PRC PATHWAYS

FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES

Supervised visitation is a service that allows children to maintain safe, meaningful contact with a parent or family member they do not live with, under the guidance of a neutral third party. Sometimes called “Parenting Time,” “Monitored Visitation,” or “Supervised Child Access,” these visits are supported by trained staff who prioritize the safety and well-being of everyone involved. The goal is to create a secure, comfortable environment where children can build or maintain relationships with their non-custodial parents free from conflict or stress.

A visitation center serves as a neutral space where supervised visits and exchanges take place. Staff observe interactions, support positive family connections, and step in only when necessary to protect a child’s safety. In some cases, the center facilitates supervised exchanges safe transfers of children between parents so that children are not exposed to conflict during pick-ups and drop-offs. The child’s needs remain the top priority, with every effort made to ensure visits are as positive and stress-free as possible.

Supervised visitation is not a punishment or a negative label. Rather, it is a valuable tool to help families navigate challenging transitions such as separation, divorce, or situations involving safety concerns. By offering a structured, supportive setting, visitation centers help children maintain important family bonds while giving parents peace of mind. These services are designed to benefit the whole family, ensuring children can enjoy time with both parents in a safe and nurturing environment.

At the Micheal H. Seibel Visitation and Exchange Center, supervised visitation is designed to support families through life’s challenging transitions with compassion and care. Our team provides a safe, structured environment where children can spend meaningful time with their parents, helping maintain and strengthen important family bonds. These services are here to benefit the entire family, giving children the opportunity to connect with both parents in a nurturing, stress-free setting.

If you have questions about supervised visitation or would like to access services at the Micheal H. Seibel Visitation and Exchange Center, please contact us: seibel@prc-austinmn.org or (507) 434-7550

WELCOME CENTER

25 Years of Welcoming: Celebrating the Welcome Center & APEX

On September 17th, the Parenting Resource Center hosted a very special 25th Anniversary Celebration for the Welcome Center and APEX at the Community Action Building. More than 80 community members gathered for dinner and an evening filled with cultural entertainment, laughter, and reflection on the past 25 years of creating a stronger, more inclusive Austin.

The evening’s program highlighted the incredible history of both the Welcome Center and APEX featuring music, dance, and storytelling that honored the diversity of the Austin community. Many shared personal reflections about what these programs have meant to them:

“I’m impressed every month when so many leaders show up to our APEX meetings… even 25 years later! It demonstrates the caring power of our community as well as the importance, effectiveness, and impact of our group.”

“The Welcome Center has made such a difference in so many people’s lives. And it’s so important to ensure all feel welcome.”

“Years ago, when the Welcome Center was just starting, Liliana Silvestry, Miguel Zarate, Olga Acosta, and Rosemary were selling cookies and cakes outside the building to raise funds. It was such a beautiful way to attract people, introduce them to the staff, and bring them into the mission.”

“As someone new to Riverland and the Austin community, I’ve quickly come to appreciate the impact of APEX and the Welcome Center. It’s inspiring to see how 25 years of welcoming spirit continues to shape such a strong, inclusive community.”

“For me, the Welcome Center and APEX symbolize our district’s belief that every student’s story matters. Looking back over 25 years, it’s inspiring to see how many lives have been touched and how much stronger our community is because of it.”

The event not only celebrated the past but also looked to the future. Guests left feeling inspired and hopeful for the next 25 years of building connections, supporting families, and creating opportunities for all who call Austin home.

PREVENTION

APAC

In September, the Austin Positive Action Coalition (APAC) performed outreach and provided games for families during the Homecoming Celebration Event at Wescott Sports Complex, and some members volunteered to be inside the dunk tank for the Welcoming Week Kickoff STAND fundraiser. Also, coalition members discussed potential new drug prevention programs for the Austin area.

The next APAC meeting is scheduled for October 29th from 12 – 1 p.m. at the Community Action Building in Austin. There is also an online option available for those unable to attend in-person. We look forward to continuing our important discussions and initiatives to improve and strengthen prevention efforts within the community.

STAND

Our youth coalition members helped set up and monitor community games at Welcoming Week Kickoff and the Homecoming Celebration Event. They also helped raise school spirit by painting faces at the homecoming football game.

STAND members also took part in creating “I’d Rather” signs that celebrate the people, activities, and programs that help keep them drug and alcohol free.

If you’re interested in learning more or becoming a member of APAC or STAND, please reach out to us at dfc@prc-austinmn.org.