Our Purpose
We are passionate to give children and young adults the best day of their lives. Fort Hope is a Western-style frontier town with hands-on activities geared towards reaching and mentoring at risk youth.
Our Purpose
We are passionate to give children and young adults the best day of their lives.
Fort Hope is a Western-style frontier town with hands-on activities geared towards reaching and mentoring young people in need.
As a non-denominational Christian organization we offer a place to learn new skills, build self esteem and provide loving encouragement. We want children/youth to know that they are loved and valued by God.
We collaborate with other local organizations that provide mentoring, tutoring, and life skill instruction for at-risk/needy children.
How It Began
The idea for Fort Hope began with a man named Pat. Inspired by his faith he built an western-style frontier town for at risk youth – especially those from single-parent homes – for them to experience the hands on activities that he loved as a child.
How It Began
The idea for Fort Hope began with a man named Pat. He was inspired through his faith to invite disadvantaged children – especially those from single-parent homes – to enjoy some of the activities that he loved as a child.
He wanted children to be able to try fishing, archery, BB guns and other activities which are gradually fading into history as they disappear from modern day life.
Pat had many fond memories of frequent gatherings at his uncle’s old “Ghost Town”. There were thousands of visitors in those days—from troops of Marines, various organizations, friends and family.
The old fashioned activities of singing, dances, drinks in the saloon and playing the piano helped to maintain the historical Old Western essence of the place that helped to inspire Fort Hope.
The dream of building Fort Hope was made real in 1999. With donations of time, money, supplies and labor from the local community Fort Hope was brought into existence.
Meet The Faces Behind Fort Hope
With over 6 years of communication and life coaching experience he specializes in helping people see life from a different perspective and encouraging healthy discourse. Having worked with youth and adults, he has the unique ability to understand both worldviews and helps bridge the gap.
Our Board Members
Greg Steinberger
Lisa Hensley
Michael Hensley
John Belsher
Our Assistants
Roger Connolly – Donations Manager
Roselyn Connolly – Assistant
Our Stakeholders
Grizzly Academy
SLO Foster Children
Dept. of Social Services
Boys and Girls Clubs
Royal Family Kids Camp
Samaritan Homeless Shelter
Central Coast YMCA
Lucia Mar Unified School District
Special Education Day classes
Boy Scouts of America
Santa Maria Bonita School District
Kincares, Inc.
AG Jr. Sportsman
AG Parks and Rec
Angel Tree Ministries
Awanas
Youth Groups
Private schools and Homeschools
Do You Want To Be A Hero?
Fort Hope is a 501(C)3 non-profit recognized by the IRS, Tax ID#55-0861220. We rely on the generosity of volunteers and financial donors, both personal and business.