“I have been involved with Families Forward of Charlotte for 2 years now. I am married with 4 children. I was first introduced to the program by the school Social Worker at my son’s elementary school, Oakhurst STEAM Academy. She briefly explained the program but stated she felt that I would benefit from the program a lot. I am always open to be involved in anything that may help me to better provide for my family. My husband and I went to the very first meeting and didn’t quite know what we were getting ourselves into. Be kept an open mind about everything. We met Carrie Christian, who is the founder of the program and our liaisons at this initial meeting. Everyone was very pleasant and helpful. As the days went by things were needed, resources were given and tons of encouragement was handed out. At this time I was just laid off of work and my husband wasn’t able to work due to health issues. So no work meant bills weren’t able to be paid. Families Forward came in and made a very stressful time more manageable. They were there to help with our financial situation, when I couldn’t get help anywhere else (believe me I tried). They not only offered some financial support but were also just a huge support system for us and for many other families in the program. Programs like this are far and few in between. Carrie Christian and the other volunteers are very driven and genuine people. They strive to help out in any way that they can to try to insure that what they are doing will impact every family individually. The workshops that we attend are tailored to what will be beneficial to helping families grow. Families Forward was able to put smiles on a lot of children’s faces during Christmas last year, smiles that were probably not going to be so bright due to parents not being able to make ends meet, so gifts weren’t an option. One thing that I really appreciate about this program if nothing else is, they treat you like you’re a “Person!” They don’t judge you based on your situation, your personality, your past or appearance. You aren’t a “Charity Case” to them you are just a human being who needs a little more help/support at the moment than the next person. I will forever be grateful to have met an organization like this one.”

– Crystal