UMFS

We recently had the pleasure of hosting our annual Strategic Planning Retreat, featuring our board members and leadership at UMFS. They participated in a board meeting and a dinner reception, followed by a full day of collaborative planning with key staff and community partners. This year's theme was "The Spirit of Generosity." Special thanks to our keynote speaker, Emiliana Simon-Thomas, Science Director at Greater Good Science Center - University of California, Berkeley, Youth from our Child & Family Healing Center who presented their Generosity projects, and Chris Bennett of the The Spark Mill for facilitating robust discussions.

Greater Richmond Fit4Kids CEO Mary Dunne Stewart presented our President & CEO Nancy Toscano with the Trailblazer Award today inside of our new Generosity Lounge. The Trailblazer Award recognizes those making a positive, long-term impact in the health and wellness of children in the Richmond region. #GenerosityCollective

Yesterday, UMFS and the VA Non-Profit Leadership Council co-hosted an impactful one-day policy and legislative forum focused on Virginia's Human Services workforce. The day was enriched by a keynote presentation from Dr. William Hazel, insightful discussions from a panel of subject matter experts, and contributions from two legislators, Delegate Rodney Willett and Senator Tara Durant. Additionally, we heard valuable presentations from Virginia's Medicaid and Department of Health professionals. This forum ignited a wave of fresh ideas, inspiring VA's Non-Profit leaders to creatively tackle the challenges of growing and retaining our vital workforce.

On Wednesday, we were delighted to welcome more than 60 dedicated volunteers to our Volunteer Appreciation Event, marking a significant milestone as our first gathering since 2019. It provided a wonderful occasion to honor and express gratitude to our community members whose unwavering support greatly impacts the children, families, and staff at UMFS! Additionally, we proudly announced the recipients of our respected awards: - Community Partner of the Year: Trinity Episcopal School (RVA) - Volunteer of the Year: Erin Heston - Church Partner of the Year: Woodlake UMC We're incredibly thankful for our amazing volunteers who always have our back!

Today, we celebrate Foster Care Awareness Giving Day to raise critical resources for the families and the UMFS community! The first 30 days of a foster care placement are often an emotional roller coaster that can be a difficult time for a child and foster parents. At UMFS, we have a team of champions who go above and beyond to provide support and resources during this crucial time. Join us in supporting UMFS today. We have an anonymous donor who is generously matching donations dollar-for-dollar up to $10,000 so your gift will go even further! Donate: umfs.org/giving-day

Get Ready for Giving Day! Did you know that the first 30 days are the most crucial time for a child who has just been placed in foster care? Imagine being uprooted from your family and friends, school, and community and being placed in a new home with people you’ve never met. You are scared, confused and grieving the life you left behind, and yet, you still have to go to school tomorrow. For the thousands of Virginia kids in foster care this is their reality. Visit https://lnkd.in/gZW2wASv to learn more about how UMFS supports children and families during this critical time and come back on May 7th to prove to them that they have a village supporting them.

Today at our 2024 Spring Leadership Forum, leaders from across the agency gathered to fellowship, share insights, updates, and celebrations. The event echoed the spirit of collaboration and growth that defines our agency's journey. Nina Marino, MSW, LCSW, our Director of Community Engagement and Government Affairs, delved into the intricate pathways of the legislative process and the impact of community engagement with external partners. In addition to Nina's session, we had the opportunity to hear from Allison Gilbreath, MSW, the Senior Director of Policy and Programs at Voices for Virginia's Children. She provided valuable insights into the incredible work they do for young people, as well as a compelling walk-through of pivotal house bills with a keen focus on child welfare in Virginia. This dialogue not only enriched our understanding but also provided a spark for future collaboration opportunities. Special thanks to everyone involved in making this annual event happen. We’re already looking forward to next year! ICYMI: Voices for Virginia's Children is also a partner within our newly-formed Generosity Collective.

Firefly Hall was infused with the spirit of adventure as we welcomed nationally renowned leadership speaker, Chris Heeter, founder of The WILD Institute, for our first Spring Lecture of the year. Much like the firefly, Heeter's message ignited the spark of possibility throughout the room. Special thank you to Christopher Henderson, CEO of Pinnacle Living and UMFS Board Member, for his invaluable partnership in making this event possible. Gratitude also to our leadership teams, staff, and board members of both UMFS and Pinnacle Living for their collaborative efforts. Together, we continue to drive our missions forward to light the way to brighter futures for the people we serve. Here's to embracing the WILD, preserving wonder, and embarking on a journey of enlightenment!

Why choose a career in social work? Rose Teague, Senior Social Worker at our Richmond Regional Center, reveals the appeal and fulfillment of her role, articulating how her family and UMFS played a pivotal role in shaping her decision to pursue this impactful profession. Join us in celebrating the dedication of social workers like Rose, making a difference in the lives of children and families, every single day. #SocialWorkMonth