For nearly 30 years, Gary Bembry has invested his time with our organization, drawn to making a difference in people’s lives. His journey began in September of 1997 as our chief financial officer. While Gary was previously a successful public accountant, he recalls that “there was something missing,” a sense that his work, while important, […]

With a career rooted in fire rescue and emergency management, Russell Beaty has spent decades serving vulnerable populations. That experience—combined with church and community volunteering—sparked a lasting passion for accessible community mental health services and family support. Through his work with the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Russell was assigned to serve on the board of […]

When Stephanie Powell became a board member for FamiliesFirst Network – more than a decade ago – she was going through another major life transition. Becoming a mom to two daughters, born 2012 and 2016, shaped her passion for this nonprofit, which provides child protective services and case management in Northwest Florida. “I couldn’t imagine not […]