Families Together in New York State is a family-run social services organization that advocates for children and youth with social, emotional, behavioral, and cross-system challenges. Founded by parents and caregivers, the organization focuses on empowering families through education, peer support, and systems navigation to improve outcomes in mental health care, juvenile justice, child welfare, and other vital services. Families Together emphasizes youth voice and family-driven care, working collaboratively with state and local agencies to shape policies and programs that directly impact families.

The organization’s Youth Power initiative is a standout feature—led by young people for young people—giving youth in New York a platform to be heard and effect change in systems intended to serve them. Families Together also offers robust trainings, webinars, and leadership development for both families and professionals in the social services field. By building strong partnerships and emphasizing lived experience, they foster inclusive, community-rooted change. Their commitment to cultural competency ensures services are tailored to diverse populations across New York State.

Key Services:

– Peer support for families and caregivers navigating child-serving systems
– Youth-led advocacy through the Youth Power program
– Public policy and legislative advocacy representing family and youth voices
– Statewide trainings and workshops on family engagement and system collaboration
– Leadership development for caregivers and youth
– Systems navigation assistance for families in mental health, juvenile justice, child welfare, and education
– Information and referral services tailored to family needs
– Community outreach to elevate the voice of marginalized groups within social services