Strengthening
Families in Minority Communities
Problem:
Black
and Hispanic families make up roughly ten percent of the population
in Black Hawk County and only six percent of the population in the state
of Iowa. In focus groups done by the Family & Children’s Council
in Black Hawk County in 2005, many of the minority families surveyed
felt they could use more help in raising their children and strengthening
their family relations.
Response:
In spring 2005, two Strengthening Families Program were held in Waterloo,
Iowa. One program targeted Spanish-speaking families while the other
targeted African American Families. The programs were co-sponsored by
ISU Extension and Pathways Behavioral Center with funding being supplied
by the local Empowerment Board and a state Methamphetamine grant. Bilingual
facilitators for the Hispanic program and targeted marketing efforts
made each of these programs effective for the audience.
Impact:
Eight Hispanic families and Six African American families participated
in their respective programs resulting in 16 parents and 19 youth being
involved and impacted by Strengthening Families programming. Follow-up
evaluations and informal assessments show significant behavioral changes
and improved family relations.
Contact:
Madelyn Ridgeway
Families Field Specialist
3420 University Avenue, Suite B
Waterloo, IA 50701
Phone 319-234-6811; Fax 319-234-5581
Email ridgeway@iastate.edu