Supported Families Stronger Community finds success through prevention
Supported Families Stronger Community (SFSC) is a federally funded grant project with a focus on prevention to help Larimer County residents thrive in our community.
A team of four community navigators connects families with services in the community, such as childcare resources, public benefits, and mental health services.
The Community Navigators use the Protective Factors Framework, an evidence-based tool to engage families and facilitate early intervention. They also provide emotional support to families throughout the entire process. The team serves our diverse residents by providing service in English, Spanish, and Arabic. Navigators and families recognize the importance of the program's focus on prevention, which has helped families be open about their struggles and proactive in addressing them.
To be eligible for the program, families must have children under the age of 18, live in Larimer County, and not have an open case with child welfare.
Since the program's launch, nearly 600 families have been supported by the SFSC navigation team and nearly 3,000 referrals have been made among SFSC partner agencies.
In partnership with Colorado State University, SFSC has conducted annual process evaluations to determine the benefits this program has provided to families.
Over the past three years, families have shared how they benefit from the service navigation, referral process, and client-centered relationships, often in the face of complex and interrelated challenges. Families feel empowered during and after working with the community navigators.
"Whenever I encounter obstacles or need assistance, I reach out to them to seek guidance and support. They always provide valuable direction and refer me to organizations that can help," said family member served by SFSC.
Learn more about SFSC at www.larimer.org/sfsc.
