Jenessa Fillipi is a devoted wife of over 20 years, a proud mother of four, and a visionary leader driven by faith and purpose. With a deep commitment to family and community, she spent 15 years as an elementary school counselor before answering a divinely inspired call to create lasting change. In 2017, she and her husband founded Down Home, a nonprofit dedicated to helping families emerging from homelessness find stability and hope. What began as a single act of service has grown into a powerful movement of immeasurable transformation. Serving as the Executive Director of Down Home, Jenessa continues to lead with passion and conviction. Named the 2024 American Mothers Inc.® National Mother of the Year®, she is a dynamic storyteller who engages, equips, and activates individuals to embrace their own journeys, step boldly into their calling, and make a meaningful impact in the world.
The conference is scheduled for October 30-31, 2025 at Hope Lutheran South Campus in Fargo, ND.
Faith Forward is designed for business leaders, nonprofit professionals, ministry teams, and anyone seeking to strengthen their leadership through faith. Whether you’re leading a company, a church, or your community — you belong here.
Our 2025 theme is inspired by 1 Peter 3:15: "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do it with gentleness and respect." This year, we’ll explore how to lead with hope, courage, and humility in every sphere of life.
