Our Philosophy

UMFS is not just for kids. We are champions for children, teens, families and communities. Our guiding philosophy is to always do whatever it takes to help children and teens successfully overcome the toughest odds and create bright futures for them. We assist the child or teen by empowering the entire family to become stable, self-sufficient and caring members of their communities.

Our Philosophy

UMFS is not just for kids. We are champions for children, teens, families and communities. Our guiding philosophy is to always do whatever it takes to help children and teens successfully overcome the toughest odds and create bright futures for them. We assist the child or teen by empowering the entire family to become stable, self-sufficient and caring members of their communities.

Our Values

Start with strengths - always!

Building on strengths is far more effective than focusing on deficits. Our goal is to understand and build on the unique gifts and talents of each person with whom we interact.

Collaboration Multiplies Impact

Benefits of collaboration include shared learning, diverse thinking, and meaningful buy-in. We believe the outcomes of collaboration far surpass those of speedier and siloed approaches.

Relationships are our building blocks

Relationships are at the core of our approach. No one operates within a vacuum, so we consider strengthening relationships to be non-negotiable within our work.

Relentlessly Pursue Solutions

Adaptability has assured our longevity. What we’ve learned in 120 years is that no two families are the same. Our team’s unwavering commitment to healing extends well beyond traditional methods, and we routinely welcome new ideas for enhanced services and processes.

Passion Unleashes Greatness

It’s a privilege and a responsibility to perform the important work of serving children, teens, and families. Our staff is empowered and passionate, creative and innovative, and always in pursuit of the best possible outcomes for those we serve.

Activate Curiosity; Embrace Perspectives

We authentically invest in one another to discover our similarities and differences. Identifying and embracing the value in both is how we foster a culture of belonging and increase our capacity for growth.