Co-founder of former Hopeful Heart Project Agrees To Restitution After Claims of Embezzlement

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — A co-founder for a group created to raise awareness for stillbirth and infant loss has reached an out of court agreement for embezzlement.

Kayla Sorum agreed to restitution of around $76,000 and agrees to make payments of at least $1,000 per month to Haven, formerly known as Hopeful Heart Project.

An FBI and Fargo Police investigation found that Sorum held back portions of deposits on multiple occasions, made multiple cash withdrawals and nonbusiness purchases using the nonprofit’s accounts between February 2018 and September 2021.

U.S. Attorney’s Office and Cass County Attorney’s Office decided that pretrial diversion is the best chance at restitution and no charges were filed.

The case was closed by the justice department on April 18, 2024.

Sorum’s ex-boyfriend claimed she had lied to him about being pregnant and losing the baby.

He wrote on social media that the “real tragedy of the story lies with all the loss mothers and fathers that have been traumatized once again due to the lies and actions of this woman.”

He encourages people to still donate money to Haven for the important work it does.

“We are incredibly grateful for our generous donors and supporters who have stood by the organization
through this time over the past two years,” said Jen Burgard, a fellow co-founder. “Despite the circumstances, Haven has
rebuilt and rebranded, and is poised to better serve families in need of comfort and support as they work
through the loss of a child.”