For 25 years, the Children’s Services Council of Broward County (CSC Broward) has quietly been transforming lives by investing in the health, education, and well-being of local children and families. Under the leadership of President and CEO Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, the organization has become one of the county’s most influential forces for positive change, touching every zip code and every stage of a child’s development.
Established by Broward County voters in 2000 and overwhelmingly reauthorized in 2014, CSC Broward was created with a simple yet powerful belief: when children and families thrive, the entire community benefits. Today, the organization supports more than 200 programs through partnerships with over 100 community organizations, investing in solutions that strengthen families and create opportunities for success.
A Mission That Evolves With Community Needs
While CSC Broward’s mission has remained constant to provide leadership, advocacy, and resources necessary to help children and families thrive, its approach has evolved to meet changing challenges.
Today’s families face increasing pressures, including rising housing costs, food insecurity, limited access to mental health services, and the growing expense of childcare. In response, CSC Broward focuses on prevention and early intervention, investing in programs that support families before problems become crises.
Its funding supports early childhood education, after-school and summer programs, maternal and child health initiatives, family strengthening programs, and services for children with special needs. By bringing partners together, CSC creates coordinated solutions that maximize community impact.
Measurable Results Across Broward County
The impact of CSC Broward can be seen throughout the county. Each year, more than 200,000 children and families benefit from programs supported by the organization. Services range from affordable after-school care and food assistance to swim lessons, prenatal support, mental health services, and workforce development opportunities for teens.
Over the past two decades, Broward has experienced significant improvements in school readiness, family stability, healthcare access, and child safety. CSC-funded initiatives have also contributed to reductions in foster care placements, juvenile delinquency, and teen pregnancy. The organization’s commitment to accountability is reflected in its 25 consecutive years of clean audits and ongoing evaluation of every program it funds.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed regardless of where they live or the challenges they face,” says Seltzer.
Addressing Today’s Challenges
Among the organization’s newest priorities is combating food insecurity. Since 2022, CSC Broward has invested more than $1 million annually in programs that help families access nutritious meals through partnerships with organizations such as FLIPANY and Harvest Drive. Mobile School Pantry, the emergency food distributions, and summer meal programs provide critical support for struggling families.
Mental health is another growing concern. Following the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, CSC helped establish Eagles Haven, a healing center for those affected by trauma. The organization also partnered with the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition and launched HEAL Trauma programs that deploy community mental health workers to areas with the greatest need.
Investing in Broward’s Future
As CSC Broward celebrates its 25th anniversary, the organization remains focused on expanding partnerships, improving access to services, and embracing innovative solutions that strengthen families and communities.
“For just 45 cents for every $1,000 in property value, residents are helping create lasting change,” says Seltzer. “When we invest in children, we invest in the future of our community.”
Through collaboration, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to Broward’s youngest residents, CSC Broward continues to prove that strong families create strong neighborhoods—and strong neighborhoods build thriving communities.
For more information about the Children’s Services Council of Broward County, visit www.cscbroward.org or call 954-377-1000.
