Dallas County ISU Extension and Outreach will be offering a free program every Monday starting next week with the goal of bringing parents and children closer together.

The “Strengthening Families” program is geared towards parents with children age 10-14, and provides an evidence-based skills-building curriculum. The goals of the program are: to strengthen parent and youth communication skills; increase academic success in youth; and prevent substance abuse and address behavior concerns. The program will be held each Monday from November 6 through December 18 at St. Patrick’s Catholic School in Perry. A free meal will be served at 5:30 p.m., and the class will run from 6-8.

Thanks to local sponsorships, “Strengthening Families” is being offered at no cost to residents, and child care will also be provided. Registration is required and can be done by contacting ISU Extension Specialist in Family Life, Rosa Gonzalez, at 515-490-2298.