Strengthening Families

A framework of communication and problem management to improve relationships and family functioning.

Foundational Support

The Strengthening Families Program (SFP) is an evidence based program focused on teaching foundational skills to high risk families. When Johnson County looked to start an SFP group in the community, NCircle was the community voice that said “let us help.” From there, Corrections and NCircle brought staff and community members together to provide a quality family focused group. NCircle has helped other local communities launch and enhance their own SFP sites. The program runs for 14 weeks. Each class begins with a family dinner to promote family time, followed by separate classes for parents and children, and finally a family group to bring everyone back together to practice skills. Prior to facilitating a group, volunteers go through a weekend training to learn the curriculum, the research behind the program, and best practices for facilitating a group.

Volunteers and Instructors

Everyone involved in the Strengthening Families Program has one goal: Help families that have been impacted by the Criminal Justice System find stability and gain an understanding of how to work together to be a more cohesive unit. NCircle and Corrections have partnered to provide both a Corrections staff member and an NCircle volunteer to facilitate groups in a well rounded manner. By having this partnership, participants are getting support from the department of corrections and their community. Volunteers facilitate class, provide childcare, and help prepare and serve dinner.

Selection Process

Each family referred has at least one family member under Department of Corrections supervision, whether that be a parent, grandparent, guardian, or a child. The probation officer works with their client to ensure family members are willing to make the commitment and participate in the group.