Laurallyn Segur

Laurallyn Segur

Laurallyn Segur brings has over 38 years of child welfare experience to the Florida FAPA as the Community Based Care Advisor. She the Director Of Community Relations with Children’s Network Hillsborough, LLC . A Social Work graduate of Florida State University, she has served children and families in multiple capacities, from working in a residential treatment center for adolescent boys, to serving as a case manager, to holding an array of leadership positions in child welfare. In her previous role as Senior Director of External Relations/Licensing in Pinellas and Pasco for Eckerd Connects, she oversaw the recruitment and licensing of over 3000 foster homes. Laurallyn has helped secure vital community partnerships with faith-based institutions, businesses, civic organizations, and other stakeholders. She has also created fundraisers to raise awareness and dollars to help foster children, and multiple community boards and committees have benefitted from her participation. Laurallyn’ s passion and expertise have earned her several professional awards, including the Lightning Community Heroes Award and Excellence in Child Welfare Award.

Coleen LaCosta

Coleen LaCosta

With over 25 years dedicated to victim advocacy and child welfare, I began my career as a State Attorney Victim Witness Coordinator, supporting child victims and their families. This experience laid the foundation for my lifelong commitment to protecting vulnerable children and strengthening families. My work evolved into frontline roles, including DCF Investigator, placement specialist, and foster parent liaison, where I gained firsthand insight into the challenges faced by foster parents—one of the smallest yet most essential caregiver populations in the country. Recognizing the critical need for systemic support, I launched the first Kinship Connections program in Palm Beach County, providing vital resources to relative caregivers navigating the complexities of child welfare. As the Executive Director of Speak Up for Kids of Palm Beach County, I lead initiatives that directly impact the lives of foster children and families. Our programs, including Flourishing Futures, Embrace Kids, and the Foster Concierge, ensure that children receive the advocacy, mental health services, and life skills necessary for success. Serving on the Florida FAPA Board aligns with my passion for empowering foster parents—true frontline heroes—by advocating for their needs and amplifying their voices in policy and practice. I am committed to ensuring that every foster family has the tools and support they need to provide stability and hope to the children in their care.