Founded in the 19th century, Family & Children's Center is one of northern Indiana's oldest nonprofit institutions and will mark its 125th year of service in 2007.

Family & Children's Center traces its history to the founding of an orphanage in Mishawaka, Indiana, in the year 1882. In that year, the local chapter of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union founded the Orphan's Home Association of St. Joseph County. The home provided temporary shelter to orphaned or unwanted children while suitable permanent homes were being sought for them. At the time, this practice often involved sending children on long and lonely railroad trips - sometimes called "orphan trains" - to new families living on the western frontier. During its first 18 months, the home served more than 80 children.

Today, Family & Children's Center, Inc. is made up of three affiliates: the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Joseph County, Counseling and Development Services, and the Children's Campus.