Community Who Cares: Founding Forward

Through our Community Who Cares series, King of Prussia District is proud to highlight the organizations that help shape and strengthen our community in meaningful ways.

From supporting families to expanding access to education, these groups remind us that impact comes in many forms. One organization making a lasting contribution both locally and nationally is Founding Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring informed, engaged citizens through the power of history.

With deep roots that trace back generations, Founding Forward was formed through the merger of two longstanding institutions: the Union League Legacy Foundation and Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, organizations founded in 1947 and 1949 respectively. Today, it carries forward a legacy that began even earlier with the Union League of Philadelphia, established in 1862 with a mission to support President Abraham Lincoln, preserve the Union and promote civic responsibility. Building on this history, Founding Forward continues a tradition of educating future leaders and recognizing those who uphold the principles of American democracy.

At its core, Founding Forward is focused on civic education, helping students, teachers and citizens better understand the rights and responsibilities that come with living in a democracy. Through immersive, in-person programs grounded in American history, participants are encouraged not just to learn about the nation’s founding ideals, but to actively engage with them in meaningful ways.

What makes Founding Forward unique is its ability to bring learning to life in the places where history happened. With campuses in Valley Forge and Philadelphia, the organization offers hands-on educational experiences that connect participants directly to the events and ideas that shaped the country. From student programs and teacher seminars to speaker series and public events, each experience is designed to foster thoughtful dialogue, critical thinking and a deeper appreciation for civic responsibility.

Founding Forward’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. By equipping educators with new tools and perspectives, the organization helps shape the learning experience for countless students nationwide. Its programs also encourage young people to see themselves as active participants in their communities, building the confidence and knowledge needed to contribute to a stronger, more informed society.

As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, Founding Forward continues to grow its reach and deepen its impact, expanding programs that bring people together around shared history and civic understanding. Through these efforts, the organization is helping ensure that the principles of liberty, democracy and responsible citizenship remain relevant for generations to come.

For those looking to get involved, Founding Forward offers opportunities to support its mission through donations, educational programming and community engagement. Each contribution helps expand access to experiences that inspire learning, connection and civic pride.

Founding Forward is a bridge between the past and the future. In spotlighting this organization, we celebrate a group that is not only preserving history, but also empowering individuals to carry its lessons forward, strengthening communities and shaping the next generation of engaged citizens.

oundingforward.org