In this episode of Active Generosity, Ruth Jackson speaks with Vicki Smith, CEO of Growing Hope.
Vicki shares how Growing Hope, which provides free therapy for children and young people with additional needs and supports their families in partnership with local churches, began with Founder Naomi Fox’s vision of clinics offering both practical help and spiritual hope, and how that vision continues to grow across the UK.
Vicki unpacks the values that shape Growing Hope -community, hope and integrity - and speaks candidly about the joys and challenges of leading with generosity. From miraculous provision to everyday faithfulness, her stories offer rich encouragement to keep trusting in God’s abundance.
Vicki also reflects on her personal journey of faith and generosity, offering wise counsel for those struggling amid rising living costs: it’s not about comparing what you can give but considering what’s in your hand and trusting God to multiply even the smallest offering.
This episode explores:
- how Growing Hope has grown from a single clinic into a national movement championing accessibility and inclusion across UK churches
- how Christian values such as hope, community, courage, generosity and integrity shape leadership and organisational culture
- inspiring stories of God’s provision and the impact of generosity, from small gifts to transformational funding
- what biblical stewardship looks like in practice and how generosity extends beyond financial giving
- encouragement for anyone wanting to live generously by offering what they have and trusting God with the outcome
"I think it does go back to thinking about what you have in your hand… if it can come from a generous heart, however little it might be, that’s the key."
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Vicki's favourite Bible verses on generosity:
'Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.' 2 Corinthians 9:7, NIV
How you can pray for Vicki
- for Vicki and the whole Growing Hope team, that their faith would keep building and they would live out of a place of hope
- for God’s provision as Growing Hope seeks to serve more families across the UK
- for the many families facing daily challenges, that they receive the support and encouragement they need
Download the transcript for episode 8
Related links:
Learn more about Growing Hope:
- Stewardship Partner profile: www.stewardship.org.uk/partners/20302299
- Charity website: www.growinghope.org.uk
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Podcast presenter: Ruth Jackson
Podcast producer: Vimbai Chigwangwa
Active Generosity podcast
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Ruth Jackson
Ruth leads the PR and Communications for Stewardship, which she joined in April 2022.
She has over 25 years’ marketing communications experience across a range of sectors, including higher education, technology and the arts, both business- and customer-facing.
Ruth worships and serves at C3 Church in Cambridge, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, a dog and a cat. When she’s not at her desk, you might find her rowing on the River Cam, in a ballet class or out for a walk.
She supports causes that are focused on alleviating global poverty and injustice, with a particular interest in supporting vulnerable children.
