CDS Awarded 2023 Agency of the Year

Submitted

Lake City, Fla., – CDS Family & Behavioral Health Services was presented the 2023 Agency of the Year award at the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services, Inc.’s Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony (September 13, 2023).

    CDS was formed in 1970, and serves the children, youth, young adults, families, and communities in 14 North Florida Counties, including those involved with truancy, runaway, ungovernability, and homelessness, and those at-risk for human trafficking.

     CDS operates youth shelters in Gainesville, Lake City, and Palatka, and offers in-office and community-based counseling, “SNAP” (Stop Now and Plan) child and family behavioral management programs in-office and in school and community settings, “Too Good for Drugs”, and “Too Good for Violence”, and “Project Success” education programs in Alachua, Levy, and Gilchrist elementary and middle schools, and Independent Living services for young adults departing foster care.

     H. Thomas Lane, Jr., CDS’ Board President, says of the award,

The Board of CDS is delighted that our organization’s work has been recognized by the Florida Network. Throughout our 53-year history we have always strived for excellence in outcomes for the people and communities we serve, using consistently effective, efficient, and economical management practices. We are constantly seeking to raise the bar, and this award is a strong motivator going forward.

     Stacy Gromatski, the Florida Network’s President/CEO, remarks,

     The winner of the Agency of the Year award, CDS Family and Behavioral Services, exemplifies resilience and visionary leadership. Under Phil Kabler’s leadership and Cindy Starling-Hersey’s guidance, and a caring and committed team, CDS has soared to new heights. CDS’s commitment to youth and families and their unwavering dedication to our Network is truly inspiring. We applaud their remarkable journey and the individuals who have made it all possible.