Making sure the knot stays tied

Posted on March 6, 2013 By Editor Articles, Neighborhood News, Top Stories

Another graduating class from the “Why Knot” program offered by Project SOS with instructors Coy and Michelle Malone (fourth couple from the left)

Project SOS invests in healthy marriages

As a nonprofit celebrating 20 years, Project SOS is thrilled when couples from its “Why Knot” marriage communications program reach an anniversary milestone one year at a time.
Learning solid communication skills is what’s behind the “Why Knot” program and, contrary to the early days of a couple’s relationship, the program does come with an instruction manual, which provides examples and exercises in communication.

The program began six years ago with a federal grant and celebrates a graduating class every month. Structured either one weeknight for eight weeks or four Saturdays in a row, low income couples attend for free, receive a meal and enjoy free childcare at the program’s venue.

Founder and CEO Pam Mullarkey, Ph.D., can’t stress enough how strengthening marriages is what will eventually reduce the economic burden of single-parent welfare. That’s why they make a big deal out of each course completion. “Every graduating class is celebrated,” she said. “And couples are mentored for another six months.”

The “Why Knot” program is held at various locations around Jacksonville to make it convenient for the couples, who can also attend monthly booster sessions following graduation. The Project SOS office is located at 745 Baymeadows Way; call (904) 296-9950 for information.

How can you help?

Editor’s note: This month The Resident offers another opportunity that we hope inspires residents to be change-makers for community good. “How can you help?” profiles a local nonprofit organization and showcase ways to support it. It is our sincerest hope that by creating awareness of local needs, we can all help generate positive solutions, funds and help for those in our community who deserve it most.

Organization: Project SOS, Inc.

Mission: Project SOS, Inc. is committed to strengthening families by empowering parents and educating youth to make healthy life choices. Project SOS provides youth programs throughout Jacksonville area schools. The programs include youth development and edutainment in areas such as bullying, teen pregnancy, healthy choices, goal setting and boundaries. Project SOS also offers healthy relationship skills by providing relationship workshops to at-risk families. The workshops teach communication, financial and parenting skills in order to help individuals, couples and families learn how to happy successful and healthy relationships.

Opportunities to Help: Project SOS has a variety of opportunities for partners and parents to learn more about youth culture, as well as opportunities to volunteer, serve and invest in future generations. To learn how you can be a part, call (904) 296-9950. To donate, visit http://projectsos.com/donate-now-project-sos/