About Us

Footprint of Many (FOM) are words of strength to help children, youth and their families pull together to restore the promise of a future for everyone. FOM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation working to improve the health, education and economic future of underprivileged children and youth in the United States.

FOM was founded by Shirley Pegues, Executive Director, in 1996 based on her heartfelt concern for women with children needing assistance after release from a drug or alcohol recovery program. Ms. Pegues' experience with children encompasses being a devoted mother and foster parent. Our founding principles are:

We have served the Oakland community since August 1996. Located in the Fruitvale District of Oakland, our offices have provided invaluable support to children, youth and their families living in the San Francisco Bay area. FOM works to raise awareness in the local community about children, youth and family issues, and to generate funds to foster child and youth development through its many programs. We provide support for Cal Works recipients. FOM partners with Alameda County Social Services for evaluation and monitoring support of its programs and services.

Reaching out to communities in the East Bay to promote a safe, healthy, and happy environment for children. Provide parents with the needed back-up to help nurture and prepare children for their futures, to aid in their education, and to allow them to express themselves freely, creatively and without bias.

We believe it is important to address both the physical needs of at-risk children and their emotional and psychological needs as well. Therefore, our programs and grant support aim to provide opportunities for children to express themselves and build self-esteem and self-confidence. The opportunities often happen through involvement in arts and outdoor programs. The art and outdoor activities serve as a forum to provide the gift of encouragement to build a child’s self-confidence and inner strength.

A vital part of a child’s growth is the development of his or her character, and encouragement plays as essential role in building that character. We are committed to providing opportunities that build a child’s character and inner personality that will shape the quality of his or her achievement and relationships throughout their lives.

We work with schools, corporations, businesses, foundations, community organizations, and individuals to extend a network of support and good will throughout the East Bay community. FOM believes that the path to a sustainable solution lies in working together and has partnered with agencies such as the Alameda County Social Services. We bring professional athletes and motivational speakers into classrooms to discuss a variety of interests in order to encourage children. In addition, we make therapeutic referrals for abused children. FOM seeks to provide an atmosphere conducive to sharing of experiences and expertise about effective collaborations amongst nonprofits. It is our goal to bring local nonprofits and professionals in child development and welfare together to create a dialogue that benefits children, youth and their families in local communities and worldwide.

Our vision is to grow with the support of the community, seeking not only to help children and youth that are in pain or in trouble, but also to save others from that pain. Our dream is for these children and youth to become models of success for other children and youth. These children have endured hard times, but their success can inspire others.

In 11 years, we have reached out and positively impacted the lives of approximately 1000 children and youth, and their families.

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