GOOD DEEDS EverForward: Tonya Ruble-Richter, M.Ed, President/CEO

In this episode of GOOD DEEDS, host Nanette Wiser learns about non-profit EverForward's youth-centered advocacy & support services from Tonya Ruble-Richter, M.Ed, President/CEO. As CEO and President of EverForward, Tonya leads with both strategy and soul, combining operational excellence with deep compassion and strong systems advocacy. Known for expanding programs, securing vital funding, and building empowered teams, she ensures every decision keeps children and families at the center. Her leadership is driven by purpose, humanity, and a relentless commitment to improving outcomes for youth and strengthening communities
Tonya Ruble-Richter brings over 20 years of nonprofit and leadership experience working with at-risk youth, child welfare systems, survivors of abuse, individuals impacted by substance use, and youth alternatives to detention. A passionate advocate for children and families, she has dedicated her career to ensuring vulnerable voices are heard, protected, and empowered. With a strong track record across both nonprofit and for-profit sectors, she offers a unique blend of strategic insight, systems improvement, and compassionate leadership that drives meaningful organizational transformation. Currently serving in her third transformational leadership role, Tonya was brought in to assess, strengthen, and improve internal systems for organizations serving children—ensuring quality, accountability, and long-term impact. Her work centers on trauma-informed practices, youth-centered advocacy, and building programs that move beyond compliance to create real, measurable change. Her career, volunteer service, and lived experience come together to shape her holistic, advocacy-driven approach to leadership and program development. Born and raised in Cincinnati, with over a decade spent in Indiana before relocating to Florida nearly five years ago, Tonya has carried a lifelong passion for advocating for children who are hurting. She believes deeply that everyone can play a role in creating change — and that children are always worth the investment.
EverForward, formerly Carlton Manor, is committed to creating a brighter future for the kids who need it most.
WHY IT MATTERS - FLORIDA STATISTICS
22,842 Number of Florida child maltreatment victims in 2023
7,558 Number of Florida children waiting for adoption in the child welfare system in 2023
63% Florida children in the system who have been victims of neglect
64% Children in foster care who have been in over 24 months and had 3 or
 more placements
25% Youth in foster care who develop PTSD, with rates significantly higher than in the general population
THEIR MISSION At EverForward, we surround every child with the support they need to heal. Our therapists step in immediately, providing trauma-informed care that begins rebuilding trust and stability. Our dedicated mentors walk beside each teen, offering one-to-one guidance and evidence-based life skills training to help them graduate high school and stay on track toward their goals.  They move with their kids through challenges, past setbacks, and toward a future where their past no longer defines them.  Healing is possible.  Because every child deserves a brighter future.
WANT TO BE A PART OF OUR MISSION?  get involved today
You can change a child’s life by getting involved. Volunteer your time, donate to support programs, open your home as a foster parent, or partner with us to expand opportunities.
Residential Group Homes EverForward provides safe, supportive, and nurturing homes for individuals who need extra care and guidance in a family-like environment. Our Residential Group Homes are designed to promote independence, dignity, and community connection while ensuring each resident receives personalized care.
24/7 Care and Supervision – Skilled and caring staff available around the clock to ensure safety and well-being.
Therapeutic Services – Each group home has an on-site, full-time therapist who works with our kids in both individual and group therapy.
Personalized Support Plans – Individualized care plans developed in partnership with residents, families, and case managers.
Life Skills Development – Daily living support including cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and personal hygiene to build confidence and independence.
Health and Wellness Oversight – Assistance with medical appointments, medication management, and overall wellness.
Community Integration – Opportunities for residents to participate in community events, employment programs, and social activities.
Comfortable Living Environments – Clean, well-maintained homes that feel more like homes than facilities. 
Therapeutic Licensed Foster Homes Their Foster Homes offer specialized, trauma-informed care for children and teens who have experienced emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges.  Our mission is to create nurturing, stable environments where healing can begin—guided by licensed foster parents who receive ongoing training and support from our professional team of clinicians, case managers, and behavioral specialists. Each child’s care plan is individualized, ensuring that their therapeutic, educational, and emotional needs are met with compassion and professionalism.
Therapeutic Services  We provide individual, sibling, and family therapy for children and adults, offering both office-based and community-based options to meet your family’s needs. Our licensed therapists use evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches to support healing, growth, and connection. They are adding additional treatment modalities such as music therapy, art therapy, equine therapy, and play therapy.
Supervised Visitation Services  We understand how important family connections are for  a child’s emotional well-being and sense of identity. Our Supervised Visitation Services provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment for children to maintain contact with their parents or family members while case plans are being developed, or reunification efforts are underway.

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