A Message from Our Executive Director

Welcome to Family Connection–Communities In Schools of Athens!

It is my honor to welcome you to Family Connection–Communities In Schools of Athens (FC-CIS). For more than three decades, our organization has worked alongside students, families, schools, and community partners to ensure that every individual in Athens-Clarke County has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. We believe deeply that when communities connect, people thrive—and that belief guides everything we do.

At FC-CIS, we bring together two powerful approaches: the statewide Family Connection network and the national Communities In Schools model. This unique combination allows us to coordinate vital resources for families, while also embedding support directly inside schools so students can succeed academically and personally. From neighborhood leaders to site coordinators, from community partners to volunteers, our team is united by a shared commitment to equity, access, and opportunity.

We know that challenges do not exist in isolation. Hunger, housing, health, academic struggles, and financial stress are interconnected, and they require a coordinated response. That is why FC-CIS focuses on collaboration—bringing together nonprofits, schools, government agencies, businesses, and neighbors to meet needs holistically. Whether it’s connecting a student to a mentor, ensuring a family has food on the table, or helping a neighborhood raise its collective voice, we are here to stand alongside our community.

As you explore our website, I invite you to learn more about our programs, our partners, and the many ways you can get involved. Together, we can continue building an Athens where every child, every family, and every resident has what they need to thrive. Thank you for visiting, and thank you for being part of this important work.

With gratitude,
Erin Thompson Podvin
Executive Director