By Chris Peterson
Founder and CEO, Penny Forward
Two weeks ago, I shared that I needed to step away from Penny Forward to focus on my mental health. That announcement was not a publicity stunt. It was simply the truth about what I needed to do in order to be effective in both my personal life and my professional life.
I chose to share that news publicly for two reasons.
First, I wanted to prevent rumors from filling the silence. When something unexpected happens, people often speculate, and those stories can quickly drift far from the truth. Being open about what I’m going through felt like the most honest way to avoid that.
Second, I hoped that by being open about my own struggles, someone else might feel a little more comfortable being open about theirs. If my willingness to say “I’m not okay right now” encourages even one person to reach out for help, then sharing my story will have been worth it.
Thank You for the Support
The response over the past two weeks has been overwhelming in the best possible way. I’ve received countless emails and text messages, along with a few phone calls from people offering encouragement, prayers, and support. Many of you have asked how you can help me personally, and how you can help Penny Forward continue its work.
Thank you. Truly.
On a personal level, the best way you can help right now is simply by continuing to check in. I’m not monitoring social media during this time, but I am checking my email, voicemail, and text messages. Hearing from people who care makes a real difference.
Looking Ahead for Penny Forward
On a professional level, I don’t yet have a clear answer for how people can best help Penny Forward. That’s something we’ll need to figure out in the long term.
Part of what led me to this point is the reality that I haven’t been able to take any kind of meaningful vacation from Penny Forward in the last six years. That isn’t sustainable, and it’s something the board and I will need to address when I’m ready to return.
My hope is to return to work in mid-April.
In the meantime, today I begin a three-week partial hospitalization program. I’ve been on the waiting list for this program for the past two weeks, and I’m grateful that a spot has opened up. The program will run through on or around April 7. By the end of it, my care team and I will have developed a long-term plan for continuing my treatment and recovery.
What’s Available Right Now
Until then, Penny Forward will remain partially shut down.
However, some services remain available:
• Our online courses are still accessible.
• If you need financial coaching or benefits planning, accredited professionals are available to help.
• While we don’t currently have people answering phones throughout the workday, volunteers are monitoring our lines and returning calls as they can.
• I am also handling the most urgent matters when I’m able.
Moving Forward
I’m looking forward to feeling better and returning to the work that means so much to me.
Thank you again for the incredible support you’ve shown me and for continuing to believe in Penny Forward.
Regards,
Chris Peterson, AFC®
Founder and CEO, Penny Forward
Blind People Building Bright Futures One Penny At A Time
Join Penny Forward Schedule a Meeting
Email: chris@pennyforward.com
Phone: 1 (888) 332-5558
Website: www.pennyforward.com
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