Meet Doris, one of our incredible Family Support Specialists with the Healthy Families Frederick County program here at MHA.
Just last month, Doris celebrated a major milestone—two families she has supported for the past five years graduated from the Healthy Families program. These families have grown in confidence and resilience, building essential parenting and life skills with Doris by their side at every step.
Healthy Families is one of MHA’s powerful prevention programs, designed to support first-time parents through free, strength-based, family-centered services. Specialists like Doris connect families to vital community resources that help parents raise healthier children, foster stronger relationships, and create a better future for our entire community.
With this latest graduation, Doris has now helped 20 families complete the program, representing an astounding 100 years of dedicated support to families in Frederick County!
“Throughout Doris’ time as a Family Support Specialist for Healthy Families, she has empowered families by helping new moms and dads build confidence and skills to create a nurturing environment for their child,” says Healthy Families Program Director, Robyn Sheppard. “She has built strong, trusting relationships with families, becoming a reliable source of support. As a Family Support Specialist, Doris is encouraging, attuned, and responsive in her relationships with parents. She has helped families create an environment of safety, empowerment, and self-efficacy. With her families, she encourages critical thinking and builds on the knowledge and skills parents already possess. Doris demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to the families she serves through her helpful, compassionate, and resourceful nature, with an understanding of each family’s unique needs, while offering the opportunity to provide individualized services that build upon family strengths.”
Congratulations on this monumental accomplishment, Doris! MHA and Frederick County are so fortunate to have you!