The Pennsylvania Council of Children, Youth and Family Services (PCCYFS) was originally incorporated in 1976 as the PA Council of Voluntary Child Care Agencies (PCVCCA). A new name was adopted in 1986 which was deemed to be more reflective of practice and services - The Pennsylvania Council of Children's Services. Later, incorporation of a regional association, the Children, Youth and Family Council Education Consortium (CYFC), with PCCS
create one stronger statewide organization. A new name was adopted along with revised statements of purpose, ethics, and scope of service and activities.
"The formation of the Pennsylvania Council of Children, Youth and Family Services reflects the recognition of the need to establish statewide communication among all private, nonprofit agencies providing services for the dependent, neglected, delinquent, emotionally-socially challenged, and other exceptional children through the participation of administrators, board members and individuals connected with the same."
The mission of the Council reflects the overarching goal of working "to enhance the ability of member agencies in the engagement of children, youth and families to improve the quality of their lives and our communities," as adopted by the Board of Directors.
This mission is accomplished though a variety of mechanisms including but not limited to educational programming, research related to service trends and outcomes, ongoing communication with the private provider community related to standards of practice, funding implications and service needs, advocacy efforts and general outreach and educational efforts to increase public awareness and support.