Helping youth be safe, happy, and healthy.
Together, We Make a Difference
About Us
Who We Are and What We Do
For 50 years, Family Connection has provided hope, safety, and support to youth in crisis and their families.
We serve young people who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability, have run away or are considering running away, are facing family disruption, need emergency shelter, or are seeking crisis intervention or counseling services.
Our comprehensive programs are therapeutic, trauma-informed, and individualized to meet the unique needs of each young person. Through immediate crisis response, short-term assistance, and ongoing support, we provide safe, nurturing environments where youth can build trusting relationships, strengthen their well-being, and work toward greater stability.
At Family Connection, we believe every young person deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued. Our goal is to provide youth and families with the resources, relationships, and support they need to overcome challenges and empower young people to grow, thrive, and succeed.
Our Mission
Our mission is to strengthen families and communities by providing shelter, counseling, and safety for young people in crisis.
Partnering with United Way for a Better Future
Emergency Helpline
Our Emergency Helpline is available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance to youth in crisis. If you or a youth you know is a runaway, facing homelessness, or in the midst of a crisis, our trained professionals are here to offer support, guidance, and access to vital resources. Call us anytime for confidential support and assistance.
300+
Youth and Families Served
1,500+
Hours of Counseling
1,290
Survival Aid Packets
3000+
Meals
How We Help
Our Programs
Runaway/Homeless Youth Center
Providing shelter and crisis intervention for Alabama’s runaway and homeless youth.
Residential Youth Shelter
Therapeutic care and support for youth in crisis, offering a safe and nurturing environment.
Project Hope Day Center & Outreach Program
Supporting Birmingham’s runaway, homeless, and street youth with essential care and resources.
Safe Place
Connecting youth to immediate safety and help through a network of trusted resources.
Therapeutic Outreach Prevention (TOP)
Community and school-based services to prevent youth crises and promote well-being.
Counseling Program
Supporting youth and families with mental health and well-being through counseling.
How You Can Help
Support & Get Involved
We believe in the power of community. You can make a difference by joining our outreach efforts, volunteering with our programs, or taking on an advisory role. Your support helps us provide essential services and create lasting change for at-risk youth. Get involved today and help us make a positive impact together!
Donate Now
Donate now to fund outreach programs, volunteer efforts, and advisory initiatives
News/Events
See what’s happening with our latest news and events, stay informed and connected
Impact Reports
View the latest annual reports.
Our People
Meet Our Team
Jennifer Ellison
Executive Director
Whitney Palmer
Director of Operations
Patty Hamme
Director of Finance
Heather McGuirk
Youth Shelter Director
Marilyn Jones
Director of Project HOPE
Wendy Mcnish, LPC
Director of Counseling Services
Stephanie Kelly
Director of Development and Community Relations
Jamberry
Facility Dog
Strategic Plan
We’re thrilled to introduce our Family Connection 2025-2027 Strategic Plan. This plan, developed with input from our team and community partners, focuses on what matters most—providing safety, shelter, and counseling for youth in crisis. Our goal is to ensure every young person has the support they need to grow and thrive.
THE FOUR PILLARS OF OUR PLAN
Serve more of the youth who need us
Increased number of essential counseling and prevention services provided to youth and families
Achieve greater impact with the youth we serve
Increased outcomes for youth, program satisfaction, and representation
Elevate our brand & increase community engagement
Improved community awareness and perception, increased youth and volunteer participation
Build a strong financial position & sustain operational
excellence
More diversified and sustainable funding, improved long-term financial position
