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Signal Centers tells council ‘Family Forward’ has helped 2,271 people over 10 years; asks for continued support
Summary
Signal Centers presented outcomes for Family Forward, a decade‑long partnership with the city, reporting that the program has served 2,271 individuals and achieved high school retention/graduation rates among teen parents; the group thanked council for past investments and requested ongoing funding.
Krista Mannarino, executive director for local services at Signal Centers, told the Chattanooga City Council that Family Forward — a decade‑long partnership between Signal Centers and the city — has served 2,271 individuals with intensive, relationship‑based mentoring and supports for expectant and parenting families.
"This program provides one‑on‑one mentoring for expectant mothers and fathers and connects them to essentials like quality prenatal care, baby supplies, childcare, transportation, and other supports that keep families stable and on track," Mannarino said. Signal Centers’ presentation reported that participating teen parents who remained in school saw a 94 percent on‑time graduation/staying‑in‑school rate and that 36 percent of teen parents pursued some post‑secondary education.
Signal Centers credited ongoing city support for enabling outcomes that reduce future costs to the community by preventing foster care involvement, homelessness and long‑term public assistance.
What’s next: Signal Centers thanked the council for past investments and requested continued funding to sustain Family Forward’s mentoring, health‑care navigation and resource supports.
Source: Presentation by Krista Mannarino and colleagues, Signal Centers, Chattanooga City Council, Dec. 9, 2025.
