The Hope Institute
Public Announcement from the HOPE Institute
April 29, 2026
We would like to share an important update regarding our work in the community.
It is with a heavy heart that we are delivering this difficult message, but after careful consideration, we are no longer able to sustain The Hope Insitute's programming within the Chandler Unified School District. The Hope Institute will cease operations on April 30, 2026.
We understand that this news may feel overwhelming for those currently relying on our services, and our priority during this transition is safety and continuity of care. Our clinical team is working individually with all current clients and their families to ensure a warm handoff to external providers.
We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner and work with your community and hope to do so again in the future. The commitment to student well-being and mental health within your community has been evident and deeply meaningful to our team. This closure is a reflection of budgetary constraints and is in no way a reflection of the incredible work done by the staff or the importance of the mission.
Please know this decision was not made lightly. It reflects a number of factors, primarily related to financial feasibility, and although this is a difficult moment for our organization, it has also provided important insight. Moving forward, we believe that The Hope Institute model may be most effective and sustainable when integrated within a larger organization that offers a broader range of behavioral health services.
We remain thankful for the trust placed in us and for the opportunity to contribute to this important work. The impact of these efforts will continue beyond this transition.
With appreciation,
Derek J. Lee
The Hope Institute
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT FROM CRANES FOR CHANGE
May 8, 2026
We want to take a moment to recognize The Hope Institute and the role they’ve played in supporting students and families in CUSD and across Arizona. Their team has supported many students and families over the years, and we’re grateful for the care and consistency they’ve provided to this community. As things move forward, our priority is making sure families continue to have access to support.
Cranes for Change will be launching the Next Steps Center in the same facility that used to house The Hope Institute. A key part of this is providing rapid access assessments for students in urgent need, allowing for timely understanding of concerns and appropriate next steps. Schools will be able to refer students directly for an assessment, and our team will work with families to complete a clinical evaluation and connect them to the most appropriate resources and level of care.
In addition to assessments, the Next Steps Center will offer outpatient therapy services, parent support groups, clinical groups for teachers and staff, and the Cranes Closet, a community-supported, free clothing resource available to all CUSD students and families.
We’re grateful to CUSD for the partnership and for their continued focus on supporting students. We’re also mindful of the responsibility that comes with stepping into this role and are committed to showing up in a way that is steady, responsive, and helpful to families.
We’ll be sharing more information soon!
Gratefully,
Kelsey Phillips
Executive Director | Cranes For Change
Additional Mental Health Resources
CUSD remains steadfastly committed to the mental health and well-being of our community and will continue to advocate for the resources our students need. Please know our dedication to fostering a safe, supportive, and healthy environment for every student in our district remains unchanged.
For information regarding local resources you can contact the Department of Counseling & Social Services, cusdcounseling@cusd80.com.
If you or a loved one is going through a difficult time, you are not alone and help is available. Please refer to the resources below for immediate assistance.