One Hope United Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

One Hope United has 4 executives leading key functions including strategic leadership, operational management, financial oversight, and organizational development.

Committed to empowering children and families, One Hope United delivers essential early childhood education and community-based intervention programs to foster long-term stability and growth across diverse populations.

Leadership Roles at One Hope United

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Damon Cates
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Bishal Maskey
  • Chief Operating Officer - Sarah Tunning
  • President & Founder - Gwendolyn Johnson
  • Damon Cates - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Damon Cates, the President & Chief Executive Officer at One Hope United, directs the overarching strategic vision for this human service organization. Overseeing the expansion of early childhood education and community-based programs, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between mission-driven goals and operational execution. This leadership role involves constant engagement with the Board to secure resources for intervention services. By prioritizing sustainable growth, Damon Cates directly impacts the quality of care provided to families across the Midwest. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains rigorous standards for service delivery, ensuring that every program meets the evolving needs of the community. Through proactive management of organizational resources, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives the long-term success of the agency. Cates fosters a culture of accountability, ensuring that all departments remain focused on the core objective of supporting children and families through comprehensive social services.

    Bishal Maskey - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Bishal Maskey, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at One Hope United, manages the fiscal health and long-term financial planning for the organization. Overseeing the allocation of funding for early childhood education and community programs, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that every dollar supports the mission of the agency. This leadership role involves rigorous budget management and financial reporting to the Board. By optimizing revenue streams and controlling costs, Bishal Maskey directly impacts the sustainability of the organization's social impact initiatives. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer evaluates financial risks and opportunities to ensure the agency remains resilient in a changing economic landscape. Maskey collaborates with operational leaders to align financial resources with strategic priorities. Through disciplined fiscal management, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer secures the capital necessary to expand service reach. Maskey drives financial transparency, ensuring that stakeholders maintain confidence in the organization's stewardship.

    Sarah Tunning - Chief Operating Officer

    Sarah Tunning, the Chief Operating Officer at One Hope United, manages the daily operational infrastructure required to deliver high-quality human services. Overseeing the integration of prevention and intervention programs, the Chief Operating Officer optimizes internal workflows to maximize service efficiency. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-departmental efforts to ensure that community-based initiatives reach target populations effectively. By streamlining administrative processes, Sarah Tunning directly supports the organization's ability to scale its impact. The Chief Operating Officer monitors performance metrics to ensure that all programs adhere to regulatory requirements and internal quality benchmarks. Tunning collaborates with other C-suite leaders to refine service delivery models, ensuring that resources reach families in need without delay. Through meticulous oversight of operational logistics, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the stability of the organization's service network. Tunning drives operational excellence, ensuring that the agency remains a reliable partner for families seeking support.

    Gwendolyn Johnson - President & Founder

    Gwendolyn Johnson, the President & Founder at One Hope United, provides the foundational vision and historical context for the organization's ongoing commitment to children and families. Overseeing the preservation of the agency's core values, the President & Founder ensures that modern intervention programs remain true to the original mission established in 1895. This leadership role involves mentoring executive staff and maintaining relationships with key community stakeholders. By championing the organization's legacy, Gwendolyn Johnson directly influences the long-term strategic direction of the agency. The President & Founder participates in high-level discussions regarding the future of human services, ensuring that the organization adapts to contemporary challenges while honoring its roots. Johnson provides guidance on organizational culture, fostering an environment dedicated to service and excellence. Through consistent advocacy for the mission, the President & Founder secures the enduring relevance of the agency. Johnson drives the organization's commitment to social impact, ensuring that the legacy of support continues for future generations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding One Hope United Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads One Hope United?
    One Hope United is led by Damon Cates (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Bishal Maskey (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Sarah Tunning (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of One Hope United’s executive team?
    The executive team of One Hope United includes leaders such as Damon Cates (President & Chief Executive Officer), Bishal Maskey (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Sarah Tunning (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does One Hope United have?
    One Hope United has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in One Hope United’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of One Hope United includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President & Founder.