A program aimed at helping parents build long-term stability is gaining recognition beyond Reno.
Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada said its Elevating Families program has received certification from Economic Mobility Pathways, becoming one of a limited number of programs worldwide to earn the designation.
The program has used EMPath’s Mobility Mentoring approach since launching in late 2023, focusing on helping parents strengthen planning, goal-setting, and financial stability as they work toward economic independence.
The certification recognizes programs that closely follow the Mobility Mentoring model, a research-based coaching approach designed to support families working to move out of poverty.
“This certification is especially meaningful because the Elevating Families program is part of an evidence-based study with the University of Notre Dame,” said Marie Baxter, CEO of Catholic Charities of Northern Nevada. “Receiving EMPath certification confirms that our team is replicating the model to fidelity and working with EMPath to track and share programmatic outcomes. That fidelity is what ensures families receive the full benefit of this proven approach.”
Through the program, trained mentors work one-on-one with parents, focusing on areas tied to long-term success, including family stability, financial management, education, career growth, and overall well-being.
So far, 145 parents have taken part, with participants showing measurable progress toward stability and self-sufficiency.
Organizers say the program centers on helping parents set their own goals and build the skills needed to reach them, shifting away from traditional case management toward a coaching model that supports long-term progress for families and their children.
