Who We Are
Forgiven But Not Forgotten Foundation is a non profit 501c3 organization devoted to servicing women and girls in low-income and/or high crime communities? Our organization is structured to meet the needs of women and girls holistically in the Chicagoland area and other surrounding communities.
Our Mission
The mission of Forgiven But Not Forgotten Foundation is to significantly reduce crime, domestic violence and abuse by empowering individuals and families to reach their full potential and become productive community residents.
Our Vision
Our vision is to see a world ecosystem that gives every woman and girl the opportunity to freely participate, thoughtfully contribute and positively succeed in every area of their lives.
Our Values
The guiding principles and values that move our organization are being mindful that safety comes first, being integrous in all our programs, being respectful to all and promoting hope, healing and happiness to our clients.
Our History
In 2009, the Founder, Lydia Fox embarked on her journey to serve her community, by way of a church collaboration, Church of Abundant Life Center, now known as Abundant Life Teaching Center and One Way C.O.G.I.C. Looking back, we have been able to assist over 1700 women and girls in areas such as Blue Island, Markham, Hazel Crest, East Chicago, Riverdale, Robbins, Englewood, Garfield Park and many more low-income high crime communities by providing food, clothing and shelter referrals. Our staff provide a culturally competent and wholesome learning environment where individuals are challenged and motivated to be their best. We offer life skills, literacy, resume building and interviewing classes, our long-term goal is to help our clients become independent and thriving citizens in the community. We work to collaborate and engage community stakeholders to ensure a continuum of care for our clients who may need help with their traumatic experiences and mental health issues.
We strongly feel that connecting a bridge between FBNFF and communities will enhance our ability to fulfill the needed services of women and girls in low-income high crime communities. FBNFF will expand its reach through outreach, networking and collaborating with other organizations to strengthen our current programs and target and deliver other programs and services to those individuals and families in need. Through our advocacy, we anticipant the increase of women and girls changing and transforming their lives for the better!
Our knowledge of perpetrators and abuse/domestic violence causal issue, and our passion for making a difference for victims and communities;
Our commitment to share and expand our reach to create and develop essential programs and services and to provide services that will enhance the quality of life for each individual we serve;
Our assets and relationships: Strengthening our network through staff development and education, and ensuring the financial sustainability of the Foundation;
Mobilized support and increased understanding of the Foundation’s programs, thereby allowing us to support more youth and families in the community.
2025
2027
2029
The board is legally responsible for governing the organization’s mission, policies, procedures, financial oversight and stability, program accountability, strategic planning and organizational performance. What our board members all have in common is that they all live in or serve the communities of our target population.
Lydia Fox
Lydia Fox, a survivor of domestic violence and sexual abuse, established the Forgiven But Not Forgotten Foundation to support women and girls facing similar challenges. With over a decade of dedicated service, Ms. Fox has worked tirelessly to address the needs of vulnerable women and girls, helping them heal from trauma and achieve lasting success. Ms. Fox holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with minors in Psychology and English. As a motivational speaker, advocate, and certified life coach, she empowers others with her compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to making a difference. Through collaboration with board members, volunteers, and community partners, Ms. Fox spearheads initiatives that provide vital support services to women and girls in low-income, high-crime neighborhoods across the Chicagoland area and beyond. Her giving heart, vision, and hands-on approach have made her a beacon of hope for countless individuals seeking brighter futures.
J. David Smith
J. David Smith brings over 30 years of experience in business development, middle management, and ministry, with a deep commitment to advocating for underserved populations. He has served on the boards of several nonprofits focusing on women's health, pregnancy support, and mental health advocacy, aligning his efforts with the mission to uplift and empower vulnerable communities. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Counseling, a Master of Divinity in Christian Educational Administration, and pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, Mr. Smith's leadership is rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. His work with Forgiven But Not Forgotten Foundation focuses on supporting women, children, and marginalized groups, ensuring their needs are met with actionable support and lasting impact.
Jessie Cazares
With over 25 years of experience in public service, Ms. Cazares has dedicated her life to helping individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and genders. As a survivor of domestic violence, she passionately advocates for those impacted by abusive relationships and supports individuals facing similar challenges. A loving mother of three and a devoted grandmother, Ms. Cazares is also a respected mentor, community leader, and friend to many. Her bilingual abilities have allowed her to serve as a vital resource for Spanish-speaking and bilingual individuals, providing guidance and assistance to those transitioning from harmful or potentially harmful situations. Deeply committed to her community, Ms. Cazares is recognized as a pillar of strength, fostering hope, empowerment, and meaningful change. Her unwavering dedication continues to inspire and uplift those around her.
