FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

ABOUT THE HOPE EFFECT

  • The Hope Effect was founded by Joshua Becker and Joe Darago. Friends since college, their hearts beat for similar passions. They are convinced that together, we can change the way the world cares for orphans…because every child deserves a family.

  • Millions of children around the world are living without parents, most of whom are living in orphanages. There is growing research on the damaging effect of institutional orphan care. We know there’s a better way…learn more here.

  • The Hope Effect is currently working in multiple locations to pioneer or expand family-style orphan care. To date, we have worked in ten locations in four countries (Mexico, Honduras, Thailand, and Cambodia). We are also looking ahead to our next location. Visit our locations page to learn more.

  • We work with partners around the world to assess and determine communities in need of new orphan care solutions. We choose the countries where we work based on current orphan care conditions, political stability, and the availability of strong local partnerships.

  • We occasionally organize volunteer opportunities or other trips to our locations. If you’re interested, please email our Executive Director Joe Darago for more information.

Kids and families

  • Each child's story is unique and complex. Some children will be reconnected with their biological family or adopted by extended family. In some cases, domestic or international adoption may be a possibility. Please note, The Hope Effect does not facilitate adoptions in any location.

  • To protect the privacy of the children and their foster families, we do not offer sponsorships of specific children. However, we know you want your donation to be used for the reason it was given. Through our 100% Model, you can specify that you'd like 100% of your donation to go directly to orphan care.

  • While The Hope Effect focuses on bringing family-based care to children worldwide, we love seeing people get involved in foster care locally! There are many ways to support foster families and children in your community. Here are a few ways to make an impact:

    • Respite Care: Provide short-term care for foster families who need a break.

    • Foster Closet Donations: Many communities have foster closets that provide clothing, school supplies, and essentials to children entering care.

    • Support for Foster Families: Prepare meals, offer transportation, or help with childcare.

    • Advocacy & Awareness: Share information about foster care needs in your community or support organizations working to improve the system.

    • Become a Foster Parent: contact your local child welfare agency for information.

    If you’d like more ideas on how to get involved, feel free to reach out—we’d love to help you find ways to support children and families in your area!

FINANCIALS

  • Our financial records are prepared by Monica J. Sterns, CPA in Phoenix, Arizona. Visit our Financials page to view our 990 forms and recent annual reports. You may also email our Executive Director Joe Darago for more information.

  • We know that when you make a donation, you want your money to be used for the reason it was given. So you can choose how to direct your donation! If you prefer, you can put 100% of your donation directly toward getting kids into families. Learn more here.

  • No worries! We love to talk about changing the world. Just reach out to our executive director, Joe Darago, and let us know how we can help you.