Hoosiers can be a hearty, no-nonsense breed: If there’s a problem, we get busy fixing it. Indeed, there are countless organizations in Central Indiana that offer services to help with any challenge a person might face. But what happens when an individual’s problem threatens the well-being of an entire family unit? That’s where Families First can help.
Families First was established in 1835 as the Indiana Benevolent Society, with a mission to provide aid and assistance to indigent families in Indianapolis. While its name has changed during its 185 years of service to our community, Families First remains focused on helping people deal with the challenges and changes in their lives.
Gina Hays, Director of Communications and Development, shared this about the organization’s focus: “The name ‘Families First’ is intentional. We believe that, for individuals to reach their full potential and for communities to thrive, strong healthy families must come first.”
As the oldest non-sectarian, non-profit organization in the state, Families First is a trusted resource for crisis prevention and response in our community…one family at a time. Each year, the agency helps more than 20,000 people tackle challenges that are tough to face alone, like grief, substance use, domestic violence and mental health issues.
An ongoing challenge for the organization is a lack of public awareness of the importance of good mental health. For many of us, it’s too easy to judge others and the way they handle stressful situations. At Families First, staff and volunteers recognize that life’s experiences can affect a person’s ability to function at their highest potential, and that we don’t always have all the tools we need to be successful and happy in life.
“Think of it like a building project: For a building to be strong, it needs to have the right materials and a strong foundation. As it ages, it will require occasional maintenance,” said David Siler, President and CEO of Families First. “Similarly, human well-being is built and strengthened by materials like social relationships, good parenting, a sufficient income, community resources, and opportunities to thrive.”
Families First offers a broad array of programs, from anger management and addiction services to a 24/7 crisis and suicide intervention hotline. Aside from individual and group counseling—most of which is being offered virtually during COVID-19—the agency provides helpful information for families through its monthly blog and a podcast titled “The Family Table”.
For more than 20 years, Families First has hosted a “Salute to Families” breakfast, representing the agency’s biggest fundraiser. This annual event features national speakers and local public figures and typically raises critical funds needed to sustain programs. Because of pandemic-related limitations, this year’s event will switch from a single-day event to a two-week virtual campaign, beginning September 24. Stay tuned to the Families First website for more information about this giving opportunity.
Here’s How You Can Help:
- Use your Kroger card or Amazon account to support Families First. When you designate Families First as the recipient, a percentage of your purchases will be automatically forwarded to the cause.
- Volunteer to help with the crisis line, support groups, sexual assault response or fundraising. Sign up for an upcoming “no obligation” information session to learn more.