Every Parent’s Library - a new addition to FNC services

Have you ever wished that babies came with an instruction manual? Gene Gardner, founder of Every Parent’s Library, recognized the privilege, and incredible responsibility of raising a child, and wanted to offer support for families. “I knew that people needed access to information,” said Gene, “but also realized that parents are busy. Videos seemed to be the perfect medium to help people get the skills needed to be great parents.”

With hundreds of dedicated volunteers, thousands of donated hours, and seed money from generous contributors, Every Parent’s Library moved from a great idea to a real service for families. Experts reviewed hundreds of available videos, and identified the best available without regard to cost. Every Parent’s Library Volunteers successfully negotiated discounted rates with multiple suppliers, and soon the videos were available for distribution to families who are expecting and those with children ages birth to two.

“The concept was simple,” said Gardner, “Parents talked with our coordinator who helped them identify their needs and select an appropriate video. Videos were mailed to them, and after viewing them, they returned them in a postage-paid envelope.” Parents completed a short survey that demonstrated the knowledge gained as a result of viewing the video. “We found that viewers liked our videos and learned a lot from them,” explained Gardner. “On the other hand, we have not enjoyed the increase in the number of members that we anticipated. Several marketing alternatives had minimal results, so we invited local organizations to submit proposals of how they might use our unique videos for the maximum benefit in our community. Five proposals were received. After careful consideration, the Board voted unanimously to cease operations and transfer our assets to the Family Nurturing Center (FNC). We are very pleased with the FNC and their plans to continue our mission.”

“Family Nurturing Center has a long history of parent education to strengthen healthy families, and we see the videos as a wonderful resource to the families we serve,” said Jane Herms, Executive Director of FNC. “We’re also pleased to continue Every Parent’s Library’s mission of making these available to the broader community, and having a far reaching impact.” Family Nurturing Center commends the staff and volunteers of Every Parent’s Library for their dedication to helping families, and their work in securing the resources, establishing best practices and helping parents be the best that they can be. The agency is honored to carry on the work of Every Parent’s Library.

For more information on Every Parent’s Library, or to register to view videos, contact Carol Lapin, Director of Prevention Services, at 859-525-3200 extension 14 or via email at carol.lapin@familynurture.org.