FamiliesFORWARD is a charter United Way agency. The original name was the Ohio Human Society, which was later changed to The Children's Protective Service.

Children's Protective Service, known for over 130 years of service to children and families of Cincinnati, helped to correct conditions which led to abuse and neglect.  In 1993, the Children's Protective Service redirected its efforts to the prevention of abuse and neglect of Cincinnati area children. This new mission required innovative programming that would encourage families to realize potential as responsible, self-sufficient, and productive citizens.

From this Familes FORWARD, the prevention program designed to strengthen family functioning, was born.