Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Fostering success at Children’s Harbor Inc.
Stephen V. Fuller was recently appointed president and chief executive officer of Children’s Harbor Inc. in Pembroke Pines. Though the executive title is familiar to Fuller, who has held corporate jobs with The GEO Group, AmeriPath Inc., Hospital Corp. of America and Tenet Health, and HR Solutions USA, his passion runs deep with this organization, he says. He has been on its board of directors for 12 years, five of which were as chairman. It’s also personal, says Fuller. His parents adopted three of his six brothers and sisters from foster homes, giving him a unique perspective on how we can all positively affect the lives of children in foster care, he says.
About: Our mission is to provide safe shelter and support for at-risk children, keep brothers and sisters together, strengthen families and guide youth toward independence.
On the job
My role is important because: through leadership, strategic planning, developing diversified funding streams, building upon current relationships and creating new partnerships, we will enhance and expand our programs to meet the ever-growing needs of our community.
Challenge: While we successfully impacted the lives of over 800 children this year through our diverse array of programs, there is still much to do. There are so many children in the foster care system in South Florida, with not enough foster parents to take care of them. When a child turns 18 years old, they “age out” of the system the day after their birthday, and are expected to be completely on their own without any support or resources. Unfortunately, 40 percent of those who “age out” become homeless or incarcerated in that first year.
Industry wisdom: All you have is your reputation, so make sure it’s an honorable, trustworthy, get-the-job done reputation. Never stop learning and always continue to meet new people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Organizational success comes from people who are leaders, not bosses. Always treat everyone with dignity and respect, the way you would like to be treated.