The Children’s Services Council of Broward County is welcoming Dr. David Kenton as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective October 1. With extensive experience and fresh perspectives, Dr. Kenton aims to advance the council's mission of supporting children and families within the community.
Dr. Kenton's track record includes significant leadership roles, previously acting as the Dean of Student Services at Broward College. His successful history of improving systems and managing operations is expected to bolster the effectiveness of the Children’s Services Council as it seeks to implement its programs.
Outgoing COO Monti Larsen laid the groundwork for the organization, illustrating the importance of her contributions to the council's path forward. The council’s president, Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, expressed confidence stating, "David’s professional background and personal story make him a perfect fit for the organization."
Dr. Kenton reiterated the importance of creating positive outcomes, especially for children and families. “Making a positive and lasting impact is incredibly important to me, especially in the lives of children and families here in Broward County,” he shared.
The Children’s Services Council of Broward County focuses on ensuring children have access to quality programming and health services. Through its work, the council aims to create environments where children can thrive irrespective of their circumstances.
Meanwhile, across the ocean, organizations are advocating for improved support for children without parental care even after they reach adulthood. The call for enhanced services highlights gaps in the legal framework aimed at safeguarding these vulnerable youths.
A 13-year-old boy living with one of the host families shared his positive experiences under their care, expressing gratitude for the love and support received. Such narratives highlight the importance of family-like environments, even for kids who've faced the hardships of parental absence.
Arlinda Rexhepaj has dedicated her life to providing parental care for children without familial support. After ten years of hosting children, she addresses the significant challenges, particularly the lack of state assistance once these individuals reach 18 years.
“I appeal to the state to change the approach to this category of children without care, and to offer them help even if they reach the age of independence,” she pleaded. The existing gap is felt deeply by both the children and the host families, who continue to provide love and support without significant government aid.
According to the organization supporting these children, around 40 families currently shelter approximately 50-55 youths without parental care. Yet, the coordination between government policies and available assistance remains insufficient for the needs of these children.
Albana Hoti, from the aforementioned organization, emphasizes the urgent need for increased investment to help these children thrive and transition back to social life effectively. She explained, “Families are not limited only based on the income they receive for the children,” underscoring the need for broader structural support.
The regulatory framework exists but is not fully operational, leaving many children to fend for themselves after age 18. The gap raises concerns about how well these young adults can integrate back to society without the necessary support systems.
This situation has intensified the focus on policies like Supervised Independent Living, which is part of the Child Protection Law but yet to be fully realized. Efforts to get the Draft Civil Code approved by the government continue to face obstacles, retarding progress on this critical issue.
The need for reform was more than just institutional; it aimed directly at providing real-life solutions for those most affected. Supporters argue passionately for the necessity of implementing existing laws to reinforce the welfare of children without parental care.
Returning to Broward County, Dr. Kenton aims to revitalize the Children’s Services Council operations to better address the needs of children facing similar challenges. His leadership will be pivotal as the council navigates its future initiatives.
“The CSC has been a cornerstone of this community for years,” Dr. Kenton emphasized. Under his guidance—and with the solid foundation laid by Monti Larsen—the organization anticipates making significant strides forward.
The parallel narratives from Broward County and beyond illuminate the pressing need for unwavering support for children needing care. These efforts represent hope not just for the present, but for creating sustainable future pathways for vulnerable children and families.
