Visions of Hope: Cohort Model for Trauma Recovery and Stable Reintegration

 

Our Mission and Approach

Visions of Hope, Inc. provides trauma-informed supportive housing for U.S. Veterans and Returning Citizens in a single, integrated residential community. Our mission is to break the cycle of instability and untreated trauma by leveraging peer support and clinical expertise to build lasting self-sufficiency.

 

We address the root cause of instability—complex trauma—by placing these dual populations into a shared supportive environment. This Integrated Cohort Model fosters mutual accountability and healing, using the strengths of veterans (discipline, teamwork) to promote engagement and stability for all residents.

 

The Six-Month Path to Independence (Program Model)

Our program follows three structured phases over six months, ensuring every participant receives coordinated clinical care and vocational support:

 

Phase 1: Clinical Stabilization (Weeks 1–4)

Focuses on establishing safety, trust, and clinical rapport. Participants begin mandatory individual trauma therapy and initial group training to build the foundation for recovery.

 

Phase 2: Skills & Accountability (Months 2–4)

This intensive phase focuses on skill development. Residents engage in job readiness workshops, advanced group therapy (e.g., anger management), and community engagement. Peer mentoring is actively utilized to encourage full participation.

 

Phase 3: Transition & Independence (Months 5–6)

The final phase is dedicated to successful reentry. Participants work closely with staff to secure long-term independent housing and stabile employment, ensuring thorough planning for success post-program exit.

 

Measurable Impact: Our Commitment to Stable Outcomes

Our pilot program is designed to deliver immediate, measurable stability, guided by external evaluation through Boise State University:

• 85% Housing Stability: Residents maintain continuous placement throughout the 6-month program.

• 45% Employment Secured: Residents secure part-time or full-time employment prior to program exit.

• 100% Clinical Commitment: Mandatory participation in individual trauma therapy and group skills training.

• Long-Term Goal: Successful transition of 60% of participants into independent housing upon program completion.

 

Structure and Accountability

Visions of Hope, Inc. is the official 501(c)(3) applicant, providing direct fiscal oversight and grant management.

• Leadership: The program is led by a dual-expertise team: Felicia Duce, LCPC, who provides clinical depth, and Richard Renz, LMSW, U.S. Navy Veteran (and President of the Board), who specializes in supportive housing models.

 

• Board of Directors: Our governance is provided by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to fiduciary oversight and strategic planning.

  • Richard Renz, LMSW - President

  • Alyssa Robling, Vice Chair

  • Benjamin Duce, Treasurer

  • Felicia Duce, LCPC - Secretary

  • Kimberly Needham, LPC - Executive Director

 

• Clinical Support Partnership: Visions of Hope, Inc. formally collaborates with Visions Counseling & Education, LLC, which secures the vital, billable clinical revenue stream, including Community-Based Rehabilitation Services (CBRS) and counseling.

 

• Key Partners: We work closely with Visions Counseling & Education, Boise State University, the Idaho Department of Corrections, the Department of Justice, and Local Veterans Affairs Offices to ensure access to essential resources and program compliance.