When you meet Staci Stepp, you quickly realize she is not just building rooms, she is building hope. As the founder and Executive Director of Home Sweet Hope, Staci has turned her creative talents and compassionate heart into a powerful force for good in Alamance County and beyond.
Born and raised in Iowa, Staci’s early life was marked by adversity, but those experiences planted the seeds of empathy and advocacy that now define her work. Her nonprofit, Home Sweet Hope, creates custom room makeovers for youth in foster care or recently adopted. Spaces filled with items they love, designed to restore dignity and a sense of belonging. These rooms are not just beautiful, they are healing.
Since founding the organization in 2019, Staci has led the transformation of over 55 rooms, each one a reflection of her belief that every child deserves a safe, affirming place to call home. Her latest project, the renovation of The Wake House Family Visitation Center in Wake County, is a shining example of community collaboration. Churches, organizations, and individuals have come together under her leadership to create a warm, welcoming environment for families navigating the foster care system.
Staci’s courage is evident not only in her entrepreneurial journey but also in her personal life. As a mother to two teenage daughters, a licensed foster parent since 2018, and a gestational surrogate, she embodies strength, resilience, and unwavering love. She often says, “Anything worth anything is not easy,” and her life is a testament to that truth.
Her impact extends beyond her nonprofit. Staci is an active member of the Mebane Women’s Club and was recognized by Fox 8 News as one of North Carolina’s “Remarkable Women.” Her dedication to service inspires others to get involved, care deeply, and believe in the power of community.
Staci’s favorite quote, “You just can’t beat the person who never gives up” by Babe Ruth, perfectly captures her spirit. Whether she is designing a room, mentoring others, or advocating for children, Staci leads with heart, creativity, and an unshakable belief in the worth of every individual.
It’s no surprise that she’s been nominated for the Founder’s Award. Staci Stepp is not only leading the way, she is lighting the path for others to follow.
