Family Tree Inc. in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, is a nonprofit human services agency that provides early childhood education, family support, and community resources to strengthen families in Jefferson County and the surrounding Denver metro area. Its mission focuses on preventing child abuse and neglect by offering parenting classes, home visitation, and a family resource center.
Background and History
Family Tree Inc. was founded in 1976 by a group of community members concerned about child abuse and neglect in Jefferson County. Originally a small crisis hotline, the organization grew into a multi-service agency over the decades. Its headquarters are located in Wheat Ridge, a suburb of Denver, and it operates several programs across the county. The name “Family Tree” reflects the idea of supporting families so that children can grow in a safe, nurturing environment. The agency is funded by a mix of government grants, private donations, and United Way support.
Core Programs and Services
Family Tree Inc. offers a range of services designed to prevent family crises and intervene early. The main programs include:
- Early Childhood Education: Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide free preschool and home-based learning for low-income families with children from birth to age five.
- Home Visitation: Trained staff visit new parents at home to offer parenting coaching, child development information, and connections to community resources.
- Family Resource Center: A drop-in center where families can access food, clothing, diapers, and referrals to housing, mental health, and job assistance.
- Parenting Classes: Evidence-based courses like Nurturing Parenting and Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) teach skills for managing behavior and building healthy relationships.
- Child Abuse Prevention: The agency runs awareness campaigns and offers training for mandated reporters and community members.
How to Access Services
Families can reach Family Tree Inc. directly by phone or through their website. The main office is at 3805 Marshall Street, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033. Many programs have eligibility requirements, such as income limits for Head Start or residency in Jefferson County for certain services. To enroll, you typically need to provide proof of income, residency, and child’s age. For the family resource center, no appointment is necessary during open hours. The agency also operates a 24-hour crisis line for immediate support.
Eligibility and Costs
Most of Family Tree Inc.’s services are free to qualifying families. Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded and serve families whose income is at or below the federal poverty guidelines, though a small percentage of slots can be for families above that threshold. Home visitation programs are also free for participants. The family resource center is free for anyone in the community. No one is turned away for inability to pay, and the agency actively seeks grants to cover costs for families who do not meet typical income criteria.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
A common misconception is that Family Tree Inc. is a child protection agency that can take children away. In reality, it is a preventive, voluntary service. Parents choose to participate, and the agency’s role is to support, not to investigate. Another misconception is that services are only for families in crisis. In fact, many programs are open to any parent who wants to learn new skills or connect with other families. Some people also assume that Head Start is only for four-year-olds, but Early Head Start serves pregnant women and children from birth to three.
Comparison with Similar Organizations
Family Tree Inc. is often compared to other nonprofit family support agencies in the Denver area, such as the Jefferson Center for Mental Health or the Colorado Parent & Child Foundation. The key difference is that Family Tree Inc. is specifically focused on child abuse prevention and family stability, rather than mental health treatment or advocacy. It also stands out for its comprehensive, one-stop approach: a family can receive education, material aid, and emotional support from a single organization. Unlike some national organizations, Family Tree Inc. is locally governed and directly accountable to the Wheat Ridge community.
Safety and Privacy
Family Tree Inc. takes confidentiality seriously. All client information is protected under state and federal laws, including HIPAA for health-related data. Staff are trained in mandatory reporting requirements: if they suspect a child is in immediate danger, they are required by law to contact the county child welfare department. However, this is a rare occurrence and is clearly explained to families at intake. The agency also follows strict safety protocols for home visits, ensuring that staff are trained in crisis intervention and that families are always treated with respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Family Tree Inc. the same as a child protective services agency?
No. Family Tree Inc. is a private nonprofit that offers voluntary support services. It does not investigate abuse or remove children from homes. Its goal is to prevent the need for child protective services by helping families cope with stress and build skills.
Do I have to live in Wheat Ridge to get help?
No. While the headquarters are in Wheat Ridge, many programs serve all of Jefferson County. Some services, like the family resource center, are open to anyone in the Denver metro area. Check with the agency for specific eligibility for each program.
Are the parenting classes free?
Yes, the parenting classes offered by Family Tree Inc. are free to participants. They are funded by grants and donations, and some classes provide dinner and childcare so parents can attend without barriers.
How can I volunteer or donate?
Family Tree Inc. accepts volunteers for tasks like sorting donations, helping in the resource center, and assisting with events. Donations of money, diapers, and non-perishable food are always welcome. Visit their website or call the main office for current needs.
Does Family Tree Inc. offer counseling or therapy?
Family Tree Inc. does not provide clinical therapy, but it does offer case management and can refer families to mental health providers in the community. The focus is on practical support and education rather than long-term counseling.
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