Founded in 2003 by Laure Clemons, Extended Family began as a support network for families navigating the incarceration of a loved one. What started as one-on-one support has evolved into a comprehensive, family-centered organization serving children, caregivers, incarcerated individuals, and returning citizens working to successfully reintegrate into their families and communities.
Today, Extended Family’s work is guided by three core goals: preventing youth involvement in the juvenile justice system, reducing recidivism among adult and youth returning citizens, and breaking the cycle of incarceration within families. By strengthening family relationships and building resilience, we help create safer, healthier communities for everyone.
Many of the children we serve have experienced the trauma of a loved one’s incarceration. Research from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) shows that traumatic experiences can continue to influence a child’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors long after the event has passed, even into adulthood. Through our programs, individuals learn practical skills to manage emotions, make healthy choices, and develop positive coping strategies.
Extended Family is not counseling, but connections. The underlying focus of each of our programs is to teach participants to “Lead yourself.” This begins by recognizing the connection between feelings and behaviors. With this foundation, children and adults learn to make better decisions, promoting personal development and recognizing their power. Building on these simple principles, we see individuals begin to learn, change, and grow.
At Extended Family, our mission is simple: to offer help and inspire hope. Every family we support represents an opportunity to create lasting change, not only for individuals, but for entire communities. Through stronger families, we are helping build a safer, more hopeful future for all.
To learn more about our programs, training opportunities, and impact, please visit www.extendedfamilyhelp.org, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and X @extendedfamilyhelp.