Family & Children's Service of Niagara announced a new name to the community: Pinnacle Community Services.
The agency changed its name due to a few different factors, including confusion as to it was serving under the previous name.
" 'Family' and 'children' wasn't inclusive of everyone served, and, when people only saw those two words, they many times dismissed that the agency can help them if they don't feel they fall into those categories," a press release stated. "Another reason was due to location: 'Niagara,' in many ways, is still associated with Niagara Falls alone, versus the entire county. Services are also provided in Orleans County through our Healthy Families program, and many individuals are served from Erie County at Passage House and Casey House.
"While Niagara County is the agency's home base, human services are becoming more 'regional,' and the agency found it important to plan for that. Family & Children's was also very similar to other agency names, and to that of government agencies, causing confusion for donors, funders, community partners and clients."
After a process that included both staff and board members, the agency arrived at the new name: Pinnacle Community Services.
The word "pinnacle" is defined as "the best or most important part of something; the highest point or level; the most successful point; the highest point of development or achievement."
The press release stated, "These definitions are important for two reasons: first, many individuals and families the agency works with tell us they are looking to grow, to reach their highest point. Secondly, the agency strives to provide the highest level of services.
"The agency chose 'community services' because it is important for us to be inclusive. In the past, many people thought the organization only served families or children, but actually, it serves everyone. The new name hopes to ensure people know that all individuals, as well as families, are served, from infants to adults in our community."
Founded in 1895, Family & Children's Service of Niagara - now Pinnacle Community Services - is a private, nonprofit agency providing the residents of Niagara County with a wide range of community social work services. The agency mission is: "Side by side, step by step ... we strengthen our community by supporting and empowering individuals and families on their journey."
Pinnacle provides a continuum of inter-related services for individuals at all stages of the life cycle, from infants to adults. In addition to offices in Niagara Falls and Lockport, Pinnacle operates three residential programs serving Niagara County: Passage House for survivors of domestic violence, Casey House for homeless teens, and The CRIB Maternity Group Home.
