2026 Classes & Requirements
We are a volunteer-based organization, and the strength of our programs comes from the families who are part of them. For returning parents in the program 4 years or less, we ask that you give back in the way that works best for you:
Take 8 hours or workshops to learn new skills and ideas to support your family OR Volunteer 20 hours to help keep local programs running.
This is an either/or choice—no mixing required. Whether you choose learning or volunteering, your participation makes a real difference and helps us continue offering support to all families in our community.
Participants in the program 5 or more years: Above requirements plus ADDITIONAL 4 hours
We hope that you will find an option that will make an immediate and positive impact for you and your children.
Have an idea? Share your workshop topic suggestions here!
Community classes available for credit
American Credit Counseling Service
Deter, Detect, Defend - March 24th, 5p - 6:30p (112 Bank Street, Attleboro, MA 02703)
ACCS presents the Federal Trade Commission's identity theft workshop. While you can't entirely control whether you will become a victim of ID theft, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Topics of discussion will include how to protect yourself against identity theft, and what to do if your identity is stolen. Pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot, please call (508) 643-4445 or email info@accs.org in advance.
American Credit Counseling Service provides monthly financial education classes for Christmas is For Kids parents. These sessions cover important topics such as budgeting, understanding credit, and managing debt to help families build stronger financial futures. ACCS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial education and counseling to individuals and families in need.
Language & Community Mentorship
April 4th, 10a - 12p (112 Bank Street, Attleboro, MA 02703)
Our Language and Community Mentorship Program connects families with mentors who help them navigate local resources, build community connections, and strengthen communication skills. Through guidance, support, and cultural understanding, mentors assist families in overcoming language barriers and becoming more confident accessing schools, services, and opportunities in the community. Language & Community Mentorship helps families feel supported, informed, and more connected to the Greater Attleboro area. The program meets on the first Saturday of each month at 112 Bank Street in Attleboro. RSVP to cifk@councilforchildren.org
Teen Depression and Autism: Unique Challenges, Effective Strategies for Support
*Returning CIFK parents will receive credits for participating. Please request a certificate and email to cifk@councilforchildren.org after attending.
Online Courses: Attleboro Library
You do need an Attleboro Library card to access Universal Class; other SAILS library cards may not work. You do not need to be an Attleboro resident to get an Attleboro card. You can also sign up for an e-card and select Attleboro as your preferred library.
need a library card - from the Attleboro Public Library home page
click on the "Universal Classes" link - or just click here to get to the Universal Classes web page
if you have already created a username and password, click the “sign in” button
email cifk@councilforchildren.org or call 508-226-2336 to see if class is acceptable;
complete course with a passing grade (70% or higher) and must be .8 cu or higher print certificate and include with application
print certificate and include with application
Parents can also access Mango Languages, an easy-to-use online program with over 70 languages, including English. Learn at your own pace through fun, interactive lessons anytime, anywhere.
Options for Volunteering for 20 hours
fill in volunteer hour sheet (see our website for a copy)
organization must write a letter on their letterhead confirming you volunteered
include both with your application
Other Credit Options
Finish your HiSET (high school equivalency exam) - include copy of completion with your application
College Courses: must be from spring or summer sessions in the year you are applying and have a passing grade of 70% or higher and include copy of transcript with your application
Finally, a few important reminders…
Please update us if you move or change email addresses so we have your correct contact information in case there are changes to the program that needs to be communicated to you.
CIFK applications will be available October 1 on our website as well as at our office at 112 Bank Street in Attleboro.
Returning parents: Applications must be completed and back to us, including all documentation, by the due date on the application. A late application will put you on the waiting list. Please see the due dates on the application.
Returning parents who have been in the program 4+ years: remember that you will need 4 additional hours of class time.
All applications and supporting documentation must be received and completed by the due dates as noted on the application in order to be considered for the program.
Please don’t wait until October and then try to get the classes done. If you have extenuating circumstances around getting to class, please let us know ASAP so that we can discuss it with you. Having on-line access to classes should eliminate most requests to make exceptions.
Finally, if you have an updated e-mail address, please send a note to cifk@councilforchildren.org with your name so we can include you on all e-mail updates.