Staff Spotlight: Brianna Forde

In this month's issue of our newsletter we would like to shine the spotlight on our Chief Program Officer Brianna Forde. Bri has been with ICW since the spring of 2021, and has dedicated her career to advancing social justice and addressing economic and educational disparities for youth and communities in Greater Boston. Before joining ICW, Brianna served as the Director of Nonprofit Leadership at the Alnoba Lewis Family Foundation, where she led the Strong Leaders Program, collaborating with top executives to develop stronger teams and more impactful organizations. A proud Bentley University graduate, Brianna’s career highlights include her work at The Boston Foundation, where she provided crucial on-site training, grants, and seed funding for out-of-school programs. As the Director of Programs and Community Partnerships at The BASE, she led initiatives that supported Boston Public School students by expanding high school retention, college access, and degree completion opportunities.

With her deep roots in Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood, Brianna’s presence, knowledge, and commitment  As Chief Program Officer at ICW, have been invaluable in advancing the lives of our participants and supporting the growth of our organization as a whole. She leads our efforts to enhance participant engagement, build robust partnerships, and expand programming, empowering those most affected by social and economic barriers. Her dedication and expertise continue to drive ICW’s mission forward, creating lasting change for our community. We are so grateful to have Brianna as a pivotal member of the ICW family. 

We were able to ask Brianna a few questions about her time here at ICW,

-How did you find out about ICW?

Brianna: I previously worked for a Foundation that was heavily invested in Strong Leaders- who were making a great impact on key initiatives in the City of Boston (violence intervention).  Jon Feinman was one of those leaders identified- who were making a difference in working in communities impacted by neighborhood violence.   His passion, vision, and commitment to the work had me sold!

-What makes ICW special?

Brianna: The people.  We are a community of individuals who are individually and collectively trying to make a difference.  I am inspired everyday by the perseverance and courage of our Participants.  Understanding that everyday shouldn't be taken for granted; and presents an opportunity to give a little0 which will then go a long way. 

-What is the most meaningful part of your role?

Brianna: I value working with organizations, institutions, and community partners who understand the importance of our work.  Being instrumental in the success/positive influence of any individual is truly gratifying.  

-What does ICW mean to you?

Brianna: I identify and believe in the mission of ICW;  as we are a space where we welcome individuals from all walks of life- to build, heal, and invest in themselves by way of a career in personal training.  With 100% of our Participants being (directly/indirectly) impacted by gun violence and mass incarceration, we specialize in building bridges and pathways towards social and economic mobility.  This specific focus, on such marginalized communities, strongly influences my "why".