On August 1, 2023, Marion County Prosecutor Ryan Mears announced  Hope Academy High School as the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office 2023 Crime Fighter of the Year. Hope Academy has been a longtime partner of the Prosecutor’s Office, and its core values align with those of the prosecutor’s office: honesty, respect, support, commitment, and community. Working together and instilling these values in young people creates a path toward a safer community.

“Hope Academy deserves this recognition for the opportunities they provide to our recovering youth,” Prosecutor Mears stated. “Substance use disorder is treatable – but not without guidance, encouragement, and a dedicated support system for those individuals. I am grateful that the Prosecutor’s Office can commend Hope Academy for their efforts in improving the lives of more than 700 students and counting.”

Hope Academy is one of only seven accredited schools in the country that offers specialized services of education and recovery treatment. Serving students from 35 different school districts, 94% of Hope Academy graduates are accepted to college.

“Hope Academy is honored to receive this recognition from Prosecutor Ryan Mears,” said Hope Academy Executive Director Rachelle Gardner. “In the post-pandemic era, partners like the Prosecutor’s Office have stepped in to work with Hope Academy as we fill a critical gap in resources for young people struggling with mental and behavioral health problems. We are grateful for our partnership with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office and value this collaboration as we work together to strengthen the network of support for young people impacted by substance use disorder.”