Observations from the field: How FamilyForward supports families

A brief interview with retiring Case Manager Pam Van De Walle, MSW

Pam Van De Walle, MSW

Case Manager Pam Van De Walle, MSW, has served families at FamilyForward for 11 years, from 2014 to 2025. Along her own professional journey at FF, she has witnessed a lot of change and growth, both in the low-income, working families she has served and in the surrounding community, which benefits from empowered, engaged families. As she prepares to retire June 30, 2025, here are her observations about how FamilyForward supports and equips families, and in turn impacts the community.

---

FF: What are the most significant ways FamilyForward supports families to improve people’s lives?

PW: When potential clients apply to FamilyForward, they do so hoping to receive rent assistance. When they become clients, and after two years in the program, they most often mention the mentoring as what has been the most meaningful aspect of the program. Mentors provide guidance when discussing finances and budgeting but they also establish caring and supportive relationships. Oftentimes, clients do not have this type of significant relationship in their lives — meaningful and nonjudgmental. This doesn’t mean that mentors can’t challenge and ask questions of clients, but when there is a positive and honest relationship, change can happen!

FF: What are the most significant ways FamilyForward impacts the greater community?  

PW: FamilyForward has the ability to impact the communities where our clients live in a variety of ways. We have the ability to educate community residents about our program and also about the issues that low-income families face through print materials, face-to-face presentations, fundraising events and advocacy. In turn, FamilyForward clients themselves impact their communities as they learn from their mentors and children’s schools the opportunities to participate and interact with their community through library programs, volunteering at their children’s school and taking advantage of free programs in their town. Engaged residents equals great citizens of a community!

FF: What has been most fulfilling to you personally about working with families in the program? 

PW: During my 11 years as case manager, I have been honored to accompany hard-working parents on their journey to financial stability. While I have always had a heart for helping those in need, little did I know that my training in graduate school, jobs as a social worker and caregiver, and experience as a parent myself were preparing me for my final journey as a case manager working with low-income clients. (Learn more about Pam.)

I have learned so much from my clients about resilience, perseverance and determination. They display grit — working long hours, withstanding terrible work conditions, low pay, working side gigs, putting their own needs aside — all to take care of their families. And most will do it willingly, and some with a smile. I feel proud when clients accomplish their goals and oftentimes do a terrible job of hiding my tears. 

I am grateful that FamilyForward took a chance and hired me when I had no experience in this field. Thank you to Sr. Carrie Miller, Chuck Warner, Tom Tucker, Erica Chianelli, Beverly Worthington and Sarah Harte. I’ve learned from you all along the way.        

---

Best wishes on your retirement, Pam!