Introducing the FamilyForward Staff Hall of Fame!
In observance of Labor Day this month, we can’t help but be grateful for all our current and former staff members. Every one of them has made important contributions to the mission and work of FamilyForward (FF). From our beginning in 2003 as Faith Community Homes (FCH), and over the course of the last 23+ years, FamilyForward has mobilized the community to provide help and hope for hundreds of families across the northwest suburbs. Throughout these impactful years, our amazing staff have helped to create — and carry forward — both the possibilities and the successes of this organization.
As a special tribute to our three longest serving, now retired, staff members, we are celebrating Carrie Miller, SLW, our first program manager; Chuck Warner, our second executive director; and Pam Van de Walle, our longest serving case manager. Each of these staff members served for over 10 years, and their contributions were truly remarkable. Friends, we present to you the FamilyForward Staff Hall of Fame!
Program Manager Carrie Miller, SLW — Sister Carrie Miller was one of the co-founders of this organization, then called Faith Community Homes, in 2003. She also became the very first program manager, serving in that role for 15 years (2003 – 2018). Throughout her time with this organization, Sister Carrie embodied our mission by actively encouraging low-income, working parents to achieve educational and career goals; advocating for families to overcome adverse situations and avoid homelessness; and offering guidance and counseling to families who needed direction and a boost in morale. Sister Carrie also provided training for volunteer mentors and supported and celebrated with families who reached financial independence for the first time. Most of all, Sister Carrie focused on serving families and the community from a place of love, providing hope to those who otherwise might be hopeless.
Executive Director Chuck Warner — Chuck Warner served for 12 years (2010 – 2022) as the first executive director of FCH (which became FamilyForward in 2021). Chuck was instrumental in growing the organization to new heights while raising its profile throughout the northwest suburbs. He engaged with townships, churches, and foundations to secure key funding for the organization. He worked closely with other FCH/FF staff to grow the number of families we serve, boosting successful outcomes of the families who completed the two-year program. Chuck also helped to expand our services from Arlington Heights into Palatine, and later to five additional neighboring suburbs. He built key relationships with multiple chambers of commerce, philanthropic groups, and others, which led to donations of services, goods, and dollars. Chuck actively participated in all areas of leadership of this organization, ensuring its success and future path.
Case Manager Pam Van De Walle — Pam Van De Walle served as case manager for 11 years (2014 – 2025). Throughout that time, she employed her attentive demeanor, thoughtful questions, and compassionate communication to help the families in our program feel seen, heard, and empowered. Pam’s nonjudgmental, supportive approach was key to helping families brainstorm the next steps on their journey to financial stability. She built deep, trusting relationships with the families she served: accompanying families through difficult times; connecting families with other agencies for additional resources; and regularly checking in with parents as they overcame challenges and made progress toward their goals. Pam also provided invaluable support for our FF mentors, guiding and encouraging them along their volunteer journey. Through it all, Pam generously shared her skills, compassion, and positive spirit with everyone at FamilyForward.
Please join us in celebrating all our FamilyForward staff members, including these three outstanding individuals. We are deeply grateful for their dedication, passion, and hard work to help lead the development, growth, and achievements of this organization. They helped lead the charge, planting the seeds for future success along the way, as we continue to fulfill our mission to strengthen northwest suburban families in their journey toward financial stability and independence.
