Family Strengths Program

Purpose

Family Strengths Program is a multi-family group designed to help juvenile offenders and their families find solutions that will assist them in preventing repeat criminal offenses, achieving personal and family well-being, and strengthening ties with other families and the community.

I didn't think I could afford the time to come to this program with my child. Now I realize I can't afford NOT to spend time with my child... — A Parent

We believe that:

Families must be included in helping solve problems of youth;
Families coming together can provide a means to find solutions that will improve functioning within the family;
Youth and families can do better when they express their ideas to others in a friendly and cooperative atmosphere;
Families can learn together and gain hope for the future through involvement with others;
Families and individuals do best when they feel they are a part of their local community.

The program made me feel like I wasn't such a bad person after all... — Youth

Goals

The ten family sessions are designed to:

Reduce juvenile crime, truancy and destructive behavior
Promote parent involvement in the lives of their children
Help parents learn parenting skills
Help youth learn coping and life skills
Help families discover and utilize their strengths and resources
Help families find better ways to communicate with each other
Help families discover the benefits of networking with other families

I was angry and resentful that I had to come to the program—after all, I didn't get into trouble. But before long I realized that my daughter needed me there and I knew it would help me be a better parent too... — A Parent

Format

Youth and families meet one evening each week for ten weeks. Families work on collaboration, skill-building and goal attainment in small and large groups, and view educational videos. Each program is led by two professionals trained in family intervention and group work. Additional staff such as interns and adult volunteers often provide assistance.

Topics for the sessions include:

Group trust and cooperation
Decision-making and consequences of behavior
Parenting skills
Family communication
Education
Goal setting
Conflict resolution skills
Values

I knew I had problems but I didn't know how to say it or who to say it to... — Youth

Outcomes

The rate of re-offending behavior for youth who complete the FSP is substantially lower than the rate for youth who do not complete the program. The average number of re-offenses for youth who graduate is half that for those who do not graduate. In addition, grades for graduates improve and school absences decrease.

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