With a mission to “strengthen children, youth and families in crisis by providing a broad array of counseling and support services in a safe and nurturing environment”, it's no wonder several Chateau Elan residents have joined the cause to support Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter.

More than eight years ago, Peggy Slappey reached out to Home of Hope's Executive Director Maureen Kornowa after reading about her award as Gwinnett's Woman of the Year. Maureen invited Peggy to the Gwinnett Children's Shelter for a tour. "What she showed me changed my life. I wanted to be her 'wingman' and encourager to support her in whatever way I could," Peggy shared. Now, Peggy and her husband Tommy are just one of the many Chateau Elan couples who have a passion for helping this local, worthwhile cause.

On the visit, Maureen shared her vision of helping young, homeless mothers and their children by making a lasting change. Their goal was to teach them to stand on their own, manage their money, and be the best mom they could be to get from homeless to independent and ultimately into a home of their own. That fit right in with the Slappey’s desire to help children and their business of home ownership as a realty team. From that day forward, Peggy wanted to introduce this ministry to as many people as she could, and she and Tommy have continued to help in many ways over the years. Two of the most rewarding efforts were when they decided to join the amazing team of volunteers to help with the annual Gala and their decision to make the Home of Hope the recipient of many of their company event fundraisers. There are many ways to help, from donating household items to help mothers get a new start after graduating from the program to gift cards for the birthdays of the guest. This is a program that brings lasting change. 

Peggy said, “We are committed to continuing to walk beside Maureen and Home of Hope as long as possible. Personally, I am so thankful to the residents of Chateau Elan that have joined in this journey. Amazing people doing amazing things.”

Stephanie Joedecke shared, “As a committee member, it was fun seeing the 35th Gala celebration come to life. But more importantly, it is always touching to see the impact of the Gwinnett and local Braselton communities working together to strengthen the mission of helping mothers and children in crisis.”

Lacey O'Keefe told us, "I truly look forward to my time at the Home of Hope children’s shelter. Not only do I know I am making a difference when I volunteer, but I am also inspired by the dedication and hard work the guests put forth to end the cycle of homelessness. It is the most amazing blessing to see a family grow and learn the life skills necessary to gain independence. I love being even a small part of that. The moms are beyond grateful and the children just melt your heart. Seeing them smile tells me I am at the right place!"

Peggy, Stephanie, and Lacey were all Chateau Elan residents that supported the sold out 2022 Home of Hope Gala with planning and coordination. Resident, Tommy Slappey gave the invocation and resident, Jim Joedecke spoke as the councilman on behalf of the town of Braselton. His law firm, Andersen, Tate & Carr, was also an event sponsor. Longtime supporters, John and Judy Pennebaker along with their table of residents were among the 300 in attendance. Ray and Gwinnett Stanley also brought a table full of residents. Several neighbors joined in on the fun of the silent auction and Greg Paugh bid and walked away with the Braves Suite during the live auction, while Tom and Gretchen Mitchell along with some other couples bid and won the boat trip on Lake Lanier!

This years Gala was held at the Chateau Elan Resort and raised OVER $140,000!! Chateau Elan has been the home of the Gala for the last nine years and it will be the location for the 2023 Gala on Saturday, October 21st. For details on attending or sponsoring the 2023 Gala, go to HomeofHopeGCS.org or the Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter Facebook page.