A
ear Groundbreaking 2024 Annual Report
Our Mission Empowering families facing homelessness to transform their lives. Our Vision For every family to have a home in which to thrive physically, economically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Table of Contents Welcome from the Chief Executive Officer.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Homelessness Prevention.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 TransitionalHousing.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Groundbreaking Expansion.. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 AlumniSupport........................ 10 Financial Stewardship.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Leadership.............................. 13 TheDoorofHopeFamily.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
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For I know the plans I have for you... to give you hope and a future. - Jer 29:11
2024 was our most impactful year yet—thanks to YOUR partnership, we served more families and transformed more lives than ever before!
Dear Friend, As I write this, my heart overflows with gratitude and determination. Gratitude for all you made possible in 2024—a transformative year for Door of Hope. Thanks to your generosity, we served more families than ever and broke ground on our fifth shelter. These incredible milestones reflect the power of your unwavering support. Yet, my heart also feels the weight of the challenges we face together. Family homelessness has risen by 26% in just two years, with a staggering 46% increase in Pasadena alone. And now, the Eaton Fire has added to this crisis, leaving many of our neighbors without homes and deepening the need in our community. This tragedy struck close to home for me, as I, too, lost my house in the fire. As someone leading a homeless services organization, it is surreal to face the same challenges as those we serve. Yet amidst this personal loss, I feel a profound sense of hope and urgency. The resilience and compassion of our community remind me that together, we can overcome even the toughest challenges. In response to the fire, we’ve launched the Eaton Fire Housing Assistance Program to extend relief and hope to those most affected (see back cover for more details). With our expertise and dedication, we are uniquely positioned to ramp up services and provide shelter and stability to those in need. None of this would be possible without your support. Even in the face of rising needs, there is so much to be hopeful about. Thank you for standing with us and, in the spirit of Jeremiah 29:11, for helping bring the promise of hope of a brighter future to families in need. With heartfelt gratitude,
PREVENTED homelessness for 209 families
ENDED homelessness for 73 families
SUSTAINED housing for
341 families through our Alumni Support Program!
SERVED 11% more families than in 2023— a record-breaking year for Door of Hope!
Rev. Megan Katerjian, Chief Executive Officer
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A GROUNDBREAKING YEAR IN... Homelessness Prevention
Families served 209
WHAT’S THE IMPACT? 96% Housed 1 year later 93% Increased income 46% Increased savings
HOW DO WE SERVE? 1,334 Case management sessions
204 Support group sessions $840,128 Rental assistance W ith more people falling into homelessness than escaping it every day in LA County, the most effective way to address homelessness is to prevent it. That’s why we launched our Homelessness Prevention Program in 2018. Our Groundbreaking Approach Unlike other prevention programs that provide only financial aid, our Homelessness Prevention Program addressing the root causes of housing through holistic services, along with emergency rental assistance. We offer financial counseling, career coaching, and therapy so that families not only stay housed but also build a foundation for long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
Homelessness prevention is the most efficient and cost-effective solution, with a total cost of $5,000 per family. In contrast, providing services to a family living on the streets can cost the
community up to $128,000 for healthcare, law enforcement, and social services.
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Meet Jose & Megli W hen Jose, a mechanic, lost his job to bankruptcy, he
Program. To stabilize their immediate crisis, their case manager negotiated with the landlord to waive late fees, while Door of Hope covered two months of rent and overdue utilities. Recognizing Megli’s potential, Door of Hope also connected her with Angel funding through The Change Reaction’s Angel funding, helping her get her home-based baking business off the ground.
With Jose now back at work and Megli’s baking business growing, the family has regained stability and is looking toward the future with renewed confidence. Your support made it possible for them to weather a challenging season and avoid
relied on savings to support his family. But with three children to care for, those savings quickly dwindled. Megli, his wife, began baking at home to bring in extra income, discovering a new talent she loved.
the trauma of homelessness.
Facing eviction, the family turned to Door of Hope’s Homelessness Prevention
The Plan to Prevent More For every family we help, eight more are waiting —urgently needing Door of Hope’s early intervention. To meet this need, we’re expanding our program to prevent homelessness for 10% more families annually. With a strategic mix of private and government funding, we aim to hire another case manager and provide rental assistance for the additional families we serve.
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A GROUNDBREAKING YEAR IN... Transitional Housing
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79 Parents 147 Children
Families sheltered
>
WHAT’S THE IMPACT? 74% Increased income 64% Increased savings 92% Improved mental health 90% Grew spiritually
HOW DO WE SERVE? 1,360 Case management sessions 1,485 Adult & Child therapy sessions 2,412 Child/teen mentoring sessions
Lilia and Bible Study Leader
Meet Lilia: 2024 Graduate In 2022, Lilia fled an abusive partner, seeking refuge with her daughter at Door of Hope’s Bravo shelter. There, she began attending Bible study which transformed her spiritual life. Lilia’s relationship with God deepened, teaching her to trust and rely on Him fully. This change impacted every aspect of her life, as she recalls: “Door of Hope helped me grow and change. I became a better parent, I learned to take care of myself, and I learned to love myself.” Today, Lilia works as a caregiver, providing stability for her daughter, who is now in high school. They are building a brighter future together, grounded in faith, hope, and resilience.
938 Spiritual care hours 792 Life skills sessions
F or nearly 40 years, Sheltering More has been at the heart of Door of Hope’s mission. Since 1985, we’ve grown from a single shelter for five families to four shelters that provide refuge for 37 families at a time—helping approximately 65 families each year. Our Groundbreaking Approach Door of Hope’s Transitional Housing Program is truly groundbreaking because it reimagines what a shelter can be for families experiencing homelessness. Unlike many shelters that separate families by gender or age, Door of Hope keeps families together in private, home-like units, ensuring safety, dignity, and the space to heal. For us, keeping families united isn’t optional—it’s essential to restoring hope and resilience. We go beyond housing to provide transformative solutions that empower families to thrive. Through case management, financial literacy, career coaching, therapy, children’s programs, and spiritual care, we help families build emotional health, financial stability, and a solid foundation for the future.
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GROUNDBREAKING # of graduations in 2024
In 2024, Door of Hope achieved a remarkable milestone, helping 33 families graduate from transitional shelters into permanent housing. Each family’s journey represents a powerful story of resilience and hope, transforming lives through the compassionate support of our
donors, partners, and volunteers. Thank you for your partnership that helps
families like Vanessa and Eva –our first graduation of 2024 –move from homelessness into their own home!
The Plan to Shelter More For every family we shelter, 37 more are still waiting — sleeping in cars, on the streets, and in crisis. This heartbreaking need drives us to expand through renovation projects at our current shelters and building a fifth shelter that will provide a safe haven for 20 more families. By 2026, we will increase our shelter capacity by nearly 70%—growing from 34 units in 2022 to 57 units when we open our new shelter in 2026!
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Groundbreaking Expansion
W e launched the “Shelter More, Prevent More” Capital Campaign to address the urgent need to support more families facing homelessness. This bold initiative focuses on: • Expanding our homelessness prevention program by 10% annually. • Building the David & Katherine Lee Home, a transitional shelter for 20 families. Thank you to the 130+ donors and the Campaign Cabinet for their hard work and commitment to working together to bring this vision to reality: Bill Podley (Chair) | Megan Katerjian Robert Lagace | Tyler Lazarian | John Lewis Charlie Plowman | Sarah Silk | Carina Walker
On September 6, 2024, we broke ground on this state-of-the-art shelter, joined by city, county, state, and federal leaders, as well as our generous donors. Designed with insights from our four previous shelters, it will feature private bathrooms for each family and shared cooking stations, setting a new standard for efficiency and impact. Thanks to supporters like you, we’ve raised $9.3 million of our $10 million goal!
Door of Hope forms a campaign cabinet chaired by Bill Podley and launches Shelter More, Prevent More Capital Campaign. “God calls us to love our neighbors ... and as a business man I want to invest—in the future and in heaven.” David Lee
Reverend Andy Bales’ home is acquired. Plans are drawn to expand and create 20 residential units, naming it “The David & Katherine Lee Home.”
Board approves a strategic plan to Shelter More and Prevent More— increasing clients served by 50% over 5 years.
2022
2023
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HOPE STARTS HERE
The Change Reaction grants Door of Hope an unprecedented $1 million match challenge!
“I learned from my 20 years at Union Rescue Mission that people traumatized by homelessness need much more than a hotel room and food – families need a safe place, therapy, much more, and nobody does this life-transforming work like Door of Hope.” - Rev. Andy Bales, former CEO of Union Rescue Mission
With neighborhood support, City approval obtained by unanimous vote.
Groundbreaking ceremony kicks off construction. Affirmed government support: U.S. Representative Judy Chu
“Fighting our homelessness crisis requires all hands on deck – our County needs faith-based organizations now more than ever.” - Supervisor Kathryn Barger
LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger State Assemblymember Chris Holden Pasadena Mayor Victo Gordo Pasadena Councilmember Jess Rivas
“I’m grateful for organizations like Door of Hope...whose efforts are helping address this crisis by building a new transitional shelter for unhoused Angelenos.”
Breaking Ground, Building Hope, our annual Fall Benefit, marks the official public launch of the capital campaign.
For more info:
- Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo
Construction will include an additional 13,000 square feet.
GRAND OPENING of our 5th shelter.
2024
2025
2026
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Community breaks the cycle of homeless long-term A t Door of Hope, we believe in the transformative power of community. It’s this belief that drives our Alumni Support Program, setting us apart from other homeless service providers. It’s also the cornerstone of two cherished annual events— the Christmas Festival and the Summer Carnival —designed to bring together alumni and current clients from across all our programs.
A GROUNDBREAKING YEAR IN... Alumni Support
WHAT’S THE IMPACT? 95% Employed at 1 year 95% Housed at 1 year 88% Housed at 3 years 86% House at 5+ years Families served 341 HOW DO WE SERVE? 260 Case management sessions
171 Adult therapy sessions 332 Spiritual care hours
H omelessness is an ongoing cycle that is difficult to break. In fact, studies show that nationwide, up to 35% of all families who complete a transitional housing program become homeless again. That is why Door of Hope has established its Alumni Support Program – to help ensure long-term stability for families once they are on the other side of homelessness and to achieve outcomes that are better than the average. Our Groundbreaking Approach Unlike many shelter programs that end support once families are resettled into permanent housing, Door of Hope remains a steady source of care and connection. Through ongoing case management, therapy, spiritual support, and emergency assistance, we help families not only settle into their new homes but thrive long after. At Door of Hope, we believe that once you’re part of our family, you’re family for life.
GROUNDBREAKING ATTENDANCE IN 2024 173 Families attended 775+ Toys given out 124 Volunteers made it happen
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critical for long-term housing stability. Families build networks of shared understanding and encouragement by meeting others who have faced similar challenges. They also reconnect with Door of Hope’s caring staff, whose unwavering support reminds them they are never alone in their journey.
The Summer Carnival is a celebration filled with food, games, and joy. Children leave with backpacks brimming with school supplies, ready to start the school year with confidence. At the Christmas Festival, the magic of the season comes alive as children shop for gifts in a toy store stocked with donated
treasures, meet Santa, and even experience sledding on a snow hill. At both events, families receive grocery gift cards to help ease their burdens and meet essential needs. But these gatherings are about more than festivities. They foster a sense of connection that is
FROM DOOR OF HOPE ALUMNI TO BOARD MEMBER Meet Renee Born and raised in Pasadena, Renee has served as the Associate Director of Housing Navigation Programs at Union Station Homeless Services for nearly 8 years. Driven by a deep passion for helping those affected by homelessness, she has made it her life’s mission to contribute to solving the homeless crisis in the county. Having experienced homelessness in Pasadena with her daughter, Renee found refuge and guidance at Door of Hope, where she gained both practical and spiritual tools to rebuild her life. Her time at Door of Hope not only strengthened her faith but also gave her the confidence to face the world with her head held high. Renee seeks to bring both her professional expertise and personal experience to support the Door of Hope mission.
“I’m a product of the love, compassion, support, and overall impact that DOH pours into the clients that walk through the door.”
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A GROUNDBREAKING YEAR IN... Financial Stewardship
2%
2% 3%
Individuals Foundations Government
$3,133,541 59% $761,251 14%
4%
7%
$488,416 $391,366 $195,798 $113,048 $99,055 $137,879
9% 7% 4% 2% 2% 3%
In-Kind
Operating Income
9%
Organizations
Churches
14%
Corporations
59%
Other
TOTAL
$5,320,354 100%
7%
Programs
$4,265,276 81% $659,364 12%
12%
Development
Admin TOTAL
$356,121
7%
Operating Expenses
$5,280,761 100%
81%
Financial are reported on a cash basis (except in-kind transactions), which will differ from audited financial statements. Audited financial statements will be available upon request in March 2025.
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2024 Board Members Tyler Lazarian, Chair Chief Executive Officer, Electric Service & Supply Co. Sarah Silk, Vice Chair Community Volunteer Robert Lagace, Treasurer * Managing Director for Los Angeles Middle Market Banking, JPMorgan Chase (Retired) Dick Kleinert, Secretary & Chair of Board Goverance Committee Principal, Deloitte Consulting LLP (Retired) Jen Argue, Chair of Development Committee Life Coach & Business Coach, Life Coaching Collective Brian Kim Portfolio Manager, Northern Trust Charlie Plowman Publisher, Outlook Newspapers David Bunn Attorney, Bunn& Bunn Attorneys at Law David Lee * Chairman & CEO, Hing Wa Lee Group Gerson Munoz * Asset Manager, Housing Authority of the City of LA Joseph Montes Attorney, Burke, Williams, & Sorensen, LLP Kay Wolking Regional Managing Director for Pasadena Private Banking, Wells Fargo (Retired) Kimberly Kirui Community Engagement Associate, Imagine LA *not pictured
Thank You Retiring Board Members Robert Lagace Jen Argue Kay Wolking Kimberly Kirui Thank you for your dedicated service and invaluable contributions as board members. Your leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for all you’ve done to advance our mission. Wishing you all the best in this next chapter! Welcome New Board Members Bill Podley , Broker Associate DPP|Compass Dasha Thomas , Chief Development Officer The Fuller Foundation Joanne Mathew , Interim CFO YWCA of Greater Los Angeles Lisa Scott Benson , Chief Strategy Officer Russ Reid (Retired) Renee Magee , Associate Director of
Housing Navigation Programs Union Station Homeless Services
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Door of Hope Family
FOUNDATION The Change Reaction “We deeply value
our partnership with Door of Hope, a one of a kind organization that provides not just shelter but the tools, resources, and
INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS John and Deanne Lewis When we consider Door of Hope, we see alignment in loving our
unwavering support that empower families to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Their commitment to breaking the cycle of homelessness aligns with our belief in transformative, compassionate solutions that create lasting change for generations to come.” Wade Trimmer, President, The Change Reaction
neighbors by caring for unhoused families, we see a history of delivering on that mission with a recidivism rate that is amazing and holistic impact on clients, and we see in Megan a leader that has not only grown the organization in size but also in depth. That’s why we are such enthusiastic supporters.
BUSINESS Pennymac “Pennymac is a proud
supporter of Door of Hope, an organization working diligently to break the cycle of homelessness for families
in our local community. Their impactful work aligns with our mission of helping Americans achieve the aspirations of homeownership.” Kisha Parker Croom, Managing Director, Corporate Sustainability at Pennymac
CHURCH Epicentre Church
“It’s been a joy to come alongside Door of Hope with the amazing work they are doing. In the chaotic world we live in, the Jesus-centered love, practical help and structure which they are giving families and children in invaluable and we’re glad to be a small part of this.” Pastor John Lo
ORGANIZATION Pasadena Elks
“Charity is considered by the Elks to be one of the highest virtues and is promoted through
our dedication in supporting members of our community who are in need. Door of Hope and the invaluable work it performs perfectly coincide with our charitable principles, and we have been honored over the years to assist it in its efforts in improving the lives of those it serves.” Neil Yeager, Past Exalted Ruler, Pasadena Elks Lodge
VOLUNTEER Selina SooHoo “No matter the task, each experience has been deeply enriching.”
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Church Partners Alhambra True Light Presbyterian Church Arcadia Chinese Baptist Church Arcadia Community Church Christian Assembly Foursquare Church Church of the Transfiguration Epicentre Church First Church of the Nazarene of Pasadena First Congregational Church of Pasadena First Presbyterian Church, Altadena
Foothills Community Church Glendale Presbyterian Church La Canada Presbyterian Church Joy Christian Center Church Knox Presbyterian Church Lake Avenue Church Mandarin Baptist Church of LA Montrose Church Mt. Olive Lutheran Church Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Church Oneonta Congregational Church Palos Verdes Baptist Church In-N-Out Burger Foundation J.W. and Ida M. Jameson Foundation Mericos Foundation Pasadena Child Health Foundation Patron Saints Foundation The Annenberg Foundation Fiedler Group * Herbert Hawkins Realtors * Kiddie Academy * Weaver & Associates * BTG Advisors * Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP *
Pasadena Presbyterian Church Presbytery of San Gabriel Reflection Church Saint Anthony’s Greek Orthodox Church San Gabriel Presbyterian Church San Marino Community Church San Marino Congregational United Church of Christ St. Mark’s Episcopal Church The Well SGV Trinity Presbyterian Church Vintage Church
Foundation Partners Ann Peppers Foundation California Community Foundation Carrie Estelle Doheny Foundation
The Change Reaction The Fitzberg Foundation The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation The Rose Hills Foundation Yes, Virginia Fund
Ethel J. Scantland Foundation Good Hope Medical Foundation Grace Nixon Foundation Business Sponsors Essco, Electric Service & Supply Co.* Hauswirth Foundation* PennyMac* The Berns Team * Century, Affordable Housing * East West Bank *
CTA Wealth Advisors, Inc. * Citizens Business Bank *
J.D. Gilmour & Co. * Million Dollar Baby * Outlook Newspapers *
*GOLD *SILVER *BRONZE
2024 Breaking Ground, Building Hope Benefit Made Possible by our Business Sponsors
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FROM CELEBRATION TO ACTION: Meeting the Urgent Need in 2025
A s we celebrate the groundbreaking milestones of 2024, we turn with renewed determination to the urgent challenges ahead—supporting families devastated by the Eaton Fire and addressing the rising tide of homelessness in our community. Within two weeks of the devastating Eaton Fire, Door of Hope launched a brand new program to support families who have lost their housing due to this tragedy. For the most vulnerable low- and very low-income families, the devastation of the Eaton Fire was not just a loss of property—it brought them to the brink of homelessness – both short- and long-term.
At Door of Hope, we can’t let that happen, and we are perfectly equipped to launch a high impact response. Through the Eaton Fire Housing Assistance Program , we are providing life-changing support to low-income families who lost their home in the fire: 1. Transitional Housing for up to 8 families in 2025. 2. Housing Assistance & Disaster Case Management for up to 50 families. Your support can bring hope and stability to families affected by the Eaton Fire.
ACT NOW SEE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE
Together, we can restore hope and rebuild lives—one family at a time. Thank you for being part of this journey. We are stronger together.
doorofhope.us/donate
Door of Hope 221 E. Walnut Street, Suite 112 Pasadena, CA 91101
@thedoorofhope @doorofhope
(626) 304-9130 doorofhope.us
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