Forward Futures: Meet Jill and Twila

For more than 20 years, Jill and Twila have shared a friendship rooted in compassion and service. They first met at church and quickly bonded over their shared desire to help others. Together, they volunteered in food ministries, serving their neighbors with dignity and care.

Today, their friendship has taken on a new purpose: supporting one another as they work toward greater financial stability.

Now in their 60s and recently retired, both women are navigating the challenges of living on a fixed income. Rising costs and everyday expenses have made it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.

Jill’s rent takes up a significant portion of her monthly income, leaving little room for other necessities. Affordable, safe housing options in her neighborhood are hard to come by.

Twila lives in a home that has been in her family for generations, but the cost of maintaining it has become harder to manage over time.

When they learned about Step Forward’s financial literacy classes, they saw an opportunity to take control of their financial futures. They enrolled together, continuing their tradition of showing up for each other.

Through the program, Jill and Twila are gaining practical tools, building confidence, and strengthening their independence as they work toward more secure and stable futures.