Who We Are
About Us
Children’s Hope Alliance (CHA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has proudly served North Carolina’s children and families for over 130 years. We are dedicated to supporting individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and family structures through a wide range of compassionate, community-based services.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide hope, health, and healing for generations. We strive to be a beacon of hope for children and families, offering healing, safety, and the tools to build a brighter future.
Our Vision
We envision a future where healing is accessible, hope is restored, and generations are transformed through integrated, person-centered care.
Our Values
With a family-centered focus, we are committed to quality, innovation, strong relationships, and integrated technology to amplify impact through meaningful community partnerships.
Our History
The story of Children’s Hope Alliance is one of triumph, adaptability, and the sole mission of providing safe, supporting care to children in need. We are proud to honor our past, and all of the Hope Heroes who came before us to make an impact on the lives of youth and their families. With our humble roots establishing presbyterian Orphanages to house the unwanted children, CHA has grown to serve over 7,000 children across North Carolina through in-home and community-based care. Read below to learn more about our history.
The Orphanage Era
In 1883, two Presbyterian women founded the Presbyterian Orphans Home in Charlotte, North Carolina, which later moved to Barium Springs, known for its healing waters. The home became a self-sustaining orphanage where children learned trade skills and often stayed through high school.
By the 1950s, the focus shifted to children facing abuse and neglect, leading to the addition of therapeutic care. From the 1970s to early 2000s, services expanded to include foster care, education, and trauma-informed therapy. Today, the Barium Springs campus is home to the Children’s Hope Alliance headquarters.
A Safe, Mountain Home
In 1914, Presbyterian minister Edgar Tufts and his wife Bessie arrived in Banner Elk, North Carolina, and began serving the community by founding Banner Elk Presbyterian Church and Lees-McRae Institute. Tufts soon transformed a maple orchard and farmhouse into the Grandfather Home for Orphans, which welcomed 26 children in its first year.
With community support, the home provided education, life skills, and spiritual guidance. Over time, it shifted to care for abused and neglected children, aligning with the rise of foster care in North Carolina. Today, the historic buildings remain, and alumni return to share memories of love and healing.
Certifications and Recognitions
Joint Commission National Accreditation
Children’s Hope Alliance is proud to continually receive National Accreditation by the Joint Commission. We are also members of Benchmarks (State Association) and the Foster Family-Based Treatment Association, and we are affiliated with the United Way, and Healthy Families America.
Teaching Family Model Accreditation
Children’s Hope Alliance has been an accredited member agency of the Teaching Family Association since 2003. The Teaching-Family Model was developed specifically for children, youth, young adults and families receiving child welfare services.
2025 USA Today Top Workplace
Children’s Hope Alliance is proud to be recognized as a 2025 Top Workplace by USA Today. The Top Workplace award is based solely on employee feedback from yearly surveys that our staff participate in about our agency, making this award incredibly authentic and credible!