their goals, dreams, and spiritual choices. We strive to tailor our services to meet the unique abilities, strengths, skills, goals, desires and needs of each person we serve. HofH is a nurturing environment that acknowledges the distinctive worth of each individual while being sensitive to differing viewpoints.
Advocating For Those We Serve
For 30 years, we have been dedicated to advocating for our residents with intellectual disabilities, ensuring they receive the support and opportunities that they deserve. Our commitment is rooted in a deep respect for each individual’s unique abilities and potential. We work tirelessly to create an inclusive environment where our residents can thrive. This includes assisting with personalized care plans, access to educational and vocational programs, and fostering a community that values and respects diversity. Through our dedicated team of professionals, volunteers and supporters, we strive to empower our residents, giving them a voice and the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives. Our nearly three decades of service stand as a testament to our unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.
A Tribute to the Founding Mother's & Father's
Since Then...
Homes of Hope exists because of the brave men and women mentioned below (in alphabetic order.) We are forever grateful for their courage, wisdom, tenacity, passion and love. What a great accomplishment and legacy they have left not only for their loved ones but for the loved ones of others.
“Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside of you that is greater than any obstacle.” –Christian D. Larson
Mary Armitage & Chuck Armitage (1937-2022), Teresa Harpenau (1929-2023) & James Harpenau (1926 -1991), Mollie Morehead (1941-2018) & Ronn Morehead (1939-2021), Eleanor Newmister (1921-2013) & Norlan Newmister (1921-2013), Carolyn Penn & Chuck Penn (1936-2020), Sharon Pfister (1938-2014) & Jerry Pfister (1926-2023), Mary Wright (1933-2025) & Bill Wright (1933-2012)
What began as a dream with just one home has grown into six, now offering up to 25 adults the opportunity to take on responsibility for their day-to-day living.
We serve each individual with compassion and love, allowing them to grow in dignity and independence.
Homes of Hope has been serving residents across McLean County since December 1995. Every day of service reflects the love, dedication, and courage of our Founding Mothers, whose vision made this mission possible.





