Forefront Awarded BEST PLACE TO WORK in Southeast Michigan
What makes a business truly successful? Of course, financial performance matters. But great companies know that success isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about people. The most successful organizations invest in their teams, create a culture where employees feel valued, and build strong relationships across the board.
That’s why we’re excited to share some big news: Forefront has been named the #1 Best Place to Work in Southeast Michigan by Crain’s Detroit Business. We ranked first in the Large Business category and also took home the #1 overall spot across all company sizes.
This honor is a proud moment for the entire Forefront team.
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FOREFRONT PARTNERS WITH ARMY PAYS From Service to Success
Emma Charen | Content & Design Coordinator
On July 24, 2025, Forefront proudly hosted a special signing ceremony at its corporate office to mark the official launch of its partnership with the U.S. Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYS) Program. The event was led by Sergeant First Class Somers and Lieutenant Colonel McCart, with Forefront Co-Founders Dan Bowen, CEO, and Ryan Williams, COO, joining to celebrate this important milestone.
Phil Rode and James Michael from the office of U.S.
Representative John James, representing Michigan’s 10th congressional district, were also in attendance to show their support for the collaboration.
The ceremony highlighted the shared values between Forefront and the U.S. Army, emphasizing the program’s mission of helping transitioning service members move into meaningful civilian careers. Lieutenant Colonel McCart opened the event with remarks underscoring the natural connection: “If you look at Forefront… I can’t think of a corporation or an industry that matches better with the military. We’re talking about the facilities industry, medical, culinary... everything that they do is a job we have.”
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Heather Torrey
It marks our second time earning the top spot, following our 2023 recognition. It’s a clear reflection of our ongoing commitment to building an environment where people can thrive, grow, and genuinely enjoy their work.
Crain’s recognition process, run in partnership with Workforce Research Group, is both thorough and data-driven. Companies are evaluated through two main components: an employer questionnaire (worth 20% of the score), and an anonymous employee engagement survey (worth 80%). The survey digs deep into topics like workplace culture, leadership, satisfaction, development opportunities, and overall employee experience.
Out of hundreds of applicants, 92 companies made the 2025 list. Forefront stood out for our focus on employee well-being, professional development, and community engagement. Here are just a few reasons why:
WELCOME
TO FOREFRONT’S INSIDER NEWSLETTER
Employee-Centered Perks
From pet-friendly offices and catered meals prepared by corporate chefs to unique experiences like sporting events and community volunteer opportunities during work hours.
Professional Growth
Certification support, and development programs that help team members advance their careers.
Wellness & Support
Comprehensive benefits including bereavement and counseling services, financial support programs, and identity theft protection.
Community Impact
A strong commitment to volunteerism and social responsibility that allows employees to give back to their communities.
Earning the #1 spot on Crain’s list is more than a recognition. It’s a celebration of who we are and what we value. At Forefront, we believe that when employees are supported and inspired, great work follows.
As we celebrate this milestone, we also stay focused on the future. We’re continuing to grow, learn, and evolve but always with the goal of being a place where people love to work, every single day.
Welcome to The Insider, our newsletter designed to bring our team closer together. At Forefront, we believe that staying connected is key to our success, especially as we grow and deliver diverse support services across the country. With our team spread out over 20 states and across multiple industries, it’s not always possible to interact face-to-face. That’s where The Insider comes in — our platform to enhance communication, build connections, and keep everyone informed and engaged.
Through this newsletter, we’ll share updates, highlight team achievements, and spotlight the amazing work happening across all corners of the company. Our hope is that The Insider becomes a valuable resource and a team-building tool for everyone at Forefront. Together, we’ll stay informed, connected, and inspired as we continue making an impact.
A Personal Connection
The significance of this partnership is underscored by Kevin Arpino’s own military background. Enlisting in the U.S. Army in 2015 as a Human Resources Specialist (42A), Kevin served for 7 years and 6 months across four overseas tours, including a combat deployment to Afghanistan. From South Korea to Hawaii, he supported aviation units, collaborated with the Republic of Korea Army, and contributed to missions that advanced both national and international security.
His experience highlights the challenges service members often face when transitioning to civilian careers. Beyond the logistics of relocating and adjusting to a new environment, many veterans struggle to find roles that align with their military skills while also redefining their purpose outside of uniform. Programs like Army PaYS help bridge that gap, creating a smoother and more successful transition.
Looking Ahead
Forefront’s partnership with Army PaYS is more than a recruiting initiative. It reflects a deep commitment to supporting those who have served the nation by offering them meaningful civilian careers and a welcoming community. Veterans bring with them leadership, discipline, and a missiondriven mindset, qualities that align closely with Forefront’s own values and culture.
As Forefront continues to grow, this partnership will not only strengthen our workforce but also honor the service of the men and women who have dedicated themselves to protecting our country. By standing alongside Army PaYS, we are proud to play a role in helping veterans build their next chapter with purpose, opportunity, and success.
If you look at Forefront, I can’t think of a corporation or an industry that matches better with the military.
- Lieutenant Colonel McCart
FROM THE CEO’s Desk
Dan Bowen | Co-Founder & CEO
Early Insight
Beginning in 2026, we are launching “Vision 2030” a strategy and transformation initiative designed to strengthen our ability to serve clients and drive longterm, profitable growth. Our goal is to evolve into an integrated, industry-focused organization and become the leader in delivering exceptional culinary and support
FROM THE COO’s Desk
It is hard to believe that on November 8 of this year, Forefront will celebrate its 6th anniversary of our first dollar in revenue with the signing of United Zion in Lititz. PA in November of 2019. We are proud to have expanded our services with United Zion and continue to serve them as a valuable client and reference today.
solutions in sectors where we have, or can build a competitive advantage.
“Vision 2030” & Key Priorities
We have begun a strategic review informed by feedback from employees, clients, and industry experts, as well as analysis of markets and competitors. Early findings show a rapidly changing marketplace where clients expect deeper industry understanding and more tailored solutions. To meet these expectations, the Forefront of the future must operate differently than today.
Our “Vision 2030” focuses on several priorities:
• Profitable Growth: Focus on industries where we can differentiate through service and quality to grow profitably.
• Industry Focus: Align teams around industry-specific solutions to enhance sales and delivery.
• Consistent Excellence: Standardize best practices in account, labor, and safety management while driving continuous improvement.
• Operational Cost Management: Use our buying power to manage costs more efficiently.
• Employee Investment: Expand training and career development opportunities.
• Technology & AI: Advance data management, client insights, and service delivery.
We are in the early stages of this initiative and will share updates as we progress. Together, we’ll continue delivering the quality and commitment our clients expect while shaping the next chapter of Forefront’s growth.
Dan Bowen Co-Founder & CEO
As we have reflected on our journey over the past 5 1/2 to 6 years, we are very proud of what Forefront and our entire team has accomplished!
Yet, it is through this reflection that we are turning all of our attention, efforts, and energy to plan for the future. All of the executives in the company are in the process of completing extremely detailed growth plans for the next five years. It is through this planning process That we will ensure that we have the appropriate infrastructure and support to be able to continue to advance quality and outcomes with our existing clients while continuing to foster a growing company.
We are also reflecting on all of our organizational behaviors and practices. How we support customer charity events, how and where we travel as an organization, the summer BBQ series
are all being evaluated to ensure we are providing the best experience possible for our clients while still allowing Forefront to first and foremost be laser focused on the blocking and tackling of operations.
This planning process will also address and ensure that we are a forward thinking organization that is truly on the “Forefront” in each of our service lines as it relates to planning for the needs of our clients well into the future. This will relate to technology, programs and personnel.
We’ve had such a great journey and are extremely happy with the team that surrounds us as we look forward to the future! Please join us in embracing and supporting this exciting effort!
Ryan Williams Co-Founder & COO
Ryan Williams | Co-Founder & COO
FOREFRONT’S
NEW PARTNERS
JUNE
- OCTOBER 2025
Wellspring
Saginaw, Frankenmuth & Monroe, MI
Culinary Services
Since 1893, Wellspring has been a trusted nonprofit in Michigan. With a deep commitment to compassionate care, Wellspring provides a wide range of services, including senior living, memory care, hospice, behavioral health, and foster care & more.
Maria Joseph Danville, PA
Culinary Services
Maria Joseph Continuing Care Community is the “Home with a Heart”, that provides independent living, personal care, memory care, short-term rehab, skilled nursing care, and hospice care to those in need. It is sponsored by the Sisters of St. Cyril and Methodius.
Lino Lakes, MN
Culinary Services
Lyngblomsten is a Christian nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of older adults through compassionate care, innovative services, and vibrant community connections. Nestled in the serene setting of Lino Lakes, Lyngblomsten provides a range of senior living options and programs tailored to meet diverse needs.
Lyngblomsten
VALUES WORK AT
SERVICE EXCELLENCE INTEGRITY
We create tailored experiences and solutions at unmatched value that exceed expectations.
Forefront recognizes Klaundreia Moten, Environmental Services Team Lead at Miller County, for her outstanding Service Excellence.
From her very first day, Klaundreia has gone above and beyond in every aspect of her role. She began as a housekeeper and quickly rose to Team Leader, demonstrating a commitment to exceptional service for both residents and colleagues. Klaundreia engages daily with warmth and professionalism, building strong relationships and stepping in without hesitation when others need support.
Her presence reflects integrity, loyalty, and compassion. She constantly looks for ways to strengthen team engagement and works closely with leadership to bring new ideas forward. Whether supporting patients or lifting up a coworker, Klaundreia’s dedication and care make a lasting impact at Miller County. She is not only an asset, but a true example of what Service Excellence means.
CARING
We are empathetic in our interactions and we are supportive or diverse ideas, people, and perspectives.
We are proud to recognize Brookly Clouse for the outstanding example of caring she sets each day here at MHP Hospital. Caring is at the heart of Forefront’s values, and Brookly consistently demonstrates that through her commitment to excellence, teamwork, and service.
Her positive attitude not only uplifts her team but also creates a culture of compassion and support within Environmental Services. Always willing to step in and help, Brookly shows genuine care for both her coworkers and our patients. This care is also evident in the details of her work, her room inspections rarely require correction, reflecting her
commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for those we serve.
Brookly extends her caring nature as our go-to trainer, making sure new team members feel supported, valued, and confident in their roles. She frequently volunteers for extra shifts and looks for ways to strengthen the department, always keeping the well-being of her team and patients in mind. Her dedication, compassion, and collaborative spirit make her a true example of what it means to live out the value of caring every day.
We are principled, honest, respectful, trustworthy, and ethical.
We are proud to recognize Natalie Breault, Operational Excellence, Registered Dietitian, for the integrity she demonstrates in every aspect of her work. Integrity is one of our most important values, and Natalie lives it out daily through her accountability, respect, teamwork, and willingness to help wherever she is needed.
She consistently steps up to support, whether it’s openings, proposals, or wellness demos, and does so with honesty, reliability, and professionalism. Natalie’s integrity shines not only in the way she provides nutrition care to patients but also in how she supports her colleagues during events and initiatives.
Her consistent commitment to doing what is right, even when it requires extra effort, makes her a trusted and respected member of the team. We are grateful for all that Natalie does and for the example of integrity she sets for those around her.
Integrity. Tenacity. Service Excellence. Creativity. Safety. Caring.
Klaundreia Moten Environmental Services Team Lead
Natalie Breault Registered Dietitian
Brookly Clouse Environmental Services
WHAT’S HAPPENING
REDSTONE APPRECIATION PICNIC MAKES A SPLASH
Redstone celebrated its Employee Appreciation Picnic with a fun and charitable twist. Staff and residents had the chance to donate to the benevolent fund in exchange for an attempt to “sink” members of leadership in the dunk tank. Leaders including Geoff Gehring, Executive Campus Director Stephanie Goga, and PC Manager Stefanie Lauffer stepped up for the cause, but it was Clifton George who reportedly raised the most money, making a big splash for a good cause.
FOURTH OF JULY BARBECUE HONORS EVS TEAM
Raymond Ailstock hosted a special Fourth of July barbecue today to show appreciation for his hardworking EVS team. The event was a chance to recognize their dedication and the vital role they play in keeping the hospital running smoothly. Ailstock took to the grill himself, while hospital executives joined in the celebration. The day was filled with good food, meaningful conversations, and well-deserved recognition.
FOREFRONT HOSTS SMOKER EVENT AT SARAH REED
Forefront hosted a Smoker event at Sarah Reed in Erie, PA, receiving wonderful feedback from attendees. Special thanks went to Chris G., Tim Kern, and Chef Steve Kukuda for their leadership and culinary expertise. The menu featured smoked chili, Italian sausage, pulled smoked chicken, pineapple cake, and all the fixings, creating a delicious spread that brought together departments across Sarah Reed. Great work to the entire team!
SPRING HARBOR HOSTS ANNUAL SUMMER FARMER’S MARKET
Spring Harbor in Columbus, Ga hosted their annual “Summer Farmer’s Market. Residents and staff had a wide variety of fresh seasonal produce to choose from. Executive Chef Marc DiMitri, prepared several homemade goodies ranging from decadent donuts, jams, jumbo cookies, and his famous focaccia bread.
The week of September 14, we celebrated our Environmental Services teams and the incredible work they do to keep our communities safe, clean, and welcoming. Each team brought their own style to the week, whether it was decorating workspaces, hosting fun activities, or organizing team gatherings.
To make the celebration even more exciting, we selected winners for the most spirited sites. Congratulations to all the teams who went above and beyond to bring energy, creativity, and joy to EVS Week. Your dedication not only keeps our environments safe and comfortable, but also creates a positive experience for everyone who visits.
Thank you to all our EVS teams for your hard work and for making a difference every single day.
Major Health Partners
Director Raymond Ailstock
Barrett Hospital & Healthcare Director Matthew Lunsford Duncan Regional Health Director Daisy Cunningham
Homes of Georgia (Quitman)
Director Robert Lederman
FROM THE KITCHEN
Improving Care Through Real-Time Feedback: How QR Code Surveys Are Transforming Patient and Resident Satisfaction
Brian Jackowski | Regional Director Operations
In our ongoing commitment to quality and excellence, we recently implemented a new QR code-based survey system to gather real-time feedback from patients and residents. This simple, tech-forward approach has already proven to be a powerful tool in enhancing satisfaction, responsiveness, and service delivery across our care facilities.
The QR code survey allows patients, residents, and their families to quickly share their experiences using their smartphones. Whether it’s feedback on clinical care with our RD rounds or our food service Nutrition teams, the ease and accessibility of the system have led to increased participation and more timely input.
One of the most significant benefits of this approach is the ability to collect and review data in real time. This has empowered our teams to respond quickly to concerns or suggestions, often resolving issues the same day they’re reported. Real-time responsiveness not only improves satisfaction but also builds trust with the people we serve.
Additionally, the data is automatically compiled into easy-to-read graphs and dashboards. This feature enables our leadership teams to analyze trends, identify service gaps, and align performance with our service line objectives more efficiently. The graphical representation also makes it simple to share insights and progress with our clients during review meetings and reports, enhancing transparency and communication.
Ultimately, the QR code survey system is more than just a feedback tool—it’s a driver of continuous improvement. By streamlining data collection and enhancing our ability to act on insights, we are better positioned to deliver exceptional care and services that meet the evolving needs of our patients and residents. As we continue to refine this process, we expect even greater improvements in satisfaction and outcomes across all levels of care.
RECIPES FEATURED
Cranberry Chicken
1 Cup Frozen Cranberries
1/2 cup Cranberry Juice
1/4 Cup Cornstarch
2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
1 tsp Nutmeg
2 tsp Black Ground Pepper
4 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
1 tsp Olive Oil
Directions:
1. Combine juices, spices, cornstarch, and cranberries; mix well. Set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium high heat, sear the chicken breasts in a teaspoon of olive oil. Brown for about
3. 2 1/2 minutes per side. Remove from heat and place in a baking dish.
4. Pour the cranberry mixture over the chicken and bake until the sauce has thickened and the chicken reaches 165 degrees internal. Remove from the oven and let rest covered for ten minutes.
5. 5 Serve: Ladle pan sauce over chicken.
Bright, comforting flavors this quarter: cranberry-glazed chicken paired with zesty lemon-smashed potatoes and roasted carrots. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Roasted Carrots
2 lb Carrots
1 Tbsp Kosher Salt
1/4 Cup Olive Oil
1lb Yellow Onion
1 tsp Black Ground Pepper
Directions:
1. Cut Carrots into bite sized pieces (DO NOT PEEL)
2. Chop Onions and add to carrots. Toss with oil, salt, and pepper
3. Arrange carrots in baking pan(s)
4. Bake at 425F for 30-35 min or until lightly browned, and tender. Cooking times will vary based on size of cuts.
Lemon Smashed Potatoes
1 lb Red Potatoes
1 tsp Kosher Salt
2 tsp Pepper, Black Ground
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
Fresh Parsley
Directions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, with 2 tbsp salt. Add potatoes, and boil until quite tender, but not falling apart. Drain
2. Place potato in mixing bowl. Add remaining ingredients. Using a masher or fork smash the potatoes.
3. Do not over smash (chunks are fine) Place in baking pans
4. 4 Bake for 30 minutes, until crispy. Meanwhile,
5. 5 After the potatoes are out of the oven, sprinkle with the bacon and cheese.
HAVE YOU TRIED ONE OF OUR RECIPES?
Scan the QR code to share a photo of a recipe you’ve tried from the Insider Newsletter or from our FreshFocus kits! We’d love to feature it in an upcoming issue of The Insider.
FOCUS
Culinary Services FOCUS
In our Focus section, catch up with stories that highlight the incredible work happening across Forefront, with an insider’s peek into our culinary, environmental services, facility management, government, marketing, and IT departments.
Providing a safe, sanitary, and nutritious environment for our residents and patients is at the heart of what we do. Regulatory compliance isn’t just a rulebook - it’s a commitment to protecting the residents and patients we serve. In the kitchen, this means we constantly balance creating an exceptional dining experience with meeting strict regulatory standards.
We must always be prepared for the survey, not just when the survey team shows up. It’s imperative that we continuously educate our associates on the regulations and standards set by the Joint Commission and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS).
Our dedicated team of Registered Dietitians - Aubrey Marsh, Danielle Weber, Sarah Edwards, Nicole Tagge, Barb Hailstone, Kristi House, and Natalie Breaultutilized their regulatory knowledge, clinical expertise, and operational experience to create an educational tool. The new tool includes a detailed presentation of each regulation as well as mock survey audits. The goal of this tool is to raise awareness of each regulation, Forefront tools and policies associated with each regulation, and prepare our teams for what to expect during a survey. These tools should be part of the daily huddles and monthly in-service training ensuring we are always “survey ready”.
This quarter, we successfully rolled out the Joint Commission tools, following the CMS tools that were introduced in 2024. This initiative will improve the survey process and give our teams more confidence when being evaluated. Let’s continue to work together to uphold the highest standards of safety and care for our residents and patients.
Environmental Services FOCUS
ATP Testing: Clean You Can See and Prove
Susan Waller | Director Administrative Operations
Because looking clean isn’t enough, Forefront takes it a step further. That’s why we have partnered with Hygiena, a leader in sanitation technology, to bring ATP testing into our Environmental Services program. This advanced tool helps us prove that our cleaning goes beyond appearances to deliver a truly safe environment.
So, what is ATP testing?
ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is a molecule found in all living cells. Its presence on a surface indicates that organic materials or microorganisms remain, even if the area appears clean. This scientific approach ensures that every surface is truly sanitized.
Using a swab and handheld luminometer, we check hightouch surfaces like bed rails, call buttons, door handles and bathroom fixtures. The swab is activated with a special enzyme solution that reacts with ATP, producing light through bioluminescence. The meter measures the amount of light in Relative Light Units (RLUs), which correlates to the level of organic residue present. Within 15 seconds, the meter provides a score showing whether the surface meets our strict cleanliness standards. Surfaces that fall above the acceptable threshold are re-cleaned and retested immediately.
Why it matters
Trust you can see: ATP testing provides objective proof that spaces are as clean as they look.
Safety first: Detecting invisible residue helps reduce the spread of germs.
Continuous improvement: Real-time results allow our teams to adjust cleaning methods and track effectiveness over time.
ATP testing supports our broader mission of creating healthy environments that promote care, healing, and better living. By combining expert training with innovative tools, we give residents, patients, and families added reassurance that their safety is our top priority.
Fun Fact: An ATP meter is so sensitive it can detect even the tiniest traces of organic matter after a surface looks spotless.
Facility Management
Staying Ready: Emergency Management in Facilities Management
Susan Waller | Director Administrative Operations
At Forefront, safety isn’t just a core value, it’s reflected in how we prepare, how we respond, and how we look out for one another every day.
Emergencies don’t wait for the right time. A power outage in the middle of a busy shift, a severe storm with little warning, or even a small equipment failure can quickly become a bigger issue. For our Facilities Management associates, being prepared is part of the job.
Every facility has an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which outlines exactly what to do during different situations, from weather events to utility failures. Reviewing the EOP regularly and understanding how each role fits into the bigger picture is key. When everyone knows their responsibilities, response times improve and risks are reduced.
Facilities are also required to put preparedness into practice. At least once
a year, facilities conduct an emergency exercise, sometimes involving an influx of actual or simulated patients/ residents. In addition, each facility participates in a community-wide drill. A designated leader is assigned to monitor these exercises to ensure they run smoothly and provide valuable lessons.
Facilities Management plays an equally important role in prevention. Routine inspections, ongoing maintenance, and quick attention to hazards can often stop emergencies before they start. A leaking pipe, a faulty alarm, or an obstructed exit are more than inconveniences, they are potential risks.
Preparation also comes down to the basics. Do you know where the nearest
fire extinguisher is? Can you point out the designated shelter area in your building? Are hallways, stairwells, and exits clear of clutter? These small details matter when seconds count.
Drills and training sessions may not always feel urgent, but they are what prepare us for the real thing. The more seriously we take practice, the more confident and effective we are when it matters most. At Forefront, safety isn’t just a core value, it’s reflected in how we prepare, how we respond, and how we look out for one another every day.
FOCUS
Information Technology
Think Before You Click: How to Spot a Fake Website
Parker Forrest | IT Support Specialist
Every day, millions of people open links, tabs, and websites without hesitation. Malicious actors can take advantage of this by creating fake websites that closely mimic legitimate ones. These websites are designed to trick you, steal your information, or infect your computer with viruses. Do not worry; staying safe online is easier than you think!
By looking out for these common signs, you can stop yourself from falling victim: Website addresses (URLs) that look odd or misspelled (like amaz0n.com). Personal information without showing a lock icon next to the web address. Any pop-ups or scary messages like “Your computer is infected!” “Too good to be true” offers on the websites that offer unbelievable deals, free prizes, or any urgent countdowns to “claim your reward.” Strange designs or grammar on the website often indicate it’s fake due to having spelling mistakes, outdated logos, or sloppy layouts.
Safety FOCUS
What’s Hot in Safety Right Now
Pete Shworles | Corporate Director Safety
Mental Health = Real Safety
Feeling stressed or burned out? You’re not alone. We’re rolling out new ways to support mental wellness—from chill zones to quick breathing breaks. A clear mind keeps your body safe, too.
Gear That Fits YOU
No more one-size-fits-none. Your safety gear should fit, feel, and work right. Notice something off? Speak up—we’ve got your back.
Safety by the Numbers
Trends show slips, trips, and strains are still the top troublemakers. Keep your eyes open, your shoes grippy, and your lifting smart.
Staying alert and using a little extra caution, you can protect yourself and the company from falling victim to online threats. Cybercriminals rely on users’ trusting nature and desire for convenience; taking just a few extra seconds to verify a website can make all the difference. Safe browsing is something we all play a role in. If something feels off, trust your instincts and do not hesitate to reach out to the IT team for help. Together, we can keep our digital environment safe and secure!
Q4 Safety Goals You Can Actually Hit
Spot It, Report It: Wet floors, broken gear, weird smells— report it fast. Quick reports = fast fixes.
Stretch It Out: Take 60 seconds before your shift to stretch. Your muscles will thank you.
Buddy Up: Watch out for your crew. If someone looks tired or off, check in. Safety is a team sport.
End-of-Year Bonus Tip
Want to go home safe every day? Treat safety like your favorite playlist: keep it on repeat. The more you practice, the smoother it gets.
FOCUS
Government
Forefront Government Services Begins Operations at Naval Air Station
Lemoore Under New O&M
Contract
Todd Solgat | Corporate Director Growth Marketing
Forefront Government Services is proud to announce the commencement of a new Operations and Maintenance (O&M) contract at Naval Air Station (NAS) Lemoore, California, supporting the Naval Health Clinic Lemoore and associated medical facilities. The contract, awarded on July 22, included a 30-day transition period, with full operations officially beginning August 1, 2025.
This contract is a result of Forefront’s successful award under a Multiple Award Task Order Contract (MATOC) through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Little Rock District. Under the task order, Forefront will provide comprehensive operations, maintenance, repair, and facility management services at Defense Health Agency (DHA) Medical Treatment Facilities (MTFs) on base.
Scope of Work
Forefront is responsible for delivering all required labor, materials, tools, vehicles, supervision, subcontractor management, and compliance reporting necessary to fulfill the O&M scope. All services will be performed in accordance with the contract’s Performance Work Statement (PWS), as well as industry regulations including NFPA, The Joint Commission (TJC), and DHA standards.
About NAS Lemoore
Commissioned in 1961, NAS Lemoore is a critical hub for Navy aviation. It is home to the Commander Strike Fighter Wing Pacific and hosts more than half of the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet. It is the only Navy installation that houses the F-35C Lightning II, with over 210,000 flight operations annually. The base generates nearly $947 million annually for the local economy and supports approximately 8,500 jobs in Kings County and the surrounding area.
“We are honored to serve the mission at NAS Lemoore and proud to support the operational readiness of its medical infrastructure,” said Ace Burt, of Forefront. “This award reflects our team’s expertise and commitment to delivering reliable, high-compliance support in defense environments.”
Forefront Government Services continues to grow its government facilities portfolio with a focus on excellence, safety, and mission readiness.
Marketing
Listening, Learning, Elevating
Will Hawkins | Corporate Director Brand & Field Marketing
Who is Forefront? What friction points are our teams facing? What do we need to protect as we grow? These are the questions I’ve been exploring in my Discovery Tour during my first 90 days with Forefront.
At nearly six years since being founded, we’re at an inflection point. We’re no longer the “shiny new penny,” as Dan Bowen likes to say. We’ve reached a size where it’s important to pause, step back, and assess—who we are today, what makes us different, and where gaps may exist that could hold us back from the next stage of growth.
That’s the purpose of the Discovery Tour. I’ve visited more than 30 accounts across the country and had over 100 oneon-one conversations—from front line to founders. I’ve spent time with our teams, attended QBRs, joined catering events and grand openings, tasted our food, walked our buildings, and sat across from our clients. Each experience has provided valuable insight into our operations, culture, and client relationships—what makes Forefront unique and where we can strengthen how we show up.
As Corporate Director of Brand and Field Marketing, my role connects the story we tell with the experiences people have with Forefront at the site level. On the brand side, these insights guide how we communicate with authenticity, clarity, and differentiation. On the field side, they shape how we show up through program identities, communication, signage, and experiences that build awareness and strengthen
relationships. At the end of the day, our brand is the thoughts and feelings people associate with Forefront—shaped through every interaction.
The takeaways from this tour will help shape company strategy and guide how we elevate both our brand and our service. I’m grateful to everyone who contributed and excited to share more soon. While the tour may be complete, the commitment to elevate every day is something we continue to live out together.
FOCUS
Human Resources
Forefront Academy Launches: Investing in Our People, Strengthening Our Future
Amy McCreary | Senior VP Human Resources
We are excited to announce the official launch of Forefront Academy, our new learning and development platform designed to support the growth, success, and career journeys of our associates.
At Forefront, we believe that our people are the heart of our organization. Forefront Academy was built on the idea that when we invest in our associates, we not only strengthen individual careers but also enhance the service and care we provide to our clients, patients, residents, and communities.
What is Forefront Academy?
Forefront Academy is a centralized hub for professional growth, offering a wide range of learning opportunities tailored to the needs of our associates. From leadership development programs and technical training to compliance modules and wellness resources, the Academy is designed to meet employees where they are and help them reach their goals.
Why It Matters
The launch of Forefront Academy reflects our commitment to:
Empowerment:
Equipping associates with the tools, skills, and confidence to succeed.
Excellence:
Raising the bar on service, care, and performance across the organization.
Career Growth:
Creating pathways for advancement and long-term success.
Culture of Learning:
Encouraging curiosity, development, and continuous improvement.
What’s Next
The first wave of offerings includes:
• Core compliance and onboarding courses
• Specialized training modules tailored to different departments
• Access to personal development and wellness resources
• As the Academy continues to grow, more content will be added, including leadership development, mentorship, and wellness/personal growth learning experiences.
A Shared Commitment
Forefront Academy is more than a platform—it’s a promise to our associates that we are committed to their personal and professional success. By creating an environment where learning and growth are prioritized, we are building stronger teams, stronger leaders, and a stronger Forefront.
We look forward to seeing the incredible impact Forefront Academy will have on our people and our organization.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
As we approach the end of the year, the HR team would like to share a few important reminders to help you close out 2025 smoothly and prepare for the year ahead.
Benefits & Open Enrollment
If you made changes to your benefits during Open Enrollment, those updates took effect on August 1, 2025. Please review your paycheck to ensure your elections were applied correctly.
W-2 and Tax Documents
W-2 forms will be distributed in January 2026. To ensure timely delivery, please verify that your home mailing address and email are up to date in the HR/ Payroll system by December 1, 2025.
Training & Compliance Courses
All outstanding compliance and required training modules must be completed by December 1, 2025. Completing these on time ensures you are in good standing heading into the new year.
Direct Deposit & Payroll Updates
If you’ve recently changed banks or need to update your direct deposit information, please submit those changes as soon as possible to prevent delays in year-end or first-of-the-year payroll processing.
EAP Resources
The holidays can be both joyful and stressful. Please remember that our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is here to provide confidential support and resources for you and your family.
We truly appreciate everything you’ve done this year to make Forefront a great place to work. Your hard work, dedication, and contributions make a difference every day. Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season! Thank You!
CALENDAR of EVENTS
October
4th
Forefront BBQ Tour Lucy Corr Alexandria, VA
7th - 10th
2025 Montana Healthcare Conference Billings, MT
14th - 15th
LeadingAge Pennsylvania Fall Finance Conference Manheim, PA
Stillwater Fall Fest Stillwater, OK
LA
November
2nd - 5th
LeadingAge
MA
Troy Regional Medical Center Troy, AL
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The Insider is Forefront’s quarterly newsletter, published and distributed quarterly. The Insider is designed to bring our team closer together through enhanced communication, connections, and team member engagement. Through this newsletter, we’ll share updates, highlight team achievements, and spotlight amazing work happening across all corners of the company. For more information about content and submissions, contact Emma Charen, Content & Design Coordinator, at emma.charen@oneforefront.com.
Forefront is a specialized culinary and support services company serving mission driven organizations in healthcare, senior living, education and government throughout the United States. Forefront creates healthy, nourishing foods and maintains clean, safe and resilient environments that enhance the lives and communities they serve. For more information about Forefront’s culinary services, environmental services, and facility management, visit www.oneforefront.com.
THE
The Insider is Forefront’s quarterly newsletter, designed to bring our team closer together through enhanced communication, connections, and team member engagement. Through this newsletter, we’ll share updates, highlight team achievements, and spotlight amazing work happening across all corners of the company.
