About Us

Driven by Purpose.
United by Compassion.

For over 15 years, we've united passionate people, communities, and organizations around a single goal: creating lasting change where it's needed most.

Our Story

From a Small Idea to Global Impact

In 2009, Dr. Sarah Johnson and two fellow aid workers returned from a devastating flood response in Bangladesh with one clear conviction: reactive charity wasn't enough.

They founded Hope in Action with $12,000 in personal savings and a vision for sustainable, community-led development. Today, we operate across 28 countries, with over 8,500 active volunteers and an annual program budget exceeding $28 million.

Our journey has been shaped by the communities we serve — their wisdom, resilience, and ambition guiding every decision we make.

  • 2009Founded
  • $28MAnnual Budget
  • 28Countries
The Hope in Action team meeting around a conference table
A+Charity Rating

Our Mission

To empower communities, transform lives, and create sustainable opportunities through education, healthcare, environmental initiatives, and compassionate support for all.

Our Vision

A world where every individual, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to live with dignity, security, and hope for a brighter future.

Our Approach

Community-led, evidence-based programs that address root causes — not symptoms — of poverty and inequality. We listen first, then act together.

What Guides Us

Our Core Values

Compassion

We lead with empathy in everything we do, putting people first.

Transparency

Full financial disclosure and accountability to our donors and community.

Inclusivity

We celebrate diversity and ensure every voice is heard and valued.

Sustainability

Building solutions designed to last for generations to come.

Partnership

Collaborating with communities, not just for them.

Impact

Evidence-based programs with measurable, real-world results.

Leadership

Meet Our Leadership Team

Experienced, passionate leaders committed to transparency, innovation, and lasting impact.

SJ

Dr. Sarah Johnson

Executive Director & Co-Founder

Dr. Johnson has 20+ years in international development. She co-founded Hope in Action in 2009 after leading UNICEF programs across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Education, Youth Development View Full Bio
MC

Michael Chen

Chief Programs Officer

Michael leads our global program portfolio with expertise in healthcare delivery and community health systems across Asia and Africa.

Healthcare, Environmental View Full Bio
AP

Aisha Patel

Director of Operations

Aisha brings 15 years of nonprofit management experience, overseeing our 28-country operations with precision and cultural sensitivity.

Operations, Partnerships View Full Bio
CR

Carlos Rodriguez

Chief Development Officer

Carlos has raised over $50M for nonprofits across his 18-year career. He leads our global fundraising strategy and corporate partnership program.

Fundraising, Corporate Relations Get in Touch
Governance

Board of Directors

Justice Elena Marks

Board ChairSupreme Court (Ret.)

Prof. David Osei

Vice ChairHarvard University

Linda Nakamura

TreasurerGoldman Sachs Foundation

Rev. James Okafor

SecretaryCommunity Faith Alliance

Dr. Priya Sharma

Board MemberWHO Advisor

Marcus Webb

Board MemberWebb Family Foundation
Transparency

Financial Accountability You Can Trust

89 cents of every dollar goes directly to programs. Our annual reports and financial statements are publicly available. We hold a GuideStar Platinum Seal and Charity Navigator 4-star rating.

How Your Donation Is Used

Program Services89%
Administrative6%
Fundraising5%
89%Goes to Program Services
Recognition

Awards & Recognition

Nonprofit Excellence Award

Global NGO Council

2024

Transparency Star Rating

Charity Navigator

2024

Best Impact Organization

UN Sustainable Dev Forum

2023

GuideStar Platinum Seal

Candid (GuideStar)

2023

Ready to Join Our Mission?

Whether you want to volunteer, donate, partner with us, or simply learn more — we'd love to connect.