Opportunities for parents and agencies to work together on family engagement projects build power for parents and create a ripple effect of positive outcomes for children and communities. So, we’ve rebranded the Parent Leadership Program to be The Ripple Program, reflecting the ripple effect of positive change that results from parents and agencies effectively working together for systems change.
The Ripple Program
We know that strong families and strong communities lead to better outcomes for children. In response to parents’ frustrations at being left out of decisions on systems that directly impact their children and agencies’ desires to work more effectively with families, the award-winning Ripple Program provides structured opportunities for parents and agencies to work together to improve outcomes for children.
Parents receive stipends for this virtual yearlong experience which includes:
Phase 1 – Trainings
- Six trainings for parents on leadership, parent advocacy, facilitation, public speaking, and project management
- Two trainings for staff at partner agencies
Phase 2 – Community Impact Project
- A leadership role for parents and agencies to co-create and implement a Community Impact Project
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Additional resources in an online portal
- Mentoring from a Parent Ambassador
- One-on-one meetings and mid-point check ins with project teams
A Plan for National Expansion
After successfully training nearly 300 parents in Massachusetts and being recognized nation-wide at the Zaentz Early Education Innovation Challenge, Families First feels the responsibility to take The Ripple Program to other states so more families and communities can benefit from system change brought upon by parents and local agencies.
Have Any Questions or Want to Connect?
Contact Magda Rodriguez
Senior Director of National Strategy
