Developed by Pennsylvania State University, F.A.N. Club is a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) model parent involvement program implemented to strengthen families by providing social and critical support. Designed to help parents influence their children to lead drug-free lives, F.A.N. Club is a positive, flexible program based on an empowerment philosophy that emphasizes parents’ strengths. F.A.N. Club directly involves the parents of youth participating in the SMART Moves program, including the SMART Leaders booster program and other concern parents that wish to further support efforts to reduce violence and substance abuse in our community. It provides opportunities for parents and families to participate in activities according to individual needs and wants. The activities focus on developing support systems and opportunities through a framework of five developmental categories: 

       Basic Support: to assist parents and families with basic needs and particular crises (e.g., helping a parent link with a social service); 

       Social Support: to provide group support through activities for parents and families; 

       Education: to provide knowledge, skills and enrichment; 

       Leadership: opportunities to build competence and confidence.

       Advocacy: to develop skills and provide opportunities for parents to advocate for a better tomorrow on behalf of our youth.