FTF serves economically disadvantaged and at-risk families who have experienced cyclical trauma, dysfunction and lack access to resources. We know strong, healthy relationships, a sense of personal value and support within a stable community can make all the difference.
Familial issues such as divorce, out-of-wedlock pregnancy, and lack of positive parental involvement are far more common in lower income and at-risk families. First Things First seeks to remedy these issues through education, coaching, case management and access to therapy.
2022: Top 3 Finalist for United Way’s Nonprofit of the Year
2023: Published in National Council of Family Relations for implementing the Domains of Family Practice Model in a holistic approach
2024: Secured an IRB in partnership with UTC
2024: Hosted and Presented at the Family Based Justice Center Research Convening with the Marron Institute of NYU
2024: Top 3 Finalist for Hamilton County Department of Education Partner of the Year
*Measurables are set on an annual basis. We keep track of who uses our resources and survey their relational health, skillset and choices accordingly.
Based on the research-based model of the Domains of Family Practice, entering the FTF ecosystem provides our participants with access to the tools they need to move forward for good.
One way we do this is through our local programs. Each program is designed to support an individual or couple in a specific way so they can strengthen their relationships and live better lives.
Is FTF faith-based?
FTF is research-based and faith-friendly. We use evidence-based curricula and practices to provide families with the skills and resources they need to thrive. We also recognize the important role faith plays in maintaining values, building connections, and identifying purpose. We encourage individuals, couples, and parents to incorporate faith as part of a healthy lifestyle, but we do not share our personal faith journeys or beliefs through our programming.
Who do you serve?
We serve economically disadvantaged and at-risk families in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Our programs are targeted and designed to meet the needs and experiences of those who live at or near the poverty level, or who are at high risk of developing relational trauma and disconnection due to living and/or working environments. Through our free, online resources and classes, we reach hundreds of thousands of families across the globe.
How is FTF funded?
FTF is funded through diverse revenue streams. As of July 2024, revenue streams are broken down into these categories: 31% individual gifts, 2% churches/faith-based organizations, 10% corporate sponsorships, 41% foundational grants, and 16% government grants.
How much do FTF programs cost participants?
All FTF programs, services and resources are free or minimal cost. As we target economically disadvantaged and at-risk families, we never want cost to be a barrier. We’re committed to ensuring unhindered access to relationship education, case management, coaching and mental health services for our participants.
Is FTF research-based?
FTF is research-based and evidence-informed. At its core, FTF follows an adapted form of the Domains of Family Practice Model, research-backed and established by the National Council on Family Relations. Our staff is trained on nationally registered and recognized research-based curricula, including: Family Wellness, Active Parenting, 24/7 Dad, PREP, MindMatters, and Prepare/Enrich. FTF’s staff has also completed professionally led training to further develop our efforts, including DEI analysis and understanding, trauma-informed care, and frameworks for understanding poverty.
Who are FTF’s partners?
FTF uses a variety of partners to provide resources and services to our families. Our partner list currently includes:
Recruitment:
Employment or Education Services:
Mental Health Services:
Financial Services:
Substance Abuse Services:
Legal Services:
Schools, Churches, and Community Centers:
How do I get involved?
To become involved with FTF’s mission, you can volunteer, donate, and/or become a healthy relationship advocate. Volunteers can give their time and talent through helping with community events and other needed tasks to support families in our programs and beyond. Interested in volunteering? Email us at ftf@courses.firstthings.org and we’ll notify you when opportunities become available.
We are also looking for donors, who want to empower and encourage healthy families in low-income communities, to support our programming and wrap around services.
Last but not least, our community needs healthy relationship advocates. You can encourage families and healthy relationships by following FTF on social media, sharing our content, and modeling these skills in your own life!
How do you evaluate your programs?
FTF uses a mixed methodology and consistent evaluation process to measure impact. We believe in stewarding every dollar and every effort to its fullest potential. That’s why we have a full-time program evaluator and research coordinator on staff. We also have an Internal Review Board through the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, and a contracted third-party/macro evaluator, Dr. Lindsay Whetter.
