Getting Started
Each family considering our program meets with a staff member to see if it’s the right fit for their needs. In this first meeting, families get to know our coach, learn about the program, and decide if they feel comfortable joining our community. After the initial interview, families complete paperwork and self-assessments with our team, then work through our curriculum to create personalized goals and plans for success.
Monday Night Dinners
Each Monday at 5:30 PM, we gather for a family-style meal. At 6:15, adults join classes designed to support their personal growth, while children enjoy a fun, engaging time in our childcare program. We conclude by 7:45, leaving with new insights to apply throughout the week.
Program Phases
Phase One
Phase One is where all Leading Families start their journey. This phase supports brave families facing challenges like poverty, toxic stress, or custody issues. Over 25 weeks, families engage in the evidence-based curriculum, Getting Ahead in a Just Getting By World. Guided by trained facilitators and coaches, this intensive program helps families create customized plans to overcome obstacles. Upon completion, families celebrate their achievements in a graduation ceremony.
Phase Two
In the second 25 weeks, Leading Families advance their journey by putting their Phase 1 plans into action. Each week, families join classes focused on specific needs they’ve chosen from 11 resource areas, covering topics such as job skills, mental health, relationship building, parenting, financial management, and more. Led by local experts, these classes offer practical support to help families thrive.
Phase Three
In the final 25 weeks of our program, Leaders take part in Match Night, where they are paired with a Learning Friend. These volunteers provide support and encouragement as Leaders work on their action plans. Once matched, Leaders and Learning Friends meet monthly for dinner and compassionate accountability, tackling challenges and accessing community resources as needed. This partnership fosters genuine connections, building lasting relationships that extend beyond the program.
Graduation & Match Night
Graduation
Upon completing Phase One, each adult who finishes our Getting Ahead class receives a $200 gift. We gather to celebrate their achievements, inviting all stakeholders to hear the inspiring success stories of Leading Families. These individuals are moving beyond poverty and custody concerns, stepping into a transformed life where every family member can thrive.
Match Night
Phase Three begins by thoughtfully pairing each Leading Family with one or two Learning Friends.