History

  In Mahoning County, a Steering Committee was formed to develop Council. Efforts were initially focused on state mandated members and included a series of cross system training sessions with agency and system directors. Information regarding each system's services, criteria for service provision and funding sources were presented. The process led to discussion of common issues and concerns and a commitment to the collaborative process. The Mahoning County Family and Children First Council (MCFCFC) was established on April 24, 1995.
   MCFCFC consists of an Executive Committee (state mandated members) and an Advisory Council that includes unlimited representatives from public/private service providers and family members. The Advisory Council elects three family representatives and four community representatives (service providers) to serve on the Executive Committee.

Existing services are reviewed to determine how they can be utilized in a more efficient manner and agencies are challenged to improve the way services are delivered.
   Council strives to coordinate current collaborative efforts, provide a pro-active approach to sharing of information, streamline service delivery, minimize gaps, optimize programming dollars, and serve as advocates in the community. The collaborative efforts of Council have been effective in the planning and implementation of numerous Ohio Family and Children First programs, as well as additional public and private funding awards. Funders are consistently positive in their evaluation of achievements made and have utilized our programs as models and pilot projects

Council Membership

  The Mahoning County Family and Children First Council (MCFCFC) is inclusive. Council meetings are open to the public and family involvement is welcome and mandated.

Service providers who would like to become paid members of MCFCFC are given the opportunity to: