The University of Minnesota Extension Service is one of the collaborators, providing funding for Parent Connections program development and training statewide. Extension Educators teamed up with other community education providers to develop local training for facilitators and to organize parent discussion groups. More than 300 parenting professionals have been trained to do community organizing and train volunteers to operate Parent Connections programs. One parent involved in an Apple Valley group sees a great need for the program. I think the need almost increases as your children get older.
Many parents seem to really flounder when their kids reach adolescence.
Members are involved in focus groups discussing the six factors youth need to be productive self-motivated learners. Currently, the program is in local hands throughout the state.