For Social Responsibility

Social Services, as defined by the Sarasota Family YMCA, is our approach to recognizing community problems, concerns, or voids. Beginning in 1991 with the opening of our first shelter for runaway teens, we have continued to expand by adding programs to benefit families and children.

When we determine that a crisis exists, we attempt to find a solution and build a coalition of community partners to assist with managing the solution. The long-term goal is to solve the problems within our community without outside assistance. This approach has developed some outstanding collaborations, coalitions and partnerships.

The Safe Children Coalition assists more than 1,300 children in three counties every day. These children have been abused or neglected by their parents and many are placed in foster homes. We offer one of the most successful foster care programs in the nation. ...read more

Our emphasis on family takes the form of shelters for runaway or delinquent teens and foster care group homes. We offer free counseling to Sarasota and DeSoto County students and families. We also offer two Triad second chance schools as well as programs for homeless and truant teens. ...read more

Programs intended to elevate the quality of child care, education and family involvement for children from birth to age 12. The main office is located within the Lazarus Training Institute in downtown Sarasota. Program offices are located throughout the county for convenient, easy access. ...read more