About Us
Rooted in Community. Driven by Purpose.
Founded in 2018 in honor of Pauline and Derrick Scott, Upward and Onward Community Pantry was built on a simple belief: every person deserves the support, dignity, and opportunity to build a better life.
Individuals Served Annually
Fathers Engaged Each Year
School & Community Partnerships
In Honor of Pauline & Derrick Scott
Our Story
Established in 2018 in honor of Pauline and Derrick Scott — two individuals whose lifelong dedication to serving families in need left an indelible mark on this community — Upward and Onward Community Pantry was founded to carry that legacy forward.
We were born out of a recognition that too many families in our community were falling through the cracks — not for lack of effort, but for lack of access. We saw youth without mentors, fathers without support, veterans without resources, and families without a safety net.
We started small — a handful of dedicated community members who believed that real change happens one relationship at a time. From those early days, we've grown into a full-service nonprofit offering case management, fatherhood programming, youth services, veteran support, and basic needs assistance.
Today, we serve hundreds of individuals and families each year. But our approach has never changed: we meet people where they are, walk with them through their challenges, and celebrate every step forward. That's what Upward and Onward means to us.
Our Mission
To empower individuals and families to achieve stability and self-sufficiency through compassionate, comprehensive support services.
Our Vision
A community where every person has the resources, relationships, and resilience to thrive.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Dignity
We treat every person with respect and honor their inherent worth — no judgment, no barriers.
Compassion
We lead with empathy, meeting people in their hardest moments with warmth and genuine care.
Empowerment
We believe in people's capacity to grow. Our goal is always to build strength, not dependency.
Community
We are stronger together. We build relationships, partnerships, and networks that lift everyone.
Accountability
We hold ourselves to the highest standards — for our clients, our partners, and our community.
Equity
We work to remove systemic barriers and ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
The People Behind the Mission
Our team is made up of dedicated professionals, community advocates, and passionate volunteers who show up every day for the people we serve.
Leadership
Executive Director
With over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and community development, our Executive Director guides the organization's vision and strategy.
Programs & Services
Director of Programs
Overseeing all service delivery, our Programs Director ensures that every client receives high-quality, trauma-informed care and support.
Fatherhood Programs
Fatherhood Initiative Coordinator
A passionate advocate for engaged fatherhood, our coordinator brings lived experience and professional expertise to every program and workshop.
Case Management
Case Management Supervisor
Leading our team of case managers, our supervisor ensures that every client has a personalized plan and the ongoing support they need to succeed.
Leadership
Pauline Farley
Chief Executive Officer
Rooted in community and driven by purpose, Pauline leads Upward and Onward with compassion, integrity, and a deep personal connection to the mission.
Meet PaulineCommunity Partners
We work alongside a network of schools, agencies, and organizations to extend our reach and deepen our impact.
Local School Districts
Veterans Affairs Offices
Housing Assistance Agencies
Workforce Development Centers
Faith-Based Organizations
Mental Health Providers
Food Banks & Pantry Networks
Legal Aid Services
Join Us in Building a Stronger Community
Whether you need support, want to volunteer, or are looking to partner with us — there's a place for you in this work.