Parents at five daycare centers in Paulding County learn with and from other parents, thanks to the Parent Services Project, funded by United Way through the Paulding Collaborative for Children and Families. The parents choose meeting topics, many about parenting—from transitioning your child from daycare into the public school system, to CPR training, to how to talk to your child about current events.

Denise Johnston coordinates the program, and has gotten to see the difference it makes in so many families. Parents are more confident in their parenting, as well as more connected to the community, because they know their questions are often the same ones other parents have.

Megan Field, a single mom, started going to the Parent Services Project meetings when she heard about a stress management class. New to the area, Megan has met other parents and is building a support system through the program. Misty Baxter, who is nervous about her oldest child starting kindergarten, comes to most of the meetings, too. She and her husband have learned what to expect from their children and teachers, and how to help their children grow.

By letting parents know what resources are available in the community, and by offering a caring ear to listen to whatever stress parents are under, Denise transforms daycare centers into "community care" centers.

Strengthening families by increasing parenting skills and connecting people to their neighbors are just two of the ways United Way makes our community safer and stronger.