Incredible things are possible when we work together.

What difference is my support making? Who is it helping?

This is a fair question for any of our supporters to ask. In this section, we will share our stories with you while maintaining complete confidentiality. We will keep you updated on the activities in our various programs, including success stories of those whom we have helped, special events in which our programs participate, and any commendations that our staff receives.

Drumming Together: Celebrating Black History Month at C+FS

The word "Djembe" means "together," and what better way to celebrate Black History Month than by learning to play the Djembe drum? Recently, C+FS staff gathered in the gymnasium for an immersive educational and musical experience. Youssou Lo, an instructor from the African American Cultural Center, taught everyone how to play various instruments and shared…
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February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and Child and Family Services (C+FS) Haven House took an active role by visiting the Orchard Park Central School District. Alicia Stark, Development Manager, and Bailie Murty, Youth Trafficking Prevention Program Coordinator, delivered presentations to students across various grade levels, focusing on Teen Dating Violence and fostering healthy…
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Congratulations Leadership Development Cohort 4!

Last week, the Child and Family Services (C+FS) Leadership Development Program’s fourth cohort graduated and earned their certificates for completing the four-week training program. The Leadership Development Program is designed to help leaders learn new skills, increase leadership competencies, gain new perspectives and become more self-aware to be more effective in their roles. Individuals are…
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February is Black History Month

February is Black History Month (BHM) – a time to commemorate and reflect on African American life, history and culture. To fully embrace the impact Black people have had on U.S. history, Carter G. Woodson, one of the founders of BHM, decided to incorporate different themes every year. Child and Family Services’ (C+FS) DEI Committee…
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Stanley G. Falk Sixth Graders Become Published Authors

Mrs. Jessica Ecker, Sixth Grade Teacher at Stanley G. Falk School’s Roosevelt campus, discovered the Young Writers SOS Saga Collection competition and thought it was a great opportunity for her students to practice their creative writing skills. This year, sixteen students were selected to become published authors and have their story featured in the collection.…
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Thank You Toyland Donors!

Child and Family Services Haven House Toyland drive was once again a success thanks to the generosity of our donors! Held annually during the holiday season, Toyland helps support Haven House’s emergency shelter throughout the year by providing essential resources. “Without Toyland’s assistance, our clients may not be able to provide gifts to their children…
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Tips for Overcoming New Year Challenges from a C+FS Counselor

The new year often brings a wide range of emotions and expectations, which can lead to various challenges. We spoke with Kiara Dreyer, Mental Health Counselor at Child and Family Services, about suggested strategies to overcome these common struggles. Here is what Kiara had to say.  Following the holidays, many individuals experience “Post-Holiday Blues.” Strategies…
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C+FS Harold Tabi-Mensah and Yeli Colon Receive NYS Coalition for Children’s Behavioral Health’s Employee of the Year Award

The NYS Coalition for Children’s Behavioral Health recognized Child and Family Services’ (C+FS) Harold Tabi-Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Yeli Colon, Food Service and Custodial Team Leader at Conners Children Center, as Employee of the Year Award at their annual celebration. Harold started working for the Youth Assertive Community Treatment (Act) Program at C+FS in…
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Amazon Helps Spread Holiday Cheer During Adopt-a-Family 2024

This holiday season, Child and Family Services (C+FS) is once again decking the halls and collecting gifts for the annual Adopt-a-Family Program. This event supports children, families and individuals throughout the Agency programs who need some extra holiday cheer during what’s often a difficult time. This year, over 250 donors were matched with over 200…
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A Dream Come True for the Stewart Family – Xavier is Adopted!

Becoming foster parents was a dream come true for Michael and Demetrius Stewart. Both knew early in their lives that they wanted to be a foster parent. Demetrius grew up in the foster care system and nine of Michael’s family members were adopted. A year ago, Michael and Demtrius connected with Child and Family Services…
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Elizabeth McPartland Celebrates 25 Years at C+FS

Please join us in congratulating Elizabeth McPartland, President and CEO, on her 25th anniversary at Child and Family Services (C+FS). Elizabeth has held multiple positions in different departments throughout her 25 years of service, allowing her to grow professionally and personally without leaving the organization. Elizabeth started her C+FS journey in June 1999 as a…
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National Adoption Month: Hillary and Nicholas Become a Forever Family

In a heartwarming celebration, Hillary Banas officially adopted her son, Nicholas, during National Adoption Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of finding permanent homes for children. Nicholas was an infant when he came into Hillary’s life. Now, at four year’s old, they officially become mother and son. The crowd in the…
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