Hopewell’s story began in 1983, when John and Joanne Oosterhuis opened their hearts and their home to children with disabilities in their community.
They purchased a farmhouse in Ariss, Ontario, and became foster parents, providing individualized care while raising their own family under the same roof. Word quickly spread about the love and support offered at Hopewell. Soon, more children with complex needs were welcomed, along with dedicated staff who shared the family’s vision of care and belonging.
“we create spaces where choice, belonging, and joy are at the heart of each day.”
They purchased a farmhouse in Ariss, Ontario, and became foster parents, providing individualized care while raising their own family under the same roof. Word quickly spread about the love and support offered at Hopewell. Soon, more children with complex needs were welcomed, along with dedicated staff who shared the family’s vision of care and belonging.
The original farmhouse became the foundation for something much larger. Hopewell became a licensed group home in 1984 and was registered as a charity in 1990. What started as one family’s vision grew into a network of welcoming homes, respite support, and community programs across Guelph-Wellington.
Today, Hopewell continues to build on the Oosterhuis family’s legacy of compassion and inclusion. We support children, youth, and adults with developmental and physical disabilities, walking alongside their families and caregivers at every stage of life. From supported living to respite and recreation, we create spaces where choice, belonging, and joy are at the heart of each day.
The need in our community remains great, and Hopewell remains committed to growing and adapting so that every person we serve can live a full and meaningful life, together for a lifetime.
