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Hannah’s House 119 operates on the belief that having one more trusted, caring adult can change the trajectory of a young girl’s life. Beyond the walls of the faith-based nonprofit’s consistent programming, the summer season offers more opportunities for its participants to build meaningful relationships and developmental skills.
Founded in 2013, Hannah’s House soon became a part of the Stark County Juvenile Human Trafficking Task Force and Stark County Family Court system. As young girls are identified as being at high-risk for, or survivors of, human trafficking, Hannah’s House walks alongside them offering positive role models and confidence-building relationships.
“We saw firsthand the devastating effects of trauma, exploitation and unhealthy relationships on a young person’s life,” said Patti Hostetler, founder and director of Hannah’s House. “That’s when we realized we couldn’t only respond after a girl had been hurt—we needed to be a part of preventing it.”
Hostetler, who served as a youth pastor for 20 years before feeling called toward this community-based ministry, believes that life is all about meaningful relationships—and this idea shaped the core mission of Hannah’s House. Today, the organization serves nearly 120 girls in grades 6-12.
“We consistently show up, listen, encourage and walk alongside a young person through their ups and downs of life,” said Hostetler. “Our purpose is based in healthy relationships, giving young women the opportunity to be valued, have support and feel empowered.”
Participation begins with a five-week prevention-based program called ANCHOR, where girls learn about online safety, healthy relationships and emotional development.
Following ANCHOR, Hannah’s House offers the opportunity to join Girls Club. The weekly group mentoring program provides guided conversations and activities that help the young girls recognize risks, navigate real-life challenges and build confidence for their futures.
In the summer months, Girls Club transitions into a seasonal program with outdoor activities that combine fun experiences and intentional life lessons.
During the summer program, girls are divided into two larger groups that meet for four hours each week. Already this summer, mentors and participants have spent time exploring a highland cow farm, hiking on local trails and creating a Kintsugi-inspired craft.
“We want the girls to leave the summer not only having fun, but also discovering new strengths, building new friendships and making memories,” said Hostetler. “It provides something for them to look forward to each week, which really creates positive childhood experiences that can combat adverse ones.”
As the summer continues, the Girls Club groups will swim, visit a butterfly garden and gather for Bible studies—all opportunities for friendships to form while learning together.
Between prevention-based programming, mentorship meetings and summer activities, Hannah’s House continues to empower young girls of Stark and Carroll counties and instills hope for their futures.
Learn more about Hannah’s House at www.hannahshouse119.com