Lead With Literacy is inviting families to learn about its Macon Family Time program, which is preparing to start its third cohort. An information session for interested families is being held Friday, February 17 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Bloomfield-Gilead Recreation Center (1931 Rocky Creek Road).

Space in this free 11-week program is limited, so families are highly encouraged to attend the session to determine if they can make the time commitment and register. If unable to attend the session – but are interested – call or text 478-318-9668, email [email protected], or send a message on Facebook.

Macon Family Time is funded through Macon-Bibb County’s Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) program and the Community Foundation of Central Georgia. Lead with Literacy received a $40,000 grant to implement this program, which is designed to engage families in meaningful reading and learning activities.

“Our family coaches work with parents and children to help them develop happier family relationships, increase shared reading time, improve mental health outcomes, decrease youth alcohol, and drug use, violence, and delinquent behavior,” says Tamika Withers with Lead with Literacy. “Building stronger families through literacy is the heart of this program.”

“Literacy is at the core of everything a child needs to be successful in school and life,” says Mayor Lester Miller. “Thank you to Lead With Literacy for helping families improve their children’s abilities and grow closer together throughout the process.”

The third cohort will begin meeting every Friday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. for 11 weeks beginning February 24. (Families can register for the cohort through March 1, meaning they would miss one of the sessions.) Each session begins with family dinner and discussions followed by separate skills classes for adults and youth. The classes incorporate engaging hands-on activities, interactive games, and group discussions on topics relevant to todays’ families. During the family activity, coaches will provide test taking strategies for students and tips to help parents prepare them for the upcoming Georgia Milestones Testing. Families also receive a Book of the Week to add to their home library.

“Reducing violent crime in our community is going to take years of work, focusing on every child and every family who reaches out to us,” adds Mayor Miller. “It’s up to us to make sure we’re there for them, wherever they need us.”