Hope Fest fosters a faith-based support culture for Victoria teens and youth (contributed photo).

For eight years, Victoria’s youth have found a vibrant beacon of support and excitement in the Teens Grounded Hope Fest, and this weekend marks its highly anticipated return.

Hosted by Teens Grounded in partnership with C3 Victory Church, the 8th annual event is more than just a festival; it’s a dedicated space designed to uplift and empower the next generation. It’s set for Saturday beginning at 3 p.m. at 1614 E. Crestwood Drive in Victoria.

“I pray two things every day: God let me see people the way You do and break my heart for what breaks Yours,” said Jodi Sandoval, founder of Teens Grounded. “It’s the heart of Hope Fest to create a day where our young people can just see with their own eyes how much we really care about them as a community.”

Since 2017, Teens Grounded has operated with the mission to build up youth and to provide them access and information about resources designed to meet their every need, and to prepare them for a fulfilling, healthy life. Grounding teens and youths in solid foundations of love, respect, and community can foster profound feelings of purpose, identity, self-control and confidence.

“God didn’t make us to walk on this earth alone,” Sandoval said. “I love being a part of a day that surrounds our students and our families with community and to not have to worry about digging into our pocket.”

Admission to Hope Fest 2025 is free with optional food truck vendor costs and free live music performances beginning at 7 p.m. For indoor enthusiasts, there will be a cakewalk (while supplies last) and arts and crafts rooms available alongside resource booths from community support services such as UHV, VISD Kids Connect, VPD, and Victoria College.

Starting as soon as the last registered player arrives, a 6-person team volleyball and 3-on-3 basketball tournament will thrill outside enthusiasts along with the inflatables from Creative Stage and a slip-and-slide relay race. Tournament registration can be completed online at TeensGrounded.com or onsite before 3:00 PM.

“It was important to me to partner with other churches, businesses, and organizations because it does take all of us,” Sandoval said. “This really creates a day where we can all connect and create an atmosphere for young people to be seen and heard, valued and loved.”

This year’s Hope Fest promises another day packed with activities, connection, and a profound sense of belonging; continuing its mission to remind Victoria’s teens that with community and support, anything is possible.

Katie Steinhauer is a freelance writer for The Victoria Advocate.