In this photo, a young boy drives his green Hot Wheels jeep down a sunlit yard, his dog trailing behind, heading toward a playhouse with the door left wide open. It’s a scene of joy, imagination, and possibility—but also a reminder of what too many children in Franklin County go without.​

Transportation, stable housing, and even the comfort of a pet are out of reach for many families facing economic hardship. While some children enjoy moments of possibility, others face daily challenges that limit their opportunities. Youth prevention and wellness means more than programs—it means removing barriers, opening doors, and creating real, lasting access to the basics every child deserves.​

We must keep working toward a community where all kids have more than a dream—they have a way forward.