The People behind the scene
Meet our Team
Milisa McElroy
Founder & Executive Director
Greetings! I’m thrilled at the opportunity to connect with you. With a passion for exploring and exchanging ideas, I believe every conversation has the potential for inspiration. If you have questions or wish to collaborate, please reach out! Let’s embark on an engaging journey together! I am the Founder/Executive Director of Family First Connection. I currently hold a degree in Paralegal Studies and Accounting. Recently, I completed a certificate in Nonprofit Management with East Texas Center for Nonprofits and a two-day Grant Writing class. I have a certificate of completion in Professional Supervised Visitation Services, a mandated reporter certificate through Child Protective Services, and I am a Notary Public. I will be completing a Bachelor’s at UT Tyler starting in the Fall of 2025. I founded Family First Connection because of personal experiences within my family; someone helping during this time said to me, “You need to do something with that anger.” I gave it to God, and He moved in big ways. I can’t wait to help other families stay connected and build strong bonds.
Kim Hazuka
Board Member
Kim is a wealth of knowledge and loves Dunkin Donuts coffee. She comes to our organization with four years of board experience and has worked for Smith County for 21 years. Kim bring compassion, networking, and IT knowledge. We are so excited to have her on the board.
Amber Penner
Board Member
Amber Penner is a dedicated business owner and community advocate with a strong background in criminal justice, paralegal studies, and business administration. With multiple degrees and a passion for family law, Amber brings deep expertise in communication, leadership, and client education to her work—both professionally and in her service on the board.
As a lifelong East Texan, Amber has spent her career championing policies that make a meaningful difference in the lives of families and children. Her personal experiences fuel her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and helping clients navigate complex legal and emotional challenges. Known for her interpersonal skills and compassionate approach, Amber is especially driven to promote stability, justice, and support systems for children and families.
Amber currently serves on the board of Family First Connection, where she applies her insight and leadership to advance the organization’s mission. She lives in East Texas with her husband of 22 years and their two children.
Alfie
Service Dog
Alfie is a member of our team here at Family First that assists with supervised visitation. Alfie loves people and helps break up any tension that families may be concerned about. Alfie is not at every visit but he can be requested.
Katelynn Carter
Website Manager/Editor
Katelynn is a student at the University of Texas at Tyler working on her Bachelors degree in English with a minor in marketing. Katelynn has a passion for helping others and making a difference through her skills and talent for creating.