Teressa Johnes Appointed to Family Service Agency Board of Directors

SANTA BARBARA — Family Service Agency (FSA) of Santa Barbara County, also known as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center and Guadalupe’s Little House By The Park, is pleased to announce the appointment of Teressa Johnes to its Board of Directors.

Johnes has worked for local community service organizations since 1998.  Johnes held previous positions at First 5 Santa Barbara County and CommUnify, and has served on many local and state committees.

Johnes’ passion for children and families is demonstrated by her service and commitment to improving the systems that support them.  Johnes has been recognized for her work locally and at the state level and is considered an expert in the field of family support.  Johnes was part of a state team that developed Standards of Quality for Family Support that have now gone nationally to over thirty states. She was instrumental in the development of the local and state recognized Network of Family Resource Centers of Santa Barbara County.  Johnes retired in 2018, and currently co-chairs the statewide California Family Support Network, which she helped develop and is now under the California Family Resource Association.

“We’re excited to welcome Teressa as a new trustee,” said Lisa Brabo, FSA Executive Director. “With her experience in community and family support services, she will bring valuable insights and pertinent skills to our board.”

Family Service Agency of Santa Barbara County (FSA) is a nonprofit social service agency that has served the people of Santa Barbara County since 1899. Operating as Santa Maria Valley Youth and Family Center (SMVYFC) in Santa Maria and Little House By The Park (LHP) in Guadalupe, FSA helps the community’s most vulnerable children, families, and seniors meet their basic needs while simultaneously addressing mental health needs. Through this holistic approach, FSA improves the strength and well-being of our community. All services are provided free or on a sliding fee/donation scale and no one is denied assistance because of an inability to pay. Visit fsacares.org or call (805) 965-1001 for more information.