Mission Statement

The mission of Families Leading Youth (FLY) Foundation is to strengthen youth, families, and communities in Parkland-Spanaway by providing mentorship, wellness programming, and family-centered support that promotes resilience, opportunity, and long-term stability. We work to remove barriers to access by delivering culturally responsive, community-rooted programs directly within Title I school communities where structured youth resources are limited.

Vision Statement

FLY Foundation envisions a Parkland-Spanaway community where every young person and family has access to safe spaces, supportive relationships, and wellness opportunities that allow them to thrive across generations. We believe strong families create strong youth, and strong youth build thriving communities.

Organizational Background

Families Leading Youth (FLY) Foundation is a community-rooted initiative serving youth and families in the Parkland-Spanaway area of Pierce County, Washington. The foundation was created to address opportunity gaps for youth in Title I school districts and to expand access to mentorship, family wellness programming, and leadership development opportunities in neighborhoods lacking structured youth resources.

Community Context & Blue Zones Alignment

Parkland-Spanaway has been identified as a priority community within regional population health initiatives, including the Blue Zones Project. This initiative focuses on improving life expectancy, reducing chronic disease, and strengthening well-being through prevention, social connection, and increased access to healthy environments.

The Blue Zones approach emphasizes evidence-based strategies such as increasing physical activity, strengthening social support networks, improving access to nutritious food, fostering purpose among youth, and creating environments where healthy choices are easier. These priorities directly align with the work of FLY Foundation.

Despite this designation, Parkland-Spanaway lacks critical youth infrastructure. The community does not have a Boys & Girls Club, YMCA, or dedicated community center serving youth and families. This absence leaves many students without safe, structured environments for mentorship, enrichment, or wellness programming outside school hours.