As more and more couples seek healthy adult relationships across the Blue Water Area, The Community Action Agency of St. Clair County and its Head Start program has a project designed to provide marriage and relationship strengthening services to residents who meet eligibility requirements.

The Successful Healthy Initiative for Relationship Training (S.H.I.R.T) project is a five year program funded through the United States Department of Health and Human Services. 

Our Goals 

Are to assist individuals and couples with developing improved communication, increase conflict resolution skills, increase relationship satisfaction, and reduce the number of negative interactions between partners and their children.

Partners

The S.H.I.R.T program is a collaborative effort utilizing the expertise of a number of local human service agencies including Bridge Builders Counseling and Mentoring Center, The Cornell Center, First Presbyterian Church, Operation Transformation, Safe Horizons, SONS Ministry, and St. Joseph Church.

Please see our S.H.I.R.T calendar for details pertaining to class descriptions, dates, and other upcoming events.

                              Comments from participants:

"When I first came to this class I wasn't't sure what I was getting myself into.  But once I kept coming it warn't so bad.  I feel that this class has helped me a lot.  I am more outspoken and I talk to my husband in a calm and understanding way.  I really feel like a new partner and I really enjoyed this class" Anonymous, Port Huron

"I have a strong minded child.  And I happen to be a passive person.  This class has helped me in reaching her verbally in a better, more constructive way. It has also helped me to really hear her and not just hear what I want to hear.  Our communication is improving and she is opening up to me more." Anonymous, Port Huron

"Now when we get in a deep discussion, we don't let it elevate to a heated argument with swearing and yelling in front of the children.  So far the things I learned I use as much as possible." Michael, Port Huron

"This class has impacted me by the information on communication in so many ways.  I have changed so many things. I appreciate this program and the Burrell's for keeping it real and sharing their experiences for the class. I loved this class and received so many benefits!" Cara, Port Huron

"Since I have learned more about myself this class has helped me to take a step back and see how my behavior influences my family." Justin, Port Huron

"I learned not to yell all the time.  I learned to let him talk and then I talk and we get more said that way.  We work on our problems in a better way.  With us not yelling all the time I see my children acting better because they are not hearing us fight all of the time." Anonymous, Port Huron

"My husband and I are learning to communicate better. W are talking more rather than yelling.  The kids have also had a better attitude. It's nice that the yelling has stopped.  We are doing better in our relationship now that ever before." Anonymous, Port Huron

"I'we been able to make the choice to remove an unhealthy relationship from mine and  my child's life and have chosen to continue to move forward in life.  I thank your program and God for helping me find the strength to do this." Anonymous, Port Huron

"We just learned to value each others feelings and to take time to listen, love, and value each other.  Not to be so hard and just be there always.  Let go of all of the small stuff and just appreciate that you have a beautiful family!  Never miss a moment to say I love you!" Katrina, Port Huron

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