About Family Access
Our Story
Founded in 1907 as a day nursery for local laborers, and formerly known as Newton Community Services Center, Family ACCESS was one of the first organizations in the state to focus on early education. Since then, it has provided access to quality childcare and preschool for working families, added services to engage seniors and youth, and introduced proven programs to strengthen young families. For example, in the 1970s, the Center was the first agency in the state to adopt the Parent Child Home Program (PCHP), a national model for engaging parents in early child development.
In 2012, the Center became a satellite of Raising a Reader (RAR) Massachusetts. In 2014, we adopted the name Family ACCESS to reflect this growing focus on family development and our commitment to support vulnerable young families. Our work remains deeply embedded in the community, with staff supported by community volunteers, including former clients, to deliver multi-lingual services on-site, in homes, at community centers, shelters, and schools. Since 2020, Family ACCESS has proudly offered Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors, a culturally responsive parenting program designed for Latino communities. In 2023, Family ACCESS became the first in the nation to offer the Abriendo Puertas program in Portuguese. This breakthrough allows us to reach diverse families, expanding our impact in the community.
About Us
Family ACCESS is a community-based non-profit organization that empowers and strengthens families through a set of three integrated programs: The Early Learning Center, Early Literacy Services, and Counseling and Consultation Services. For over 100 years, the organization has served thousands of families, regardless of their economic status, from Newton and neighboring towns.
Education & Support
The word ACCESS is an acronym of the phrase “A Center for Comprehensive Education and Support Services”, a phrase that clearly defines the organization’s work in the community. Formerly known as Newton Community Service Center, our new name, specifically the word ACCESS, describes the impact of that work. It reminds us of the doors that open, and the rich journeys that result, when children and families have access to the very best education-based resources and programs.
Within the first five years of a child’s life, 80% of the ‘hard wiring’ crucial to learning, emotional intelligence, relationships – even physical health – occurs. At Family ACCESS, we’re focused on helping children from all backgrounds benefit from a rich educational opportunity grounded in care and inclusivity. Here, children explore, learn and build relationships and parents gain confidence as nurturers, understanding their roles in a child’s development that is key to their progress.
Mission & Values
Family ACCESS strengthens families and communities with programs that nurture child development and promote effective parenting.
Integrity & Accountability
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of transparency, ethical practice, and continuous learning to ensure meaningful, measurable results.
Equity & Inclusion
We welcome and honor all families, celebrating diversity and ensuring that every voice is heard and every need is met.
Compassion & Respect
We treat all individuals with empathy and kindness, building trust through authentic relationships and mutual understanding.
Strengths-Based Practice
We believe in the potential and resilience of every family, recognizing and building on their inherent strengths and goals.
Partnership, Collaboration & Advocacy
We work hand-in-hand with families, community organizations, and partners to amplify impact and strengthen the social fabric of our community.
Responsiveness & Accessibility
We meet families where they are—providing inclusive, adaptable programs that respond to real needs and evolving circumstances.
Our Team of Directors
David Orlinoff
Chief Financial Officer
Board members
Jim Rapoport
Chair & Development Committee Chair
Susan Heyman
Treasurer
Community Activist
Sara Pollock DeMedeiros
Clerk/Secretary
Stacy B. Klickstein
Chair Emerita
Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Sandra S. Butzel
Decisions for Positive Change
Shawn Fitzgibbons
Chair Emeritus
Massachusetts General Hospital
Kenneth A. Krems
Krems, Jackowitz & Carman, LLP
Susan Paley
Community Activist
Brad Singer
Nonprofit Consultant