Families Forward Charlotte: Support in Crisis

Pivoting Programs and Providing Stability

As shutdowns rolled out, Families Forward Charlotte restructured its entire support model:

• All Family Liaison meetings shifted online, using phone, email, and video calls

• Monthly workshops moved to Zoom, now centered around stress management, resilience, and finding joy in uncertain times

• A COVID-19 Relief Fund launched to provide urgent financial support

• Plans began for a virtual fundraising event, anticipating the need to replace their largest in-person annual event

• Family support expanded, with new needs emerging daily

The team adapted quickly, but they weren’t alone — the Charlotte community rallied behind them.

Mobilizing Volunteers to Meet Immediate Needs

Virtual learning created new barriers for families. Kids needed worksheets, coloring pages, and activities, but parents didn’t have printers or extra money for supplies. Families also suddenly lacked school-provided breakfasts and lunches.

To meet these needs, the team used SignUpGenius to coordinate volunteers who could take action from home. In just days, sign ups filled with supporters who mailed: 

• Educational games and activities to 45 children

• Snacks and food items to 67 kids missing daily meals 
  
  

Using a simple sign up format made it easy to communicate needs, list items, organize mailing logistics, and empower volunteers to directly support families without exposure ri

Families Forward Charlotte also used SignUpGenius to share virtual workshop links and invite community members to informational sessions, helping grow their network of supporters even during isolation.

Volunteers stepped in with speed and heart — and the tool helped keep everything organized, clear, and manageable. 

Caring for Families Beyond the Immediate Crisis

The pandemic didn’t just disrupt employment. It weighed heavily on families emotionally. Many had been building confidence, expanding their networks, and making progress toward financial security. Suddenly, that progress felt at risk.

Families Forward Charlotte’s Family Liaisons increased touchpoints to help families navigate setbacks, rebuild momentum, and maintain hope. The organization's mission didn’t change — but the support required more flexibility, more community involvement, and more coordinated communication than ever before.

Through virtual mentoring, resource distribution, and ongoing encouragement, the organization helped families stay connected, informed, and supported through one of the most challenging chapters of their lives. 

Continuing the Mission With Community Support

Today, Families Forward Charlotte remains committed to ensuring families retain the gains they’ve made — in employment, education, housing, and personal growth. Loss of income can take years of recovery, and the emotional toll can create long-term challenges without community support.

Volunteers continue to play a vital role, whether by:

• Becoming Family Liaisons who mentor families throughout the year

• Hostingdonation drives for essentials, school supplies, or holiday support

• Preparing Weekend Food Packs for partner schools

• Joining virtual informational sessions to learn how to get involved

Whether virtual or in-person, these acts of service strengthen families — and the community around them.

Make An Impact In Your Community

From coordinating remote support to organizing volunteers for essential community work, SignUpGenius helps teams bring people together with clarity and confidence.