Hope on the Rise: Real Stories of Resilience from a Utah Farmers Market

What if one story could be the reminder you need to keep going?

That’s the heartbeat of Hope on the Rise, a new campaign from Dahlia’s Hope designed to gather and share comeback stories from everyday people. These aren’t just dramatic moments of triumph; they’re the small victories, the steps forward in dark seasons, that remind us we are not alone.

At Dahlia’s Hope, we know that healing is a journey. Survivors of sex trafficking often walk a long, winding road filled with challenges. But we also know that stories of resilience, whether from survivors or community members, can spark light for someone else.

Gathering Comeback Stories at Orem’s Farmers Market

We launched Hope on the Rise at Orem’s Farmers Market, setting up a table and inviting people to sit, talk, and share. The market was buzzing with life; families strolling between booths, music floating through the air, and college students playing volleyball nearby. In the middle of all that joy and noise, people paused to reflect on the struggles they had faced and the hope that carried them through.

Some visitors agreed to share their stories on camera, while others simply wanted someone to listen. A common theme echoed through each conversation: even when life feels lonely, there is always someone who understands. Sharing our experiences creates ripples of connection, reminding us that none of us is truly alone.

Michael’s Journey: From Job Loss to New Purpose

One of the first stories recorded was from Michael, who had recently moved his family to the U.S. after losing his longtime job overseas. His story was marked by disappointment, faith, and a renewed sense of hope.

Michael shared the crushing feeling of suddenly being unemployed after more than a decade with one company. He applied for hundreds of jobs with no response, all while trying to provide for his family and keep his faith. Just when things seemed darkest, a friend offered him a surprising opportunity that brought him to the United States and eventually into stable employment that now supports his whole family.

His words captured the heart of the campaign:

Michael’s journey shows that even when we can’t see the light, it doesn’t mean it isn’t coming.

You can hear Michael’s full story on our YouTube Channel.

The Ripple Effect of Resilience and Hope

Every comeback story, whether about job loss, burnout, or rediscovering identity, holds the power to inspire someone else. For survivors at Dahlia’s Hope, hearing stories like Michael’s reinforces an important truth: healing takes time, but resilience is possible.

By creating space for voices like his, Hope on the Rise reminds us that hope grows when we share it. And just like at the farmers market, those ripples can reach farther than we ever expect.

How You Can Join Hope on the Rise

• Share your own comeback story and tag #dahliashope #hopeontherise on social media

• Subscribe to Dahlia’s Hope on YouTube

• Support survivors by donating

Together, we spread light — one story at a time.

J. Parker Oelrich

Marketing & Events Intern

“You are inside a tunnel… everything is dark. You cannot see the end of it. You just keep on praying and fasting. But now I see — God was placing people in my path.”