Waypoint’s ‘Family Resource Center of Quality’ in Manchester

Waypoint’s 464 Chestnut Street location in Manchester is now a Family Resource Center of Quality (FRC-Q). The site was awarded this designation by the Wellness and Primary Prevention Council of the NH legislature.

Waypoint merited FRC-Q designation by demonstrating exemplary practice building family strengths. Over the past year, the agency engaged in ongoing self-assessment that included gathering feedback from participants and community partners, a site visit, and a lengthy application process submitted to the Wellness and Primary Prevention Council (WPPC) for review.

Waypoint is thrilled to have achieved this status as an FRC-Q in Manchester. For those of us in the family service field in New Hampshire, this designation represents our commitment to the people we serve with programs that are proven to have positive impact. The “Q” reassures our community that we adhere to the highest standards of practice.

— Missy Oglebay, FRC coordinator and Family Support program supervisor

“Family Resource Centers throughout the state share that preparing to seek designation as a Family Resource Center of Quality has been affirming for their staff, illuminating to their board of directors and reassuring for the families they serve,” says Maria Doyle, manager of Family Support Programs at NH Children’s Trust and co-chair of the WPPC.

Waypoint-Manchester is the second of Waypoint’s sites to merit the “Q” status, with Nashua being the first. The designation may be renewed every three years. There are currently 12 FRC-Qs in New Hampshire.

THE POWER OF FAMILY SUPPORT: Lina’s path to success

For as long as she could remember, Lina had a passion for helping others. Throughout her childhood, she would serve as a pillar of support for friends, caring deeply for her family and lending a hand whenever possible. Lina has long dreamed of turning this passion into a career and aspired to become a nurse.

After graduating from high school, Lina was expecting a child. She had not yet acquired her driver’s license and didn’t have the means to buy a car, so it wasn’t feasible to secure a job or get to and from work. Lina was living at home with her mom and raising her baby. She now had two life goals: being an independent role model to her child, and pursuing a career helping people during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives.

There was no question that Lina had passion and drive. Now, she needed help with the obstacles.

Lina partnered with Waypoint’s Family Support program. She met with a case manager who sat with her to create goals and walked beside her as she navigated through them, offering encouragement along the way. With a plan of action, Lina’s first goal was to build her ability to provide her child with a loving home environment. Lina and her child benefitted from home visits, where a family support specialist came right to her house to provide support and education. And, at Waypoint’s Family Resource Center, Lina participated in parenting groups, play groups, and learned a lot about early childhood development and parenting techniques.

Lina’s case manager connected her with additional resources and community services; she now has a license and car. Lina graduated from her LNA training program having passed her exams with flying colors, and is on her way to a career in the medical field.

Extensive research indicates that financial, educational and material assistance lifts millions of Americans out of difficult circumstances. Emotional support plays an important role as well. When stressors are reduced, the educational attainment rates of parents tend to increase. This proven formula can have positive, long-term effects, such as strengthening core skills and supporting responsive relationships. Waypoint’s task is to create the conditions that help families thrive. Each year, Waypoint’s Family Support services help approximately 1,400 children and their parents or caregivers.

Today, Lina has recovered the self-sufficiency she values in herself. Her family is in a place of strength and resilience, and her bond with her child and family is stronger than ever. With a blossoming career, stable housing and a strong family unit, Lina has turned a childhood dream into reality.