
On January 22, 2025, Fred’s Footsteps celebrated two decades of life-changing impact at an intimate gathering of its Board and Committees. Held at the historic Pump House in Bala Cynwyd, PA, the evening brought the organization together to honor the man who inspired it all: G. Fred DiBona, Jr.
As the heart and soul behind Fred’s Footsteps, Fred’s legacy was the focus of heartfelt reflections shared by his family, including Executive Director, Christine DiBona Lobley, her mother and Board Chair, Sylvia DiBona, and her brother and Board Member, Fred DiBona, III.
A Moment of Reflection
Christine captured the evening’s spirit in her touching remarks:
“2025 marks an incredible milestone—20 years of Fred’s Footsteps. It’s a moment of great celebration, but also a somber reminder that it has been two decades since we lost my dad. His absence is felt deeply, especially at moments like this. There is a saying that ‘No one is actually dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away.’ As I stand here and look around this room, I see not ripples but waves—waves of unwavering support, compassion, and commitment. You are the ones who have carried his legacy forward, ensuring that our impact not only endures but grows stronger with each passing year.”
Christine went on to highlight the incredible achievements of Fred’s Footsteps over the past 20 years, including surpassing $10 million in funding to support families caring for children who are ill, injured, or severely disabled. She spoke of the thousands of lives touched by the organization’s work—helping families keep their homes, pay their bills, and create safe, accessible spaces for their children to thrive.
Announcing the Future: Bold Commitments and Expanded Programs
In addition to celebrating the past, the evening marked the beginning of an ambitious new chapter for Fred’s Footsteps. Christine announced two transformational initiatives aimed at meeting the growing needs of the families the organization serves:
- The ‘5 in 5’ Initiative
Fred’s Footsteps is committing to invest $5 million into the community over the next five years—doubling the pace of financial support compared to the past 20 years. This bold goal reflects the growing demand for assistance and the organization’s resolve to deepen its impact. - Enhanced Grant Programs
To achieve this ambitious vision, Fred’s Footsteps has introduced three distinct grant programs designed to provide more targeted and impactful support:- The Bridge Fund: Vital assistance for household essentials like rent, mortgage payments, and utility bills.
- Pat’s Projects: Home modifications to improve accessibility, named in honor of founding board member, Pat Gillespie.
- Keys to Mobility: Support for families to purchase accessible vehicles or make necessary adaptations.
Recognizing the rising costs of materials and specialized resources, the organization has also doubled the funding limits for Pat’s Projects and Keys to Mobility from $10,000 to $20,000. This adjustment ensures that families receive meaningful support that reflects today’s financial realities.
A Call to Action
Christine closed the evening with an impassioned call to action:
“Together, we have built a community of hope, compassion, and resilience. But there is still so much work to be done. As we embark on this bold new chapter, we need your help to make the 5 in 5 Initiative a reality. Let’s honor my dad’s legacy by doubling down on our efforts, ensuring that no family has to choose between staying afloat and caring for their child when they need it most.”
Gratitude and Warmth
As a token of appreciation, attendees received a coveted Fred’s Footsteps blanket—a symbol of the warmth and support the organization has provided to families over the years.
The 20th-anniversary celebration was more than a look back; it was a rallying cry for the future. With an ambitious vision, unwavering support, and a community that embodies the very spirit of Fred DiBona, Fred’s Footsteps is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come.
To learn more about the ‘5 in 5’ Initiative and the expanded grant programs, or to join us in this transformative journey, visit fredsfootsteps.org. Together, we can continue to create waves of compassion and hope for families in need.