New Hope Children's Advocacy Center in Maryville; image submitted

MARYVILLE, TN – New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center will host a celebration on Thursday, Sept. 18, at its facility at 216 Southdowne Drive in Maryville to mark a major milestone: the building has been paid off thanks to the extraordinary generosity of donors.

Key supporters who made this achievement possible include Clayton Homes, Blackberry Farm Foundation, and William Ed Harmon, whose commitments helped turn a vision into reality.

“This building represents more than bricks and mortar—it is a place where children and families find safety, compassion, and hope during their most difficult moments,” said Ashley Fontenot, CEO of New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center. “We are deeply grateful to our donors and community partners who helped us pay off this building so quickly. Their generosity ensures New Hope will continue serving children for generations to come.”

For years, New Hope operated from an older home in downtown Maryville. While the space served families well, it was never designed for the unique needs of a Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC). Building a new facility from the ground up allowed New Hope to design an environment that provides both privacy and healing. The center features two completely separate entrances and lobby spaces: one for families arriving in crisis, and another for those beginning their therapy and recovery journey. Every space was intentionally crafted to support both the children served and the team members who walk alongside them.

In 2024, New Hope served 677 children and their families in Blount County. The new facility not only accommodates more children but was also built with the future in mind, ensuring the center can expand its impact as community needs grow.

The Sept. 18 celebration will bring together donors, staff, board members, and community supporters to honor the milestone and recognize the role of philanthropy in advancing New Hope’s mission.

“We know that healing is possible,” Fontenot said. “Because of this building, our team can provide children with the resources, privacy, and comfort they need. Paying off the building so quickly means we can devote even more of our energy and resources to serving the children who need us most.”

For more information about New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center, visit blountkids.org.

New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center provides a safe, child-focused environment where children who have experienced abuse can find healing and hope. By coordinating investigative, therapeutic, and advocacy services under one roof, New Hope ensures children and families in Blount County receive the comprehensive care and support they deserve. In 2024, New Hope served 677 children and their families.