Q&A Success Story with Executive Director Karen Marsman

For families with young children, having access to reliable information, essential resources and a supportive community can make all the difference. Alpha Family Services provides parents with the tools and resources they need to build strong families and give their children a healthy start.

Serving the Greenville community since 1996, Alpha Family Services is celebrating 30 years of compassionate service to families who are expecting or raising children under the age of five. We spoke with Executive Director Karen Marsman about their mission, the impact of its partnership with United Way, and what success looks like for the families they serve.

Q: Can you share a little about Alpha Family Services and the families you serve?
A: Alpha Family Services is a pregnancy help organization serving the Greenville community since 1996. As we celebrate 30 years of compassionate service, our mission remains centered on supporting families who are expecting or raising children under the age of five. We provide evidence-based parenting education designed to equip parents with practical skills, confidence and reliable information. During each class, families earn points that can be used in our Alpha Store, where they can select essential items for their children. The store offers a wide range of new, child-related products, including cribs and car seats, clothing for infants and young children, diapers, wipes, formula, everyday necessities and developmental items. Our goal is to empower parents, strengthen families and ensure that every child has the resources they need to thrive during their earliest years.

Q: What does your partnership with United Way mean to your organization?
A: We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with United Way and their commitment to strengthening families in our community. Through their generous support, Alpha Family Services has received matching-grant funding as well as essential supplies, including diapers, wipes and personal care items for both adults and children. Their investment in our mission reflects a shared desire to see families thrive, and we deeply appreciate the impact their partnership makes every day for the parents and children we serve.

Q: What does success look like for the families you serve?
A: At Alpha Family Services, success is measured in the moments when families walk through our doors feeling discouraged or overwhelmed and leave with renewed confidence. When parents gain practical, evidence-based skills, have their basic needs met and walk out with a smile, that is success. Another meaningful success is when parents return to share how they used a technique they learned in class and were thrilled with the results. Hearing their stories of growth, problem-solving and strengthened relationships reminds us why our work matters and affirms the impact of our programs every day.

Q: What would you say to someone considering getting involved or giving back?
A: There are so many meaningful ways to be involved at Alpha. Community members can volunteer directly with our families, assist with donations, help at special events or support us by providing much-needed material items. Financial contributions and participation in our fundraising events also make a tremendous impact on the families we serve. We welcome anyone who wants to learn more about our mission. Give us a call and come check us out — we would love to show you how your involvement can make a difference for parents and young children in our community.