FFN Pathways: Celebrating Our First Graduating Cohort of Essential Caregivers 

By Kelly Martinez, Associate Director of Child Care Quality and Business Supports

Family, Friend and Neighbor (FFN) caregivers are indispensable to families and communities across San Francisco. They are the grandparents, aunts, cousins, trusted friends and neighbors who provide care rooted in love, cultural continuity and trust, often filling gaps where formal child care options are limited or inaccessible. Despite their essential role, many FFN caregivers have historically lacked access to structured support, training and connection to a broader early care community. 

Recognizing this reality, Children’s Council of San Francisco launched the FFN Pathways pilot program: a free, flexible and personalized initiative designed to support FFN caregivers through coaching, community and opportunities for professional growth. This pilot, funded by John Levin and The Goldberg Foundation, reflects our belief that caregivers deserve the respect and resources that truly meet them where they are. In launching this pilot, we sought not only to offer resources and training, but also to create a space where caregivers could connect, learn and grow without sacrificing their identities or responsibilities. 

“Serving families and supporting parents has always been close to my heart”, shares one graduate, Shannon. “I find purpose in being there for my community, and I am constantly seeking knowledge so I can continue showing up and doing my work with care, intention and excellence. That passion for growth and service is what led me to join the FFN Pathways program.” 

The FFN Pathways pilot acknowledged what many caregivers already know: caregiving is deeply personal, and no two caregivers’ journeys are the same. Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all model, the pilot was rooted in individualized engagement, honoring each caregiver’s unique goals, experiences and aspirations.  

For Shannon, this personalized approach made all the difference. “The program gave me more than just information. It gave me confidence, clarity and reassurance that I am on the right path,” she explained. “I gained valuable knowledges that helps me do my job better every day, along with tools to run my business more efficiently and with greater intention.”

Our team of coaches played a central role in bringing this vision to life. With patience, empathy and intentional listening, coaches forged authentic relationships with each participant. These relationships allowed caregivers to:

• reflect on their caregiving goals in meaningful ways
• explore professional growth that aligned with their lives
• access tailored resources, support and guidance
• navigate challenges without judgement or pressure

The impact of this support extends beyond skill building. “Feeling supported and encouraged throughout the process reminded me that I don’t have to walk this journey alone,” Shannon shared, capturing the essence of what community and connection can provide. 

The FFN pilot program’s impact touches not just the caregivers themselves but the children and families they serve. Shannon’s vision illustrates this: “Looking ahead, my dream is to open my own licensed child care facility that welcomes and supports children with special needs. I have spent over 13 years working with children and adults with special needs, and that experience has deeply shaped who I am and why this work matters so much to me.” 

Shannon continued, “My goal is to create a safe, inclusive space where every child is seen, valued and given the opportunity to thrive while giving parents peace of mind knowing their children are truly cared for.” This dream exemplifies the impact of supporting FFN caregivers: when we invest in caregivers, we invest in the children, families and communities they serve. 

_{Ivonne Ramos receives a prize during the raffle}

The graduation celebration was a deeply meaningful milestone. 25 Participants gathered with coaches, peers and supporters to reflect on their journeys, receive their certificates and acknowledge the work they do every day. The evening included a raffle featuring prizes thoughtfully selected to support high-quality caregiving environments, reinforcing our commitment to uplifting caregivers while investing in the well-being and development of the children they serve.  

We move forward deeply grateful to the caregivers who trusted us with their time, their goals and their stories. Our commitment remains clear: to expand support for FFN caregivers, honor the diversity of their paths and continue uplifting the people who give so much to children, families and our community. 

To the graduating cohort of the FFN Pathways pilot: thank you. Your dedication, resilience and care inspire us and remind us why this work matters. 

Learn more about the FFN Pathways Program