“Our nation’s children are our greatest asset and our most precious treasure.”
~ Christopher Dodd
Every child deserves an opportunity to reach for the stars; a chance to make their dreams come true; a family to support and encourage them along the way. Families are the foundation of our community and children are our collective progeny and most treasured resource. Unfortunately, recent statistics show that about one in five U.S. children live in poverty. Children are in jeopardy when their families are vulnerable and communities are fragile. Families First’s mission is built around strengthening families. If we encircle families with the necessary support and resources to be successful, children will thrive and flourish and communities will be transformed in the process.
Over time, creating a positive, supportive cycle between the community, families and children will help to break the intergenerational cycles of poverty, hopelessness and failure. This year, Families First served 43,330 individuals through more than thirty programs — nearly 3,000 more individuals than last year. Our reach is a tribute to our continual efforts to enhance and expand the ways we serve the community. What if those 43,330 people served, were then able to reach another 43,330 people just by sharing what they gained from Families First? Ultimately, our efforts to strengthen families and build strong communities will have exponential impact.
As 2011 comes to a close, the impact that Families First has made in the lives of children and families through our programs is undeniable. A young man in one of our Permanency Cooperatives graduated from high school and now attends college. A young Spanish speaking mother was able receive support for herself and her newborn son. A man with a mental illness is now able to manage his depression and live a fulfilling life. Thousands of people were empowered to dream bigger, to accomplish more, and to become better individuals. Take a look around you. What if you could help to build a stronger community by empowering individuals and families?
Join us in 2012 as we continue to fulfill our mission to ensure the success of children in jeopardy by empowering families. Our goal is to continue to implement strategies and solutions that are reproductive; not just by us, but also by the clients and communities we serve every day. A gift you make to Families First today will keep on giving throughout 2012 and can have an exponential return. The impact of your support is far reaching! Each dollar goes toward making sure every child that we serve has the support necessary to grow strong and will help strengthen families and transform lives.
What if you could help to change the course of a child’s life?
Make 2012 a year of great change for children and families in need.
HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM FAMILIES FIRST!
Kim Anderson
To donate, go to www.familiesfirst.org/donate.
P.S. View our 2011 Annual Report and Annual Outcomes report online at www.familiesfirst.org/annualreports.
Families First, Inc. 