First Ward Community Service

First Ward Community Service (FWCS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of low to moderate income families and seniors in Saginaw County, Michigan. Founded in 1931, FWCS operates primarily in the Northeast section of Saginaw, commonly referred to as the Potter-Longstreet neighborhood.

Mission and Vision

The mission of FWCS is to positively influence the lives of community members by addressing social and behavioral needs, focusing on families and seniors with limited financial resources. Their efforts aim to improve the quality of life by providing prevention education, recreation programs, and promoting healthy living practices. The organization's vision is to transition individuals and families from dependency to self-sufficiency through a range of services.

Programs and Services

FWCS offers a variety of programs tailored to different age groups and needs:

• Literacy Arts Cultural Enrichment Recreation (LACER): This program provides after-school and summer day activities for youth in grades K-12, focusing on improving literacy skills, introducing new skills, and encouraging academic achievement. The LACER Theatre group allows children to express themselves through performing and visual arts.
• Helping Individuals Reach Excellence (HIRE): The HIRE program is designed to cultivate successful student leaders by engaging them in academic preparedness, introducing them to STEM careers, and providing opportunities for college tours, employer visits, and skill-building workshops. Participants also have the chance to gain certifications in core construction and Microsoft Office.
• Addressing Basic Needs: FWCS offers emergency assistance to low-income families and individuals, providing food, non-food items, utility assistance, and other supportive services such as the Adult Community Kitchen and informational referrals.
• Senior Citizens Program: This program provides nutritionally balanced hot meals to senior citizens, along with opportunities for socialization through recreational and educational activities.

Funding and Partnerships

FWCS's work is funded through various sources, including fund development, private foundations, individual donations, federal, state, and local financial institutions, and special events. Collaboration with community partners is a key element in the success of their programs.