For Jordan and Bryan, supporting Casa de Esperanza is more than philanthropy—it’s personal.
Jordan first learned about Casa through her church while she was a senior at Penn State niversity studying finance and accounting. Before beginning a career in the corporate world, she wanted to dedicate a year to serving others. While researching service opportunities, she discovered Casa de Esperanza and applied to the Hands of Hope Internship Program.
She was accepted and spent 2012–2013 serving as a House Parent in Casa’s Foster Care Neighborhood.
“It was the greatest adventure of my young life and a truly transformative experience,” Jordan recalls. “I often describe my life in terms of ‘before Casa’ and ‘after Casa.’ The people I met, the children I cared for, and the lessons I learned shaped the person I am today.”
One of her favorite memories is Christmas at Casa. In the days leading up to Christmas morning, Jordan and the other House Parents spent hours cutting paper snowflakes and decorating their house to create a winter wonderland for the children.
“The irony was that it was nearly 80 degrees outside,” Jordan laughs. “But somehow, in Houston, we created a white Christmas.”
The caregivers stayed up late wrapping gifts, assembling toys, and preparing for Christmas morning. One bicycle proved especially challenging, keeping Jordan awake until nearly 4 a.m. Yet every moment was worth it when the children came downstairs.
“What stays with me most is not the decorations or the presents, but the joy on their faces,” she says. “It was a beautiful reminder that creating a sense of wonder, belonging, and love for a child can be one of the greatest gifts we ever give.”
Her year at Casa also gave her a firsthand understanding of what it takes to care for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Many children arrive with very few belongings and significant needs. While love and compassion are essential, healing also requires practical resources—from pajamas and school supplies to therapeutic services and safe, nurturing environments.
“Supporting Casa as a donor has always been an easy decision,” Jordan shares. “I know exactly where those donations go, and I know the difference they make in the lives of children every single day.”
Today, as parents themselves, Jordan and Bryan say Casa’s mission resonates even more deeply.
“Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and loved, and every family deserves the opportunity to access the support they need during times of crisis,” they share. “We have seen firsthand how a safe, loving environment can change the trajectory of a child’s life.”
What continues to inspire them most is Casa’s commitment to caring not only for children, but also for their families.
“There can be a great deal of stigma surrounding families in crisis, but Casa treats birth parents with dignity, kindness, and respect,” Jordan explains.
“Rather than defining families by their worst moments, Casa seeks to understand their stories, build relationships, and connect them with the support they need to heal.”
That commitment to both children and families is why Jordan and Bryan continue to invest in Casa’s mission today.
“For our family, supporting Casa is more than charitable giving—it is an investment in children, families, and a mission that has already given so much to us. We are grateful for what Casa has meant in our lives and honored to help ensure that children and families continue to find hope, healing, and stability for years to come.”
