Familia Adelante

The Familia Adelante Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to provide targeted support to at-risk Latino youth aged 10-14 and their families within the communities served by three Tucson school districts: Sunnyside Unified School District, Tucson Unified School District, and Chicanos Por La Causa schools. Recognizing the multifaceted challenges faced by these families, the program employs a holistic, two-generational approach to tackle prevalent issues such as substance abuse, acculturation trauma, and behavioral health concerns. At its core, Familia Adelante aims to raise awareness among both parents and youth regarding the devastating impact of alcohol, tobacco, and drug misuse on individual health and community well-being. Through targeted educational initiatives, participants gain a deeper understanding of the risks associated with substance abuse, empowering them to make informed decisions and take proactive steps to safeguard their health and future. In addition to increasing awareness, the program places a strong emphasis on fostering collaboration and engagement within families and the broader community. By providing opportunities for parents and youth to work together on meaningful projects and initiatives, Familia Adelante cultivates a sense of unity and shared purpose, strengthening familial bonds and promoting a supportive network of peers and mentors. Program activities encompass a diverse range of topics tailored to address the unique needs and challenges of participants. These include communication skills workshops to improve intrafamilial dialogue, stress management techniques to enhance resilience, and comprehensive substance abuse education to equip youth with the knowledge and tools necessary to resist peer pressure and make healthy choices. Moreover, Familia Adelante integrates culturally responsive practices into its framework, drawing upon indigenous traditions such as conocimiento (shared knowledge), unity circles, and testimonies to honor and celebrate the cultural heritage of participating families. By incorporating culturally relevant elements, the program ensures that its interventions resonate with participants on a personal and meaningful level, fostering a sense of belonging and pride in one's cultural identity. Since its inception in 2015, Familia Adelante has made significant strides in serving the needs of the community, reaching 300 families and counting. Through ongoing evaluation and feedback mechanisms, the program continually refines and adapts its approach to maximize impact and effectiveness. Supported by funding from the Arizona Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith, and Family Parent’s Commission, Familia Adelante represents a collaborative effort to address pressing social challenges and promote positive outcomes for Latino youth and their families. By investing in education, empowerment, and community engagement, the program lays the foundation for a brighter and more resilient future for generations to come.