FamilyForward gains new executive director
Arlington Heights based nonprofit FamilyForward has hired Beverly Worthington, MA, CNP, as its new executive director. Worthington will carry on the work of Erica Chianelli, who moved on from the organization in early November.
Worthington brings more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience to FamilyForward. Emphasizing the importance of building community, she has several goals.
“I intend to actively engage in the communities served by FamilyForward, focusing on lifting up the voices within these communities as we work to advocate for more equitable access to resources and create more security and belonging. The desire to strengthen communities has driven me for most of my career.”
Worthington is excited to join FamilyForward. She believes opportunities for growth “are abundant,” and plans to pursue those opportunities with FamilyForward by nurturing and empowering leaders. Her faith in people’s abilities is why she makes it a practice to encourage and harness leadership potential among volunteers and staff, and in the larger community. An additional unique strength is her history of developing systems to accurately track the impact of mission-driven programs.
“Being able to holistically tell our story is critical to cultivating a thriving organization,” she said.
“The board of directors is thrilled to have Beverly take the reins as FamilyForward’s new executive director,” said Tim Wayman, chair of the board of directors. “As we begin next steps for steady growth, Beverly’s nonprofit and mission-based experience, particularly in working with underserved individuals and families, will greatly benefit our cause.”
Worthington’s previous work experience included administrative leadership roles at the Foundation for the Realization of Human Potential, NFP, Chicago, and Sojourner Truth House, Gary, Ind., and serving as executive director for Faith in Action Caregivers, Ashtabula County, Ohio.
In addition to her professional work, Worthington cultivates her interest in empowering people and communities by volunteering in nonprofit development. She currently serves as Education Co-Chair for the Association of Certified Nonprofit Professionals through the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. Other volunteer interests include efforts to fight poverty and hunger.
Exiting FamilyForward, Chianelli has joined Lakeside Bank, Park Ridge, as a vice president focused on marketing, special events and community-engagement initiatives. During her three-year tenure as executive director at FamilyForward, Chianelli had tremendous success in expanding the footprint of the organization through her energetic and inclusive relationship-building skills.
“It has honestly been the most rewarding position I have had in my career thus far, but it is time for me to move on and explore the next chapter in my professional journey,” she said.
As Chianelli passes the baton to Worthington, FamilyForward will continue its work to serve low-income, working families in the northwest suburbs by providing rent assistance and mentoring services for up to two years. Its targeted program helps parents learn and put into practice solid financial principles and develop important career-advancement and life skills. To learn more about FamilyForward and how to get involved, visit family-forward.org.