WHO WE ARE
Our Mission, Vision and Values
Our mission is to reduce recidivism and transform lives by providing culturally relevant services. Established in 2010, Hope Lives - Vive La Esperanza is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a peer- and community-led agency dedicated to bridging gaps in care for underserved populations. Through empowering, culturally attuned support, we strive to create lasting, positive change in our communities.
Our vision is a world where every individual, regardless of their involvement in the justice system, mental health status, or challenges with addiction, has the opportunity to surpass their recovery goals and lead transformed, empowered lives. At Hope Lives, we are committed to promoting mental health recovery and wellness, driven by a simple message: good mental health is fundamental to everyone’s overall health and well-being.
1. Cultural Competency & Responsibility: We are dedicated to understanding and honoring the diverse backgrounds and experiences of those we serve. Hope Lives is committed to acting with cultural responsibility, ensuring our support is respectful, inclusive, and tailored to meet the unique needs of every individual in our community.
2. Justice & Advocacy: We champion the rights and well-being of every individual, aiming to build a world where equity is not just an ideal, but a lived reality. We are dedicated to supporting and advocating for those impacted by the justice system, mental health challenges, and/or addiction, believing firmly in the potential for transformative change.
3. Empathy & Acceptance: We provide a safe space where all individuals are welcomed and supported without judgment. Our approach is grounded in understanding and compassion, ensuring that everyone feels valued and heard.
4. Empowerment: We believe empowerment is a tool for personal and collective growth. Our programs and interactions are designed to enable individuals to discover their strengths, make informed decisions, and take control of their journeys with confidence and dignity.
5. Community: Our strength lies in our community. We foster a sense of belonging and connection, where peer support is based on mutual respect, shared experiences, and the collective pursuit of well-being.
About Hope Lives
Since 2011, Hope Lives - Vive La Esperanza has been dedicated to supporting justice-involved individuals and those facing mental health or substance use challenges. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and leader in Forensic Peer and Recovery Support, we offer unique, empathetic services led by a team with lived experience in the justice system and recovery. This approach builds trust and creates a safe, judgment-free space for members to pursue recovery and self-sufficiency.
Our work centers on trauma-informed, evidence-based practices, ensuring culturally relevant support across various settings, including jails, courts, and community spaces. We also provide one of Arizona’s few AHCCCS-approved training programs for Forensic Peer Recovery Support Specialists, setting a high standard in professional development for this field.
Our centers, strategically located in areas with high needs, offer accessible support in Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Lake Havasu, addressing local challenges with direct, community-focused care. By meeting people where they are and fostering a culture of understanding, we empower individuals on their journey to reintegrate with dignity and confidence.