Leon County, CSC Leon, CHS Unveil Family Resource Center at Fort Braden Community Center

Today, Leon County Government, in collaboration with the Children’s Services Council of Leon County (CSC Leon) and Children’s Home Society of Florida (CHS), celebrated the opening of a new Family Resource Center (FRC) at the Leon County Fort Braden Community Center. This collaborative initiative brings essential family support services and resources directly to the Fort Braden community, providing a convenient, neighborhood hub for support.
 
“Families are more likely to seek the help they need when services are available where they live,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Brian Welch. “By bringing vital resources directly to the Fort Braden community, the Family Resource Center promotes and supports Leon County families.”
 
The Children’s Services Council of Leon County and Children’s Home Society of Florida are focused on evolving to meet the community’s needs. Currently, the FRC offers access to parenting resources, mental health support, a computer lab, and connections to additional community services. It serves as a community-wide opportunity to connect with trained professionals dedicated to fostering family well-being.
 
“This new resource is an incredible benefit not just for the Fort Braden community, but for all of District 2,” said Leon County Commission Vice Chairman and District 2 Commissioner Christian Caban. “Having this level of support available right here in our community center is truly a game-changer for local families.”
 
Building on the success of the Cross Creek FRC located at 2002 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite A-50, the Fort Braden FRC further advances the County, CSC Leon and CHS’s commitment to strengthening families by providing accessible, family-driven services that foster resilience, well-being, and success. Through partnerships with local organizations, the FRC will empower families in the Fort Braden community, helping to build a stronger and more connected community.
 
"Our charge is clear," explained Cecka Rose Green, CSC Leon Executive Director. "We listen, we lead, and we leverage resources to build a stronger, healthier future for Leon County’s children and families. By partnering with the right organizations to deliver the right services in the right places, we are not just providing support—we are creating lasting change that empowers families and strengthens our entire community."
 
In addition to providing support to Leon County families, the Fort Braden FRC is uniquely positioned near the Jane G. Sauls Fort Braden Library, the scenic 0.5-mile Fort Braden History Walk, and a vibrant playground. This location provides families with a comprehensive environment for engagement, learning, and support.
 
“The partnership between Leon County Government, the Children's Services Council of Leon County, and the Children's Home Society of Florida reflects our continued commitment to the Fort Braden community," said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “We're proud to house the Family Resource Center in one of our County facilities and to work alongside our partners to connect area families with the vital resources they need."
 
The Fort Braden FRC is the second center to be established in Leon County, funded by CSC Leon and managed by CHS.
 
Recognizing the critical role these centers play in strengthening families, CSC Leon Chair and School Board Member Darryl Jones emphasizes the importance of this investment. “The investment in Family Resource Centers is a direct response to our comprehensive needs assessment, which reinforced what we’ve heard from parents—families want place-based resource hubs that take the guesswork out of accessing services and support. As investors, our goal is to provide research-informed solutions that meet families where they are and empower them to build stronger, more stable futures."
 
Research reveals the significant benefits of Family Resource Centers in the communities they serve. Studies show that every dollar invested in Family Resource Centers generates a return of $3.65 in savings to the child welfare system. Additionally, FRCs contribute to measurable improvements in children’s educational success, economic self-sufficiency, health, social connections, and overall family stability. By addressing these key areas, FRCs strengthen families and build healthier communities.
 
“I’m truly grateful for the Fort Braden Community Resource Center, as it helps eliminate barriers that families face in accessing essential family support services,” said Children’s Home Society of Florida Executive Director Tiffany Martin. “Our team is proud to serve as a bridge, connecting individuals to the resources they need. This center is a testament to the power of community support, and I look forward to the positive impact it will have for years to come.”
 
Find more information about Family Resource Centers in Leon County at CSCLeon.org/FamilyResourceCenters.
 
For more information, contact Mathieu Cavell, Leon County Community and Media Relations, at CMR@LeonCountyFL.gov or 850-606-5300.