Dr. Sarah Johnson
Executive Director & Co-FounderDr. 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
For over 15 years, we've united passionate people, communities, and organizations around a single goal: creating lasting change where it's needed most.
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.
To empower communities, transform lives, and create sustainable opportunities through education, healthcare, environmental initiatives, and compassionate support for all.
A world where every individual, regardless of circumstance, has the opportunity to live with dignity, security, and hope for a brighter future.
Community-led, evidence-based programs that address root causes — not symptoms — of poverty and inequality. We listen first, then act together.
We lead with empathy in everything we do, putting people first.
Full financial disclosure and accountability to our donors and community.
We celebrate diversity and ensure every voice is heard and valued.
Building solutions designed to last for generations to come.
Collaborating with communities, not just for them.
Evidence-based programs with measurable, real-world results.
Experienced, passionate leaders committed to transparency, innovation, and lasting impact.
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 BioMichael leads our global program portfolio with expertise in healthcare delivery and community health systems across Asia and Africa.
Healthcare, Environmental View Full BioAisha brings 15 years of nonprofit management experience, overseeing our 28-country operations with precision and cultural sensitivity.
Operations, Partnerships View Full BioCarlos 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 Touch89 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.
Global NGO Council
2024Charity Navigator
2024UN Sustainable Dev Forum
2023Candid (GuideStar)
2023Whether you want to volunteer, donate, partner with us, or simply learn more — we'd love to connect.