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