Youth & Teens
RiSE Up Youth
Youth build leadership, confidence, communication, and real-world decision-making skills.
✦ A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit · Greater New Haven, CT
Built through community. Strengthened through connection.
Family First Initiative helps individuals and families build stronger foundations through leadership development, financial literacy, workforce readiness, wellness, mentorship, and community-based programs.
Our programs support youth, young adults, parents, caregivers, and community members at different stages of life through practical learning and shared growth.
LeadershipLiteracyLegacyFamily First, Always
LeadershipLiteracyLegacyFamily First, Always
The Challenge Families Face
Many families want better opportunities for their children — but don't know where to begin.
Many people want stronger futures for themselves, their families, and their communities — but lack access to practical guidance, support systems, and real-world tools to help them move forward.
Some are navigating financial pressure, leadership responsibilities, career uncertainty, parenting challenges, or major life transitions without consistent support or mentorship. Others are looking for stronger community connection, clearer direction, or opportunities to grow personally and professionally.
Family First Initiative exists to help individuals and families build confidence, communication, leadership, and long-term stability through practical learning and community-based support.
25–30
Youth engaged through RiSE Up Youth
12–15
Mothers supported through Dream Moms
9
Fathers engaged through LEAD
6
Young adults in FLAG workforce readiness
Our Approach
Three pillars. One mission.
Family First Initiative strengthens individuals and families through programs focused on leadership, financial literacy, workforce readiness, wellness, mentorship, and long-term stability.
Our Whole-Family Model encourages people across generations to learn together, use shared language, and apply practical tools in everyday life. Rather than focusing on one challenge in isolation, FFi supports growth through connected programs that reinforce communication, accountability, leadership, and informed decision-making.
Whether someone is a young person developing confidence, a young adult preparing for long-term independence, a parent navigating family responsibilities, or a community member seeking stronger direction and connection, our programs are designed to meet people where they are and help them move forward.
Leadership
Developing confident leaders within the family and community.
Literacy
Education across financial, personal, and community topics.
Legacy
Building systems that protect and grow opportunity for the next generation.
Our Values
What We Strive For.
Our THRIVE values guide everything we do — from program design to community engagement.
T
Tools for Financial Stability
Practical financial skills that support informed decisions and long term security.
H
Healthy Wellness
Physical, emotional, and social health that allow individuals and families to function and grow.
R
Responsibility and Leadership
Guiding decisions and modeling behaviors that support accountability and stability.
I
Intergenerational Legacy
Preparing future generations to sustain and expand opportunity.
V
Values of Integrity and Sustainability
Transparency, responsible growth, and a focus on long term impact.
E
Engaged Community
Active participation and shared responsibility that strengthen families and networks.
How FFi Works
How Family First Initiative works.
Family First Initiative supports individuals and families through connected programs focused on leadership, financial literacy, workforce readiness, wellness, mentorship, and long-term stability.
Rather than addressing challenges in isolation, FFi uses a Whole-Family Model that encourages shared language, practical learning, and growth across generations and stages of life.
Together, these programs help participants strengthen communication, leadership, confidence, decision-making, and community connection in ways they can apply in everyday life.
When one family rises, the whole community rises.
Our 7 Programs
See all programs A program for every season of family.
Community Impact
Building stronger communities.
Since June 2025, Family First Initiative has been building a strong foundation of community engagement across West Haven and Greater New Haven.
25–30
Youth consistently engaged through RiSE Up Youth leadership sessions
25+
Mothers supported through Dream Moms leadership and planning workshops
9
Fathers engaged through LEAD leadership, legacy, and literacy sessions
6
Young adults engaged through FLAG workforce readiness and financial literacy
16
Structured program sessions and learning events delivered
24+
Families connected across programs
Family First Initiative works alongside a growing network of community organizations, schools, businesses, and local leaders throughout the region.
Community & Nonprofit Partners
- Community Foundation for Greater New Haven
- West Haven Early Childhood Council
- ArtsWest CT
- Sisters On The Rise
- Soaring On Angels Wings
- SWANA
- Fixing Fathers
- Neighborhood Leadership Program
- Kayonza Global Network
- ViMa Ro
- Lorenzo's Christmas Wish
Business & Corporate Partners
- New Haven Pizza Place
- Scratch Batch
- Outback Steakhouse
- New Haven Bank
- Merchantics
Get Involved
Join the movement.
There are many ways to support the mission of Family First Initiative.
When families grow stronger, communities grow stronger.
FAQ
Your questions, answered.
Are the programs free of charge?+
Yes. Every program offered by Family First Initiative is completely free. There's no cost to participate in any program, and no referral is required to join.
Do I need a referral to join a program?+
No referral is required. Any family or individual who wants to participate is welcome. Simply contact us or register directly through the program page.
Who are the programs designed for?+
FFi programs are designed for individuals and families across the Greater New Haven region, including West Haven, New Haven, Milford, Orange, and surrounding communities.
Programs support youth, young adults, parents, caregivers, emerging leaders, and community members at different stages of life. Whether someone is seeking leadership development, workforce readiness, financial literacy, mentorship, wellness support, or stronger community connection, FFi programs are designed to provide practical tools and shared learning experiences that help people grow and build long-term stability.
Where are programs held?+
Programs are held at community-based locations in West Haven and the Greater New Haven area, including the West Haven Public Library on Elm Street. Some programs, such as Wheelz & Reelz, take place outdoors at parks, waterfronts, and other community spaces.
How do I sign up for a program?+
Visit the program page that matches your needs and use the registration form, or contact us directly at Contact@FamilyFirstInitiative.org.
"Build the family. Build the community. Build the legacy."
— Christopher J. Mercer, Founder
Latest News
View all news From the newsroom.
Build stronger futures with us.
Whether you join a program, volunteer your time, or support the mission, you become part of a community working to strengthen families and create lasting opportunity.