Promise Program: a Christian group home for children
A warm and safe extension of the family
 
 

What is the PROMISE PROGRAM?

A nurturing home...
The Rena Van Orman PROMISE HOME offers youth a comfortable, family-like home in a quiet residential neighborhood in Marshalltown, Iowa.

Caring houseparents...
Younsters who are accepted into the PROMISE PROGRAM are cared for by a married couple who is dedicated to raising healthy, happy, well-adjusted, successful children. This is the houseparents’ full-time job.

A partnership with parents...
Communications, visits, and relationships between the child and their
parent(s)/guardian are very much encouraged and maintained. Parents do NOT surrender parental rights. Families are included in major decisions and kept informed on their child’s activities. Families are very important partners.

Emphasizing education, plus leadership and computer skills

Enhanced educational program...
Youth attend Marshalltown Community Schools for their basic educational curriculum. After school hours, students receive enhanced training in leadership and computer proficiency. They are encouraged to participate in school and community leadership activities. Social and educational enrichment activities are also provided.

Mentors
Partnerships with community leaders expand opportunities for youth to develop the positive life values and skills necessary to become educated, productive, responsible citizens and future leaders in their community.

A church family...
PROMISE PROGRAM participants are involved in a local church where they receive loving support, guidance and exposure to the hope gained through a meaningful relationship with God.

Assistance with future plans...
A goal of the PROGRAM is to help youth form personal goals and discover a direction for their future. They will learn to map the steps necessary for them to achieve their goals. PROMISE PROGRAM graduates who enroll in post-secondary education programs may apply for special scholarhips.

 

Enriching, family fun for all in the program
The PROMISE PROGRAM is NOT:
  • A residential treatment facility
  • A correctional institution
  • A preparatory school
    		•
    The PROMISE PROGRAM is for youth who:
  • Do NOT have serious emotional or behavioral problems
  • Are NOT mentally or developmentally delayed
  • Are NOT adversely involved with the law
  • Are NOT abusing drugs or alcohol
    		•


    Youth selected for the PROMISE PROGRAM
    • Have been referred by parent(s) or other family member, clergy, school personnel, or other community member
    • Personally desire to be a contributing member of the Program, and the local community, school, and church
    • Can relate and interact positively in a family setting
    • Exhibit a determination to succeed

    What are the Beliefs of the Promise Program?
     Eligibilty is not restricted on the basis of race, religion, social, or economic status.



     

    Caring for the Forgotten Child / Quakerdale
    Council on Accreditation / Coalition for Family & Children's Services in Iowa