Our Mission
Julie’s Family Learning Program is a welcoming, inclusive space that provides free educational programs and supportive services to help develop strong, successful families and adults. Since 1974, Julie’s Family Learning Program has been dedicated to empowering mothers to recognize their strengths and utilize their know-how to stabilize and transform their family life. In 2019, Julie’s expanded its mission to all underserved learners, 16 years and older, who seek flexible opportunities to attain the educational credentials and workplace skills crucial to meeting their life goals.
Approach
Some of Julie’s program members come for the life-changing Family Development Services. Others come to advance their education and prepare for productive futures through Adult Basic Education (ABE)/Career Services. Both service tracks respond to our program members’ obstacles and objectives. Julie’s staff and students collaborate to develop an individualized plan to overcome learners’ barriers so they may achieve their hopes and dreams.
Our Family Development Services track targets families who often face multiple challenges, including substance abuse, domestic violence, trauma in their family systems, interrupted schooling, substandard housing or homelessness, unemployment, and poor health. The Family Development Services track offers up to 20 hours per week of classes designed to prepare program members to both earn a high school diploma and develop the life management, parenting, and personal resiliency skills necessary to successfully lead their families.
While the mothers are striving to reach their goals, their children (birth to 6 years of age) are reaching their own age-appropriate milestones in our state-licensed Children’s Services Program which includes infant, toddler, and preschool classrooms. Julie’s experienced early educators partner with our parents to maximize learning, curiosity, and positive growth.
The ABE/Career Services track is geared towards any young adult or adult learner who seeks to improve their academic skills and career readiness. Many of the learners in this track cannot dedicate 20 hours a week to in-person classes due to work schedules or other commitments. Often, these program members are focused on earning a high school credential to advance within their current occupational setting; to take advantage of other trainings that lead to improved employment opportunities; or to enroll in higher education institutions. The ABE/Career Services track offers flexible class schedules (including days and evenings), access to remote learning opportunities, and small, supportive class settings. These learners also benefit from and are encouraged to access all the supports Julie’s offers to any program member.
Guiding Principles
Julie’s approach (and efficacy) is rooted in three guiding principles:
- Class content must be learner-driven, and instructors must maintain a non-judgmental, welcoming atmosphere.
- Diversity is embraced as a strength of the program.
- Wrap- around support services are key to providing the scaffolding that can aid an adult learner’s perseverance and persistence when unexpected challenges arise.
If you would like to become a member of Julie’s Family Learning Program, please click HERE to fill out our interest form.
