Programs
OUR APPROACH
At the center we believe that the family structure is more than the dynamics of parents and children. We recognize the importance of the wide-range functions of the extended family and the impact of the community. Our programs are designed to focus on the role of each individual within the family and to strengthen the entire family structure. Building stronger families, building a stronger community.
SERVICES
Family support programs are offered in key service areas. Click on a program for a detailed description.
PROGRAMS
Each day's programs and activities are listed on the center calendar which is updated monthly. You can also visit our Calendar of events to see what we will be participating in next.
REGISTRATION
All families are welcome at the center and our participating families come from diverse backgrounds and all economic circumstances. Participation in our programs is voluntary and most services are provided no charge to the participant.
QUESTIONS
Please contact our Service Coordinator at 410-778-7911 or servicecoord@familiesshine.org
Visit our location for a tour of the center or to obtain more information.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Adult Education back to top
Programs are offered in partnership with Chesapeake College Division of Continuing Education and Work Force Training to help parents to achieve self-sufficiency and to improve their ability to support their family through obtaining employment
- Adult Basic Education designed to improve basic reading, writing and math skills
- General Equivalency Diploma instruction (GED) prepares non-high school graduates with the skills and confidence necessary to pass the GED test
- Basic English language instruction for non-English speaking participants (ESL); child care and literacy activities are provided for the young children of parents attending classes
- Career Exploration, Job Readiness and Computer Literacy
Child Development back to top
Families are offered consistent support in a safe and inspiring environment where child development programs take place; programs are designed to promote the development of the child's physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth. For more information, including enrollment rates visit the Child Development page.
- Develomental education for children ages birth through age 5 strengthens the bond between parent and child
- Teachers use the Creative Curriculum to plan parent/child activities and weekly lessons
- Developmental delays are identified through evaluation and appropriate referrals are made
- Teachers role model positive parenting behaviors and developmental activities
- Licensed child care is also provided on-site - Fees may apply
Community Outreach back to top
Partnering with other agencies and organizations in the community Shared Opportunity Service, delivers a complete group of services at the center
- Strengthens community partnerships, expands our connections and broadens our reach
- Visitors are invited to tour the center and join families, volunteers and staff for lunch
- Quarterly Partners Breakfasts provide a collaborative forum for agency updates and dialogue (next partners breakfast: September 15, 2010)
- Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals that are interested in getting involved
- Special events take place during the year at the center and other community locations
In-Home Parent Support back to top
Qualified in-home visitors reach out to a diverse population who would otherwise not have access to the essential prenatal and child development information available at our center
- Programs are targeted to meet the needs of families with children, age's birth through three
- Spanish speaking staff available to recruit and visit local Hispanic families
- The visitors are also trained in the nationally renowned Parent As Teachers Curriculum (PAT). They use this curriculum while planning all visits.
Job Readiness back to top
- Kent County One Stop Career Center provides job search services and veterans' services (provided through The Department of Labor Licensing and Regulations (DLLR) and The Workforce Investment Bureau (WIB))
- Job search materials, internet access, resume writing software and workshops are available to assistDevelopmental finding employment
- Job Readiness class meets on Mondays and follows The East Baltimore Pipeline Job Readiness Training Program. The class takes quarterly field trips to visit temp agencies, Allen Foods, The Outlets, etc. to actively seek employment.
Parent Education back to top
Formal and informal parenting education that is aimed at increasing participant's knowledge of positive parenting techniques, developmental phases, and expectations of their child's growth
- Classes and support groups on topics relating to health, nutrition, safety, learning and discipline
- One on one parenting education for families with specific parenting needs
- We also offer a Nurturing Program, using a curriculum created by Stephen J. Bavolek, Ph.D. The goals of the program are for parents to learn infant and child massage techniques, nurturing parent routines, alternatives to hitting, strong child development methods, recognition and understanding of feelings, and ways to build self-esteem and self-concept in self and children. This program runs for 12 sessions and each session is 2 hours in length.
Peer Support back to top
Opportunities for families to expand social interactions and participate in positive family activities
- Field trips and recreational activities
- Special events and celebrations designed to educate about other cultures
- Monthly Parent Leadership meetings
Responsible Fathers back to top
A program to promote healthy fatherhood relationships and to connect fathers with their children, families and community through information and support
- Program activities will focus on achieving self-sufficiency through employment readiness, and economic stability that will improve the ability of participating fathers to provide child support
- Dinner is provided and limited childcare
- The program utilizes curriculum from The National Fatherhood Initiative.
Service Coordination back to top
Links participants to programs in all service areas and makes appropriate referrals to agency partners when needed - provides customized programming for individual families. To schedule an appointment with our service coordinator please call 410-778-7911 or email Service Coordinator.
- Registration, needs assessment, goal determination, support, and progress monitoring
Life Skills Education back to top
Presents educational topics aimed at increasing knowledge on health and well-being
- Smoking cessation, cooking classes, home safety, preventative health and nutritional information
- Expert guest speakers present on a range of wellness topics
Youth Positive Development back to top
After school programs that are designed to provide activities that help to empower youth and protect them from at-risk behaviors. Youth select from a variety of after school activities:
- Mentor program
Matches middle school youth with postivite adult role-models from the community to enhance positive youth development through socialization, academic support, and healthy behaviors - Girls on the Run of Kent County
We are an affiliate council of Girls on the Run International, which has a network of over 140 locations across the United States and Canada. The program is a life-changing, non-profit, prevention program for girls in the 3rd through 8th grade. Girls on the Run combines training for a 5k (3.1 miles) running event with healthy living education. Our local program is partially funded by the Women & Girls Fund of the Mid-Shore
