Frequently Asked Questions
General Organizational Facts
What does Families First do?
Simply put, Families First strengthens families. We strengthen families by delivering empowering and sustainable solutions for children and families -- solutions that improve child well-being and family self-sufficiency. Because we realize the strength and success of families contribute to thriving communities.
What about the cost of administration and fundraising?
Families First is able to return an impressive 80 cents of each dollar it receives to the community. Less than 21 cents out each dollar goes toward administrative costs, which includes fundraising costs. This figure is well below the Better Business Bureau guideline of 35 percent for charities. Giving to Families First is a smart investment.
Is Families First affiliated or partnered with other agencies or organizations?
Families First deeply values its partnerships with many state, faith-based and philanthropic organizations. In addition, Families First is an agency of the United Way of Metro Atlanta, and is a member of the Alliance for Children and Families, a national organization of family service agencies. Families First partners with the following organizations: Atlanta Housing Authority, Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Progressive Redevelopment, Inc., Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Fulton County Human Services, Fulton County Department of Housing and Community Development and Cobb County.
Programs and Services
How many individuals do you serve each year?
In 2007-2008, Families First served a total of 44,415 individuals including over 17,000 in our counseling programs; more than 5,000 in our adoption programs; 3,350 individuals in our access & visitation program; and over 9,500 in our parenting & familiy life education programs.
Can anyone come to Families First for counseling?
Yes. We offer individual and family counseling for any child or adult who requires support and guidance from one of our highly qualified professional counselors.
What services do you provide for young fathers or unmarried/divorced couples?
Families First offers individual, marital and couples counseling, child access and visitation services for fathers and unmarried/divorced couples. TransParenting and Children Cope with Divorce programs are both court-mandated programs required for all divorcing parents. Rollercoaster and What About Me (WAM) are companion programs to TransParenting, designed for children ages 5-17 who are experiencing the effects of divorce.
I know someone who could benefit from your services. How do they get in touch with you?
Contact our main office for more information at 404-853-2800, or schedule an appointment at any one of our locations in metro Atlanta by calling 404-853-2844. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
Getting Involved
How can I get involved?
Families First relies on the generosity of our community through donations of time, energy and money. There are many ways to get involved, from making a monetary donation, to hands-on volunteer work or sponsoring a family in need. Make your donation online at www.familiesfirst.org or by mail to our main office at 1105 West Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta, GA 30309. For in-kind donations, volunteer opportunities, and family sponsorships call our Volunteer Services office at 404-853-2857 or visit www.familiesfirst.org/volunteer.
