FESS works to help families 

During a recent Radio Day hosted by Mixx 96.1 radio, Lynsi Polanco and Nate Gomez of Family Education and Support Services (FESS) dropped off crates of school supplies during Little Red Schoolhouse’s (LRS) annual fundraiser for school supplies. 

 “We delivered a van full of donated supplies that had been collected and stored at FESS in the weeks leading up to the event. Because LRS does not have a permanent storage or drop-off site, FESS acts as one of several designated collection points where community members can contribute ahead of time,” said FESS Development Director Lynsi Polanco

 “All supplies collected during Radio Day are sorted by volunteers and then distributed to Thurston County school districts in the days that follow. These donations go directly to students and families in need, ensuring every child has access to the essential tools they need to succeed in school. We believe that when families are supported, children thrive.” 

Begun as a grassroots as a three-person effort in 2000, FESS has grown into an organization which annually serves 25,000 individuals across multiple counties in Washington.

Today, approximately 35 staff members and many volunteers across Thurston, Lewis and Mason counties work to extend the reach of FESS’s programs.  Shelly Willis, one of the original founders, is the current executive director. 

“What inspires me about FESS is that we don’t just step in during moments of crisis — we walk alongside families, meeting immediate needs while also giving them the tools and confidence to thrive long-term,” Polanco said.

She added that she was drawn to FESS because of its unwavering commitment to strengthening families. 

 “I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming parenting can feel and how many families struggle to find the resources and support they need,” Polanco said. 

In serving parents, caregivers and families of all types and backgrounds, the organization offers parenting education classes, basic needs navigation (diapers, wipes, hygiene items and clothing), kinship care support (for example, grandparents raising grandchildren) and peer counseling services for parents facing challenges. 

“At FESS we see lives being changed. Through programs like Dynamic Dads, the Parent-Child Assistance Program (PCAP), Parents 4 Parents and Kinship Care, we witness parents and caregivers finding strength, healing, and hope,” Polanco said.

“Families, which once felt isolated or overwhelmed, begin to realize they are not alone, and with support, they can build brighter futures for their children.” 

 Currently in the midst of a fundraising drive, the nonprofit FESS is working to raise $250,000 by year’s end. Polanco pointed out that 95 percent of dollars donated go directly to program services that support children and families in the community. 

“None of this work would be possible without the generosity of our neighbors, volunteers and local partners. Every backpack donated, every diaper given and every dollar contributed makes a tangible difference — helping a child thrive, a parent feel supported, and a family gain the tools to build a brighter future," Polanco said.

"Together, we’re not just meeting immediate needs; we’re creating lasting impact and empowering communities to grow stronger, healthier, and more resilient every day."

“We invite you to be a part of our journey.  Make a donation, volunteer your time, adopt a family for the holidays, host a giving tree or coat drive - whatever you can do to help - your contribution creates opportunities!”