The Family Resource Center at Gorham: News

The Family Resource Center: News

                                                                       

 

Denise Vallee, Board President, welcomes Judge James Michalik as the new Executive Director of the Family Resource Center at Gorham.

Coos Family Court Judge to Head Family Resource Center at Gorham

 

Family and District Court Judge, James E. Michalik and Denise Vallee, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Family Resource Center (FRC) at Gorham have jointly announced that Judge Michalik has been named the agency’s new Executive Director.  Judge Michalik will leave the bench on September 3rd and begin his new duties with FRC on September 7th.

 

Speaking for the FRC Board Ms. Vallee said “We are very fortunate and excited that Judge Michalik will be assuming the position of the FRC Executive Director.  He has deep roots in the community along with first-hand knowledge of what issues and problems face the children and families of Coos County.  He has an infectious enthusiasm for helping children and families and will work with vigor and integrity to guide the FRC staff and the programs into the future with a renewed energy that supports the FRC Mission Statement.”

 

Judge Michalik cited the organization for its exemplary mission, staff, and long term efforts to improve the lives of children and families in the North Country.  “It will be an exciting and exhilarating experience to lead this very fine group committed to building a better future for children and families and working towards the development of a healthier community.”  He added, “I have been deeply honored to serve as a Judge.  I have treasured every moment of my service.  However, I would like to take on a new challenge that gives me an opportunity to work with the community at large rather than on a case by case basis.  My interest in service was a strong motivation for me to accept this position.  I deeply believe each of us is responsible to help others work through the challenges life puts upon us, especially in difficult times.”

 

With a one million dollar annual budget and 50 full and part time employees, the Family Resource Center at Gorham has been providing multiple parenting and family support programs, nationally recognized After School programs for elementary and middle school children and various employee support programs to families throughout Coos County since 1999. 

 

Judge Michalik has served as a District Court Judge since November, 1999 and as the first Presiding Judge of the Family Court in Coos County since April, 2006.  He has served the Court systems in communities around the state including Manchester, Concord, Nashua, Laconia, Plymouth, Conway, Littleton, Ossipee and Coos County as a ‘circuit riding’ judge.  “I have been honored to preside on Family and District Court matters in every corner of this state over the last 11 years and I will truly miss working with the many, many friends I have come to know in those courts.  New Hampshire is blessed with some of the most dedicated court staff and security personnel any state could have, including the very excellent people who work in the courts here in Coos County.  I look forward to continuing my connections with all of them in my new role as FRC Executive Director.”

 

Judge Edwin W. Kelly, the Administrative Judge of the District and Family Courts commented that “Judge Michalik has been one of the most highly respected judges in our system for the past 11 years.  He has demonstrated time and again his commitment to the children and families of Coos County. While I am deeply saddened to lose him from the judicial branch, I am extremely pleased that he will be working with the Family Resource Center and for the many opportunities that will present for the courts to continue to work with Judge Michalik.”

 

Judge Michalik can be reached at the FRC after September 7th at judge.michalik@frcberlin-gorham.org

 

 

Operation School Supplies 

 

 Shawn Hanlon and Don Noyes of AutoNorth Pre-owned Superstore in Gorham, NH presented a $1025.00 donation to Donna Piet and Nicole Plourde this week, representing $25 from each car sale in the month of July.  The dealership has pledged this community support to organizations in its entire service area.


   Operation School Supplies is in its 12th year and is the collaboration of NH Catholic Charities and the Family Resource Center.  The program supplies new backpacks and school supplies such as pencils, zippered binders, rulers, index cards and other items that are requested.  Many families are struggling and this program helps reduce some of the financial stress that can come with the new school year.  The much-needed supplies ensure that the kids will be prepared to start the new year off right.  Last year alone the program served over 300 local school children.