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INVESTING IN OUR FAMILIES

This year, our annual budget is in excess of $1.6 million dollars. Some of that revenue is tied to specific programs or projects that help families achieve their most important goals; however, unrestricted support is especially valuable to FMF because it gives us the flexibility to respond to changing conditions, try innovative approaches, and sustain proven, high-quality services. When donors give us permission to use their gift “where it’s needed most,” they can be sure we will maximize every dollar to help families move from homelessness to safe, permanent housing—and the opportunity for lasting stability.

Trust, of course, is a two-way street. We hold ourselves accountable internally through continuous review of performance measures and share our impact externally through our Annual Impact Report, funder-specific reporting and partner updates, financial disclosures, and communications to donors and the wider community.

organizational stability

Stability and self-sufficiency for the families we serve is our number one goal. We know that moving families into permanent housing quickly yields better outcomes if they are provided with wraparound support to help them maintain stability while they strengthen life skills, address needs such as employment and mental health, and build financial resources and social support.

As an organization, we strive to model the same positive behaviors that enable our families to become self-sufficient. These include planning and goal-setting, follow-through and accountability, and careful budgeting and financial management. Our board of directors and staff leadership work closely together to steward funds well and maintain adequate reserves to ensure FMF’s fiscal health.

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grants

Our grant funding comes from a mix of governmental sources (primarily HUD), family and corporate foundations, and some faith communities. Grant applications vary widely in terms of information required, potential funding amount and scope of work, and permissible use of funding. Many grantors will only fund certain aspects of our program, such as children’s services and workforce development.

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donations

Individual donors are the bread and butter of any community nonprofit. In 2025, households accounted for 36% of all revenue to FMF; this does not include in-kind donations. Individual donors give via cash or check, donor-advised fund, credit or debit card (including recurring giving), stock donations and other planned gifts, workplace campaigns, and special events. Individual donors also help us access corporate matching gifts.

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special events

Families Moving Forward unveiled our Chefs for Change fundraising series in 2017, consisting of ticketed dinners and a year-end gala. Over the years, CFC has continued to grow, attracting new supporters and partners, including generous sponsors and some of Durham’s most beloved chefs. FMF also participates in the Durham CROP Hunger Walk and benefits from fundraisers held by other friends. We’ve even created a guide for how to host your own FMF fundraiser!