“Family Support programs are governed, designed and
improved by participants and community members.”
-First Family Support Principle
Parent leadership and governance is the first – and most important – principle of the Family Support movement. Parents are in the best position to know what services, supports, and programs are needed in their communities – and there are many ways for Family Support parents to get involved in leadership activities within the network. By participating in these activities, parents develop valuable skills and become stronger and more effective advocates for their children, families, and communities.
Leadership Positions for Parents
Parent Council
Each center has a Parent Council made up of parents and at least one staff member who serve as equal partners. Their job is to identify, develop, implement, and evaluate their center’s activities, services, and programs.
Parent Ambassadors
Parent Ambassadors welcome new parents to Family Support centers, speak and represent Family Support at events, and serve as links between Family Support and other groups who provide services to families.
Parent Advocacy Committee
Parents from multiple centers meet monthly to plan actions they can take to educate legislators and the community about the importance of Family Support.
Community Voices
Community Voices is a group of parents who come together to discuss what issues affect children and families and what can be done to improve their circumstances in the community. The group gives parents a powerful voice that reaches policy makers at the local and state levels. It also functions as a support group for parents as they build relationships and learn from each other.
Family Health Services Policy Board
Founded in 1993, the Policy Board is a countywide advisory body composed of parent leaders, funders, and other community stakeholders. Members serve on one of four committees: Executive, Collaboration, Communications, and Advocacy.
*For more information about parent leadership opportunities, please contact Sheila Beasley, Family Support Outreach Director, at [email protected] or 412-383-6801.You can also visit our Network Events Calendar. to see upcoming meeting dates.
