The first-ever Warren County Provider Fair at Queensbury UFSD outdoor athletic complex was organized by Warren County Interagency Committee (WCIAC), a committee comprised of staff from school districts (including WSWHE BOCES), Warren County agencies, not-for-profits, local organizations and individuals who work with children and families that need or request support and assistance.
Tammy Breen, Warren County Department of Social Services Child Services Supervisor and co-chair of WCIAC discussed the invaluable work of the WCIAC.
“The connections formed during our meetings between the county, school districts and community service providers allows for a deeper understanding of program areas and strengthens the community approach to assisting the families in Warren County. The Provider Fair allows service providers to showcase the services they offer, while at the same time learning about what other services are available to families in our area,” stated Breen.
More than 60 organizations came together for the Provider Fair. Among them were mental health and substance use assistance providers, governmental entities, social services agencies, child care providers, law enforcement and employment and training providers.
The goal of this event was to open lines of communication through this first-time event, and ensure that leaders from various agencies are aware of the services that are available to those with whom they work.
Jim Dexter, WSWHE BOCES District Superintendent of Schools and co-chair of WCIAC stated, "The members of the Warren County Interagency Committee put together an outstanding event to bring together those who consume services with those who provide services to children and families. Our assumption is that there are providers and practitioners who don’t know enough about the services that exist. Our goal is to narrow this gap.”
Dexter discussed the relationship between and among many partners, all with the same goal of serving families and children so that they can achieve their greatest potential.
“I would like to take the time to thank Queensbury School District (a WCIAC partner) for hosting this important event and it is my greatest hope that those we serve will benefit from this collaborative effort," continued Dexter.
The 60 plus providers included, but were not limited to, Warren County Headstart, Alliance for Positive Health, Employment Training for Adults, Habitat for Humanity of Northern Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties, The Salvation Army of Glens Falls, Capital District Psychiatric Center, NYS Department of Health, Warren Washington C.A.R.E. Center, and many more.
Kyle Gannon, Superintendent of Queensbury UFSD, discussed how fortunate he feels to be a representative and a member of the Warren County Interagency Committee.
“Through the hard work of this group we were able to fulfill a dream of having all of the providers in our county and surrounding counties in one place. Educators and providers were able to learn more about every service that helps students, parents, and staff work together to enhance a child’s or family’s life. I am thankful that we were able to have everyone at the same place and at the same time,” said Gannon.
Organizers hope to make the Provider Fair an annual event going forward.
For additional photos of the day, click here to go to Facebook.