In 2017, a young social work intern walked through the doors at House of Hope looking to gain more experience as she pursued her master’s degree in Social Work. For nine months, Sara Melucci worked closely with staff and clients, learning the ins and outs of the agency and how to best serve those experiencing homelessness in Rhode Island. Once Sara’s internship was complete, she decided to join the House of Hope Staff permanently becoming a Case Manager. Eventually, Sara became the Street Outreach Program Manager and finally House of Hope’s Director of Street Outreach. In all of these positions, Sara has remained humble and has always kept the mission of House of Hope and those we serve at the center of EVERYTHING she does. Sara is a friendly and comforting face to those clients we serve through street outreach; she has built trusting relationships with clients in an effort to, quite simply, save their lives. Whether it is below freezing outside, snowing, raining or a heat wave, Sara is always out there. She has continuously advocated for all those in Rhode Island that suffer injustice and homelessness. In 2020, Sara remained on the frontlines while the rest of the world was shutting down to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although many obstacles were presented during this time, Sara never gave up on those she serves and continued to show up and keep them as safe as possible. That same year, Sara was recognized for her dedicated fight against homelessness and commitment to empowering those who are experiencing homelessness. Sara has been a critical team member of House of Hope for more than seven years now; but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. While we would love to hold on to staff members such as Sara, forever, moving on to new opportunities is a critical part of growth. Sara will be departing House of Hope this summer and beginning a new career opportunity with Providence College. In her new role, Sara will be working closely with Social Work interns and helping guide them as they continue learning the skills it takes to be the best social worker, and well we know, they will be learning from one of the best. Sara, you have played a pivotal role in the fight against homelessness, not just here at House of Hope, but through every life you’ve touched throughout Rhode Island. You will be missed by so many but we wish you nothing but the best as you begin this new chapter in your life. Thank you for everything.