1999 Best Practices
Success Stories

Program Name:	Fort Collins Family Self-Sufficiency Program
Program Focus:	Empowerment
Geographic Area:	Rocky Mountains

State:	Colorado
City:	Fort Collins

Executive Summary
In cities and towns across the country, many individuals and families are becoming self-sufficient through a variety of programs and innovative partnerships. One successful program is the Fort Collins Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS). The Fort Collins FSS Program has provided more than 61 families with the knowledge, skills and financial resources to help them move from public assistance to independence.

The FSS Program realizes that families are like snowflakes: each one similar, but with subtle differences. As a result, each family receives the direct attention of a caseworker who creates and tailors a program to specifically address the needs of that family. A comprehensive curriculum of education, skills training, counseling support services and financial opportunities is individually crafted on a case-by-case basis.

Based on the belief that knowledge serves as the foundation for success and self-development, the FSS Program offers a variety of classes to help participants learn valuable skills. Individuals can attend classes on receiving their high school diploma equivalency and classes on topics such as computer programs, computer repair and general business. Career counseling services also are offered. Through these classes and other FSS Program services, individuals can become more marketable in the workforce.

Financial assistance is also available to many of those who enroll in the program. More than 33 families, who receive HUD’s Section 8 rental assistance, also participate in a new escrow account program established in conjunction with the Fort Collins Housing Authority.

Although the program is in its infancy, it is producing excellent results, and the staff hopes to expand it in the near future. Currently, 61 families are enrolled, and more than half of those participate in the escrow plan. Only through a collaborative effort of the community — families, the Fort Collins Housing Authority staff, the Fort Collins Self-Sufficiency Program staff, HUD and other individuals — can the program and its services continue to succeed.

Partners: Fort Collins Housing Authority

Financing: Section 8 Vouchers

Point of Contact: Rachel Perez, Phone: (970) 416-2922, E-mail: rperez@ci.fort-collins.co.us