WHERE WE BEGAN

Operation Kid Forward collaborates with diverse organizations including shelters, counseling services, youth violence prevention programs, and community resources to advocate for underrepresented children. Our mission focuses on normalizing childhood experiences and fostering development for youth who might otherwise lack adequate support systems.

Established in 2021 by Nisha Giustino, Operation Kid Forward builds on a decade of community engagement in Savannah. Ms. Giustino, an Army veteran with a Master's Degree in Human Resource Management, has demonstrated consistent dedication to youth initiatives throughout her career. Her previous contributions include organizing holiday support for women's and children's shelters, distributing hundreds of school supply backpacks, and founding the Nine Line Apparel Prom Dress Drive during her previous tenure with the company. Ms. Giustino continues her commitment to children in need through her leadership of Operation Kid Forward.

Operation Kid Forward fosters community engagement through established annual initiatives including Back-to-School Backpack distributions, holiday gift drives, Princess Ball events, college campus visits, and numerous additional programs. While maintaining these successful community efforts, the organization is simultaneously pursuing more expansive objectives.

Our current priority is the development and implementation of a comprehensive two-week summer program focusing on personal and professional development for adolescents ages 13-17 who are recommended through our network of community partners. The program is designed to become an annual offering.

Operation Kid Forward remains committed to strengthening community bonds through strategic partnerships with aligned nonprofit organizations, law enforcement agencies, local government representatives, and military institutions. These collaborations aim to facilitate positive interactions and establish enduring relationships that benefit the children we serve.

OUR REASON FOR DOING MORE

Operation Kid Forward is an all-volunteer organization. While understanding that we cannot help every child in need, our goal is to directly impact as many children as possible to positively affect their growth trajectory. By providing support and experiences to break the cycle of violence, neglect, poverty, and low self-esteem, the foundation aims to assist in the success rate of these young adults’ development and futures.