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Stories

For more than 20 years, FamiliesFirst Network has served children who have been abused or neglected in Northwest Florida. Each year:

  • Our team serves 2,700 children from Escambia to Walton County.
  • We provide 750+ children’s families with specialized in-home prevention services aimed at keeping kids and parents safely together, reducing the need for out-of-home placements.
  • Our case management services help 970+ children’s cases to be safely closed and 190+ children to be safely reunited with their families.
  • We help 100+ young adults aging out of foster care.

Our team members share our mission of “helping people” every day. Some of their stories are below.

All interview requests must be made through our Marketing and Communications department. For assistance, please call 850-503-8164.

Family taking selfie
Community Partner Spotlight: Jewelers Trade Shop

Jewelers Trade Shop shines in support of those in need

Legacy of giving For seven decades, Jewelers Trade Shop has been a trusted name in the Pensacola community—known not just for fine craftsmanship and beautiful jewelry, but for a commitment to giving back. Since opening its doors in 1956, the family-owned business has woven philanthropy into its identity, Today, Jewelers Trade Shop’s generosity continues to […]

FFN logo with words, "Spring Fling" on a background with a bright blue sky and spring flowers.

Spring Fling Event

Get ready for the FamiliesFirst Network Spring Fling! This free, family-friendly event is packed with fun. Enjoy exciting Easter egg hunts, crafts, games and food. Easter Egg Hunt Schedule: Don’t forget to bring your own baskets. Happy Easter from FamiliesFirst Network! Want to donate in support of events like these? Give a gift online

Headshot of Jerry Maygarden

Meet Our Board: Jerry Maygarden

As a valued member of the board of directors for our parent company, LifeView Group, Jerry Maygarden brings both personal passion and decades of community leadership to our mission. His commitment to service began long before his distinguished public career Raised by banker parents, Jerry’s first full-time job was in the financial sector, where he gained valuable […]

Headshot of Amberlynn

Amberlynn’s Journey: From Uncertainty to Empowerment

Amberlynn’s story is one of resilience, determination and inspiration. Originally from New York state, she grew up with her parents and younger brother. Throughout her childhood, her parents’ relationship was unstable—splitting and reconciling until they ultimately separated. Amberlynn relocated to Florida with her father, but his struggles with substance misuse led to a cycle of […]

All-Staff Day 2025

Strengthening Connections: All-Staff Day 2025

On Tuesday, November 11, our team took a well-deserved break from the office to enjoy a day at the beautiful Island Resort in Fort Walton Beach for the All-Staff Conference. The day was filled with laughter, team bonding, and games that brought everyone closer together. This event was not only about having fun but also an opportunity to strengthen our relationships […]

FamiliesFirst Network Gathers over 150 Professionals for All-Staff Day 2025

FamiliesFirst Network Gathers Over 150 Professionals for All-Staff Day 2025

Pensacola, Fla. (Oct. 31, 2025)- On Tuesday, November 11, 2025, more than 150 FamiliesFirst Network professionals will gather for All-Staff Day, a time dedicated to fellowship, learning and continuing education centered on supporting abused and neglected children in Northwest Florida. In addition to creating opportunities to share ideas and collaborating on enhancing the services we provide, […]

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Natasha Sluder named director of development for LifeView Group

Pensacola, Fla. (Oct. 30, 2025) – Natasha Sluder has joined LifeView Group as director of development. In this role, Sluder will lead philanthropic initiatives supporting LifeView Group – a nonprofit family of companies that includes Lakeview Center, FamiliesFirst Network and Global Connections to Employment. Sluder brings nearly two decades of experience in communications, marketing and […]

Olivia headshot

Olivia’s story: One young adult’s journey through foster care

For many young people, turning 18 means freedom and new beginnings. But for youth aging out of foster care, adulthood can feel overwhelming — and even frightening. The fear of being alone, unsupported or homeless is a harsh reality. That’s where FamiliesFirst Network’s Young Adult Services steps in, offering guidance, resources and stability to help young adults […]

Ashley Jackson feature photo

Ashley Jackson: Lived Experience award winner

Ashley Jackson, a member of FamiliesFirst Network’s Parent Advisory Council (PAC), received the Parent with Lived Experience Leadership Award from the Florida Coalition for Children. This prestigious honor celebrates parents who have faced and overcome significant life challenges and now use that strength to lead, inspire and transform their communities. Ashley’s journey has not been […]