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Hundreds of children in Lycoming County without families have found forever homes over the past three decades because of the caring professionals at Families United Network near Muncy.
Families United Network is a Pennsylvania nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families by providing children and youth with a safe, nurturing, community environment through a continuum of services focused on reunification or permanency.
Today, Families United Network supports more than 500 children statewide through programs designed to create stronger families and brighter futures.
As Families United Network celebrates 30 years of service, the need for safe, stable, and supportive homes for children remains significant, said Ana Gonzalez-White, recently appointed Director of Development at Families United Network.
She noted how about 12,000 children are in out-of-home care in Pennsylvania each year, including 105 children in Lycoming County, according to available county data.
Families United Network has supported around 130 children in Lycoming County over the past five years and has approved 95 foster homes (since 2011), with about 10 still active today.
Across Pennsylvania, Families United Network maintains 380 licensed foster homes and serves an average of 500 foster children annually.
When asked, White acknowledged that more families are needed, particularly for sibling groups and children with specialized needs, to help children maintain important family, school, and community connections.
Through foster care, kinship care and adoption services, Families United Network works to provide children with safety, stability, and lasting connections.
With 105 employees (four of them part-time), Families United Network remains committed to its mission of: providing – A Better Tomorrow for Children and Families.
Families United Network, which is a premier regional provider of foster care, adoption, and peer support services, recently had a formal launch of its new Development Department.
This strategic initiative is designed to meet the increased demand for child welfare services by building sustainable public-private funding partnerships.
To lead this critical new initiative, White steps into the important role but not without experience as she arrived with more than 25 years of relationship management experience and seven years of proven non-profit growth experience, notably serving as Director of Development and Community Relations for the Journey Bank Community Arts Center in downtown Williamsport.
The need remains great
"Every child deserves a safe, permanent, and nurturing foundation," said Ron Simon, CEO of FUN.
"By establishing a dedicated development program under Ana's leadership, we are giving our community a direct, transparent way to invest in the lives of vulnerable youth. This department will bridge the gap between community generosity and the critical resources our foster and adoptive families need."
In her new role, White will oversee the implementation of the organization's comprehensive fund development infrastructure, focusing on individual relationships, community engagement, and corporate partnerships.
"I am incredibly honored to join Families United Network and help launch the development program in support of the organization's strategic plan and long-term sustainability goals," White said.
"Families United Network has a 30-year stellar legacy of service. I look forward to partnering with community members, local businesses, and foundations who share a passion for child welfare and family advocacy. Together, we can create lasting opportunities and transformational support for the children and families we serve," she said.
Local businesses and community members looking to learn more about giving opportunities and philanthropic partnerships, can contact White at 570-546-6777 x106 or via email at awhite@families4kids.org. Additionally, to learn more, visit families4kids.org, email info@families4kids.org or call 570-546-6777.