Our Board of Directors

Julie Swindler has been the chief executive officer of Families First of Palm Beach County for 21 years. She began her career as a social worker in the nonprofit family and children’s services arena. She is a founding board member of the Chamber of Nonprofit Health and Human Services Agencies in Palm Beach County, which was created to help local social service organizations share ideas. She also currently serves as agency executive on the Board of United Way of Palm Beach County

Throughout her career, Ms. Swindler has continued developing skills in program design and implementation as well as staying updated on clinical practice specific to infant mental health services (social emotional wellness).  Ms. Swindler is a strong community collaborator and stays abreast of local and national community and political issues that impact children and families.

Within her profession, she fosters a spirit of cooperation, rather than competition. She has championed collaborative ventures involving multiple organizations and agencies when she sees that they are the best means to serve the clients.  She has been an initiator of innovative programs to meet needs not widely recognized such as the Kin Support Project (educating and empowering relatives who find themselves caring for children).

Families First was the second agency in Palm Beach County to be certified by Nonprofits First, an organization that promotes quality and accountability in the non-profit sector, as well as leading the agency towards national accreditation with the Council on Accreditation for children and families in 2012.

Ms. Swindler holds Masters and Bachelor’s degrees in social work.