Parents and youth will have an opportunity this fall to spend six weeks learning ways to communicate, connect and strengthen their relationships.

Excelsior Springs Substance Abuse Free Environments (SAFE) will host its fall session of the Strengthening Families 10-14 Program from 5:30-8 p.m. on Wednesdays, Sept. 16 through Oct. 21, at the community center, 500 Tiger Drive. The evidence-based program is designed primarily for parents and youth ages 1014 and focuses on strengthening family relationships while reducing risk factors associated with youth substance use.

Although the curriculum is designed for youth ages 10-14, families with children slightly younger or older are also welcome to participate.

SAFE Director Julia Mees said the organization tries to offer the program at least twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring, as an opportunity for families to learn ways to build positive connections.

“The way parents communicate with their children early on sets an example for …