Courtesy: KVRR
FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – There were cheers, smiles, and memories shared at the Dakota Medical Foundation on the morning and afternoon of September 26, as folks gathered to mark the 20th anniversary of the founding of Hope, Inc.
The nonprofit began with a simple thought that sprang from the brains of Adair and Bill Grommesh two decades ago – why can’t kids with mobility issues participate in activities?
The couple admits those early years were a struggle, both with attendance and funding.
“We started with five kids. We’d do wheelchair soccer on a Saturday, and about 2 or 3 would show up,” said Bill.
“The first three months, I worked without a paycheck,” added Adair. “We took a leap of faith and said, this is what our community needs, and we’re going to do it.”
As word got out, something magical happened: a true Hope, Inc. community began to grow.
“[We went] from five kids playing soccer to adults doing everything they could possibly dream about doing and living life to the fullest,” said Adair. “And that’s such a gratifying feeling.”
Now, as they look at where they stand in 2026, they can scarcely believe they’ve come this far.
“It’s a special day. 20 years, the program’s come a long way, and we just want to thank the community, Fargo-Moorhead, for all the support,” said Bill.
Even as they celebrate their success, though, they’re not slowing down – and they’re only hoping to touch more lives in the future.
One thing Hope Inc. hopes to acquire in that near future to help with that growth is a dedicated physical office space from which to run their operations.
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