Our award-winning Families First Institute offers a variety of classes and workshops for parents and caregivers. These classes focus on key areas to further enhance the lives of families within our community. The tools and resources provided in these classes create positive and enduring changes at home.
Our goal is to support parents as the primary educator, nurturer, and advocate for their child. We also aim to assist parents in learning new skills as they work to accomplish goals and achieve self-sufficiency.
Classes are offered to all members of the community at no cost. We provide free childcare and dinner for participants and children. Classes are available in North and South counties.
Below is a list of classes currently offered through the Families First Institute. These classes are free for parents and community members.
Classes will continue to be held virtually for the Fall 2022 semester. Visit the links below for additional information or to sign up. For information contact Marlene Rose, 941-953-3877 ext. 1110, or email:
Nurturing Dads Class
For new dads, expectant dads, married, or single dads
Learn how to be the best dad you can be! Even if you are already a good dad, you can be a GREAT dad; and, great dads can always be better. In this class you will discuss ideas about fathering, in a comfortable setting with other men. The course and materials are provided at no cost to participants. Over 2,100 Dad Grads and counting!
We are currently not offering our Nurturing Dads community-based class. We will be updating our website when new classes become available.
Calendar-Based Budgeting
This class is for you if: You have month leftover at the end of your money, you feel like your wallet has holes in it, or you are ready to tell your money where to go instead of asking it where it went. All families welcome! Extended family and friends of family as well.
Presupuesto Basado en el Calendario
*Available to Children First families only
Dates and times to be announced.
Kinship Care Support Groups
This support group is for grandparents raising grandchildren or other kinship caregivers. The class provides perspective and support for those who are raising children the “second time around.” Through instruction, class discussion, and sharing of experiences, a number of key topics are addressed: mutual support, promoting personal well-being and wellness, stress management, child mental health, parenting strategies, discipline, community resources for you and your grandchild, legal issues, benefits for kinship caregivers, community events, and activities for kinship caregivers and others.
Dates and times to be announced.
