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An Urban Family Network: Families and Communities Partnering in Progress |
The concept of family has expanded over the years to include many types. Families can be as diverse as single headed households managed by teenage moms to widowed senior citizens residing in retirement communities. In fact, the meaning of family has become so broad that the term is no longer associated only with those who dwell together under the same roof, but is inclusive of individuals who share similar concerns and conflicts (Rouse, "A Profile of Families," 19__). For many urban families this broad definition is significant, for as society and traditions change, larger numbers of families are having to rely upon their communities for support in addressing needs and responding to issues which must be confronted daily.
Today's families and communities must respond to unprecedented changes and challenges. Social, economic, environmental, and legal conflicts place some urban families at risk for meeting core needs and having coping skills necessary for survival. Both change and challenge are in some respects attractive; but both sometimes present seemingly insurmountable problems. So it is with many urban communities where poverty, social despair and fiscal distress are pervasive.
The Urban Family Network: Families and Communities Partnering in Progress project provides creative programming which addresses broad Extension goals that focus on families. Specifically the Urban Family Network seeks to strengthen the resiliency of individuals, youth and families by enhancing coping and survival skills. Programs are offered in the areas of family resource management, senior lifestyles, parenting, family diversity, child care, family public policy and community environments.
Increased access to public information is provided
through a web-site, a network directory, an annual family conference,
newsletters and other media presentations.
