*CEO Elizabeth Wilberg (left) and the PLF team smile at Coffee & Conversations. February 2026.*

Last Friday, community members gathered at Para Las Familias (PLF) for the annual PLF Coffee & Conversations event. Coffee & Conversations offers an opportunity for people to learn about PLF’s trauma-informed, relationship-based approach, see the therapy rooms firsthand, and connect with other ECS supporters.

*Giselle Moreno, Child & Family Therapist, shared the power of PLF with the event crowd. February 2026.*

Attendees enjoyed refreshments and networking before brief speeches from CEO Elizabeth Wilberg and PLF therapist Giselle Moreno. They shared how crucial PLF’s services are, especially for underserved communities. Family therapy sets new generations up for success, breaking down barriers and providing parents with tools that will last a lifetime.

Evelynn, a former PLF parent, attended this year’s event. Evelynn came to PLF for help when her son was diagnosed with autism. “This was my first open door,” she said. “[PLF] taught me where I can go look for help, that I’m not alone, that my child’s not alone, that I’m his voice.” She shared that PLF provided her and her son with tools they still use today.

*Guests explore PLF and therapy tools on a guided facility tour. February 2026.*

The event closed with group tours of the facility led by PLF staff. Attendees learned about different techniques, practices, and tools the PLF therapists use to help build trust between children and their guardians.

Leslie Manriquez-Jimenez, Associate Director of Children’s Behavioral Health, commented on the significance of Coffee & Conversations. “I think a lot of people want to be supportive of services like ours, want to support their community, want to support children and families. So, coming to events like this actually widens their view of what is out there, what the community needs. It’s really awesome.” ECS extends a huge “thank you” to everyone who showed their support for PLF at Coffee & Conversations.

*Coffee & Conversations provided ample opportunity for networking with ECS supporters and staff. February 2026.*

Para Las Familias is ECS’ bilingual, bicultural mental health program for young children and their caregivers in San Diego’s South Bay. PLF offers trauma-informed, family-centered care for children ages 0 to 12, many of whom face behavioral health challenges related to trauma, stress, or changes at home or school.

PLF helps strengthen and uplift families, impact that cannot be created without your help. Just $15 can provide a child with a bilingual book and $25 can provide them with a take-home therapy kit. Visit ecscalifornia.org/donate to give to PLF today and ensure brighter futures for San Diego children.