I had the pleasure of serving as a Youth Support Specialist in one of the Federation's programs, a volunteer at the annual health fair, and a respite care provider in the program that gives parents a break for a few hours. Muriel Jones and her terrific staff serve families with open hearts. Their engaging work with children and support for parents builds up families with resources to keep them healthy and safe. The Federation of Families helps families to stay together and stand firm against the many pressures in this world that could tear it apart. I highly recommend this organization.
The Federations has played an invaluable role in my life, by offering a lifeline of hope and support in many ways in my life. An understanding, and empowerment to countless my family that has faced a wide range of challenges. Federations is a compassionate non-profit organization that provides a safe space where I can come together to share my experiences, lean on one another to find the strength to navigate life’s complexities. Whether it’s parents of children with special needs, families dealing with children in the legal system or dealing with academic distress. Federations have created a sense of belonging and a network of support. Their dedication and selflessness are truly commendable, as they work to ensure that no family feels alone on their journey.
With love,
Ashley Rogers
I started engaging with the federation during the covid pandemic time-frame through their virtual support groups. This was such a blessing for my life. Working in public health which kept me busy and having some family situation where my grandson unfortunately went through physical abuse by his dad, the support group leaders and members were there for me. The support groups are a wonderful tool for anyone going through difficult times and as a check in. I don't have words to express the impact they had in my life. May this non profit continue assisting so many families in need.
My name is Linda Knarr, I have been blessed since getting involved with the Federation.. I along with so many Mothers, Grandmother's, raising children in to days world,which in its self is very scary at times,but you add mental and behavioral issues with,a person can feel very helpless and isolated. I now enjoy attending are meetings with others that are like me,not being the only one and being helped,mentally and physically,for if mental a person is so stressed,physically it takes a toll on the body. We need the Federation and all the programs that it offers now and future programs that will develop because there is.. Thank You.
I am grateful to have learned about the Federation of Families of Central Florida, Inc. (FFCFL) through the Community and Family Services Department of Orange County in December 2021. As a result of learning about this great organization, I contacted them and obtained their commitment to host my organizations family focused group on the subject matter of behavioral health access for children and youth with special health care needs in Orange County. The focus group was held in the spring of 2022 and was an absolute success, primarily because Ms. Muriel Jones and staff were a gracious host. Families and other stakeholders who attended were made to feel welcomed. I was impressed by her staff who had activities for children of varying age groups who attended the focus group with their parents. The FFCFL is truly an organization dedicated to addressing the needs of families. It is a place where families can go to learn how to access needed services. It is a safe place for our children, and an organization that is very much needed in our community and for many years to come.
Federation of Families simply ROCKS!! Staff are amazing, they serve with knowledge and compassion and meet people where they are at and build upon their strengths. They are an integral part of the Central Florida Community providing unmet needs to so many in need. The support, training, education and advocacy they provide to families is so valuable. They work as a team in partnership with this community and those we serve collectively.
This is the first organization that I found to be able to actually provide the services they offered. First of all
The respite program was such a relief for me personally. I was able to take me time and know my son was safe and being properly taken care of.
The Lean on me support group helped me get through some of the hardest times. Such amazing people who generally care with no judgement.
This organization holds strong on its morals and values. Where our family was treated like the individuals we are. I can not thank everyone enough for the treatment and support we received.
What inspires me to give? A need or a service delivery gap to a vulnerable population that is being ignored because of stigma. I give to an organization that serves children with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges. I give and am committed to Federation of Families of Central FL (FFCFL). I have raised a son with mental health challenges and it's not easy. I am from NJ where services exist, accessible and family-driven, I was surprised when I relocated to FL that it ranked 49th in the nation serving mental health. As the Exec. Dir. of FFCFL, I made a commitment to serve the families. I have sowed into FFCFL and will continue to give because we are making a difference. Grants are restricted and I do not hesitate to give to this organization. This is my assignment in life, to make a difference in the lives of these families. They need or help and should not be ignored. Mental health is just as important as physical health. You can’t have one without the other. FFCFL strives to meet the needs of families through support, collaboration, education and advocacy. I am proud to be a part of it! www.ffcflinc.org
Review from #MyGivingStory
I was one of the first few people hired upon its establishment here in Central Florida. The people involve from the Director to the Administrative Assistant shares a love and care for children and families dealing with Mental Illness. As an organization they strive for stability and structure in families by connecting them with community services and organizations that can help them to better understand and live with a child that has Mental Illness. I have supported them from almost day one and continue to support them. I encourage everyone to visit their website, donate and come to their annual gala in October. You will find an amazing collection of people and learn some new things about the Mental Illness community and how you can become an advocate for this misunderstood group in our society.
I am a Family Advocate with the Wraparound Program in Central Florida. The families we serve all have a common need, and that is peer support. The Federation of Families serves that function better than any other organization that I know of, by bringing families together that share common concerns about mental health, financial stability, and the need for empowerment. Families are able to share their concerns, needs and aspirations with each other, and to support each other in achieving their goals. In addition, they receive coaching and training in areas that are useful to achieving those goals.
I am a single parent with two young children ages 14 years old and 2years old. We are domestic violence survivors and due to our situation had to relocate to Florida. We have only been in Florida 11months. we left all of our family and support system back in NY. My 14 yo daughter Jada was diagnosed with ADHD at age 6 we have struggled with a lot of different situations. When arriving to Florida it was somewhat of a culture shock for us, Jada began 8th grade and was struggling with the transition and finding herself amongst new people. As a single parent I was struggling myself with finding work and trying to keep everything together for us. Jada and I hit a rough patch and things got a bit hostile. I felt alone and didn't know how to help our situation. I did some research and found a flyer that read " SINGLE PARENT GROUP" I called the number to RSVP. from the min I called the number I spoke with someone who was very friendly and directed me to the Lead Family Coordinator. The following week I attended the single parent group and from the moment I walked in I felt the support and Understanding from the staff and other single parents. For once in a long time I had a sense of relief that things were going to get better. Jada is happy with the support she is receiving from her case managers as well as the Youth Move group she has joined. She is excited to be around youth who embrace her and relate to most of her struggles. I cant thank Federations of Family enough for helping my kids and I!
We, the McClain's have had extraordinary love, care, support, services, and advocacy through the Federation of Families of Central Florida. Our family has been with the Federation of Families for two years now. Our granddaughter, Satricka, is making great strides with her mental health challenges and advocating for herself. Mind you that, she suffered from trauma and anxiety before we came to Federation of Families. We are indebted to the Federation of Families of Central Florida for the amazing effort and time they have given my family. We could have not made this journey alone without them. Thanks to Federation of Families of Central Florida!
I have been involved with this organization for 2 years. I work with families and I encourage them to be a part of this group. I have had access to trainings to help be better understand mental health issues. I have received support from others who understand what I might be going through. I have been had the privilege of advocating for others through this organization. The work being done by the Federation of Families of Central Florida is crucial in helping break the stigma of talking about mental health. Being free to talk encourages others to get help.