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This month, we want to introduce Nicole Haggin, FRC Supervisor at the Elkhart location of Strengthening Families Indiana’s Family Resource Center! Nicole has been key to the center’s partnership with Triple P.
Triple P plays a crucial role at FRC. Triple P offers valuable parenting support and education for the parents the center serves. The FRC team works closely with the Triple P Elkhart County team to provide parenting classes and support, addressing the unique needs of families and fostering a supportive community environment.
Background and Personal Journey
Nicole grew up in Mishawaka and currently resides in Osceola with her husband and two children. Her journey began with a background in psychology, holding a Bachelor’s degree in the field. She has worked extensively in home-based community services including Healthy Families, gaining valuable experience that shaped her professional path.
In June 2022, Nicole joined the Family Resource Center, and after a maternity leave, became FRC Supervisor at the new Elkhart location at the start of 2024.
About the Family Resource Center
Opening in February 2024, the Elkhart County Family Resource Center is part of a nationwide initiative designed to foster community engagement through various family-oriented events and services. The center is dedicated to providing a supportive environment for families, offering free food, entertainment, and resources. Their events are aimed at connecting with local families and creating lasting relationships.
Programs and Services
FRC offers a wide range of programs to support families, with a strong focus on prevention. These include:
- Concrete Support: Providing essential baby items such as diapers, wipes, and food, as well as safe sleep classes. The center also assists families with car seat technology to ensure children’s safety in vehicles.
- Navigation and Case Management: Offering support with job placement, Medicaid, and referrals to other agencies. This includes monthly legal assistance through a volunteer lawyer network and housing and eviction clinics.
- Educational and Recreational Programs: Partnering with organizations such as Purdue Extension for cooking classes, financial literacy programs with Brightpoint, and arts and crafts activities. The center also hosts support groups for those who are about to become parents or are new parents, and developmental playtime for children called Tot Time.
Community Impact
Nicole's favorite aspect of her work is having opportunities to interact with families and see the positive changes brought about by the programs. One memorable aspect is witnessing the journey of families who initially come for basic needs, such as diapers, and later benefit from additional support through Triple P.
In her role, Nicole emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming and stigma-free environment where families feel safe to seek help. The collaboration with community partners and various local organizations further strengthens the center’s ability to offer comprehensive support and resources.
The dedication and passion of Nicole and her team are pivotal in enhancing the lives of families in the community. Through their extensive experience, commitment to prevention services, and effective integration of programs like Triple P for Baby, they continue to make a significant impact. Their work not only supports immediate needs but also builds a foundation for long-term family well-being and community connection.
FRC holds free Triple P workshops on a regular basis, with several dates coming up over the next several months:
- Oct. 10, 11 a.m. Helping Your Child Cope with Frustration in English: Register
- Oct. 24, 11 a.m. Helping Your Child Cope with Frustration in Spanish: Register
- Nov. 7, 11 a.m. Coping with Stress in English: Register
- Nov. 21, 11 a.m. Coping with Stress in Spanish: Register
- Dec. 5, 11 a.m. Find Your Approach to Parenting in English: Register
- Dec. 12, 11 a.m. Find Your Approach to Parenting in Spanish: Register
- Jan. 9, 11 a.m. Promoting Your Child's Development in English: Register
- Jan. 23, 11 a.m. Promoting Your Child's Development in Spanish: Register
Thank you to Nicole and the FRC team for your partnership!
By Brenna Slaight
Triple P Project Coordinator
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