The Operation Us project began at Forest Institute with a 2006 Healthy Marriage Demonstration Grant received from the Administration for Children and Families, Office of Family Assistance. In partnership with Ozarks Marriage Matters, the Pregnancy Care Center and ADsmith Communications, Forest Institute began offering relationship education in a 29-county area of SW Missouri. The federal funds allowed us to offer relationship education workshops to teens, single adults and adult couples at prices that were remarkably affordable. Forest Institute partnered with over 70 organizations during the 5 years of this grant and, in conjunction with these partners, was able to provide relatinship education to more than 14,000 individuals.

Although the Federal funding for the original project has reached its end, Forest Institute continues to support the efforts of Operation Us as we continue to offer relationship education workshops and branch out into new and innovative ways of supporting the individuals, couples and families in our communities.

What Is Relationship Education?

Relationship education is a method for providing individuals and couples with the information they need to make informed, healthy relationship choices. Even though the topics can be personal, this is not therapy. We do not ask participants to reveal information that would make them uncomfortable. Relationship education provides a non-threatening, non-invasive way for people to learn more about themselves and about the choices they make.

Is Relationship Education the Same as Therapy?

Relationship education is not therapy. We don't address specific personal issues at that level. If a class participant needs more help, we will certainly work with them to find the help they need. But we never ask participants to reveal more to the group than they want to reveal.

Who Funds Operation Us?