Dear Friends: 



As I type, I’m listening to little voices in the visit room just down the hall from my office. Their talk and laughter is infectious and I love when the place is full of children (and the occasional dog). 

Sometimes, though, their voices are stilled. I was introduced to a little one recently who has been subjected to experiences no one should be, much less someone of his tender years. He is only now learning how to speak, with the help of his therapist who is also teaching him sign language to express himself safely and successfully. 

Because he doesn’t have the words, he greeted me the way he has been learning; that is, to take his open hand and glide it over my open hand. It was such a beautiful, small moment for him, but it felt so huge to me. That this boy is beginning to understand who is safe, and beginning to trust in some adults again, made me teary. As many moments around CFS do. 

I’m so grateful this little one is experiencing a new beginning, and for the people who are helping to make it happen for him. In this time of spring and the renewal and rebirth that it symbolizes, it seems appropriate to remind ourselves that there is a special ONE for every child. 

Could YOU be the ONE? Please consider exploring the possibility—through foster care, respite, host homes, or by volunteer service. Our team can help you navigate the many ways to help. Lots of information in this regard is below. 

Wishing you a very happy, healthy spring. 

Sheila Johnson

Board Member since December 2024

Sheila is the owner of ProTech Mechanical and has recently shifted her focus to giving back to the community now that her children are grown and her business is well-established. With a strong desire to make a meaningful impact, she is passionate about supporting families and helping children thrive. “I'm at the point in my life where I don't need to be at work full-time. My children are all grown and I have the time to give back. I would love to be a part of CFS and make a difference in children’s lives and help families who need assistance.”

Janet Ringle-Bartels

Board Member since December 2024

Janet is a Speech-Language Pathologist and owner of Children’s Therapy Corner. She has spent her career enhancing services for children across Michigan and is passionate about addressing the growing challenges faced by families. Her work reflects a lifelong dedication to helping children reach their full potential.

Deanna Cannon

Board Member since February 2025

Deanna is a retired CPA and a long-time member of the Zonta Club of Traverse City, with over 20 years of involvement and extensive experience serving on nonprofit boards. Her background has deepened her understanding of the vital role families play in the healthy development of children. “Past experiences and more recent exposures have given me a greater understanding and appreciation for the significant role families play on overall development, nurturing, and equipping of children, setting them up for successful life. I want to be part of the leadership of CFS in providing support—and often a lifeline—to at-risk children.”

Jordan Ascione-Broad

Board Member since February 2025

Jordan is an attorney specializing in divorce, child custody, and guardianship matters. She has been an active volunteer with various nonprofits and is deeply committed to the well-being of youth in the community. “I believe in the mission of CFS and the dedication to the youth of our community. I have a passion for children and young people, and feel it is imperative to invest services and time into the youth who are the future of our community.”

Ron Lemcool

Board Member since February 2025



Ron is the owner of Cherry Country Café and Gift Shop and brings experience from serving on several nonprofit boards in the community. His passion lies in helping children and young adults find opportunities to succeed. “I prefer to serve on boards that assist children and young adults—that give them a hand up and a chance to succeed.”

Our child welfare, counseling, wraparound and respite programs are accredited by CARF International, assuring the more than 1,000 buisnesses, individuals, and organizations who contributed to our work last year of our commitment to clinical, administrative, and fiscal excellence.

Candid has awarded CFS the highest level of organizational transparency, reflecting our commitment to integrity and accountability.