Hope Ignites Northeastern Ohio

05/28/2026

For our campaign, we are proud to spotlight Raylyn Trice, a Scholar whose journey embodies the determination, growth, and lifelong impact of Hope Ignites Northeastern Ohio.

Recruited into the program as a sixth grader from Akron, Raylyn was part of the very first Academy class, graduating in 2014. 🎓 Throughout her time as a Scholar and alumna, she has continually embraced opportunities to grow, lead, and give back. From working within both the Residential and Academy programs to serving on our Associate Board and attending HopeNet events, Raylyn has remained deeply connected to the organization over the years. She also became the second alum to receive the Pillar of Hope award at Evening of Hope in 2023. 🏆

Raylyn’s story is one of grit, ambition, service, and joy — someone who worked hard, embraced new experiences, and helped shape Hope Ignites NEO into what it is today.

💙 Read Raylyn’s full story here: https://hopeignitesneo.org/2021/12/16/raylyns-story/

05/21/2026

What happens after Scholars finish our Academy Program in high school? At Hope Ignites, the support goes well beyond their senior year.

As part of , we’re highlighting the tremendous growth of our College & Career Success Program, providing Scholars with personalized coaching, networking opportunities, financial support, and more as they pursue college, certifications, or alternate career pathways. 💼

From HopeNet to success funds, this newer program has quickly become a powerful part of our mission to help our young people build choice-filled futures.

🎓 Read more: https://hopeignitesneo.org/2026/05/07/building-brighter-futures-through-college-career-success/

05/19/2026

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Daniel Sussen, a longtime Board Treasurer and Emeritus Board Member of Hope Ignites Northeastern Ohio who faithfully supported our mission since 2003.

Dan will be remembered for his kindness, humor, generosity, and deep belief in the power of education and community. We are profoundly grateful for the lasting impact he made on our organization and in the lives of so many young people.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Lois, and the Sussen family during this time.

05/15/2026

Now approaching its 38th year on Monday, our annual Drive Fore Hope Golf Classic brings together longtime supporters and new friends for a day on the course, united by the shared purpose to invest in the future of our Scholars. ⛳

Originally known as the Brian Brennan Golf Classic, this cherished tradition was founded by our now honorary chair and former Cleveland Browns wide receiver, Brian Brennan, and has grown into one of our organization’s largest fundraisers.

We’re deeply grateful to our event committee members, generous supporters, and especially Brian, for keeping this tradition strong. 💙

Your commitment to this day fuels opportunities and opens doors for our young people year after year.

05/14/2026

Celebration of Scholars 2026 🥳

05/07/2026

There’s one day each year when the entire Hope Ignites Northeastern Ohio community comes together to recognize how far our young people have come and remind them that they don’t walk their path alone.

At our annual Celebration of Scholars, Scholars return to campus with family and friends to commemorate a year of growth and achievements. 👏

We welcome a new cohort of 6th grade Scholars beginning their Hope Ignites journey, celebrate 8th graders stepping into high school, honor graduating seniors preparing for what’s next, and recognize Post-Secondary Scholars who earned college degrees or certifications. Each milestone reflects what’s possible with the right support, opportunities, and perseverance.

When the formal program concludes, the celebration continues across campus. Families and Scholars share a meal, play games, and enjoy time together; a joyful way to close the school year and welcome summer! 🎉🥳

As we reflect on , this day captures the heart of Hope Ignites: a place that celebrates every milestone, uplifts every Scholar, and believes deeply in the bright futures ahead.

05/05/2026

In the final weeks of our spring semester, Scholars joined a few staff members from the Cleveland Metroparks for an afternoon outdoors, trying slacklining for the very first time.

The activity was a great way to build teamwork, encourage one another, and let off some steam. Definitely a highlight of the week!

05/03/2026

Last month, we brought together 11th and 12th grade Scholars for an impactful evening of professional development during HopeNet's Mock Interview event.

Scholars practiced their interview skills with different members of the community, helping them prepare for summer jobs, internships, or their future career.

Congratulations to our winners! 👏

05/01/2026

04/30/2026

Sometimes, all it takes is one visit to see the power of our mission at work.

Elizabeth first came to Hope Ignites for a morning of volunteering and has been returning ever since. As a culinary teacher at Lutheran West, she now brings her students along, creating hands-on opportunities to cook for our Scholars.

Joseph found his way here through his church and quickly jumped in, using his culinary background to create delicious meals that make the most of what’s on hand.

As we wrap up our stories during , we’re especially thankful for Elizabeth and Joseph, and all our Chefs of Hope, who continue to give their time, again and again, to keep our Scholars nourished and supported. 💙🍽️