BOARD MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Doug Hall brings analytical mindset to help families in need

Doug Hall believes that by “empowering those who have struggled financially, FamilyForward strengthens the broader community as a whole.”

We are very happy to welcome Doug Hall to the FamilyForward Board of Directors. With deep ties to the northwest suburbs of Chicago and a strong desire to empower people, Doug brings his analytical mindset and fiscal-management experience to help FamilyForward continue to grow and serve more families in need.

Looking for a way to help families in need

Doug has been a supporter of FamilyForward for over 10 years. He first discovered this organization (then known as Faith Community Homes) after his niece’s birthday party, when he learned that one of the party guests and her family were living in their car. Instead of just dropping off their child like the other parents, these parents told Doug’s sister-in-law that they decided to stay for the party in an attempt to just “feel normal, even for a short time.”

Feeling called to do something to help the family, Doug and his wife, Maria, discovered FamilyForward. Then, they made a significant donation on the family’s behalf when the family entered the FamilyForward program. “FamilyForward has been part of our giving plan ever since,” says Doug. Now having recently retired, it was a natural progression for Doug to join the board, allowing him to effectively contribute to FamilyForward through his time and talent in addition to financial giving.

Stepping up to make a difference

Throughout Doug’s career, he held roles focused on using data-driven insight “to help organizations make better decisions. I believe bringing this thinking to FamilyForward will help the organization grow and improve effectiveness of donations.” Describing himself as frugal and financially savvy, Doug aims to contribute this frugal mentality and life experience with smart money management to the board. His goal is to bring another analytical voice to the table, “to help the organization meet its needs in the challenging economic environment.”

Since joining the board in February 2025, Doug has been attending various committee meetings to further his understanding of the organization and learn where he can help the most. “Housing is a basic human need, yet for many, it is difficult to attain. I believe FamilyForward’s mission helps fulfill that need for individuals and families who struggle to secure stable housing on their own.”

“The strength of a community is the sum of the individuals within it,” Doug says. He believes that by “empowering those who have struggled financially, FamilyForward strengthens the broader community as a whole.” And Doug is excited to join this effort. “I’ve spent my career in progressively responsible roles focused on decision support through data analysis and insights. While this work has helped companies improve their profitability, I’m now looking to apply those skills to support individuals for whom making ends meet is a daily challenge. In today’s environment — marked by rising costs of housing, food, and everyday living — FamilyForward’s work is more important than ever for helping families in need.”