Mission & Vision
Our Mission
Our mission is to help low-income families experiencing a housing crisis to achieve housing as quickly as possible.
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We aim to engage community and faith-based organizations in ENDING HOMELESSNESS... one family at a time.
Our Vision
Our vision is to live in a world where no child is without a safe place to rest their head at night.
Our History
THE BEGINNING
While rushing to a business meeting, Karen Olson bought a homeless woman named Millie a sandwich. Millie accepted but asked for something more — to be heard. Listening to her, Karen realized homelessness causes deep feelings of isolation and loss of self-worth. Moved by this, she and her sons began delivering lunches to people experiencing homelessness in New York City.
1988 - The Network Goes National
As word spread, more congregations joined, inspiring similar programs across New Jersey. The National Interfaith Hospitality Network was founded, expanding nationwide with services including transitional housing, childcare, and homelessness prevention.
2003 - We Become Family Promise
We became Family Promise to reflect our expanded programs and vision to end family homelessness—symbolizing both the community’s commitment to families in need and the potential within every family.
1986 - The First Network
When Karen learned families in her New Jersey community were homeless, she united local resources and volunteers to provide shelter, meals, and support. Partnering with congregations, the YMCA, and local businesses, she launched the first Interfaith Hospitality Network on October 27, 1986.
1992 - Point of Light
Family Promise was honored as one of 21 Points of Light by President and Barbara Bush, recognizing it as one of the nation’s top volunteer organizations and highlighting the power of neighbors helping neighbors.
2012 - Our Chapter Is Born
Founded in 2012 as Family Promise of Fulton County, Inc., Family Promise of North Fulton/DeKalb partners with congregations, individuals, families, foundations, and corporations to provide emergency shelter and lasting solutions for families with children facing housing crises.