A Whole-Family Approach That Meets Real-Life Needs
Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota’s (GESMN) Family Stability Programs are designed around the goal: when families thrive, communities thrive. Whether someone is returning from incarceration, strengthening their role as a parent or working toward employment, GESMN offers whole-family support that creates stability and long-term opportunity.
In customized programs—including Reentry, FATHER Project, and employment services—program participants receive guidance that recognizes the interconnectedness of their goals, challenges and strengths.
At a recent national child welfare conference, Andrew Freeberg, director of GESMN’s family stability programs, highlighted how the organization is helping shape new national models for whole-family support through a partnership with MDRC.
“We really can’t experience or implement a whole-family approach without bringing all family members to the table, including fathers,” he shared.
GESMN’s integrated programs and agency partnerships make this possible, helping families navigate systems like child support, corrections and public health with more coordination and fewer barriers.
FATHER Project: Strengthening Fathers, Strengthening Families
The FATHER Project helps dads build healthier relationships with their children and navigate systems that often feel overwhelming.
As program manager Latisha Porter explained, “A family’s success is interconnected. Supporting parents together creates a strength-based pathway to their highest potential.”
The impact extends across generations—children with engaged fathers tend to experience better academic and social outcomes.
Bo said “FATHER Project helped me place a giant premium on spending time with my kids.” Read Bo’s FATHER Project story.
Employment & Family Services: Stabilizing Today, Empowering Tomorrow
The Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and additional GESMN employment services help parents reduce barriers like transportation, childcare and navigating complex systems—factors that shape a child’s future stability.
“We know that to most effectively support a parent in working towards their goals, it is essential to understand that a parents’ primary responsibility is the well-being of their entire family – especially children,” said workforce development manager Nicole Hilgendorf.
Tatiana said working with GESMN’s navigators “gave me hope again. They believed in me when I wasn’t sure I could believe in myself.” Read more about Tatiana.
Reentry Program: Removing Barriers, Rebuilding Lives
GESMN’s Reentry Program supports individuals exiting incarceration with job training, mentorship and family reconnection—critical steps toward breaking generational cycles of instability.
“A job placement is not simply a job,” said Reentry supervisor Jake Nowack. “It represents food on the table, a roof overhead, school supplies, a field trip fee, medicine, a birthday present.”
Pedro, a reentry participant, said “There was a time I felt like I wasn’t going to get hired, but the help is there—you just have to go get it. Don’t give up. Don’t lose faith.”
Creating Career Possibilities for Generations
Barriers like system requirements, transportation challenges, financial instability or limited support rarely affect only one person—they shape a family’s entire future. GESMN’s whole-family approach helps parents build stability and confidence that their children can grow from.
Bo learned new ways to connect as a father.
Tatiana found a career path that supports her household.
Pedro rebuilt his confidence after incarceration.
These are stories of families stepping into the future—because when a parent gains stability, their children gain it too and the entire community benefits.
Learn more about GESMN’s career services and training and the impact on building a stronger Minnesota workforce.
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