FamilyWise Services

ACES NEAR & Tribal ACES NEAR Communities: Using the National Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Interface curriculum and sharing neurobiology, epigenetics, ACEs, and resilience (NEAR) research, we build the capacity of community members to raise awareness about the effects of trauma and the promise of prevention to foster healing in their communities. Tribal NEAR contextualizes trauma and its relationship to individual and community health in tribal communities. 51 presenters were trained, 61 trainings were held, and 2,093 individuals attended in 2024.

Supervised Parenting: In cases of family separation or family violence, we offer supervised visitation between non-custodial parents and their children in a safe environment. 2,140 supervised visits and 98 safe exchanges were provided in 2024.

Bright Beginnings: Parenting and life-skills training and mentorship for young parents ages 12-24, many of whom are involved in the justice system. 51 young-parent families participated in 2024.

First Step Early Childhood Education:First Step Early Childhood Development Center offers parents a highly accredited early childhood program. 40 children were served in 2024.

Awareness:FamilyWise is the home of Prevent Child Abuse Minnesota. We publish the Family Wellbeing Index, promote awareness through a radiothon and provide technical assistance to communities around raising awareness of child abuse.