Programs

Forward Hope Programs Overview

At Forward Hope, we believe every young person deserves guidance, stability, and someone in their corner. Whether they’re in foster care, living in a group home, or navigating challenges in a traditional home setting, we meet youth where they are and walk with them toward a stronger future.

🌱 Forward Life
Life Skills & Mentorship Program for Youth in Foster Care
A 12-month, in-person program for youth ages 16–24 in or aging out of foster care. Classes are small (5–10 youth) and run up to 5 days a week for personalized growth and skill development.

Topics include:

• Emotional regulation & resilience

• Job readiness, resumes, and interviews

• Communication and conflict resolution

• Financial literacy and budgeting

• Civic engagement and future planning

• Health, boundaries, and healthy relationships

• Self-worth and identity

• Goal setting and personal responsibility

• Time management and organization

• Navigating public systems (e.g., DHS, legal, healthcare)

• Independent living skills (cooking, cleaning, transportation, etc.)

• Digital literacy and safe technology use

• Building and maintaining healthy friendships and community ties

Extras: guest instructors, transportation assistance, certificates, and incentives.

🤝 Forward Providers
Support Program for Placement Homes and Group Care Staff
Focused on training direct-care staff and placement providers on how to build connection, manage crises, and support long-term youth success.

Includes:

• Professional development rooted in trauma-informed care

• Best practices in boundaries, mentoring, and youth development

• Ongoing training and shared resource access

• Flexible delivery (on-site, virtual, or hybrid)

🧱 Forward One
1-on-1 Life Skills & Mentorship for Youth in Unstable Homes
This program is for youth ages 16–24 who live in difficult or unstable homes—or even “good” homes where emotional or behavioral struggles exist.

What’s included:

• Weekly 1-on-1 mentorship with trusted adults

• Customized life skills guidance based on individual needs

• Emotional support, goal setting, and future planning

• Help navigating school, work, family dynamics, and tough decisions

• No referral required – youth or guardians can reach out directly

Topics include:

• Emotional regulation & resilience

• Job readiness, resumes, and interviews

• Communication and conflict resolution

• Financial literacy and budgeting

• Civic engagement and future planning

• Health, boundaries, and healthy relationships

• Self-worth and identity

• Goal setting and personal responsibility

• Time management and organization

• Navigating public systems (e.g., DHS, legal, healthcare)

• Independent living skills (cooking, cleaning, transportation, etc.)

• Digital literacy and safe technology use

• Building and maintaining healthy friendships and community ties

🧠 Forward Focus
Weekly Academic Tutoring & Support
School success shouldn’t depend on whether you have help at home. Forward Focus offers weekly tutoring for youth in our programs, right here at our office.

What’s included:

• Weekly tutoring sessions in core subjects (Math, English, Science, etc.)

• Homework help and test prep

• Support with IEPs and learning accommodations

• Academic goal tracking and accountability

• Encouraging environment focused on connection, not pressure

• Volunteers and trained staff offering individualized attention

💝 Partners in Hope
Community Engagement, Workforce Access & Sponsorship Program
Partners in Hope brings together community members, businesses, and organizations who want to invest in youth transformation. This program combines elements of service, mentorship, and workforce collaboration.

Includes:

• Guest speaking and job shadowing

• Youth-friendly hiring and internship opportunities

• Resource drives and community partnerships

• Recognition online and at events

• Monthly or annual support options to sustain programming

🔍 Project Forward
Youth Advisory Panel
Project Forward is a youth-led advisory group that gives 16–24 year olds a voice within Forward Hope. Members help shape programs, plan outreach, and represent youth perspectives across the organization.

What members do:

• Attend monthly meetings

• Share feedback and help co-create programs

• Assist in planning youth-led events and activities

• Earn community service hours and leadership experience

Eligibility:

• Ages 16–24

• Local to Saline County, AR

• Currently involved in a Forward Hope program or referred by a trusted partner