Hope Communities

Exciting News about Leadership: We are pleased to introduce two new members of the executive team at Hope Communities. Sarah Abbott has joined Hope as the new Director of Community (Programs) Impact, and Tamar Berner has joined as the new Director of Development (Fundraising).

Sarah brings experience in direct service, program design, evaluation, and program oversight. She has worked with nonprofits focused on affordable housing and refugee services, and most recently worked across the state through the Office of Emergency Management. She also has experience with Denver Health, UCHealth, the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless, and the African Community Center, all connected to her background as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Sarah holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Science in Family and Human Services from John Brown University.

In her role at Hope, Sarah will supervise program staff, oversee outcome measurement and program efficacy, and contribute leadership and strategy for a new social enterprise to expand program delivery to other housing communities.

Tamar comes to Hope Communities with more than 20 years of experience helping mission-driven organizations build sustainable revenue through individual giving, corporate partnerships, grant writing, and event planning. She most recently served as Director of Development at Senior Housing Options, where she led a comprehensive fund development strategy for the affordable housing nonprofit serving older adults and adults with disabilities. She also brings prior experience from Urban Peak and Goodwill Industries. Tamar holds a Master of Nonprofit Management from Regis University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Virginia Tech.

Tamar will work closely with the CEO and program staff to raise funds that support Hope Communities’ programs, which are fully funded through development endeavors. She will also lead the planning and implementation of Hope’s annual Hope for the Future event, as well as additional fundraising initiatives throughout the year.

Congratulations to our President & CEO, Sharon Knight, for being named to the 2026 Colorado 500 Power List in Nonprofits & Philanthropy by ColoradoBiz!

Her leadership continues to help Hope Communities expand access to affordable housing, vital resources, and opportunities for families across the Denver metro area.

We’re proud to see her work and Hope’s mission recognized in this way.
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