DIRECTOR
Susan Burnette
Susan@fscogden.org
LOCATION
276 N. 200 E.
Brigham City, UT 84302
(435) 723-6010
Box Elder Family Support Center
The Box Elder Family Support Center opened their doors in Brigham City, UT, in February 1995 with two programs: a Crisis & Respite Nursery and a Parent Advocate Program. The crisis and respite nursery is designed to give families a safe place for children ages 0-11 to prevent exposing them to any adverse experiences the family might be dealing with. The Parent Advocate Program has evolved into a Family Life Education Program and provides both formal classroom instruction and in-home classes for parents. In 2014, we partnered with other non-profits in the community to open a second Family Support Center in Garland, Utah. At this site, we offer crisis nursery and family therapy services.
Services Offered
Crisis & Respite Nursery
Nursery services are available when families have an emergency or crisis and need a safe place for their children to stay. The Nursery is also available for parents who just need a “time-out" and/or who are participating in other services at our facility, such as parenting classes or therapy. In addition, the nursery also serves as a child abuse shelter for the Division of Child and Family Services. Our nursery is available 24 hours per day, seven days a week for emergencies, and is licensed by the Department of Human Services.
Case Management
Our Case Management Program was developed in 2016 out of a need to formalize a procedure that would assist each family on a more individualized basis. If the family chooses to participate, a case manager will complete a needs assessment tool that looks at a variety of areas to determine what service, programs or referrals that that family may be looking for or be eligible to participate. Through this program our clients will have computer access to search and apply for employment, build resumes, or apply for other services. The case manager will also assist families in applying for Medicaid, social security disability, financial planning/budgeting, and assist with searching for housing and other resources development. Through our case management program, we can also assist with clothing vouchers and childcare referrals if needed. The main objective of the program is to help families gain self-sufficiency and develop healthy functioning.
Family Life Education
We provide both in-home and at-site parenting and couples education. Our professional home visitors assist parents with a variety of support options designed to increase your ability to provide a nurturing atmosphere for your children. We also offer classes at both locations. Our parenting class curriculum includes the Nurturing Program, by Dr. Stephen J. Bavolek; Becoming a Love and Logic Parent, by Jim and Charles Fay, Ph.D. and Foster W. Cline, M.D; the Smart Steps Program (designed for step families), by Francesca Adler-Baeder; and the Strengthening Families Program from Iowa State University. Free childcare is available in the Nursery during all classes.
Family Therapy
Our Family Therapy Program offers families a more intensive approach to increasing their ability to care for their children. This service is free to families who do not have Medicaid or private insurance. Childcare is available during sessions. Our therapist also provides consultations and oversight to our Nursery and Parent Advocate Staff. Our family therapy approach grew from a need based on the fundamental assumption that adaptive family interactions can play a pivotal role in protecting children from negative influences. Furthermore, by improving the marital and parent/child relationships, family interactions are strengthened, thus building protective factors for family success.
About the Center
Meet the Director
Susan plays a key role in facilitating parenting programs and creating supportive environments where parents can grow in confidence and connection. She collaborates with community partners and staff to ensure services are responsive to the needs of families in northern Utah. At the heart of her work is a commitment to building resilience, nurturing positive parent-child interactions, and providing practical tools that help families thrive. Susan’s dedication to family well-being reflects the mission of the Box Elder Family Support Center to prevent child abuse and support caregivers with dignity and respect.
History & Impact
The Box Elder Family Support Center is a vital nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and preventing child abuse and family conflict throughout Box Elder County, Utah. Since opening our doors in Brigham City in 1995, we’ve been committed to providing compassionate, accessible support that helps families thrive now and for the future. Our mission—“Strengthening Families Now and For the Future”—guides every service we offer, grounded in the belief that healthy, supported families build resilient communities.
At the heart of our work is our Crisis & Respite Nursery, available 24/7 to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children ages 0–11 during emergencies, family stress, or simply when caregivers need a break. Licensed by the Utah Department of Human Services, our nursery offers activities, meals, and trained staff who care for children while parents access other support or address urgent needs.
We also offer evidence-based classes such as parenting education and workshops.
All services at the Box Elder Family Support Center are free and available to families of all backgrounds, cultures, and income levels. Whether you’re navigating a crisis, building parenting skills, or strengthening family bonds, our Center is here to walk alongside you with dignity, respect, and unwavering support.