By Tara N. Burgess, Executive Director and CEO

EPIC, which stands for Every Person Influences Children, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering parents, caregivers, and communities to foster the optimal development of children. Since its inception, EPIC has become a pillar of Western New York, offering a wide range of programs and services aimed at promoting positive parenting, early childhood education, and youth development.

EPIC’s mission is to strengthen families and communities by providing education, support, and advocacy to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Its vision is to create environments where children are nurtured, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. The organization believes that by empowering the significant adults in children’s lives, it can create lasting and positive impacts on the next generation.

EPIC’s parenting education programs equip parents and caregivers with the tools, knowledge, and confidence necessary to raise healthy and happy children. Programs cover topics such as effective communication, discipline strategies, child development, and stress management. Through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one support, EPIC helps parents navigate the challenges of parenting and build strong, positive relationships with their children.

Recognizing the importance of early childhood development, EPIC provides educational resources and support for families with young children, including programs that promote literacy, social-emotional skills, and school readiness. Working closely with parents, educators, and community partners, EPIC ensures that children receive the foundational skills they need to succeed. It’s youth development initiatives help empower young people to become confident, capable, and compassionate, and provide opportunities for leadership development, academic support, mentorship, and community service. By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, EPIC helps youth build resilience, set goals, and pursue their dreams.

Understanding that fostering strong communities is essential for the well-being of children and families, EPIC collaborates with local schools, businesses, and other community organizations to create a network of support and resources. Through community events, advocacy efforts, and partnerships, EPIC addresses issues such as poverty, violence, and inequity, to help build safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.

The impact of EPIC’s work can be seen in the countless success stories of families and children who have benefited from its programs. Parents report increased confidence and competence in their parenting skills, while children show improved academic performance, social skills, and emotional well-being. EPIC welcomes individuals and organizations who share its commitment to empowering children and families to get involved. There are many ways to support EPIC’s mission, including volunteering, donating, partnering, and advocating for policies that benefit children and families. By joining forces with EPIC, you can help create a brighter future for all children in Buffalo, and beyond.

With funding challenges facing every Western New York non-profit at this unique time in history, your help means more than ever. Investing in our community’s children is always worthwhile. For more information about EPIC, visit www.epicforchildren.org, or call 716-332-4100. To donate to EPIC, visit https://www.epicforchildren.org/donate. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!