Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven Bailey.
Steven, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Josh’s Hope Foundation was established as a living memorial to Josh Bailey who was murdered in 2008 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Josh was 20 years old at the time of his death and had struggled with mental health issues. At Josh’s Hope, we believe that all young people with mental health challenges deserve the support and resources they need to build a rewarding life.
Josh’s Hope provides a unique experience of personal support and on-the-job training to help young adults, ages 18 to 35, with mental health challenges, work to improve their health, live a self-directed life, and achieve their full potential. Josh’s Hope will be a safe place for a population that needs a stable environment to reach their maximum potential.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Funding remains a persistent challenge. When individuals choose to donate to nonprofits, they often gravitate toward large national or international organizations. While these institutions play an important role, community-based organizations provide essential, localized services that larger entities may not offer. Sustained support for these smaller organizations is critical to ensuring their continued impact.
Additionally, stigma surrounding mental health—often reinforced by unfavorable or incomplete media coverage—creates barriers to public understanding. Many people struggle to accept the possibility of recovery for young adults living with mental illness. As a result, organizations like ours face the added responsibility of educating the community before meaningful engagement and support can be achieved.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I began my career as an office manager for a national construction company, where I worked for 14 years and advanced into the role of Project Engineer.
In 1993, I accepted a position as Business Manager for a small general contracting firm in North Carolina. After several years, I was appointed Corporate Secretary and later promoted to Vice President, a role I held for 18 years.
Currently, I serve as Executive Director of Josh’s Hope Foundation, which my wife and I founded in 2010 following the loss of our son, Joshua.
In addition, I serve as Chief Financial Officer for a construction company based in San Francisco, a position I perform primarily in a remote capacity.
How do you define success?
I define success as improving the lives of others and creating meaningful opportunities for those we serve. This work requires a clear sense of purpose and a commitment to keeping material pursuits in perspective, ensuring that impact remains the primary focus.
Pricing:
- $12000 is the cost of providing training for one individual per year
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joshshopefoundation.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshshopefoundation/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshshopefoundation
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshshopefnd/
- Youtube: https://studio.youtube.com/channel/UC3OwJ8bDJuiYesPo3jj3_WA
