Positive Family Connections

Published November 16, 2025

When a young person has trusted adults in their life who can support them, it increases their likelihood that they will experience academic success, achieve and maintain financial stability and make choices that support their health and well-being. A consistent and supportive family presence can especially make a difference for a young person during times of transition. We recognize that “family” is broadly defined as the people who care for youth.

The Best Starts for Kids Positive Family Connections strategy helps to strengthen and build positive relationships between children and young people between the ages of 5-24 and their caregivers. In partnership with community, programs are designed to strengthen connections among family members, intergenerational and cultural heritage bonds, restorative practices, and the personal development of young people and their caregivers.

This strategy invests in:

Sustaining the Gain (ages 5-24)

so that young people have equitable opportunities to be safe, healthy, and thriving.

Estimated annual reach:

1,500 caregivers, children, & youth

Funding Estimate (2022-2027):

$8,876,000

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Mom and son at the park, both smiling and looking at toddler in moms arms. Toddler looks with curiosity directly at the camera.

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