ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION
From Advocacy to Action
The Joanne Forbes Foundation is a purpose-driven nonprofit rooted in the values of equity, dignity, and healing through human connection. Established to honor the enduring legacy of its namesake, the Foundation works to continue to close the gaps between underserved communities and the behavioral health and education resources they deserve. We support individuals, communities, and families navigating complex behavioral health realities, trauma, and social isolation through peer-centered programming, wellness initiatives, advocacy, and public education.
Our work is grounded in the lived experiences of those we serve. We believe that peer support is not just a service model, but a movement — one that empowers individuals and communities to find their voice, reclaim their narrative, and participate actively in their own recovery. The Foundation acts as both a connector and a catalyst, working in partnership with communities, providers, educators, and change-makers to uplift systems of care and to bridge gaps to what is accessible, affirming, and inclusive.
Through campaigns, community events, capacity-building, and strategic outreach, the Joanne Forbes Foundation aims to make healing visible, not just as a clinical process, but as an inclusive and holistic collective act. From organizing our bi-monthly behavioral health resource fairs to launching community engagement programs and corporate cooperation campaigns around education and loneliness, we work across sectors to promote mental wellness, reduce stigma, and cultivate a culture of presence and possibility.
Our Mission
"At the Joanne Forbes Foundation, we are dedicated to fostering community resilience, equity, and empowerment through innovative fundraising and transformative programming. Rooted in advocacy, education, and targeted support, our mission is to break down barriers—eliminating stigma, expanding access to care, and addressing resource inequities that disproportionately impact underserved communities.
Through strategic initiatives, sustainable funding models, and unwavering commitment, we bridge critical gaps, create opportunities, and empower individuals to thrive in inclusive, healthier communities. By investing in people and possibilities, we are shaping a future where everyone has the support, resources, and pathways to flourish, recover, and lead fulfilling lives."
