The Family Allies Program

The Family Allies Program is a family mentoring initiative designed to support parents with young children in Lexington. Rooted in a relationship-based model, the program fosters meaningful connections between trained volunteers and families seeking additional support and guidance during the early years of their children’s lives. 

 

Our Mission

The primary goal of Family Allies is to empower families to build the life they envision - for themselves and for their children. Our volunteers offer encouragement, connection and gentle guidance grounded in early childhood development research. We partner with First5Lex and champion their “read-talk-play” message to support healthy brain development during the years that matter most – birth to 5.  

 

How the Program Works

Families participating in the program are paired with two individuals: 

• Volunteer Ally – a caring community member who builds a natural relationship with the parent, meeting twice per month for activities that may be family-centered or parent-centered, depending on needs and interests. 

• Allies Education Partner – a knowledgeable and dedicated individual who provides up to 10 hours of educational consultation, resources and referrals to help the parent navigate child development, behavior and services – with specialized support for those raising children with developmental or intellectual differences. 

 

Families participate in the program for a period of 18 months, though our hope is that the bond between Allies lasts a lifetime! 

 

Why It Matters

Parents of young children facing challenging circumstances – whether poverty, trauma, social isolation, or the unique demands of raising a child with autism - often receive formal services locally, but may lack the kind of natural human connection that makes a lasting difference. A reliable relationship with a Volunteer Ally can have a powerful impact on the life of a family while building skills, knowledge and confidence to help families thrive – not just today, but for years to come.

 

Interested in learning more? 

We’d love to hear from you! Reach out at bluegrassfamiliesfirst@gmail.com.

 

Family Allies is made possible through the generous support of the Kiwanis Club Lexington Blue Grass, Autism Society of the Bluegrass, the Kentucky Colonels, and many individual donors whose contributions make this work possible.