Debra Gittens, Chief Executive Officer
Georgia Avenue Family Support Services
As we embark on this new year, I begin with reflection and gratitude. As CEO of the Georgia Avenue Family Support Collaborative (GAFSC), I am immensely grateful for the continued opportunity to serve others. GAFSC has been honored to provide needed programs and services to individuals, families, children, and youth in Washington, DC
for twenty-five (25) years. On January 4, 2025, I began my 10th year with GAFSC, from Deputy Director to Chief Operating Officer and now as Chief Executive Officer. At the pinnacle of these roles is my dedication and commitment to the value of SERVANT LEADERSHIP.
Thankfully, our organization has continued to expand its focus and reach toward the achievement of an even greater impact with the same goal at our forefront, “Helping those who need help the most.” In this new year, we will launch and operate the Ward 4 Brightwood Family Success Center (BFSC), one of 11 Family Success Centers in the District of Columbia. Throughout the District, Family Success Centers play a crucial role in the comprehensive support system envisioned by “Keeping DC Families Together,” by offering primary prevention services and community-driven resources, empowering families, and integrating programs/services to build on family strengths. Our aim is for BFSC to be recognized as a viable and responsive Ward 4 community-based resource, with a unique approach to promoting resident and family well-being and improving community safety. In concert with this, the Brightwood Family Success Center will maintain a multi-cultural, family-friendly, and community response-driven environment.
Recently, I listened intently as Pastor Tony Lowden, President Jimmy Carter’s Pastor shared four important questions President Carter would ask him:
- Where have you been?
- What have you done?
- Who have you helped?
- How can I help you help them?
As I reflected on the meaning of each, I challenged myself to be asked these same questions as the leader of GAFSC. I do this knowing the answers and results cannot be achieved alone. My responsibility and quest are to inspire, collaborate, support, develop, and partner with others earnestly and honestly as we strive to make a
difference together. This brings me to gratitude.
I am truly blessed with a wonderful GAFSC staff who despite often challenging and difficult jobs, come to work daily with the earnest intention of helping others. My Board of Directors aspires to provide the oversight and stewardship necessary to help me lead GAFSC to success. My Collaborative Partners have been at the forefront of our work
together for 30 years advancing healthy families and thriving communities in DC. Our funders continue to support and invest in our efforts to provide meaningful services and programming. And, finally, our donors enable us to fulfill our mission and vision. My gratitude to ALL is boundless and immeasurable. I pledge to always strive to be worthy.
THANK YOU!
The Georgia Avenue Family Support Collaborative (GAFSC) mission is to support children, youth and families to become healthy, empowered and connected in a multi-cultural community. We envision a diverse community where individuals and families prosper, are invested, are self-reliant and live safe and healthy lives.
Our direct work with families focuses on building protective factors in parents and children, and our community capacity building work increases the skills, knowledge and advocacy ability of residents and partners and strengthens the safety net. This dual approach contributes to family wellbeing that can be sustained over time with minimal dependence on formal service providers. All our programs are focused on better outcomes for youth and their families.
