Our Mission
To provide high-quality early education and family support services
Vision
A future where every child in Buffalo has access to quality early education and families feel supported, empowered, and connected to the resources they need to thrive
Our Core Values
Empathy & Respect: We honor & celebrate families from all backgrounds & perspectives.
Equity: We believe all children, regardless of income, deserve the same opportunities for growth & success
Community & Collaboration: We work hand-in-hand with families, local organizations and educators to create a strong support system.
Stabilization: We focus on providing consistent, reliable support to ensure families have a strong foundation.
Education: We are committed to fostering a love of learning & providing high-quality educational opportunities for all children.
About Us
At Agnes Youth and Family Center, we believe every child deserves a strong start, no matter their family’s economic situation. Founder Kasey Gustaveson has a background in early childhood education and mental health. She has dedicated her career to creating safe, nurturing spaces where children can learn, grow, and thrive. This daycare is not just a place for childcare; it's a community where families find support, resources, and a true sense of belonging.
Agnes Youth & Family Center is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving children and families throughout Buffalo and Western New York. Agnes Youth & Family Center was founded in September 2024. In 2025, we welcomed our first Board of Directors and began building community partnerships, including a clothing and food access pilot with Everyone Welcome Food Pantry, and collaborations with Camp B-U, VOICE Buffalo, Brown Kids with Disabilities, and Queens in Training on community events. In 2026, we are opening our Tiny Tots early education program to serve children ages 2-5 and help prepare them for kindergarten and beyond.
CEO/Executive Director Summary
Kasey Gustaveson | CEO & Founder
At the heart of Kasey’s work is a deeply personal commitment to children and families. The Agnes Youth and Family Center was named in honor of her grandmother, Agnes, who was a significant and loving presence throughout Kasey’s childhood and who had a genuine love for children. Naming the organization after her grandmother was Kasey’s way of carrying that legacy of love forward while creating a place where children and families could feel supported, valued, and connected. Drawing on a background in social work, child development, and nonprofit leadership. Kasey’s vision for the Center grew from her professional experiences working directly with children and families as a teacher, case manager, and counselor. Across these roles, she witnessed firsthand that families often need more than supportive services alone; they need strong foundations early in life.
This realization brought Kasey back to her roots in early childhood education, while her continued education in social work strengthened her understanding of the complex needs of children and families. Her journey has shaped an integrated approach that connects early education, family support, and social-emotional development, with the long-term goal of helping children thrive from the very beginning.
Meet Our Board
Kasey Gustaveson is the Founder of the Agnes Youth and Family Center. She has a background in family and child counseling and case management. The center is named after her grandmother, who inspired her to give back to the community and pursue a career in social work.
Kelly Zaky is a data manager for Goodwill of Western New York. She is also a graduate of the University at Buffalo, having earned both a Master’s degree in business administration and a Master’s degree in social work with a focus on social innovation and trauma-informed practice.
Jamie Rosner is a project engineer with Viridi, a lithium-ion battery manufacturer on the East Side of Buffalo. He is also a graduate of the University at Buffalo, having earned both a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering and a master's degree in business administration.
Vinette Folkes has over 30 years of social work experience and has helped create parenting programs for Buffalo Public Schools. She currently serves as the public coordinator for Forensic Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) programs for Endeavor Health Services.
Carley Martha is a CPA with a background in forensic accounting. She runs her own independent accounting practice and has worked with non-profit organizations for the past 20 years.
Mike Neal started as a salesman and went on to run professional networking groups. He has 30 years of experience, specializing in running and organizing networking groups throughout the country. He currently serves as the founder of Quality Contacts Networking Group in Western New York.
Tamara Boyle is a Managing Partner of Linwood Guardian Risk Management, specializing in commercial insurance. She has worked in the insurance industry for over 36 years and has helped assist many non-profits with critical insurance needs.