Strengthening Families
Building Strong Families During the Middle School Years
Strengthening Families 10–14 is an evidence-based family skills program designed to help parents and youth navigate the challenges of early adolescence together. The program strengthens communication, builds family connections, and equips both caregivers and youth with practical tools that reduce the risk of substance use and other problem behaviors.
Through a partnership with Valley Youth House, the Wilson Area LINCS Coalition for Families and Youth offers this program as part of its community prevention efforts.
Program Overview
Strengthening Families 10–14 brings parents, caregivers, and youth together in a structured program focused on strengthening family relationships and building skills that support healthy decision-making.
The program helps families:
- Improve communication between parents and youth
- Build stronger family relationships and trust
- Set clear expectations and consistent boundaries
- Help youth develop skills to resist peer pressure
- Reduce the risk of alcohol, tobacco, and drug use
The program includes separate learning sessions for parents and youth followed by time together to practice the skills learned, helping families apply new strategies in real-life situations.
Local Implementation
In Spring 2026, the Strengthening Families 10–14 program was offered to Wilson Area families through funding from the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD). The program was facilitated by trained staff from Valley Youth House and provided families with an opportunity to participate in a nationally recognized prevention program at no cost.
Due to the positive response and continued need for family-based prevention programming, the program is planned to return during the Winter/Spring 2027 semester, giving additional Wilson Area families the opportunity to participate.
Supporting Families Through Prevention
Strengthening Families 10–14 is part of the broader prevention strategy led by the Communities That Care Committee of the Wilson Area LINCS Coalition for Families and Youth. By offering evidence-based programs for both youth and parents, the coalition works to strengthen protective factors that help young people grow into healthy, successful adults.
For more information about upcoming sessions or to learn how your family can participate, please contact LINCS@wilsonareasd.org.