Opening Hearts: A foundation for a brighter future
At Opening Hearts, we believe every young person deserves a safe, nurturing, and stable environment to thrive. Rooted in lived experience and trauma-informed care, we're dedicated to guiding youth ages 11-18 toward resilience and long-term success in Scranton , Pennsylvania.
More than just a residence, it's a home
Opening Hearts stands apart through its unique blend of lived experience and professional expertise. Founded by an experienced foster and adoptive parent, our program for youth ages 11-18 is meticulously designed around trauma-informed care and unwavering stability. We prioritize emotional well-being, practical life skills development, and personalized support, empowering young people to heal, build resilience, and prepare confidently for their future.
Partners in potential
For families, agencies, and community partners, Opening Hearts represents a trusted ally. We offer a safe, structured, and trauma-informed residential environment in Wilkes-Barre, PA, built on principles of consistency, accountability, and profound compassion. Our commitment extends to fostering strong collaborative relationships, ensuring every youth receives holistic support as they develop crucial life skills and a sense of belonging. We're guided by a deep understanding of the child welfare system, always working towards the best outcomes for the young people in our care.
Our story: built on understanding and empathy
Opening Hearts was created from a powerful blend of lived experience and professional commitment. Our founder brings a deeply personal understanding of the child welfare system, having spent time in foster care during preadolescence. That experience shaped a lifelong dedication to ensuring youth feel safe, supported, and valued during critical stages of their development.
Later becoming both a foster and adoptive parent, our founder gained firsthand insight into the importance of consistency, structure, and compassion in helping young people heal and grow. These experiences guide every aspect of Opening Hearts—from daily routines to individualized support planning.
Our program is intentionally designed to provide a trauma-informed, nurturing residential environment where youth ages 11–18 can build trust, develop life skills, and gain confidence for the future. At Opening Hearts, empathy and accountability go hand in hand, creating a foundation for long-term stability and success.
“Our approach is grounded in empathy, structure, and lived experience—creating a foundation for growth and healing.”
— Opening Hearts