Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Hope Grows?

Explore how we support the wellness of caregivers through a variety of services aimed at helping caregivers thrive emotionally, mentally, and physically while they care for others.

What does Hope Grows do, and how can it help me or my care receiver?

Hope Grows is a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating caregiver wellness. We provide various services for caregivers, including emotional/mental health counseling, support groups (virtual and in-person), peer mentoring, therapeutic respite activities, educational programs, and the Iris Respite House, which offers overnight stays. Our approach encourages self-care, empowerment, and building a supportive care team to help the caregiver and care receiver.

What are your hours of operation?

Hope Grows is open Monday-Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, evenings & weekends by appointment only. If you call and leave a voicemail outside of our regular business hours, we will get back to you as soon as possible, but within 48-72 hours.

I have an emergency. What should I do?

Hope Grows supports mental wellness but is not a crisis center. If it is a true emergency, call 911.

When can I visit the Iris Respite House Healing Gardens, and can I bring my Care Receiver?

The gardens are open every Thursday from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm from May through November. You can bring your care receiver, but the gardens are not yet ADA-accessible. To visit outside of these hours, please contact us to arrange an appointment.

How can I support Hope Grows?

Hope Grows receives individual donations and foundation funding to support the programming at Hope Grows. This includes sponsored overnight stays at the Iris Respite House Bed & Breakfast.

How can I get involved?

Hope Grows offers volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups.  To learn how you can help, email info@hopegrows.org.

Program Details & Support Services

Whether you’re seeking emotional support, looking to connect with others, or exploring ways to give back, our programs are designed to meet your needs. Explore the details below and discover how you can benefit from our services or contribute to our community.

I need to talk with someone about my caregiving. What should I do?

Hope Grows offers multiple ways to connect, including the Think Caregiver monthly check-in calls, The Root of Good Care Counseling, virtual and in-person support groups, and Caregiver2Caregiver mentoring. Reach out to intake@hopegrows.org or call 412-369-4673 to get more information.

What are the programming costs, and are any of them reimbursable through insurance?

Most of our services are free, but some, like counseling, program activities, and overnight respite, may have fees. Counseling is reimbursable through insurance, as Hope Grows is paneled with many providers. However, overnight respite is not yet covered by insurance, although we are advocating for this.

What kind of counseling support is available?

If you need emotional support, we offer a variety of options, including support groups, self-care tips, mental health counseling, and monthly check-ins. We also have specialized grief support groups for caregivers.

I like to engage in support through classes. What is available?

Hope Grows offers the Powerful Tools for Caregivers (a 6-week educational program for self-care) and The Joy of Living (a 6-week self-guided program for processing loss and stress). Contact us for more details or to register.

I have been a caregiver but now I would like to give back. How can I do that?

Our Caregiver2Caregiver peer support program offers training to become a mentor or a facilitator for support groups in the community. If you’re interested in giving back, please contact intake@hopegrows.org.

Iris Respite House

From a few hours to an overnight stay, our respite services give caregivers the opportunity to refresh and care for themselves. Read on to learn more about how our respite options work and how we can help you take the time you deserve.

What is Respite, and how does it work?

Respite is a short-term break from caregiving, allowing caregivers to rest, engage in self-care, or attend to other responsibilities. Hope Grows offers both day and overnight respite options, providing caregivers with a change of environment to recharge.

What is overnight Respite, and what should I bring?

Overnight respite offers a change of environment and the opportunity to rest. Bring what you would to a hotel stay: swimwear for the pool, walking shoes, and toiletries. The rooms include essentials such as toiletries, towels, and bedding. Amenities include tea/coffee/water, breakfast, and self-care activities.

Can my Care Receiver stay at the B&B?

The Care Model is designed for caregivers to have time away from caregiving, but it does not include accommodations for care receivers at the Iris Respite House. The focus is on providing caregivers with a respite from the stress of caregiving.

Do you offer care replacement for respite?

Hope Grows does not provide direct care replacement. However, we can provide a list of agencies/companies to help arrange respite care. We also assist caregivers in building a care team to ensure they get the support they need.

Hear the ways our caregivers have cared for themselves and loved ones after they visited with Hope Grows.

“I really do not have words that can thank you and Hope Grows for the support you give. Unless someone has done this job, “Just wanted to take a moment and say a big THANK YOU! From the special welcome packet I received in the mail, to the support group today, it has been absolutely AMAZING. This morning I was a little nervous, not knowing what to expect. When I arrived, the grounds just made me feel lighter and happy. Upon entering the house, I immediately felt welcomed within the group. I never dreamed I could feel so comfortable sharing my personal story. You have truly created something remarkable.”

“How is it that you always know exactly what I need? What a place! What a staff! What a service to those of us oft-ignored. The best people. The most beautiful surroundings, inside and out. The smallest detail not missed. The tastiest food. The best bed and breakfast I ever stayed in!”

“I really do not have words that can thank you and Hope Grows for the support you give. Unless someone has done this job, “Such a blessing! I absolutely loved my stay here. It was the most relaxing day I can remember in my life. I felt so cared for and valued, and I got a recharge I needed! Looking forward to coming again. May this be the first of many!”

“Thank you for this lovely immersion in beauty. It was an oasis of peace and calm for me. Beauty at literally every turn, everywhere inside the house and out. Thank you for creating this.”