History and Mission
History
On Christmas Eve, 1854, a group of prominent citizens from the City of Lawrence, MA, gathered to discuss the
formation of a relief society to meet the needs of poor immigrants who had arrived to work in the city’s mill
industry. On that night the Provident Association was formed, later called the Lawrence City Mission and known
today as Family Service, Inc.
Throughout its history, Family Service has grown and changed to meet the needs of its community. As an organization
committed to strengthening individuals and families, Family Service has played a central role in the events that have shaped
our community, from the Bread & Roses Strike of 1912, to the Malden Mills Fire in 1996, to the devastating flood of 2006.
In its recent history, Family Service has evolved from a small mental health clinic with seven staff (c.1985) to a large and
dynamic organization with a staff of 40.
Mission
Family Service’s mission is to strengthen individuals and families by building skills for successful home, school, work, and
community life.
Vision
Family Service envisions a future where all individuals in our community are able to create and sustain emotional and wellbeing
for themselves, their families, peers and colleagues.
Values
Personal Potential
We believe the positive potential in every person, (clients, employees and volunteers) should be recognized and nurtured so
that every person has the ability to succeed personally and professionally.
Quality of Service
Family Service is committed to providing the highest-quality prevention and treatment interventions that are based on the
best practices for efficiency and effectiveness in the fields of human services and business practice.
Cultural Competence
We believe in honoring the cultural and linguistic characteristics of our clients. We aim to reach underserved and at-risk
populations who face the stresses of poverty, family violence, aging, and linguistic and cultural isolation.
Collaboration
We believe that each person exists within the context of a family and community and we are committed to collaborating with
the individuals and organizations that impact the lives of our clients.
Local Impact
Family Service is committed to maintaining its historic commitment to meeting the needs of individual and families in the
Merrimack Valley.
