Hope Wanders helps women navigate challenging life circumstances in the heart of Dayton. Founded to foster confidence and resilience, this nonprofit organization leverages the transformative power of outdoor adventures and community bonding. Their approach is simple yet profound: immersing women in nature and providing a supportive community helps them rediscover their inner strength and potential.
Hope Wanders was born from the vision of Jessica Urton, who experienced firsthand the healing effects of nature. Determined to be a true role model for her daughters, Jessica made a bold move. Instead of working countless hours just to get by after leaving an abusive relationship, she leveraged her skills in the outdoor industry and moved her family into a travel trailer, becoming camp hosts at Caesar Creek State Park. This decision transformed their lives.
"It was almost as if a veil was lifted one day," Jessica recalls. "I found myself and my three daughters in an abusive and addictive household. So I made a change. The girls were raised in an almost fairy-tale world. They could roll out of bed, swim every morning, and help make funnel cakes for fundraising at our movie night every Saturday!"
Surrounded by a supportive community in the park, Jessica and her daughters thrived. This experience inspired her to create Hope Wanders, aiming to provide other women with the courage to step away from dysfunction and find empowerment through the outdoor community.
Hope Wanders organizes a variety of outdoor activities designed to challenge participants physically and mentally, promoting personal growth and empowerment. One of their standout programs is the Empowering Outdoors series, which began at Caesar Creek Visitor Center and has now expanded to partnerships with the Centerville Washington Park District and Vandalia Recreation Center.
"Each Empowering Outdoors series offers an educational topic followed by a hike or walk together," Jessica explains. "These events provide education, physical activity and a supportive community for women over 18, even offering childcare at some events."
One of the key aspects of Hope Wanders is their Adventure Grant program, where women can apply for assistance to take women-only adventure trips. These trips are generously donated by Adventure Chicks and the Erin Opt Scholarship Fund.
Hope Wanders is hosting an archery event on July 20. This donation-based event at Oak Grove Park in Centerville is open to people of all ages and skill levels. Participants will learn the basics of archery and engage in team building, fostering a sense of community and support.
"It's skills like these that help women to say, 'I can do anything!'" Jessica emphasizes. “The Centerville Washington Park District will be providing an instructor for the archery event. We will have space for questions and discussion and go on a hike after the archery session."
Hope Wanders has ambitious plans for the future. One exciting development is the recent opening of Trailhead Trader, an outdoor gear and apparel consignment store in Miamisburg, Ohio. The store will provide ongoing financial support for the nonprofit.
By removing barriers and providing a supportive community, Hope Wanders ensures all women have the opportunity to experience the confidence and empowerment that outdoor adventures can bring.
Hope Wanders accepts donations of gently used outdoor gear and apparel. These items are used for education or consigned to Trailhead Trader, supporting the organization’s activities.