Branches, Inc.
Sarah Pattison is an experienced development professional currently serving as the Director of Development at Branches, Inc. since August 2021, previously holding the position of Associate Director of Development. At Branches, Inc., Sarah contributes to enhancing student, family, and financial wellness services in South Florida communities. Prior to this role, Sarah was the Senior Manager of Individual Giving at City Year from March 2020 to August 2021, where responsibilities included managing a portfolio of 200 individual donors and overseeing major donor societies. Sarah also held various positions at Capital Partners for Education from August 2017 to February 2020, focusing on mentoring low-income students. Earlier in the career, Sarah was the Principal Gifts Assistant at the University of Florida Foundation. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Florida and completed a study abroad program at Instituto Social da Bahia, concentrating on Race, Inequality, and Power.
Branches, Inc.
Mission. The mission of Branches, Inc. is “to serve, educate and inspire people through student, family and financial stability services in partnership with our communities.” History. Branches was established in 1973 as the outreach ministry for the SE District of the United Methodist Church. Up until 1999, Branches focused on grassroots organizing, advocacy and working with community members who were disadvantaged and/or experiencing social injustice. During this time, Branches focused resources in the areas of social crisis, immigration, hospice care, among others. Since 2000, Branches has embarked on developing and implementing programs that address the root causes of poverty and address critical needs. Today, Branches’ menu of services provides a continuum of support to community members to empower them to pursue life changing opportunities. Our current programs include the following: Grow Program - serves elementary students preparing them for lifelong success through enrichment of their minds, bodies and hearts. Our engagement with the students begins after school with tutoring and homework help but continues with enrichment activities including: Summer Shade Camp, Recreational Activities, Social Skill Development, Mentoring and Healthy Meals and Snacks. Climb Program - serves middle and high school students focusing on the development of their individual assets in order to maximize opportunities to become better students and better people. Through the guidance and support of caring staff and volunteers, Branches youth are able to participate in: Life Skills, Service Projects, College Discovery, OASIS Spring Break Camp, Academic Tutoring and Retreats. Achieve Programs - provide a continuum of financial services that equips and enables families to achieve increased financial stability and long-term success in life. Achieve programs create opportunity, stimulate productivity and ultimately lead to financial stability and long term success.