Parents Anonymous, Inc., a national child abuse prevention and treatment program, was founded in 1970 by a mother who was frustrated as she searched for help for her family. This mother, Jolly K., wanted to provide a warm and caring home for her two daughters and in working with her social worker, launched a national movement to bring help, support, strength and hope to millions of families all across America. Their vision inspired thousands of parents, professionals and community volunteers to establish Parents Anonymous support groups throughout the United States. Parents Anonymous Support Groups are free, weekly, ongoing meetings, which provide parents with support in making positive changes in their parenting. Support groups are located throughout Pennsylvania.
Meetings are informal and child care is provided at most locations.
With the help of a trained facilitator, parents take the lead in setting the agenda and helping themselves and others find solutions for their own families. Parents Anonymous provides a forum in which parents can exchange creative parenting practices based upon their own personal experiences. A place where parents can reach out for support and encouragement as new discipline techniques are tried and where they can develop a lasting network of friends who can be an on-going resource. Any parent searching for a better relationship with their children is appropriate for this mutual support program. Some parents come to Parents Anonymous after they have responded in anger toward their children and through Parents Anonymous they can learn how to respond in new and different ways.