Ten Reasons to Celebrate MNCFR As We Say Goodbye!
The Minnesota Council on Family Relations has served Minnesota professionals for over 65 years. As hard as it is to say goodbye, we recognize that times and technology have changed and it’s time to gracefully close the state affiliate. Here are ten reasons to celebrate the accomplishments of this organization!
- Since 1952, MCFR has planned and offered more than 120 conferences and institutes. Many members have been keynote and breakout presenters.
- MCFR provided excellent professional development and approved continuing education units.
- Members developed resources for practitioners, including a popular MCFR Resource Directory and the “Ethical Thinking and Practice for Parent and Family Educators” booklet and training, now used worldwide.
- MCFR published The Family Forum, a newsletter with resources for family professionals. During the 70’s and 80’s, MCFR published collaborative newsletters with MnAEYC titled Views. Starting in 2016, MinneNews, an electronic newsletter, became the official publication.
- Many members learned and honed leadership skills through Board and committee participation.
- MCFR provided networking opportunities for members.
- MCFR presented two awards annually for over 25 years: the Ruth Hathaway Jewson Award and the Friend of the Family Award.
- The MCFR Board and committees welcomed and mentored students in family science fields from universities and colleges in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
- Many MCFR members have been active in the National Council on Family Relations, including serving on committees and on the NCFR Board.
- MCFR became known as MNCFR in 2016. Many lifelong friendships began through MCFR and MNCFR participation!
Those of us who love MNCFR hope you will join us in celebrating a wonderful history!
Submitted by MNCFR Member Peg Lindlof
Mission Statement
The Minnesota Council on Family Relations is dedicated to strengthening families through continuing education, support and connection of professionals and students who are engaged in family education, policy, research, and services.
Philosophies/Values
We believe:
- Families and professionals mutually benefit when professionals pursue continuing education, apply current research and theory, practice and uphold ethical professional standards, and use best practices.
- Families exist in a variety of forms. The strengths and abilities of all families need to be recognized and nurtured.
- Multi disciplinary dialogue enhances the ability of family professionals to effectively work with and for families.
- Families are best served within the framework that emphasizes family strengths, diversity, interconnectedness and social context.
(Approved 11/2015)