Nonprofit spotlight: Hope United

Hope United operates a 7,500-square-foot Recovery Community Organization called Tyler's Redemption Place, located in Springfield. Opening in spring 2023, Tyler's Redemption Place offers peer-based recovery support, promoting recovery and wellness with a holistic approach. Its purpose is to give those in recovery continued support, a safe place of fellowship, and an environment to build life skills of the mind, body, and spirit in a community setting.

Through its programs, Hope United staff witnesses firsthand the impact of meetings and support groups on people whose lives have been affected by substance abuse, along with connections made among people in recovery as they find common ground. Akron Community Foundation has funded Hope United through the Health and Human Services grant cycle and the Summit County Opioid Healing Fund, established by the Opiate Abatement Advisory Council using settlement funds from Summit County's federal opioid trial. These grants helped fund The Well grief support for families who have lost a loved one to addiction or overdose, as well as recovery programming. ACF funding also has helped the organization launch some of its first recovery events, where the idea of a Recovery Community Organization (RCO) was discussed locally.

Community members and donors may help fulfill Hope United's mission through volunteering at Tyler's Redemption Place or leading a meeting or class, along with providing treats or meals for recovery dinners or meetings. Donations of basic needs also are appreciated, which may be found on the organization's Amazon wish list. Monetary contributions are welcome, too. To learn more about Hope United, visit www.hopeunited.life/.