Franco honored by Broward County Commission on the Status of Women for National Women’s History Month
JAFCO Executive Director Sarah Franco was one of seven women identified by the Broward County Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) who are considered trailblazers in labor and business. Franco, who tirelessly fights for abused and neglected children, was honored in an exhibit on display at the Government Center Lobby as well as with a detailed write-up on her accomplishments on the Broward.org website, and a proclamation presentation.
“I am honored – and humbled – to receive this recognition and proud to be among the outstanding and dynamic women recognized this year,” Franco said. “This is a very lovely tribute to my work and JAFCO’s work for the children of Broward County who need love, help, support and guidance. It is a privilege to make a difference in a child’s life.”
The CSW serves in an advisory capacity to the Broward County Commission, the community and governmental and non-governmental subdivisions in Broward County, in respect to all matters pertaining to the status of women. It is dedicated to identifying and resolving economic health, social, and all other issues concerning women’s lives through education and advocacy.
Franco has led JAFCO to become a powerful force in meeting the helping the most vulnerable children in Broward County. Through her leadership and commitment, JAFCO has grown to a major child welfare agency that provides an entire continuum of support and residential services to children in need including family, preservation, foster care, adoption, emergency shelter, group home and independent living programs serving abused and neglected children and those with developmentally disabilities in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Children’s Ability Center opened its doors in 2014 to meet a vital unmet need in South Florida for family enrichment, support and respite care to families raising a child ages birth to 22 with any developmental disability. The center services hundreds of children a month, offering families a beautiful, clean and fun place where their children can be safe and feel like they belong. Services at the Ability Center include assessment, enhanced case management and referral, social skills and life skills training, after school and weekend clubs including music therapy, drama, organic gardening and social play, support groups for moms, dads, siblings and grandparents, parent training and education, summer camp (with a sleepover option) and family fun days. The Children’s Ability Center offers families respite care where children can spend a day, weekend or up to two weeks of overnight fun experiences – allowing parents to take a short break. The Ability Center is now a research institute in partnership with NSU who is studying the impact that these programs and services are having on the strength of the family unit.
