Second Circuit’s first Reunification Celebration inspires hope
'Today reminds us that healing is possible when we lead with hope and surround families with support'
Second Judicial Circuit Judge Anthony Miller, from left, Brandy Tynes and her children, Guardian ad Litem Child Advocate Manager Alexsia Davis, and Second Judicial Circuit Judge Barbara Hobbs. Photo by Julie Alley Photography
Families, judges, advocates, and community leaders gathered June 6 at the Leon County Courthouse for the inaugural Reunification Celebration, honoring the love, resilience, and determination of parents who have reunified with their children or are nearing reunification.
Six families participated in the celebration, with children ranging in age from 1 to 15 years old. Brandy Tynes described the journey that brought her family back together.
“Sometimes you have to take a fall to get back up,” Tynes said. “I’m forever grateful for my three children.”
The celebration was the result of months of collaboration by a dedicated committee that included representatives from:
- Second Judicial Circuit Office of the Court Administration
- Safe Families for Children of North Florida
- Office of Regional Conflict Counsel
- NWF Health Network
- Legal Services of North Florida
- FSU Public Interest Law Center, Children’s Advocacy Center
- Florida Guardian ad Litem Office
- FSU Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy
- DISC Village, Inc.
- Children’s Legal Services / Department of Children and Families
- Camelot Community Care
“Today reminds us that healing is possible when we lead with hope and surround families with support,” said Early Childhood Court Coordinator Charlie Jackson. “These parents have shown immense courage, and it’s an honor to celebrate their journey.”
Circuit Judge Barbara Hobbs began the day’s events with private court hearings and recognition of families, offering words of encouragement as she congratulated each family.
Following the private hearings, the courtroom opened to the public for a celebratory program emceed by Emmalyn Dalton, advocacy attorney with the Florida State University Public Interest Law Center.
The program included remarks from Leon County Commissioner Carolyn Cummings, who presented a county proclamation, and Circuit Judge Anthony Miller, who presented a city proclamation issued by Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey declaring June as Reunification Month and commending the families’ strength and perseverance.
Markeisa Tassy with Safe Families for Children of North Florida highlighted the importance of work by community organizations to offer early support and support stability for families embracing restoration.
Looking ahead, Tynes said she hopes to return next year to celebrate alongside other families and encourages all parents to “never give up on those you love, because they will never give up on you.”
The reception, held on the first floor of the courthouse, was catered and decorated by volunteers from Safe Families for Children of North Florida.
Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Animal Therapy dogs and handlers also participated.
Julie Alley Photography and The Current Agency provided pro bono services for the event.
