Hope Rises: How Faith Fuels a Movement of Goodness and Transformation

In a world often saturated with negativity, Kate Glaser, founder of Hope Rises, stands as a beacon of light, demonstrating how unwavering faith, coupled with a deep commitment to love and service, can transform communities and inspire countless lives. What began as a simple good news blog in 2017 has blossomed into a powerful nonprofit and media platform, raising over a million dollars for Western New York and proving that hope can indeed rise, even in the face of tragedy.

Kate’s journey with Hope Rises is a testament to the transformative power of faith in action. Leaving a full-time position at Make-A-Wish to pursue her vision, she embraced the uncertainty with a profound trust that doors would open. “I really leaned into praying about it and just like, the right doors open for me to be able to leave,” she shares. This decision, seemingly counter to conventional business wisdom, was rooted in a deep conviction that her work was growing for a good reason – helping people, giving back, and telling stories infused with goodness and hope.

Hope as a Foundational Principle

For Kate, hope is not merely a sentiment; it’s a foundational principle of her Christian faith. “Hope is a big part of being a Christian,” she explains. This belief is woven into the very fabric of Hope Rises, which, while not overtly religious, consistently champions goodness, kindness, and love. The brand’s essence lies in its ability to find and highlight hope in every situation, no matter how challenging. “You can find hope in even tragic situations,” Kate affirms, a philosophy that has resonated deeply and fueled the organization’s remarkable growth.

This faith-driven approach extends beyond the professional realm into Kate’s personal life and her commitment to giving back. While balancing a demanding career and three young children, she strives to attend church, prays daily, and draws strength from biblical verses. Her giving is intentionally broad, reaching beyond familiar circles to impact underserved communities, homeless populations, and those struggling on the margins. “We’re doing a lot of giving on our east and west side or downtown, our homeless population, you know, really helping those who are struggling,” she states, embodying the Christian principle of loving and serving all.

Leading by Faith and Example

Kate’s advice to other Christian business leaders is both simple and profound: “Don’t be afraid to lean into your faith.” She emphasizes that integrating faith into business doesn't require preaching, but rather living by example. It’s about showcasing love, striving to be a good person, and ensuring that every endeavor is rooted in kindness and hope.

While she doesn’t shy away from acknowledging her faith, her primary focus is on connecting with people on their level, making them feel loved, and leading with compassion and forgiveness. This authentic approach has not only defined Hope Rises but has also made Kate an inspiration to many, demonstrating that true leadership is about lifting others and fostering a world where hope truly rises.