Youth and Family Advocates

Today, YFA Hernando and Citrus Case Management and Kids Central, Inc. joined together at Floral Park to celebrate National Adoption Day — a day of family, hope, and gratitude. Thanks to the generosity of the Selfless Love Foundation and Honda of Port Richey, families and our team gathered to share a delicious meal, laughter, and gifts. We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible case managers, whose dedication makes these adoption journeys possible, and to all of our partners who help us change lives every single day.

We are deeply grateful for our community — the volunteers, donors, and partners who make our work possible every single day. As Thanksgiving and Giving Tuesday draw near, we want to recognize the countless individuals who support YFA. Far greater than any single image could show, every person who has and continues to support YFA has made a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve. This holiday season, our hearts are full of gratitude for everyone who has joined us on this journey and chosen to give, uplift, and make a difference. If you are interested in getting involved, visit yfainc.org/get-involved.

This past weekend, our team joined the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Central Florida Chapter for the Polk County Out of the Darkness Walk. Staff and children from the YFA George W. Harris Youth Shelter created heartfelt bracelets with words of encouragement, spreading hope to everyone at the event. A small act of kindness can shine brightly — reminding us all that no one walks alone.

Today we honored the incredible impact of organizations joining forces for a common cause. The United States Marshals Service (USMS), in partnership with federal, state, local, and non-governmental agencies, successfully carried out a Florida youth recovery initiative — ensuring the safe recovery or location of 122 missing or endangered children. Through Operation Home for the Holidays, children received essential support including medical care, youth advocacy, juvenile justice coordination, foster care, and placement services. Our YFA Pasco Case Management team was proud to stand alongside the multi-disciplinary task force, helping guarantee that every child had a safe and loving place to call home. This initiative serves as a powerful example of what’s possible when we work together. And while we celebrate today’s success, our mission continues — because every child deserves safety, protection, and hope.

Today on #NationalPhilanthropyDay, we celebrate Victoria Barley – a true champion for YFA and the children and families we serve!   Through over 15 years of dedicated service, Victoria has built a legacy of hope and transformation. From regularly volunteering at the YFA RAP House to founding the RAP River Run – now one of Tampa Bay’s premier races raising $40K+ annually – her impact has given thousands of children safety, stability, and hope.   Thank you, Victoria, for proving how one person’s passion can change a community forever.    Learn how you can get involved and make a difference like Victoria at yfainc.org/get-involved. 📸: J David Wright

We are honored to have received a generous $400 donation from the Helping Hands of the Timber Greens community in support of the children we serve at YFA RAP House.    This gift is more than just financial support — it represents the compassion, care, and commitment of neighbors who believe in giving children help for today and hope for tomorrow.   Thank you, Helping Hands of the Timber Greens community, for your ongoing support of YFA and those we serve.

With the support of our elected officials, YFA is working to build a stronger, brighter future for children and families across our community. Last week, YFA leadership met with Senator Ed Hooper, Representative Brad Yeager, Senator Danny Burgess’ aide, and members of the House Budget Committee and the Governor's office to discuss two groundbreaking projects: The Center for Children and Families – a family-centered community resource designed to support families involved in the child welfare system. Speer II – 50 new affordable housing units designed to support young adults transitioning out of foster care and families working toward reunification. Thanks to the leadership of Senator Ed Hooper and Representative Brad Yeager, these projects received significant funding in the 2025 legislative budget, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment to our community.

Last Friday, YFA and Family Support Services (FSS) joined together at the Dade City Courthouse to celebrate National Adoption Day. Ten children officially found their forever families — ten adoptions, ten new beginnings. This day was a powerful reminder of hope, love, and the extraordinary impact that happens when people and organizations unite for a shared purpose. “It takes a village” is more than a phrase — it’s a call to action. Case managers, advocates, families, volunteers, and community partners all work side by side to ensure every child has a safe, loving home. We celebrate the ten incredible families who welcomed these children with open hearts. Our heartfelt thanks go to FSS, the Guardian ad Litem Sixth Judicial Circuit, the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, and all of our dedicated partners who help us change lives and strengthen our community every single day.

Did you know? Go-Bags help YFA’s outreach team support the needs of runaway and homeless youth. Filled with hygiene essentials, they’re a small but powerful way to offer care and begin meaningful connections.

YFA was proud to stand alongside a diverse group of local civic and human service organizations at Fred K. Marchman Technical College’s Fall Resource Fair last week. With more than 400 students in attendance, our Outreach Coordinators engaged in meaningful conversations and provided resources highlighting YFA’s support services for children and families in our community.