This month, our staff took on a special challenge: reading Malcolm Gladwell’s David and Goliath.

It’s a book about underdogs—about how people who seem to have the odds stacked against them can still triumph. Gladwell reminds us that what looks like a disadvantage can, with courage and creativity, become a powerful strength.

At Family Service of Chester County, we see this every day. The families we serve often face “giants” far bigger than themselves—poverty, illness, trauma, and loss. But when they walk through our doors, they aren’t alone. Our counselors and case managers stand beside them, helping them find the tools and confidence to face what once felt impossible.

Just like David, our clients learn to use what they do have—resilience, love for their families, and hope—to move forward. And with your support, we can give them the sling and stones they need: affordable counseling, safe housing, family support programs, and someone who believes in them.

Gladwell writes, “The act of facing overwhelming odds produces greatness and beauty.” We see that beauty every day—in a parent rebuilding stability for their children, in a teen finding their voice through therapy, and in a family who no longer feels alone.

As we head into the final months of the year, we have a lot on the horizon—our year-end giving campaign, our annual holiday gift drive, and more ways for you to make a difference in the lives of local families.

Thank you for standing with us, for believing in the power of the underdog, and for helping us create a community where everyone has a fighting chance.

Stay safe,

Mark Butler, MS

Executive Director

4 Ways to Get Involved This Holiday Season

1. Sponsor a Family
Make a direct impact by sponsoring a local family in need. We support up to 150 children each year! Email Amy Defonzo at adefonzo@familyservice.us to learn more and get matched with a family.

‍2. Donate Online
Your financial contribution helps cover the cost of gifts, warm clothing, and essential household items for families who need a little extra support this season. Select "Holiday Drive" in the donation portal. Donate here »

‍3. Shop from Our Amazon Wish List
Prefer to give something tangible? Choose an item from our Amazon Wish List » — each gift goes directly to a child or parent in our programs.

‍4. Spread the Word
Share our campaign with friends, coworkers, or your community group. Every share helps us reach more families in need of hope and support.

Follow @FamilyServiceCC on all socials for updates, resources, and behind-the-scenes looks at our work. We share short staff interviews on topics like child abuse prevention, mental health, and community-based efforts—highlighting expert tips and real stories from the field. It’s a great way to learn more about the issues we address every day.

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