Last night we held our monthly Mid Town Family Resource Center family night. These events are a way to gather neighborhood families together for support and fellowship. They are part of our community level Partners in Prevention projects. The premise is, as we build some support, trust and mutual aid among neighborhood families, and their connection to our FRC, they can reduce stressors in their family life, that might lead to conflict, abuse or neglect. We work very hard to focus on the positive strength building potential, in keeping with the agency's mission of nurturing and protecting children, while strengthening families. The families really seem to appreciate and enjoy the togetherness. There is a good mix of parents, and children, and some grandparents and older siblings. Pasta was the main course! Lots of bustling and activity leading up to the meal! Many of our teen volunteers really know they are needed and appreciated for their help with the set up. The kids love the relaxed atmosphere; playing on computers, playing games, doing crafts. One mother was feverishly helping her child with a social studies fair project. The meal was well received and lots of contented smiles were on faces.
For the "program" of the evening, the parents went to another room to hear about nutrition and economical menu planning and such; and the children had an activity related to this topic. Thanks to Gwen Crum and Charlene DeLong from WVU extension for being our presenters ! They were encouraging and informative, and seemed to enjoy the exchanges and experience.
Some parents were lucky winners of some gift cards for practical assistance, and surveys are always conducted on how we are doing, what other issues or topics the families would like to have in future months. There were over 25 people in attendance, enjoying a little fellowship and support on this February brisk night.
No comments:
Post a Comment