The Furlong Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing emergency financial relief to low-income families in New Hampshire, continues to make a profound impact on its community. Founded by Joe and Heather Furlong, the organization offers direct assistance to families struggling with household bills, utilities, and eviction prevention. The Furlongs’ work exemplifies a deep commitment to philanthropy and social responsibility, both in their personal lives and through their charitable endeavors.
The Furlong Foundation was born out of Joe and Heather Furlong’s shared vision to help those in need. Their dedication stems from a personal understanding of hardship and the belief that everyone, regardless of wealth or social status, has the power to make a difference in their community. This vision has led them to provide bridge payments directly to utility companies and landlords, ensuring that families with children have a warm, safe place to call home.
Joe and Heather’s journey into philanthropy is both inspiring and humbling. Heather, a former National Public Radio (NPR) host in Fargo, North Dakota, made a name for herself as a morning radio personality with her straight-laced approach to interviews with notable authors and business leaders. After transitioning from radio, she and her husband Joe ventured into business ownership, starting the Snellman Store & Eatery in Wolf Lake Township, Minnesota. The couple later created a beloved local event, Snellman Days, before selling the business and relocating to New England.
In addition to her work with the Furlong Foundation, Heather currently chairs the board of Victory High School, a private non-profit high school in New Hampshire. She is also a key player in Sun Pro, a woman-owned small business, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to making a positive impact on her community. Her passion for supporting non-profits, especially those that assist underprivileged families, has become a cornerstone of her life’s work.
While Joe’s career as a filming contractor for National Geographic’s “American Builder” and “Bid & Destroy” keeps him busy, his heart remains with the Furlong Foundation. Both Joe and Heather firmly believe in giving back to their community. When asked about their philanthropic efforts, Joe shared, “We like to give back to the people in our community and help those in need in New Hampshire.”
Despite their significant contributions, the Furlongs prefer to remain humble about their charitable work. The couple does not seek recognition or personal accolades for their efforts. When approached for public acknowledgment, Heather and Joe emphasized that their primary focus is not on fame but on making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Joe remarked, “We prefer to be less prominent and more anonymous when we donate. Everyone in the community has a responsibility to give back, and you don’t need wealth to make a difference. It’s better to give than to be recognized.”
In keeping with their philosophy of humility and service, Heather Furlong works without a salary for the Furlong Foundation. Unlike many non-profits where executives receive compensation, Heather’s decision to forgo a salary is a testament to her genuine commitment to the cause. This selfless approach underscores the foundation’s mission: to help struggling families without seeking personal gain.
Through the Furlong Foundation, Joe and Heather have demonstrated that generosity and kindness know no bounds. Their contributions to local institutions, their dedication to supporting families in need, and their commitment to creating positive change have made them pillars of their community. The Furlong Foundation’s work serves as a model for how individuals can make a significant impact on the lives of others, regardless of their financial situation.
The foundation’s mission aligns with the values that Heather and Joe have carried throughout their lives. By assisting families in times of crisis, the Furlongs are not only providing financial support but also offering hope and security. Families facing the threat of eviction or the inability to pay their utility bills often feel overwhelmed, but with the help of the Furlong Foundation, they are given a lifeline—a chance to regain stability and avoid the hardships that could otherwise disrupt their lives.
The Furlong Foundation is one of the many ways that Joe and Heather continue to give back to their community. Their ongoing philanthropic work has already helped countless families in New Hampshire and beyond, and their commitment to making a difference remains unwavering. As they continue to support those in need, the Furlongs serve as an inspiration to others who may be looking for ways to give back.
Through their work, Joe and Heather Furlong embody the spirit of community service and the belief that even small acts of kindness can create lasting change. As they continue their charitable efforts through the Furlong Foundation, they remain committed to their mission of helping families facing financial hardships, ensuring that every family has a safe and warm place to call home.
For more information about the Furlong Foundation or to support their mission, visit Victory High School, TreasureBoxUSA, and Sun Pro America.