Seeds of Hope
PathForward has a legacy of harnessing the power of community.
Our journey began in 1988, when Lora Rinker and Pam Juhl began preparing bagged meals from their homes and serving them to people experiencing homelessness two nights a week. Witnessing the overwhelming struggles of Arlington’s most vulnerable residents, this simple act of kindness blossomed into Arlington Street People’s Assistance Network (A-SPAN), which was formally incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1992.
Over the years, A-SPAN grew steadily, evolving into the innovative leader it is today. We started by expanding beyond emergency services, implementing programs like Permanent Supportive Housing (2007) and Rapid Rehousing (2009) to offer long-term solutions. In 2010, we incorporated nursing services, further solidifying our commitment to holistic care. The numbers tell a powerful story: since our first supportive housing program began, over 466 people have found stable housing, with a remarkable 96% remaining housed five years later thanks to ongoing case management.
Our dedication culminated in the revolutionary Homeless Services Center (HSC) and Medical Respite Program in 2015. This one-stop location offers 24/7 access to all our essential programs, creating a seamless and supportive environment for those on their path to lasting stability.
In 2021, A-SPAN embraced a new name: PathForward. This change reflects our unwavering and ongoing commitment to empowering individuals to move beyond homelessness and build a brighter future.