Program Overview
Who They Are
Kids First Island County was built around a simple but powerful idea: the children in our foster care system deserve access to the same enriching experiences as every other child in their community. Led by President Dwight Zehm and Board Member Kathy McLean, Kids First bridges the gap between what foster youth need and what Island and San Juan Counties can offer.
Through intentional community partnerships, Kids First connects foster youth with recreational, educational, and vocational opportunities that expand their horizons, build their confidence, and give them something every child deserves — a chance to just be a kid. Whether it's swimming lessons, outdoor adventures, or vocational training, Kids First is there to make it happen. They also support families in becoming licensed foster parents and connect community members with CASA/VGAL opportunities to advocate directly for children in the courts.
Kids First connects foster youth with recreational, educational, and vocational opportunities across Island and San Juan Counties
Programs & Services
How They Help
Kids First partners with local organizations to connect foster youth with recreational activities — from cycling and horseback riding to arts, swimming, hiking, and more. These experiences build confidence, belonging, and lasting positive memories for children who need them most.
Beyond recreation, Kids First links youth with educational support and vocational training that equip them for independence and a future beyond the foster care system. Every opportunity opens a door that might otherwise have stayed closed for children in care.
Kids First helps prospective foster parents navigate the licensing process through Washington's Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Every new licensed foster home is another safe place for a child — and Kids First helps make that happen in Island and San Juan Counties.
Kids First connects community volunteers with Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (VGAL) programs in both Island and San Juan Counties — giving children a trained adult who speaks up for their best interests in the court system.
Reach Out
Connect With the Team
Leadership
Dwight Zehm & Kathy McLean
President & Board Member — Kids First Island County
kids1st.islandcounty@gmail.com (888) 969-4977CASA / VGAL Contacts
Court Advocacy Programs
Volunteer Guardian ad Litem — Island & San Juan Counties
Island County VGAL: (360) 240-5560 San Juan County VGAL: (360) 370-7440 kidsfirst-ic.orgGet Involved
Ways to Support
Kids First Island County runs on community partnership — and there are several meaningful ways to get involved. You can become a licensed foster parent, serve as a CASA/VGAL advocate in the courts, volunteer seasonally, or support the work financially through a direct donation.
To become a licensed foster parent, visit dcyf.wa.gov. To volunteer as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, contact Island County VGAL at (360) 240-5560 or San Juan County VGAL at (360) 370-7440. To donate, give via PayPal or mail a check to: Kids First Island County, PO Box 581, Clinton WA 98236.
Connect With Kids First Island County
Support foster youth in Island and San Juan Counties, Washington — through recreational opportunities, CASA advocacy, foster parent licensing, and community partnership.
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