Family Engagement: Family Development Programs

Strengthening Families Program:  Our Strengthening Families program is committed to serving the whole family and meeting their evolving needs. Groups provided are grounded in the Strengthening Families Framework that address the five protective factors:  developing parental resilience, social connections, concrete support in times of need, knowledge of parenting and child development, and social and emotional competence of children. 

1. Family FUNdamentals:  This 6-week program increases family strengths and enhances child development through teaching fundamental skills derived from the key protective factors essential for building strong families. When families can build these skills, both parents and children will thrive. Through this program, parents and children develop fundamental skills that will enhance the family bond and promote family wellness. This program runs 4-5 times throughout the year.  The program includes dinner and various activities to teach skills. Transportation assistance and childcare for children 3 and under is available. Families earn a $10 gift card each week they attend, as well as a basket filled with household supplies, family activities and toys if they attend 5 of the 6 sessions.  Families must register with Strengthening Families Coordinator Rachel Acevedo at 216-631-4741 ext. 131.  Families who have attended this program shared: 

“We were able to learn new and creative ways to figure things out!”

“We loved it, had fun and learned skills…”

“Listen more to the opinions of the children.”

“The Conversation Jar was helpful.”

2. Holiday Gatherings for ZHS Families:  These gatherings are for those families enrolled in our Zacchaeus Housing Solutions program. Family Engagement hosts two of these events each year – one around Easter and one in early November. Families gather for dinner and then engage in activities designed to promote family bonding, positive interaction and positive parenting. The evening includes dinner provided and served by a community partner. Family Engagement staff and Family Coach volunteers facilitate the activities throughout the evening. Participation is by invitation only.