Family Service Association: A Kidshare kid comes full circle

Family Services Assn log0Family Service Association of San Antonio has served the community for over 110 years. While the needs of the community have changed over time what has not changed is the continual empowerment of individuals and families to transform their lives and strengthen their communities. Across all of the programs that service individuals from twinkle to wrinkle; Family Service’s program, Kidshare, helps children by providing a safe and neutral environment for estranged parents to transfer children from one parent to the other.  At KidShare, the parents avoid contact with each other and children are shielded from tension, anger and fear.

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Carly Bourke was seven when her parents separated. KidShare provided a way for Carly and her brother to spend time with their dad in a safe, supervised setting. “We were going through a lot. It was awkward, but the staff kept the visits positive. Also, a counselor who worked with us was such a nice man and made us feel safe. I loved everything about the place.” Carly is now 23 and works as a visitation monitor at KidShare. “I’ve always liked giving back to programs that helped me. I got counseling following an abusive relationship and I apply that knowledge to this work, as well as what I’ve learned being a parent. We see all social, economic and occupational levels in this work and it’s incredible to know we’re building a better, healthier community with stronger relationships.”

Carly is within a year of graduating from college, and this young mom of two little ones is an asset to our program.  She knows the benefits of KidShare from personal experience.  She’s why we do what we do:  Real Change for Real Kids.

Photo: Carly Bourke and her son

Family Service Association of San Antonio, Texas Inc. celebrates 110 years

Family Services Assn log0For 110 years, Family Service has been empowering individuals and families to transform their lives and strengthen their community. What started as a simple means to lend a helping hand, evolved into an agency dedicated to helping children, seniors, and families through life transitions. Founded in 1903, it is the oldest family-serving agency in San Antonio.

Family Service is a private, non-profit, non-sectarian agency funded by the United Way, fee-for-service contracts with both public and private organizations, foundation and corporate grants, private contributions, client fees and outpatient mental health insurance. Fees are charged on a sliding scale and no one is denied help because of their inability to pay the full cost of service. Family Service is nationally accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Services for Families and Children and the Better Business Bureau.

From four neighborhood locations and from more than 70 school campuses, Family Service provides high quality service in English and Spanish to the residents of 28 counties of all ethnic and racial backgrounds and all socioeconomic levels. Family Service also hosts the well-known Neighborhood Place on the Westside that has become a hub of family services and community transformation.

In 2012, 2000 individuals and families received counseling to support healthy productivity at home and work. 2200 youth participated in preventative methods that encourage leadership and character development. Over 100 seniors were supported through a safe and independent living environment. Nearly 14,000 parents were able to invest meaningful time in their child’s education to improve attendance and academic achievement.

The agency prides itself on its continuous effort to offer innovative programs and services to address the most prevalent problems facing area families today. In celebration of 110 years, the agency is partnering up with Caliente-Harley Davidson to host a 110 mile bike ride event, “110 Years Strong: Service to Community and Riding Legends.” The event is in celebration of both Family Service and Caliente Harley-Davidson’s anniversaries.

On October 26, the public is encouraged to ride for a good cause at Caliente-Harley-Davidson, 7230 NW Loop 410, from 9:30 a.m. -6 p.m. Once there, participants will ride 110 miles, come back and join in the fun. This kid friendly event will include live music, food, and games. The cost is $20 per bike and $5 per passenger. Proceeds from the ride benefit Family Service.

Hundreds of thousands of families have benefited from Family Service efforts. With continued community support, the agency can continue its mission to reach families and individuals for many years to come.

Upcoming events include:

15th Annual Don Harris Golf Classic: Sunday, Sept 29 tournament pre-event “Party on the Green” has tickets available to the general the public. It will be held at The Club Sonterra, 901 Sonterra Blvd from 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. This year’s tournament pre-event will showcase a silent auction, food stations provided by Aramark, wine tasting, and a live band. All proceeds benefit Family Service Association. Tickets are available! The Golf Classic will take place on Monday, Sept 30 at the Club Sonterra.

Financial Planning Day: Saturday, October, 12 at The Neighborhood Place, 3014 Rivas Street, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event will provide one-on-one personalized financial advice and free financial workshops.

Eighth Annual Festival of Lights: Thursday, November 21, at The Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway Street, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This event will feature dinner under the stars, beautiful holiday décor, and entertainment. Sponsorship opportunities available!

For more information on Family Service, please contact Xochitl Davis, Vice President Communication, Marketing & Customer Service at 210-299-2443 or via email at xcortezdavis@family-service.org