Celebrating a Decade of Service: Sarah Shands

We are celebrating an incredible milestone and an incredible BFT team member as we recognize Sarah Shands for 10 years of dedication, compassion and impact at Bringing Families Together.

Over the past decade, Sarah has touched the lives of countless children and families through her work in several roles at BFT, including Family Service Worker, Family Development Specialist, Lead Family Development Specialist and Mentor Coordinator.

And what an impact she has made!

A Decade of Making a Difference

During her 10 years with Bringing Families Together, Sarah has supported families through some of the most important and challenging moments in their lives. Her work has helped children find permanency, supported families as they worked toward their goals and strengthened the network of people helping children and families thrive.

Here’s a look at just some of the impact Sarah has made:

🏡 120 families served — supporting relative, foster, adoptive and respite families

✅ 65 families licensed

❤️ 60 permanent families created — including 47 adoptions and 13 guardianships

👧👦 28 youth case managed — supporting children through reunification, adoption, guardianship and successful transitions

🌟 Mentoring Program leadership — recruiting and supporting 13 approved mentors

Behind every number is a child, a family, a new beginning or a life changed. Sarah’s dedication to this work has made a meaningful difference for the children and families she has served throughout her BFT journey.

Thank You, Sarah!

Sarah’s commitment to strengthening families, supporting children and helping create lasting permanency has transformed lives and strengthened our community.

As Sarah begins her next chapter, we want her to know just how much we appreciate the decade she has given to BFT and the families we serve.

Thank you, Sarah, for 10 years of hard work, compassion, leadership and heart. Your impact will continue to be felt by the children, families, mentors and colleagues whose lives you have touched.

We are so grateful for you and wish you all the very best in what comes next! 💜

Thank you for helping us create strong, resilient communities... one family at a time. 🏡❤️