The Platform of Hope is a pilot initiative that provides holistic and self-directed support for cohorts of families in the rapidly gentrifying Ward 1 neighborhood of Northwest Washington, DC. The Platform of Hope supports economically vulnerable families of color in pursuing self-defined success while building social capital through collective power. We believe in modeling equitable community through family-centered practices, coordinated resources and participant-led change.
The Platform of Hope was initially established by an alliance of non-profit organizations with deep roots in Ward 1 that are engaged in affordable housing, child development, arts, education, health and wellness for DC-area families: Jubilee Housing, Jubilee JumpStart, Mary’s Center and Sitar Arts Center. Our Advisory Board includes the leadership of our four strategic alliance partners, as well as Platform of Hope families and guest leaders. The Platform of Hope is an extension of the work of each strategic alliance organization, with the acknowledgement that collective, family-centered action is needed to address the issues facing families, produce different outcomes and build an intentionally inclusive community.
In September 2018, Platform of Hope launched its programming with an initial cohort of 20 families and goal to serve 100 families over 5 years. Today, 2022, we are in year 4 of our program engaged with four cohorts (A, B, C and D), totaling over 70 active participant families (equalling over 250 individuals!).
We are proud of our paradigm-changing model, which places families in the drivers’ seat in directing holistic goals, streamlines social services and builds strong social networks. More information about program outcomes can be seen with the results of our 2018-2019 pilot year, which can be found at www.platformofhopedc.org/annualreport. Our initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting recession can be found in our 2019-2020 Annual Report at www.platformofhopedc.org/annual-report2
Our third program year’s themes and data can be found in our 2021 Annual Report at www.platformofhopedc.org/annual-report2021
Platform of Hope Staff
Pamela Cabrera Bahay, Program Manager
Sarah Hicks, Program Coordinator
Judy Estey, Executive Director
Jessica Palencia, Program Manager
Founding Staff
Sylvia Stokes,* Project Lead/ Family Care Lead 2018-2020
*In loving memory of Sylvia, 1950-2020
Strategic Alliance Partners
