Sending Parents Down the Righteous Path

BAANK's parenting program, the Righteous Path, is officially off the ground. Our class for single moms was approved last month by the state, and we have begun to find facilitators to teach the class in various locations in Sarasota. Faith-based parenting skills are arguably what is most needed in order to prevent and stop child abuse and neglect, and churches are often on the front lines in bringing the power of the gospel to parents and children in their communities. We are excited that God has thus far blessed these efforts. However, it's only a drop in the pail, and much more is needed.

Here is what is needed to get families started down the Righteous Path:

Churches that are willing to lend their facilities for parenting classes.

In these cases, a facilitator from outside the church will be brought in to teach the class using the church's building. This is extremely important because we would like the classes to be taught in various of parts of town so that people who have been court-mandated to take parenting classes can get to them easily.

Facilitators.

Do you or someone in your church have a keen interest in parenting? Can you think of someone from your church who has accreditation in the social services or social sciences field and meets our requirements for being a parenting class facilitator? Tell them about BAANK's parenting program. This is a volunteer position, so only an Associate's degree is needed. For all you know, this may be just the sort of thing they were looking for.

Churches that want to start a parenting ministry.

In these cases, a church can develop their own parenting classes with BAANK's help with the state approval process. In accordance with state standards, the church can also have their own facilitators. If this is the sort of program you would like to build in your church but don't know how, we can help.

Parents who can benefit from a parenting class.

That's every parent! Despite the stigma they have, parenting classes are not just for "bad" parents. They are for every parent who wants to interact and deal with their child(ren) in a way that is going to send them down a good path in life. Our classes are open to people who both have and have not been court mandated, and people are encouraged to attend regardless of religious preference.

If you have an interest in any of the above—or if you have any questions—please contact Rod Myers.