Our mission is to strengthen and preserve families raising young children in Columbia County.

Our Purpose

We think that raising young children is one of the hardest jobs. Our purpose is to to make that job easier. At our Family Resource Centers, mothers, fathers, grandparents and others caring for young children can drop in for companionship, an opportunity to share problems and concerns, attend a parent education workshop, and offer preschool-age children the benefits of our supervised Circle Time playgroup. Each Center has trained childcare staff, snacks for kids, and peer support programs for adults. Our Circle Time playgroups are open to all without charge and our families represent every economic, social, and educational level.

Family Resource Centers of Columbia County responds to community needs and provides much-needed enrichment programs for parents and children. Our Facebook page, newsletter, Instagram, and website announce our calendar of activities.

Some of our special programs include:

  • Kids creative movement classes

  • Music and art classes for preschoolers

  • Family Education Workshops

  • Mentoring, and Outreach activities for families facing economic and personal challenges

Our History

Our founder, Clair Winans, raised four sons in Chatham, NY. When she sent the last one to kindergarten, she felt she had just barely survived those 15 years at home raising her young children. Determined to create a special haven for parents and families, Winans started “Project Survival” by inviting families into her kitchen to support and encourage one another. Now in our fourth decade, we are known as Family Resource Centers of Columbia County and our program serves over 900 parents and children a year in four locations.

“We started coming to playgroup just short of my kiddo’s second birthday. The snacks, songs, and other kids made his first experience in a group setting a positive one, and for that, we are so thankful.” - Marley, dad

“Discovering FRC was a lifesaver during my early days as a stay-at-home mom. I felt isolated, tired, and alone. Joining this playgroup was a turning point; it provided me with a lifeline to pull myself out of that rut. Fast forward two years and James and I have made meaningful friendships and had a blast while doing it!” - Catherine, mom