When you support the work of Family Services through the United Fund Torchlight Campaign, you are supporting "home improvement" throughout our whole community. Not with bricks and motor, but with the common sense wisdom and values that have a positive impact on couples, children, and families. Multiply that by the 150 people the agency helps each week. That's a lot of improvement happening in your county, your community, and your neighborhood!
"To put it simply, Family Services equips people with the tools they need to solve problems so they can live happier and healthier lives," says Gary Lester, the Executive Director of the organization. "We do that through counseling, substance abuse services, and support groups. We are sensitive to the needs of clients throughout the entire process, from the friendly voice that answers the telephone to the caring conversations taking place in counseling sessions."
Counseling is provided by professional counselors with advanced education. Some of the common issues that people seek help with are marriage conflicts, the loss of a loved one, divorce, depression, anxiety, family tension, problems at school or work, low self-esteem, stress, and children's issues. Therapy is tailored to the individual needs of each person, couple, or family.
Article Photos
Each week, the friendly people at Family Services help 150 people live happier and healthier lives. Pictured, from left, John Bowler, Ian Eastman, Marlene Byler, Frankie Johnson, Gary Lester, Jeanie Smead, Mike Philhower, Dianne Sherman, Dave Markley, and Patrick Damond.
Substance Abuse Services provides outpatient therapy to people suffering from alcohol and drug addiction. A counselor in that department has also completed certification in the dynamics and treatment of gambling addiction. Family Services is a drug and alcohol treatment center licensed by the State of Pennsylvania. New this year is Intensive Outpatient Treatment, a three times a week group for individuals who chronically relapse despite other interventions.
Support Groups provide moral support, education, and advice in a group setting about domestic violence, driving under the influence, the loss of a child, and anger management.
Community Education about topics relating to health and well-being of families is conducted at dozens of schools, clubs, and churches annually. Its weekly Times Observer column is now in its 5th year.
Some letters attest to the importance of the work of Family Services in the community: A parent writes, "Family Services was there for me in my time of crisis. You saved me, my family, and my marriage from the destructive path alcohol was cutting through my life."
A spouse writes, "I can't say enough about how you helped! Counseling saved my marriage. Keep on doing what you're doing!"
An individual writes, "I just wanted to send a thank you for all your help through my hard times. The books, the talks, the advice. I'm a better, stronger person because of you."
Letters like these demonstrate why the number one source of referrals to Family Services comes through word of mouth recommendations. This tradition of caring stretches back to the organization's 19th century roots as the Children's Aid Society. Family Services will continue to serve the health and well-being of families with the same dedication. In fact, people need its counseling, substance abuse services, and support groups now more than ever!
"We love Warren County and want to see every home in it thrive. Contributors to the United Fund make that possible," says Lester. "Please join us in our 'home improvement' efforts by making a making a donation to the United Fund Torchlight campaign."
Family Services of Warren County is located at 589 Hospital Drive Suite E. For more information about any of its services, call 723-1330.