WALDORF, Md. — Charles County Government is accepting applications for the second year of its Children and Family Resource Academy, a free four-session program connecting parents, caregivers and youth advocates with local resources, education and peer support.
The academy, funded through the county’s Local Management Board within the Department of Community Services, is designed to help families better understand and access programs serving children from prenatal stages through young adulthood.
The first cohort launched in winter and spring 2025. County officials said the academy was created to fill service gaps by offering structured, in-person opportunities for families to connect directly with agencies and build advocacy skills.
Sapreen Khalaifeh, Local Management Board supervisor, said during a recent episode of Inside Your County Government that the board works to ensure programs are accessible and coordinated for children, youth and families across Charles County. Local Management Boards operate in every Maryland jurisdiction and receive funding through the Governor’s Office for Children to support grant-funded services offered at no cost to residents.
2026 Class Schedule
The Children and Family Resource Academy will be held in person at the Waldorf Senior and Recreation Center, 90 Post Office Road. There is no virtual option.
All participants must attend each of the following sessions:
- Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, 5:30–8 p.m.
- Tuesday, March 3, 2026, 5:30–8 p.m.
- Saturday, March 7, 2026, 9 a.m.–noon
- Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 5:30–8 p.m.
Dinner will be provided at each class. Free onsite childcare and recreation activities will be provided for children ages 4 to 17 during each session.
Participants will receive certification in Youth Mental Health First Aid as part of the program.
Michelle Cureton, a Charles County resident, middle school educator and graduate of the inaugural academy, said the mental health training and resource fair provided practical tools and direct access to agencies she was not previously aware of, despite living in the county for decades.
Resources Highlighted
During the academy, participants are introduced to key county supports, including:
- Local Care Team: A multidisciplinary group of child-serving agencies that meets with parents and caregivers to review concerns related to mental health or behavioral needs. The team develops an action plan and can initiate referrals directly to appropriate agencies.
- Online Resource Connection Website: A county-maintained database featuring more than 100 agencies and supports, categorized by service type and age group. The site includes mental health, disability and educational resources, as well as an events calendar updated weekly.
County officials said the academy emphasizes creating a stigma-free environment where caregivers can share experiences, ask questions and build networks with others at various stages of parenting or youth mentorship.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Be a Charles County resident.
- Have a direct role providing care or services for school-aged children (parent, caregiver, educator, advocate, coach, clergy, service provider, case manager, etc.).
- Be able to attend all four sessions.
- Have no prior felony convictions and no misdemeanor convictions involving weapons or violence.
The program is free.
How to Apply
Applications are now open for the 2026 Children & Family Resource Academy. Interested residents can complete the application online through Charles County Government.
Officials encourage residents to share the opportunity with others who support or care for children in Charles County.
Learn about the Resource Connection website, free childcare during sessions, and how to apply for the upcoming cohort. charlescountyresourceconnection.com
Register for the Children and Family Resource Academy Here.
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