Stories of Hope: How Mentoring and Rental Assistance Changes Lives

Board Member Jennifer Strimling explains how FF works with NAHA to address the affordable-housing crisis in the northwest suburbs.

Thanks to her volunteer mentors, “Andrea” gained financial literacy, self-confidence and the ability to create a stable household.

Mom J's story is an inspirational testimony of how FamilyForward helped her adapt to changes and rebuild her life after a family tragedy.

We are sincerely grateful to Kelly Hutchison and Home Instead of Itasca for a significant donation of $30,000 to help FF families.

Finding financial stability varies for low-income families. How-to checklists are often inadequate. That’s where FamilyForward comes in.

With a household budget and other strategies, “Stephanie” felt more in control of her money and had a toolkit to survive—and thrive.

When people ask me, “How, exactly, does FamilyForward empower people?” I respond, “We show up for them.”

As we enter 2024, FamilyForward is committed to finding new and inventive ways to address the mounting challenges our client families face.

FamilyForward is a not a traditional social services organization. Here are four characteristics that set FamilyForward apart.

As FamilyForward's 20th anniversary celebration continues, our very first mentor, Anne Mura, shares advice for current and future mentors.

Long-time leaders share favorite memories and insights about the important work and accomplishments over the past 20 years of...

We touched base with Carrie Miller, SLW, FamilyForward co-founder and first program manager, to share memories and advice for the future.

On Wednesday, June 7, 2023, FamilyForward leaders and supporters had a fun time out on the green, all to support our program families!

Tim Wayman discusses the rental-housing market and how FamilyForward is finding creative and effective ways to assist low-income families.

“Valerie’s” mentors helped her create a realistic budget so she could see how much she could actually afford to spend.

Erica Chianelli looks back with gratitude on her first year as executive director of FamilyForward.

Mom W’s experience reminds us that change happens slowly. Many of the fruits of the FamilyForward program are not reaped until years later.

During our 20th anniversary year, we are looking toward the future as together we continue to empower low-income, working families.

For Papa’s Sake Home Care collected gift cards and contributions and matched the amount, donating a total of $27,060 for FF families.

Do you shop on Amazon? Here's how to select FamilyForward for AmazonSmile.