Riverbend Family Ministries
2007–2010 | Laying the Foundation
2007
Riverbend Family Ministries (RFM) was founded by Tammy Iskarous, whose vision was to bring organizations together under one roof to better serve families in crisis across the Riverbend region. What began as an idea rooted in collaboration quickly became a growing reality.
2008
RFM officially opened its doors and began serving the community, quickly becoming a hub for collaboration and connection.
2009
Early partnerships were established, and community events and programs began to take shape, expanding RFM’s reach and visibility.
2010
The Client Service Department (CSD) was launched, creating a centralized entry point for individuals and families seeking support and resources.
2011–2015 | Building Partnerships & Expanding Services
2011
RFM became an official partner agency of United Way, strengthening its role in the regional network of care.
2012–2013
Programs and services expanded, including training initiatives, therapy space enhancements, and increased community engagement.
2014
Refuge was launched to provide counseling and support for children and families impacted by trauma.
2015
Refuge began serving clients, marking a significant expansion in mental health and trauma-informed services within the RFM network.
2016–2019 | Growth, Recognition & Community Impact
2016
RFM honored the legacy of community leaders who helped shape its early years, reinforcing its commitment to service and partnership.
2017
RFM received the Madison County Model Leadership Through Service Award, recognizing its collaborative approach and impact.
2018
New partnerships continued to grow, including Amare, expanding recovery support services for individuals and families facing addiction.
2019
RFM strengthened its role as a community hub, supporting regional efforts and hosting events that brought people together around a shared mission.
2020
During the COVID-19 pandemic, RFM continued serving clients despite building closures, adapting quickly to meet urgent needs.
The organization also hosted its first virtual banquet, exceeding both operational and capital campaign goals.
2021
Construction began on RFM’s new facility at 144 E. Ferguson Ave., marking a major step forward in expanding capacity.
2022
Despite setbacks, including flooding, progress continued toward completing the new collaborative space designed to house multiple partner agencies.
2023
RFM officially opened its newly renovated facility, bringing multiple nonprofit partners together under one roof to better serve the community.
2024
The collaborative network continued to grow, serving over 5,300 individuals through integrated, wraparound services.
2025
RFM expanded its impact through initiatives like the Daytime Warming Center, responding to urgent community needs.
RFM also welcomed NAMI Southwestern Illinois as a new in-house partner, expanding access to critical mental health services within the collaborative.
Founder and Executive Director Tammy Iskarous announced her plans to retire, marking a significant transition for the organization. Her vision and leadership have shaped RFM from its earliest days into the collaborative model it is today, laying a strong foundation for the future.
Today
RFM serves as a collaborative hub for nonprofit organizations, providing coordinated services, shared resources, and a welcoming space where individuals and families can access the support they need.
Looking Ahead
As RFM continues to grow, the focus remains the same:
bringing organizations together, removing barriers to care, and ensuring every person who walks through the doors is met with dignity, support, and real pathways forward.
Riverbend Family Ministries 