Our History 

From Connecting Families to Resources to Strengthening Families for Generations

The Elmore County Family Resource Center (ECFRC) was established in 2007 through the vision of the Leadership Elmore County Class of 2007, a group of community leaders committed to identifying needs and creating lasting solutions for the people of Elmore County.

As part of their nine-month leadership development program, class members were challenged to develop a community project that would make a meaningful and lasting impact. Recognizing the challenges families faced when trying to locate and access community resources, the class envisioned a centralized information and referral center that would help connect individuals and families to the services they needed.

At the heart of this vision was a simple idea: families should not have to navigate life’s challenges alone or struggle to find the help available to them.

In 2007, access to information looked very different than it does today. Smartphones, GPS navigation, social media, and online resource directories were not readily available or widely used. Families often relied on telephone calls, word of mouth, and traveling from agency to agency to find assistance.

For a parent seeking a child’s birth certificate, enrolling a child in WIC, or locating other essential services, the process could mean multiple phone calls, unnecessary trips, missed work, and additional transportation costs, only to discover that another document or appointment was needed.

The Leadership Elmore County Class of 2007 recognized these barriers and developed a vision for a centralized, telephone-based information and referral resource where families, community partners, and service providers could call to receive guidance and assistance.

Rather than providing every service in one physical location, ECFRC would serve as a central connection point, helping callers understand where to go, whom to contact, what documentation to bring, and what to expect when accessing services.

The project was presented to the Elmore County Children’s Policy Council, bringing together community leaders and partners who shared a commitment to improving access to services for children and families. A founding Board of Directors was established, including members of the Leadership Elmore County Class of 2007, to help turn this vision into a functioning nonprofit organization.

Following its incorporation in 2007, ECFRC began serving the community through intake, information, and referral services, helping families overcome barriers and connect with existing resources throughout Elmore County.

What began as a resource connection point has grown into so much more.

Over the past two decades, ECFRC has evolved into a comprehensive family resource center, offering direct services, education, case management, workforce development, parenting support, youth development, and school-based family assistance.

Although the services and programs have expanded, the original purpose remains at the heart of the organization: removing barriers, connecting resources, strengthening families, and creating opportunities for individuals and children to thrive.

As we celebrate our 20th anniversary in 2027, we honor the vision of the Leadership Elmore County Class of 2007, our founding Board of Directors, the Children’s Policy Council, and the many individuals, organizations, and community partners who have helped bring this vision to life.

Twenty years later, the way families access resources may have changed, but our commitment to helping them navigate challenges, build stronger futures, and thrive remains the same.