As the longest-standing provider of services to at-risk youth in the region, Quality Family Services continues to set the standard for quality and commitment.
The story of Quality Family Services begins in the heart of California’s Central Valley, where crops grow in abundance and community roots run deep. Mrs. Mae Johnson, who was known then as the bright and resolute Mae Ethridge, was raised to pursue her dreams. After spending her youth working with her family in the cotton fields, she found her way through the halls of academia to the front lines of childcare and education. As a young woman, Mrs. Johnson was the first in her family to graduate from college, funded entirely by her own determination. She carved a path for herself through resilience and commitment, and she would soon find her purpose in helping others do the same.
Mrs. Johnson’s career as a schoolteacher, and later as a daycare provider and educator at Fresno City College, brought her closer to her community’s youth. Her unique perspective, combined with her proximity, illuminated a crucial insight: the unmet needs of at-risk children. These children, often unnoticed and overlooked, ignited a fierce passion in Mrs. Johnson.
“They grabbed my heart, and I knew my life’s work would be dedicated to serving them.”
Mrs. Johnson is personally familiar with the impact that care and empowerment can have on a young person’s life. Driven by a deep connection to her community and inspired by the encouragement of her father, who always saw the potential in his children, Mrs. Johnson founded Quality Family Services. Her vision was clear: to instill in every child what her father had instilled in her—a belief in their own potential and the support to realize it.
“My father was the strongest influence in shaping who I am today. I became who he thought I was, and I knew I could influence others in the same way.”
Today, Quality Family Services stands as a beacon of hope and a pillar of the community. As the longest-standing provider of services to at-risk youth in the region, the organization continues to set the standard for quality and commitment. Mrs. Johnson’s influence extends beyond the walls of Quality Family Services—she continues to serve as a mentor to others, helping to start similar initiatives and shaping the community’s approach to foster care and mental health.
Mrs. Johnson’s legacy is a narrative of trailblazing firsts—her family is known for breaking down barriers for women, African Americans, and other marginalized groups in our area. She continues the next chapter for her family by fostering a culture where the community’s most vulnerable can find a champion in their corner. This story now forms the core of our identity at Quality Family Services. As we move forward, we carry Mrs. Johnson’s vision, values, and heart in every action we take, continuing to serve those who are often left behind but deserve just as much to stand in the spotlight of our care and support.
Embracing all individuals unconditionally, offering a sanctuary for healing and growth
Building meaningful relationships that foster breakthroughs and lasting change
Providing second chances as a cornerstone of personal and community transformation
Using love as a means for enduring life’s challenges and learning critical lessons
Committing to extend beyond conventional limits to meet the needs of those we serve to break the cycle of isolation and adversity
Believing in the power of teamwork to achieve transformative outcomes and celebrating successes as a collective triumph
Meet the people who make this level of care possible.
