Hope Forest is a specialized group home serving male youth ages 10 to 17, referred by community-based care agencies under contract with the Florida Department of Children and Families. Our youth often experience complex life challenges, including trauma, abandonment, multiple placements, involvement with the juvenile justice system, and patterns of running away or elopement.
In alignment with the “at-risk” criteria outlined in Chapter 65C-46, Florida Statutes, Hope Forest provides a safe, structured, and trauma-informed environment. Each youth completes an Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) assessment to help inform an individualized treatment plan focused on healing and long-term well-being.
Hope Forest is best suited for youth whose behavioral or emotional needs make traditional placements unsafe or ineffective. We offer intensive, holistic support aimed at fostering emotional resilience, behavioral stability, and personal growth through integrated clinical and therapeutic care.
Our Approach
Our approach is one of mindfulness, daily living skills, physical activity, and therapeutic growth. Youth are surrounded by supportive adults, including program staff, case managers, therapists, and more. Our staff focus on teaching age-appropriate independent life skills, exploring new interests, encouraging participation in sports and recreation, assisting in exploring job opportunities, and therapeutic growth. Our clinical department is integrated into everyday activities to increase trust and participation in the process.
Our Model
Our Integrated Care Model incorporates a strengths-based approach with positive youth development, social learning theory, and trauma-informed care to foster physical, psychological, and emotional safety.
Establishing Safety & Caring Relationships
Safety and pro-social relationships established with caring adults.
Understanding Needs & Strengths
Assessments and prescriptive treatment planning provided; individualized needs are understood. Families are involved and interventions provided.
Developing & Practicing Skills
Receive evidence-based, cognitive behavioral curriculum. Gain and practice social, academic and career skills. Engage in meaningful pro-social activities with family and community.
Goal Attainment
Youth meet service plan and treatment goals.