Hopes Place Chocolate Extravaganza Returns to Ashland

Hopes Place Chocolate Extravaganza

Returns to Ashland

Rebecca Hemlock

The Ashland Beacon

In a sweet blend of generosity and resilience, Hopes Place Child Advocacy Center is preparing for its Chocolate Extravaganza at the Ashland Town Center on March 28, a beloved fundraiser that has powered the center’s life-saving work for almost thirty years. The event gathers donated treats, themed baskets, and other items for a public sale that turns holiday sweetness into real-world support for children who have endured trauma.

The heart of the day lies in the baskets. Donors assemble completed baskets in a wide range of themes, with prices starting at just five dollars to ensure there’s something for every budget. Shoppers will find baskets designed for babies, kids, tweens and teens, and adults, with popular categories including Grilling, Car Wash, Fishing/Hunting, Barbie, Disney, Coffee Lovers, NASCAR, sports teams, local schools, Crafters, Candy enthusiasts, and more. In addition to hundreds of baskets, treat tables overflow with goodies donated by individuals, local businesses, and community partners, inviting attendees to sample delectable sweets as they browse.

For a touch of luck, visitors can purchase a Golden Ticket for a chance to win an assortment of goodies. The Chocolate Extravaganza runs from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and offers a festive, family-friendly way to kick off the spring season. Beyond a festive shopping experience, organizers emphasize that the event supports a mission: every penny helps fund services that empower survivors of childhood trauma to become their strongest selves.

Hopes Place positions itself as the region’s Child Advocacy Center, with offices in Ashland, Kentucky, and Jackson, Ohio. The organization serves five Kentucky counties — Boyd, Greenup, Carter, Lawrence, and Elliott — and three Ohio counties — Lawrence, Gallia, and Jackson. In 2025, Hope’s Place provided services for nearly 1,300 clients, and all offerings are provided at no charge to those affected by severe childhood trauma. The center highlights a comprehensive suite of services, including Family Advocacy, Forensic Interviews, Medical exams, Mental Health Counseling, and more, all designed to support families on the long journey toward healing.

The proceeds from Chocolate Extravaganza fund these vital efforts, enabling the center to maintain and expand its support for vulnerable children across two states. “Our mission is to empower survivors of childhood trauma to be the best version of themselves,” says Cassie, a dedicated volunteer and organizer of the event. “We love meeting new supporters and friends, so if you have any questions, feel free to reach out.”

Community members interested in learning more can follow Hopes Place on Facebook, visit www.hopesplace.org, or call the center at 606-325-4737. The center also invites prospective volunteers and donors to connect, reinforcing the idea that even the smallest act of generosity can help a child find hope and healing.