Family-to-Family Celebration Honors Collaboration, Determination, and Love

 

“Just as we know that strong families are the first foundation to protecting children, we also know that families do better when they live in communities that are committed to helping them succeed.”

These words from Franklin County Children Service Executive Director Chip Spinning perfectly set the stage for this year’s National Family Week Celebration hosted by our partners at St. Stephen’s Community House.

The annual event brings together St. Stephen’s, Gladden, and Central Community Houses to join FCCS in recognizing families who participated in the Family-to-Family (F2F) program and used the supportive services offered to overcome obstacles and achieve success.

In cooperation with the local settlement, F2F links families with community partners and service organizations to provide material and employment assistance, counseling, training, and much-needed supports. If successful, families are empowered to stay out of the child welfare system - which means children remain in safe, supportive homes.

“Strong families are the first foundation to protecting children, and tonight we will hear powerful stories of families who are stronger than ever,” added Mr. Spinning. “To our award winners, let me say: you are a source of inspiration, and your stories of success remind us of the power of determination, collaboration, and love.”

Touching stories and expressions of heartfelt sentiments were repeatedly shared by the five Families of the Year and their caseworkers, as selected by the settlement houses. 

They included the Osborne family, who participated in adult and youth groups at St. Stephens Community House North, which helped to improve the family’s overall mental health and financial stability. The caseworker for the Alvarez family at St. Stephen’s Community House East shared how they didn’t let a language barrier prevent them from taking full advantage of classes and support groups. 

The Simmons family worked with the team at St. Stephen’s Community House South to find new housing and employment. And the Etter family committed to taking financial literacy and parenting classes at Central Community House to successfully re-strengthen their family.

The National Family Week Celebration was also an opportunity to thank community partners who collaborate with the settlement houses and FCCS to offer services to F2F clients. They include Mount Carmel Healthy Living Center, which offers wellness programs to families; Gloria Redding, who leads parenting classes; Kathy Jackson, who routinely donates hygiene products; and Alexandria Ingley of Ohio History Connection, who provides access to fun and educational activities. 

Inspirational moments also came when the night’s two spotlight speakers took the stage. 

Elmira Goodgame, a 2009 Family of the Year award winner, shared her story of perseverance in getting and staying sober while providing for her family with the help of Central Community House programs and staff. 

She was preceded by former foster youth and singer Gabrielle Solange, who gave a soul-stirring vocal performance and encouraged the crowd with her story of struggle and gratitude for her achievements.

National Family Week, held each year during the week of Thanksgiving, recognizes the importance of surrounding families with support within their communities. FCCS values families and our community partners who help them be strong.

More pictures from the event are below. More information on F2F can be found by clicking https://saintstephensch.org/family-services/.



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