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Board Letter

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Dear Friends,
As I reflect on 2024, I feel a deep sense of pride in what we have accomplished together The true strength of an organization is revealed in how it responds to uncertainty, and I am particularly proud of the resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to children and families that Safe & Sound has demonstrated.
That truth was powerfully felt at our Blue Ribbon Celebration, where a moving speech from a member of our community reminded us all why this work matters. Their story of resilience and hope brought our mission to life and left a lasting impact on everyone in the room. It was a clear reflection of what happens when we show up, listen deeply, and stand alongside families as they navigate difficult moments.
In a year of political transition, we also saw encouraging signs of alignment with our mission. Before the November election, we hosted a mayoral forum, where every candidate expressed strong support for prevention and early intervention, affirming the broad political consensus of the importance of investing in families to build a safer, more equitable San Francisco.
In May, we concluded our three-year TASIE research project, which confirmed the powerful impact of ACEs screening in pediatric care. The project not only helped providers better understand and respond to their patients’ needs but also strengthened connections between families and healthcare systems. You’ll find more about this important work—and its national reach—later in the report.
These moments—and so many more—drive forward Safe & Sound’s vision: a future free from childhood trauma, where all children, families, and communities are safe, supported, and loved. Our Community Pathway initiative is a key strategy in making this vision real. By ensuring families can access trusted support early, before challenges escalate into crises, we weave together prevention, healing, and systemic change.
This work is fueled by the passion of our dedicated team and board of directors, and by the trust and partnership of people like you. Thank you for standing with us in this vital work.
With gratitude,
Hilary Mendola & Katie Riester
Co-Chairs, Board of Directors