The Wake County 4-H club has a new program aimed at helping at-risk youths develop skills that will help them succeed in school and make better choices.

The 4-H Strengthening Families Program is a positive life skills prevention program that offers interactive lessons the whole family can use, according to Andrew J. Meyer, 4-H Community Youth Development Team.

He says parents learn strategies and interventions that work.

“It is a family focused program that is proven to reduce the risk for alcohol and other drug abuse, problems in school and in the community , and other high risk behaviors,” according to Meyer.

The program is open to all Wake County families, especially families with kids who are having difficulty in school or in the community. Intervention begins whan a 4-H staff member meets with an interested family and discusses the challenges that family is dealing with. This staff member also offers resource ideas for the family.

Right now the program can include five to nine families in a group. There is no charge and families who attend groups get a healthy family style meal, transportation and childcare for children five and younger.

Families who are interested in this program should call Phyllis Barnes at 856-6765, email her at phyllis.barnes@wakegove.com or visit wakegov.com/humanservices/family/4hyouth/