Florida Network of Youth and Family Services

10/15/2026

Last week, the Florida Network had the honor of presenting at the 2026 OJDDA Annual Conference alongside probation officers, attorneys, educators, law enforcement officers and other juvenile justice professionals.

The conference focused on strengthening collaboration and communication strategies to better support youth and families.

We’re proud to have represented the Florida Network and contributed to important conversations about the future of juvenile justice. A special thank you to the Oregon Juvenile Department Directors' Association for having us!

This presentation is part of our collective efforts to amplify the Florida Network voice and be seen as National Thought Leaders, as challenged by our Board of Directors.

10/13/2026

That's a wrap on CINS LEAD 2026!

Last week, providers, court representatives, school professionals and DJJ Legal came together to strengthen how we move CINS cases forward—from case staffing and petition decisions to court preparation and follow-up.

Through practical discussions and case simulations, participants identified steps to improve consistency statewide and ensure timely support for youth and families.

Thank you to our presenters and participants for bringing your experience, insight and commitment to this work!

10/13/2026

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 💜

Every family deserves a safe place to turn, and our member organizations provide domestic violence respite placements for youth statewide at no cost to the families.

Learn more about respite services at floridanetwork.org.

10/09/2026

Our member organizations are prepared. Our team is engaged. We train year-round to ensure our team is ready to support the youth in our care throughout storm season.

To every young person and family served by our network: you are not alone.

10/09/2026

As Hurricane Isaias strengthens, the Florida Network has activated its full hurricane protocol.

Daily check-ins are underway with all member organization sites. Every program is completing a pre-storm form through our Florida Network HUB confirming census, emergency supplies and shelter or evacuation plans.

10/08/2026

500 youth. One year. One shared commitment.

The Florida Network has supported 500 young people on probation, helping them successfully complete a 13-week SNAP® Youth Justice program designed for real growth.

This achievement is made possible by our dedicated member organizations and staff, engaged youth, and a strong partnership with the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Here’s to the next 500 and to every young person we will help in the future.

10/05/2026

On Children's Health Day, we're recognizing our dedicated Florida Network shelter nurses within our member organizations who support the physical, emotional and mental well-being of Florida's at-risk and troubled youth every day.

Tag a nurse that is making a difference in your community.

10/02/2026

This International Day of Nonviolence, we are reminded that the skills we learn at a young age, can lead to a more peaceful lifetime.

Our member organizations teach youth and families the skills to de-escalate conflict before it turns into crisis. Learn how we work to promote peaceful, healthy families at floridanetwork.org.

10/01/2026

“The Florida Network of Youth and Family Services celebrated its 50th anniversary at its annual meeting in Sarasota last week, and it came with a balance sheet: 14,333 youth and families served in 2025, and an estimated $9.19 returned to the state for every $1 it spends on prevention.

Members of the Network’s 21 member organizations, elected officials, and stakeholders convened for the two-day celebration, built around the theme “Honoring the Past, Leading the Present, and Shaping the Future.” The program walked attendees through the Network’s history and the people, milestones, and communities behind its work to reach youth and families before they hit a crisis.”

Read the full story >>>

Matt Walsh, Fiona McFarland, and Bob and Mary Jane Martinez headlined the Sarasota celebration.

09/25/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the Florida Network’s 50th anniversary and five decades of serving Florida’s youth and families.

We have tremendous gratitude for where we’ve been and excitement for where we’re going.

The first 50 years built the foundation. Now, we’re ready for what comes next.