CLEARFIELD – Children’s Aid Society in Clearfield County recently received approval of a five-year federal grant to fund the new Real Relationships project in central Pennsylvania.
Issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance, the grant will amount to approximately $2.9 million over the course of five years.
Real Relationships will offer comprehensive marriage and relationship education and skills training to residents of Clearfield County and the surrounding eight counties.
There will be something for everyone regardless of age or relationship status. Real Relationships will be providing classes in several local high schools; weekly classes for young adults, individuals and couples; one-day workshops for engaged couples or couples interested in marriage; and weekend workshops for married couples.
“This grant allows us to continue the work we’ve been doing for the past nine years and expand our reach through case-management and partnerships in the community,” Bonnie Floro, executive director of Children’s Aid Society, said. “Throughout the five-year period we will reach over 2,500 people.”
Participants will learn about communication danger signs and positive communication skills, stress management techniques, skills for handling conflict appropriately, and building teamwork in a relationship to name just a few of the skills.
In addition, Real Relationships will offer case management services, including parenting classes and referrals to other partnering agencies for financial management, employment/career services and other identified needs.
Meals and gas cards, in addition to other great incentives such as child care for weekly classes and overnight hotel stay for weekend workshops will be provided at no cost for participants.
“Relationship education isn’t just about the relationship with your spouse or significant other, it’s about learning how to relate to people in all aspects of life including social and work situations,” Floro said. “We can all benefit from improving our relationship skills.”
For more information about Real Relationships and upcoming classes and workshops near you, call 814-205-4193.