(757) 622-6400
For Mady Slater, understanding systems always has been the starting point. In college, they studied how systems of power are shaped, and at ForKids they see every day how those systems impact families in real life.
Mady began their work at ForKids on the Housing Crisis Hotline, where they spent nearly two years helping callers navigate a complex network of resources. “You learn quickly that there isn’t one solution,” said Mady now a Resource Specialist. “Families need a coordination of support working together.”
Today, Mady combines policy research for the Center for Research and Advocacy at ForKids with management of Resources757, a vetted, community-driven database of services across Hampton Roads. Since stepping into the role in 2025, Mady has worked closely with local service providers to ensure information is accurate, accessible, and useful for both families and fellow service organizations.
Their work sits at the intersection of direct service and systems change. “The hotline doesn’t create resources. It helps people access what exists,” they said. “If we want to close the gaps, we have to keep strengthening the systems behind it.”
What keeps them motivated is the community itself. From resource fairs to daily outreach with partner organizations, Mady sees firsthand the network of people working to support families.
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the need,” they said. “But being part of this work reminds me every day how many people are showing up. That gives me a lot of hope.”