2024: Year in Review

As we close out 2024, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible milestones and growth that have marked this year. It's been a year filled with impact, progress, and the unwavering support of our Foster Forward family. We hope you had a joyful holiday season and that you’re feeling the warmth and connection that this time of year brings.

If you scroll down, you’ll see our “Year in Review,” highlighting some of the biggest moments that made 2024 so special. From empowering youth to expanding our programs, your support has played a crucial role in every success.

Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to step into 2025 with a sense of excitement and gratitude as we prepare to celebrate Foster Forward's 30th anniversary. Three decades of empowering youth and helping them build brighter futures is a remarkable milestone, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of donors, volunteers, and partners like you.

As we reflect on this incredible journey, we invite you to consider making a year-end, tax-deductible gift to help us start the new year strong. Your support ensures we can continue creating opportunities and transforming lives in 2025 and beyond.

Thank you for being with us on this journey. We’re excited to continue this work with you in the year ahead!

January

We kicked off the year with an incredible honor—Foster Forward was selected as a recipient of the BlueAngel Community Health Grant from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island! This funding directly supports our Your Way Home program, helping to provide housing and essential resources for youth transitioning out of foster care. We're grateful for this partnership and the opportunity to make a lasting impact in our community.

February

In February, we celebrated Black History Month with the support of Ticket to Dream and Famous Footwear, who partnered with us to empower Black youth in foster care. Their contributions helped provide cultural training for foster parents and ensured youth felt represented through books, toys, personal care products, and more. We’re so grateful for this partnership and for everyone who rounded up at the register to make a difference!

March

In March, Foster Forward shined at the National Youth Employment Coalition's 2024 Annual Forum in Atlanta. Our Director of Career Pathways, Bernadette Tavares, alongside replication partners, presented on our Works Wonders® career readiness program, highlighting its innovative approach to youth co-creation and shared leadership in workforce development.

April

This April, Foster Forward made history during 401Gives, raising an incredible $234,090.21 with the support of 472 donors—a 35% increase in participation from last year! Thanks to our amazing community and generous match sponsors, we secured the #1 spot on the leaderboard for the 4th year in a row, ensuring we can continue empowering youth impacted by foster care.

May

In May, we kicked off Foster Care Awareness Month by moving three young individuals into their new apartments at Riverside Square! Thanks to the generosity of Bob's Discount Furniture and the New England Patriots, the apartments were beautifully furnished and stocked with essential household items. Community leaders, including East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva and DCYF Director Ashley Deckert, joined us to celebrate this milestone, marking a new chapter of stability and opportunity for these young individuals.

June

In June, we proudly released our 2023 Annual Report, highlighting the incredible strides made possible through your support. The report features inspiring client stories, showcases our journey to creating affordable housing for youth aging out of foster care, and celebrates the collective impact of Foster Forward’s programs. It’s a testament to what we can achieve together as we empower lives impacted by foster care.

July

In July, we hosted an unforgettable Summer Youth Event at the Park, bringing together young people from our programs for a day filled with laughter, connection, and community. From games and activities to delicious food and music, the event was a celebration of summer and the incredible resilience of the youth we serve. It was a perfect opportunity to relax, build friendships, and create lasting memories!

August

In August, we partnered with Ticket to Dream and Famous Footwear to host a transformative Haircare Event for Black foster youth. This special day provided an opportunity for youth to receive professional hair styling and natural hair care products, celebrating their beauty and identity. Thank you to all the volunteers who made this event happen!

September

In September, we hosted our annual Mirror Ball Gala, bringing together supporters to celebrate youth success and Foster Forward's mission. The evening was filled with inspiring stories, heartfelt connections, and generous giving, raising over $300,000 to support our programs. Thank you to everyone who joined us in making the night a dazzling success!

October

In October, Foster Forward was proud to be recognized as part of the Community Organization Spotlight Award at Haus of Codec's Annual Anniversary event! We are deeply honored to stand alongside such incredible organizations that uplift youth and young adults in our community. A huge thank you to Haus of Codec for your ongoing support and for recognizing Foster Forward’s work in supporting youth transitioning out of foster care.

November

In November, we partnered with South Carolina Department of Social Services to lead a professional development opportunity focused on building systems capacity for youth workforce development. Our team, along with youth leaders, shared insights from the Works Wonders® program with 30 individuals from five organizations and state partners. The sessions explored strategies for empowering youth as they prepare for the workforce. We’re excited to expand Works Wonders®’ impact and support South Carolina’s efforts to strengthen opportunities for young people.

December

In December, thanks to your generosity, we made the holidays brighter for many youth and families in foster care. With 10,330 toys donated by Hasbro, over 4,000 pajamas collected, and 494 wishlists matched, we served 488 families and 1,151 children during our toy distribution event. Thousands more received gifts through community partnerships and regional offices, and 400 gift cards were given to teens. Thank you for making this season special!