The Foundation for Sustainable Families works in partnership with Sustainable Family Services to bridge service gaps in the community and create greater access to direct services, educational opportunities, and to help meet the basic needs of our communities most vulnerable children.
Our Board of Directors is comprised of professionals with backgrounds in Education, Social Work, Finance, LGBTQ+, Child Welfare, and Sustainability, to name a few.
Ashley Rhodes-Courter, LCSW, BC-TMH, CBHCM
Founder
Ashley spent nearly ten years in foster care, before being adopted at the age of 12. Many of her placements were incredibly abusive. Today, Ashley is an LCSW and the New York Times Bestselling author of the books, “Three Little Words,” “Three More Words” and “Sam is My Sister.” She continues to speak and share her expertise and story world-wide. From a young age, she learned that education and community were key survival tools. In her own community, Ashley has served as Guardian ad Litem (CASA) volunteer, foster parent, and adoptive parent.
Brandice Almeida, LCSW
Clinical Services Advisor
Brandice is a Florida native and a proud University of South Florida (USF) alumni. She completed both her bachelor’s in psychology and Master of Social Work from USF and holds certificates in Play Therapy and Adoption Competency. Brandice has provided counseling and support to children in need, including the most difficult of foster children and the chronically ill. She is a strong advocate for taking the time to understand a child, their family, and their needs and believes that families need support to create a healthy and nurturing home environment.
Erick Smith, BA
Clinical Services Advisor
Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Erick’s parents inspired him to tackle many civic roles. He graduated Eckerd College with a degree in American Studies and a minor in Environmental Studies. Erick served as Guardian ad Litem (or CASA) volunteer before he and his wife, Ashley, became foster parents. They have now cared for over 20 children and they are proud adoptive parents. Erick has worked with the University of Florida’s Sustainable Floridians Master Extension Service Volunteer Program providing researched-based educational opportunities, and he works directly with children who have varying emotional and behavioral disabilities.
Send us a message
Sustainable Family Farm
5695 78TH AVE N
Pinellas Park, FL 33781
Erick Smith, Program Director
727-729-0116
Sustainable Family Services
8487 9TH ST N
ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33702
Brandice Almeida, Executive Clinical Director
727-318-3224
Website