TFI Family Initiative Inc. (TFI) proudly marks its 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of unwavering commitment to strengthening families and supporting children in need. Founded in 1965 as a small rural day camp outside of Emporia, Kansas, TFI has grown into a multi-state organization, continually dedicated to its mission of providing nurturing homes and empowering families.
Over the years, TFI has supported more than many families in different capacities. In the last 10 years, TFI has served over 14,000 families and reached significant milestones that highlight its journey of transformation and growth. From its early days as The Farm, Inc. to its current status as a national leading community-based child welfare organization, TFI’s evolution reflects its steadfast dedication to the strength of families.
Historical Milestones:
1965 – Launched as The Farm, Inc., a summer camp in Northern Lyon County, Kan. focusing on keeping siblings together and later transforming into a foster home.
1968 – The Farm opened two group homes, one for boys and one for girls, near Admire, Kansas.
1987 – Became an associate member of the Child Welfare League of America (CWLA).
1990 – Secured a Kansas Child Placing Agency License, enhancing partnerships with local organizations for the benefit of transitioning children
1999 – TFI achieved accreditation through the National Council on Accreditation (COA).
2000 – Awarded Family Permanency Contract for Region 1 in Kansas. TFI secured a CPA license in Missouri.
2003 – Pathway Family Services, the residential services sector of TFI, was founded.
2005 – Rebranded to TFI Family Services, Inc. Began providing Family Preservation services in Region 3 in Kansas.
2010 – Pathway Family Services Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) opened in Topeka, Kan.
2012 – Expanded foster care services to Nebraska and Oklahoma.
2014 – Nonprofit Solutions was created, later to be merged with Mainstream now known as Mainstream Nonprofit Solutions and formed Texas Family Initiative LLC.
2018 – Contracted with DFPS to provide community-based care services in Region 2 with our program, 2INgage. Nonprofit Solutions changed their name to Mainstream Nonprofit Solutions, Inc.
2019 – Awarded Foster Care Case Management contract for Regions 4 & 8. Launched the Grow Nurturing Families program.
2022 – Foster Care Technologies joined TFI Family of Companies; expanded Family Preservation services with 2INgage.
2023 – Contracted with DFPS to provide community-based care in the Metroplex East Region with our program, EMPOWER. Opened Blue Skies Residential Facility in Wichita Falls, Texas.
When asked what TFI means to her, 39-year tenured employee Nadine Terry, Consumer Specialist, said, “It has been my honor and pleasure to have worked with this company for over 39 years, and seeing it grow and being part of helping countless numbers of children and families has been a true blessing to me. TFI is not only my long-time employer, but my extended family of friends and coworkers as well.”
TFI’s impact extends beyond numbers, as its programs and services have helped transform the lives of countless children and families over the years. With a presence in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri, TFI continues to ensure that children have the opportunity to grow up in stable, loving homes.
“Celebrating 60 years is a monumental achievement for TFI. We’ve grown tremendously, impacting countless families and strengthening communities along the way. As we look to the future, our dedication to the strength of family remains steadfast. Together, we will continue to build supportive environments where every family can thrive,” said Michael Patrick, TFI CEO.
Looking forward, TFI remains committed to expanding its reach and enhancing its programs to better support children and families. By fostering collaborative partnerships and staying true to its mission, TFI aims to create a brighter future for generations to come.
We are always looking for folks to join our mission of strengthening families. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, call 1-833-7FOSTER or visit our website. If you want to join our team and take part in this meaningful work visit our career page. If you feel drawn to our mission and want to give monetarily visit our donation page.