NORTH ALABAMA– Extended Family plans to lead more than 40 student programs during the 2026-27 school year across Cherokee, Etowah, DeKalb, and Calhoun counties.

The nonprofit organization will offer Extended Family for Kids and the Extended Family Leadership Academy. Programs will begin during the fall semester and continue through the spring in schools and juvenile diversion programs.

Organizers expect the lessons to reach hundreds of school-aged children. The programs focus on building self-esteem, reducing stress and isolation, addressing anger, and improving communication skills.

Extended Family for Kids, also known as EFK, includes nine lessons for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The program supports children who have a family member who has been incarcerated.

According to the organization, those children may experience hardship and stigma that affect their behavior, concentration, and schoolwork. Extended Family works with school counselors and community agencies to identify students who qualify for the program.

The Extended Family Leadership Academy provides 18 lessons for older students preparing for life after high school.

The academy began as a follow-up program for students who completed EFK. However, it has expanded to include at-risk students and others who want support while planning their futures.

Using the motto “Lead yourself,” the academy helps students explore career options and make healthy decisions. Lessons cover job readiness, health, communication, and financial independence.

Extended Family is a community-based nonprofit supported through grants, local funding and private donations.

More information is available through the organization’s social media pages at @extendedfamilyhelp or its website at extendedfamilyhelp.org.

Related Articles: 

Extended Family Receives $10,000 Grant From Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center

Extended Family Leadership Academy Honors Graduates with First-Ever Graduation Cords