Seattle Field Office dedicated in honor of Trustee Joan B. Poliak
Casey Family Programs’ Seattle field office, which provides direct services to youth in foster care, was renamed the Joan B. Poliak Seattle Field Office for Casey Family Programs in a special dedication ceremony on October 6.
Ms. Poliak, the longest-serving board member, was joined by about 65 guests at the ribbon-cutting and reception in her honor at the 23rd and Union location, which was opened in 2000. The renaming, commemorated by bronze plaques, comes during Casey’s 50th anniversary year.
“This building is more than just an office; it is a place of hope and healing, as all of our field offices are,” Ms. Poliak said at the ceremony, where she was toasted with sparkling apple cider. “They are the heart and soul of our mission, and I couldn’t be more proud to have my name on this special building.”
Casey Family Programs’ Board Chair David C. Mills said: “It’s only fitting that, as we mark the 50th anniversary of Casey Family Programs, we dedicate this building in honor of Joan. It represents our belief that the work we do today will have a profound impact for generations to come.”
Ms. Poliak, who began her career as a social worker, has been a Casey Family Programs trustee since 1982 and currently serves as vice chair. She retired from Family Services in Seattle as the director of family education and support services, with a strong emphasis on homeless children and families, outreach services and preventive education. She has served on prominent boards, including the Child Welfare League of America, Marguerite Casey Foundation and the King County Commission for Children, Youth, and Families.
In 2015, Grantmakers for Children, Youth and Families recognized Ms. Poliak with the Fred Rogers Leadership Award in Philanthropy for Children, Youth and Families.
Casey Family Programs provides direct services to 1,400 youth and families each year through nine field offices in five states.