Says it reflects parents across the state who are asking for more of the expert family engagement program
Madison, Wis., Feb. 15, 2023 — Toni Rivera, Executive Director of Families and Schools Together, Inc. (FAST), offered thanks for the Governor’s increased investment in his recently announced biennial budget. “Thank you to Governor Evers and his administration. This investment echoes what we have been hearing around the state: that parents and caregivers need help, tools, and strategies when parenting is often at its hardest, and especially so as we work our way out of the recovery.”
Requests for the FAST® Program grew amid the pandemic and circle the entire state. From Baldwin, Rhinelander, Green Bay, Milwaukee, Racine, Franklin, Mineral Point, Wisconsin Rapids, Madison, Wausau, and La Crosse.
The FAST Program has a curriculum that is up to 60% adaptable to the location, group, or situation and is implemented across Wisconsin. It is evidence-based and strongly evaluated, so communities know they can trust the work they are doing while making the program their own.
“FAST is receiving a needed investment by the state” said Rivera, noting that FAST did not qualify for most recovery resources due to the unique structure of the program. “The FAST Program doesn’t fit in a perfect box when it comes to state resources; yet it is one of the state’s best returns on investment. Families need help at all ages, and FAST can help now.”
Families & Schools Together is working with legislators across the state to engage stronger awareness about FAST programs in their districts.
“Over half of Senate and Assembly members have FAST programs in their districts on both sides of the aisle. FAST has tremendous support on the ground,” said Jessica Tormey, CEO of Wisconsin Idea Group, LLC., who has worked with the organization for the last three years.
“FAST has always been bipartisan. We look forward to working with legislators throughout the budget process to talk about the FAST Program, and how it can be impactful for the families in their districts who want it,” said Tormey.
The FAST Program is considered a “Wisconsin Idea” by the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It has been in 48 states, over 20 countries, and is cited as the 11th top evidence-based family skills training program by the United Nations.
For more information about FAST, please contact Jessica Tormey at jessica.tormey@wisideallc.com or 608-347-2298.
Families & Schools Together is a nonprofit organization that partners with community-based organizations and schools across the U.S. and internationally to implement evidence-based family engagement programs.
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