Meet Diane*, a 62-year-old grandmother who unexpectedly became the primary caregiver for her three grandsons after her daughter’s sudden passing. The boys—ages 5, 7, and 10—were devastated, struggling with the loss of their mother and living in a home without proper beds or access to healthcare. Diane, grieving her loss, was overwhelmed by the financial and emotional demands of raising three boys on her own. That’s when FamilyForward stepped in.

Our Kinship Navigator team helped Diane secure beds and warm comforter sets, giving each child a safe and comfortable space of their own. We also connected her with legal services, enabling her to obtain guardianship and access healthcare benefits for the children. With this new support, Diane began creating a safe and nurturing environment for the boys, knowing they had the essentials to feel safe and cared for.

As an advocate for FamilyForward, you know better than most that caregivers like Diane deserve the chance to thrive, even when faced with overwhelming challenges and uncertainty. With 2024 coming to a close, we hope you will consider a year-end gift so that together, we can continue nurturing hope for children and families for generations to come.

Best Wishes, Jessica!

After 10 years of dedicated service, FamilyForward's Chief Development Officer Jessica Dederer is embarking on her next chapter. Jessica has been instrumental in leading our development efforts and raising crucial awareness and support for the children and families we serve. From shaping FamilyForward's brand identity during the 2017 merger and overseeing cherished events like the Rocket Ball to securing funding for the renovation of the Developmental Trauma Center and the Lesley Ann Waldheim Early Childhood Center, her contributions have left a lasting legacy. Jessica truly embodies our value of being out front—leading with integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to our mission.

We wish her all the best in her future endeavors and are grateful for her leadership and vision. Thank you, Jessica, for everything. You will be greatly missed.

Navigating Loss During the Holidays

The holiday season can be especially challenging when grief is part of the journey—whether it’s a child in foster care experiencing their first holiday away from family, or the first season without a loved one. Balancing loss with festive traditions can feel overwhelming, but moments of connection and healing are possible. Read our blog for thoughtful tips on navigating this season with compassion and support.

Office Closure for Wellness Week

To allow our team members and clients to have quality time with their loved ones, all FamilyForward offices will be closed beginning Wednesday, December 25, and will reopen on Thursday, January 2. We wish you and your loved ones a joy-filled holiday season and look forward to welcoming you back in the new year!