The National Federation of Families is a national family-run organization linking more than 120 state and national affiliates focused on the issues of children and youth with emotional, behavioral, or mental health needs and substance use challenges and their families. It was conceived in Arlington, Virginia in February, 1989 by a group of 18 people determined to make a difference in the way the s
ystem works. Members of the National Federation come from all walks of life. Emotional, behavioral or mental health needs and substance use challenges cut across all income, educational, geographical, racial, ethnic, and religious groups. They are found among all families - single and two-parent households, birth, adoptive, kinship and foster. The National Federation works to develop and implement policies, legislation, funding mechanisms, and service systems that utilize the strengths of families. Its emphasis on advocacy offers families a voice in the formation of national policy, services and supports for their children with mental health needs and substance use challenges across the lifespan.
