Extended Family offers two programs for students in kindergarten through 12th grade – Extended Family for Kids (EFK) and Extended Family Leadership Academy (EFLA). EFK is an evidence-based, nine-lesson curriculum that helps students cope with the daily stress of having an incarcerated family member, make positive choices, and plan for the future. EFLA is an 18-week curriculum for older students that focuses on job readiness, health (including healthy relationships), effective communication, and financial independence.
EFK emphasizes two foundational messages, “It’s not your fault” and “You don’t have to do their time.” EFLA lessons are focused on our motto, “Lead yourself.” Together, the programs help children build practical life skills and learn how to get from where they are now to wherever they want to be in the future. Extended Family staff lead EFK and EFLA in schools and juvenile diversion programs, providing solutions-based support. The programs are typically offered during the school day and are always free to participants.
Extended Family Board President Tony Monroy captured the impact of EFLA from some students’ perspective, “This is their Beta Club.” EFK and EFLA students gain a sense of belonging and self-worth, two important steps toward making healthy choices and achieving their dreams.
Many EFK/EFLA participants begin the program shy, withdrawn, and hesitant to speak. Over the course of the lessons, they gain confidence, find their voices, and grow into leaders, starting with learning to lead themselves. Extended Family gives every child an opportunity to shine while reinforcing the message, “You matter.”
We are deeply grateful to the communities that bring these programs to the children who need them most. Together, we are making a difference, one child at a time. For more information about Extended Family and its programs, visit www.extendedfamilyhelp.org, or Facebook, X, and Instagram @extendedfamilyhelp.