Activities and Purpose

A place to connect, learn, and grow, together.

An FRC is a one-stop place for families to find and connect to services and supports they need to thrive. Families get access to a wide range of programming and resources on site, as well as referrals and connections to other resources and community partners.
In most communities, the FRC is the only organization focusing on strengthening the whole family to promote better outcomes for children, youth, and their parents.

FRCs offer lots of fun activities where parents and kids can connect, learn and grow. These activities are designed to help you enjoy your child, get a break, meet other families, find resources, or get new ideas. Every FRC is unique. They may offer different programs, services, or hours. Here are some examples:

  • Parent-child play groups, where parents and kids have new toys and materials for play, games, crafts, songs, snacks, and time to socialize.
  • Open or free play, where kids can play together while parents chat.
  • Parent classes and workshops, where parents can learn new ideas and skills that help them guide their child and deal with challenges.
  • Parent CafĂ©s, where parents can sit at tables and discuss interesting questions with other parents while their children are in child care.
  • Fun family events, where families can spend a few hours enjoying special activities like kite flying, bubble wands, a magic show, or storytelling.

    “When we hear parents say things like, ‘Oh okay, let’s meet tomorrow at the park’,’as they’re walking out of play group, how powerful is that? Those two parents probably didn’t know each other a year ago or six months ago.”

    -Virginia, Family Resource Center Leadership

    Family Resources

    FRCs connect families to programs and services both within the FRC and outside in the community. Their goal is to help you find what you need to keep your family strong and healthy. Staff are ready to listen, help figure out what you or your child needs, connect you with people and services that can help, and check back to make sure you’re getting support.

    • Check children’s development and connect families with support if they need and want it.
    • Toy lending libraries
    • Activity Kits for kids
    • Book Giveaways
    • Information about upcoming events
    • Free diapers and wipes
    • Sharing of gently used kids clothing
    • Car seat safety checks
    • One-on-one conversations
    • Connection services for kids with special needs

    “‘I can figure this out. I can cope. I can make it.’ That’s all developed through relationship, whether that be through relationship with a Parent Educator who is warm and trusting and unconditional, or whether it’s developed through that affirmation from other parents who are in that same situation.”

    Angela, Family Resource Center Leadership

     

    FRCs give families the chance to get to know new people who can make a difference in their lives. Parents and kids can 


    • Meet and spend time with other parents.
    • Play and have fun with other children.
    • Get to know people in the community.
    • Find things in common with others.
    • Get and provide support.
    • Continue friendships outside the FRC.

     

     

    “We’re here for parenting, regardless of what that looks like or how you define it.”

    – Tricia, Family Resource Center Leadership

     

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