After a nationwide search, One Hope United (OHU) has appointed Damon Cates, EdD as its new President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This decision came after Cates showed exemplary leadership during his time as Interim President & CEO, starting from August 2023. Cates contributed significantly in areas such as fundraising at state and federal levels, strengthening relationships with legislative leaders in Illinois, Florida and the country, and other organizational initiatives. With Cates at the helm, OHU expects to increase access to early childhood education, enhance child welfare outcomes and expand mental health services.

Cates’ role as Chief Advancement Officer added more to his accomplishments, helping shape and share the OHU story. His vision encourages collaboration and teamwork, which is vital for the organization’s continuing growth. As OHU aims to provide additional support to children and family services in Florida and Illinois, Cates’ determination is set to met the growing demand of child-focused programming, with a goal to serve from 10,000 to 15,000 children and families by 2030. His leadership also aims to increase the revenue from $75 million to $125 million in the same duration.

One Hope United, a multisite social service organization, served 10,000 children and families in Illinois and Florida in 2023. Dedicated to uplifting children and families through various resources, the organization focuses on creating an environment where individuals can reach their potential despite their past. Visit the One Hope United website to learn more: https://onehopeunited.org/.

Damon Cates, EdD, an alumnus of the universities of Millikin, Chicago, and Pennsylvania, initially joined One Hope United in July 2022 as Chief Advancement Officer. With over 16 years of experience at the University of Chicago in alumni relations, fundraising posts at Stanford University, and an appointment to the Illinois Youth Budget Commission by Governor JB Pritzker in 2023, Cates brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to his role at One Hope United.