Family Strengths Network Executive Director Mitzi Pair Willard speaks about her non-profit organization during the Sept. 3 Kiwanis Club meeting at Trinity on the Hill Church. Courtesy/Kiwanis

KIWANIS News:

At their. 3 meeting, The Kiwanis Club of Los Alamos was treated to a presentation Sept. 3 by Family Strengths Network (FSN) Executive Director Mitzi Pair Willard. She outlined the history, mission and goals of the organization, and described the programs they provide to the community.

FSN is a non-profit established in 1989 to address child abuse through prevention. Since then, the organization has expanded to serve all types of Los Alamos and Northern New Mexico families through education and support. They provide parenting classes, workshops, and personal and community connections to help families succeed. The goal of their programs is to empower families, help them thrive, and make children safe.

Many of FSN’s programs are provided at their Family Resource Center on Orange Street that houses book and toy lending libraries, classrooms and play spaces. A variety of classes are offered, including Music and Movement, Toddler Crafts, Family Yoga, Themed Playdates, and Parenting Effectiveness Training. They also have support groups such as Birth Talk and Grandparents Raising Children.

FSN holds many special events, the largest being Lucky Ducky Day with many (duck) races, games and activities for the community to enjoy. They also hold a clothing swap and a gingerbread house building event.

Funding for FSN comes primarily from Los Alamos County, with help from the United Way of Northern New Mexico, Juvenile Justice Advisory Board, LANL Foundation and community donations, Pair Willard said, adding that there has been a 30% increase in FSN usage since last year that indicates both the need for and impact of the organization. FSN is always welcoming volunteers to help with events and financial support.

To learn more, visit lafsn.org or email fsn@lafsn.org.