Seasoned nonprofit and community leader will guide the organization’s next chapter of innovation, advocacy and impact
IRVINE, Calif. (July 13, 2026) — Families Forward has named Christy Cornwall, MPH, CHES, as its new Chief Executive Officer following a nationwide executive search conducted by Morris & Berger. Cornwall assumes leadership after serving as the organization’s Chief Program Officer, where she quickly earned the confidence of the Board of Directors through her collaborative leadership, strategic vision and deep commitment to preventing family homelessness.
A respected nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience, Cornwall has dedicated her career to advancing health equity, housing stability and cross-sector partnerships. Before joining Families Forward, she held executive leadership positions with Providence St. Joseph Health and the City of Irvine, where she led initiatives addressing community health, mental health and housing challenges.
“Christy distinguished herself throughout a highly competitive search as the leader best positioned to build on Families Forward’s remarkable legacy while guiding the organization into its next chapter,” said Danyell Alders Chair of the Search Committee. “She brings a unique combination of strategic leadership, operational excellence, community relationships and a deep understanding of the connection between stable housing and long-term health and well-being. Just as importantly, she embodies the collaborative, mission-driven culture that makes Families Forward so impactful.”
As CEO, Cornwall will focus on building upon Families Forward’s strong, mission-driven culture, expanding partnerships across Orange County and advancing a comprehensive advocacy strategy aimed at preventing family homelessness. She will also guide the construction of Tustin Heritage, an 8-unit affordable housing community that Families Forward will own and operate upon completion. Working alongside staff, community partners, civic leaders, developers, donors and volunteers, Cornwall will also oversee implementation of the organization’s current strategic plan while positioning Families Forward for continued growth and innovation.
“Housing is one of the most fundamental building blocks of health and stability,” Cornwall said. “When families have a safe place to call home and access to nutritious food, they’re able to focus on other life priorities that help them thrive. That’s why Families Forward prioritizes housing and food access as foundational services.”
“The last few months have only deepened my admiration for this organization,” she added. “I’ve been inspired every day by a team that is deeply committed to serving families with compassion, excellence and determination. It is an incredible honor to lead this organization, and I look forward to working alongside our staff, board, donors, volunteers and community partners to strengthen our impact, prevent family homelessness and ensure more families have the opportunity to build lasting stability.”
Families Forward’s Board of Directors said Cornwall’s extensive experience building partnerships across the health care, government, nonprofit and philanthropic sectors positions the organization to deepen its community impact.
“Families Forward has earned the trust of our community over decades of serving families with dignity, compassion and measurable results,” said Susan McClintic Chair, Families Forward Board of Directors. “Christy’s servant leadership style, strategic mindset and ability to bring people together make her the right leader to carry our mission forward. We are excited about the future under her leadership.”
A longtime advocate for housing and health equity, Cornwall has served on numerous community boards and regional collaborations focused on homeless prevention, affordable housing and community well-being. She believes lasting solutions are built through partnership and shared responsibility across sectors.
About Families Forward
Since 1984, Families Forward has helped Orange County families achieve lasting housing stability through a prevention-first approach that addresses the root causes of homelessness. The nonprofit provides housing assistance, food support, counseling, career coaching, financial education and other wraparound services that empower families to build long-term stability and self-sufficiency. In 2025, Families Forward improved the lives of nearly 18,000 children and adults across Orange County. As the organization expands its impact through advocacy, community partnerships and affordable housing development, it remains committed to a future where every family has a safe place to call home and the opportunity to thrive. To learn more, visit www.families-forward.org or call 949-552-2727.