 By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director At Encompass, we believe that a healthy marriage is one of the greatest gifts parents can give their children. Not because the marriage is perfect, but because it is real—rooted in mutual respect, open communication, and a commitment to growth. Children who grow up watching their parents intentionally nurture their relationship absorb powerful life lessons that shape their emotional intelligence, relationship skills, and overall outlook on life. Here are the top lessons children learn when they are raised by parents with a healthy, growing, and vibrant marriage—a relationship that embraces both the struggles and the joys of life together.
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 By Theresa Mabry Encompass Director of Operations Can you feel it? The excitement, the anticipation, the thrill of stepping into a new chapter of life? For pre-marital couples, this season is truly the Gift of New Beginnings. Everything is fresh—new plans, new experiences, new families to connect with. It’s a time of endless possibility and growth as two lives come together to form something unique and beautiful. But with all this newness comes the need for intentional effort. As you step into this exciting phase, how can you build a strong foundation that will help you navigate the years ahead?
 By Cindee Johnson Encompass Partner and Relationship Champion It was a setup from the beginning. A group outing for dinner with 15 other people where two of us showed up. We waited a little while, finally sat down to eat and soon barely noticed the others never arrived. We actually closed down the place at 2am, never running out of things to talk about, making plans to see each other the next day. Within months we were engaged, planning our wedding for exactly one year to the day of that setup date.
 By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Life is filled with seasons—some are joyful and easy, while others are filled with challenges that test our strength and resilience. For many couples and families, these difficulties can take a toll on relationships, creating distance, misunderstandings, or even broken trust. However, the beauty of life is that new beginnings are always possible. With intentional steps and support, relationships can flourish again. This year’s Encompass Sweetheart Gala, themed “The Gift of New Beginnings” celebrates that hopeful truth.
 By Lavern Nissley Encompass Relationship Facilitator Think about where you’ve worked throughout your life. Likely, there were expectations for employees to complete certain tasks and responsibilities. As long as everyone does what they’re supposed to and stays in their lanes, everything is great, right?
Well, that’s actually half the equation of a productive and healthy workplace or team. Getting things done is super important but so is getting along. How do the two relate to each other?  By Abby Glaser Encompass Community Advocate One of the most common questions we hear at Encompass is, “Do you only help couples?” I personally love answering this question because it gives me the chance to talk about our incredible program for individuals—and I just happen to be the facilitator! Many people didn’t have great examples of healthy relationships growing up and often find themselves stuck in unproductive patterns. That’s where REACH comes in. It provides a practical ROADMAP for building strong communication, connection, and conflict resolution skills with the people you care about most.
 By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Building a healthy and lasting relationship is one of life’s greatest joys—but let’s be honest, it’s not always easy. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, navigating a tricky season, or simply wanting to grow closer, the RINGS program at the Encompass Connection Center is here to help.
 By Kermit Rowe Encompass Relationship Facilitator To get the full measure of the impact that 20 years of Encompass Connection Center’s relationship ministry has made, one must look beyond some very impressive statistics like:
- 11,458 adults served with 5,542 hours of coaching provided. - 11,341 free online assessments. - 95.65% of adults served said our relationship coaching helped them improve their conflict resolution. - 97.39% of adults served said their communication has improved through our coaching. - 100% of them said their relationship has improved after receiving our coaching. These numbers illustrate the incredible objective impact God has used our ministry to make the past two decades, both locally and beyond (thanks to our online services). So when you are trying to come up with a meaningful last-minute gift for your special partner that will keep on giving in priceless ways, consider signing you two up for our RINGS Experience programs.  By Lavern Nissley
Encompass Relationship Facilitator The holidays can be tough on relationships. We know because of the usual uptick in calls for help in January! You've been together with family and friends which provides a lot more time and space for conversations than usual. Tangible gifts are given and received. And some are later returned. What are some gifts we could give that are precious, priceless, and premeditated to strengthen and deepen relationships?  By Dr David Marine Mabry Encompass Executive Director Devotionals to Deepen Your Love and Faith This Christmas
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the many gifts we’ve received—both tangible and intangible. One of the most meaningful gifts we can nurture and give in return is the gift of healthy relationships. Whether you’re dating, engaged, or married, cultivating a relationship rooted in love, faith, and connection is truly one of life’s greatest blessings. |
HostsDr. David Marine and Theresa Mabry are Co-Directors of Encompass since June 1, 2024. TOPICS
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Funding is provided by Clark County Job and Family Services, Charles L. Shor Foundation, Nehemiah Foundation, Springfield Foundation, Turner Foundation, and private donations and fees.
Program content is the sole responsibility of Encompass Connection Center and does not necessarily represent the views of the funders.
Encompass Connection Center services are provided to all eligible persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Encompass Connection Center complies with all applicable laws and regulations concerning discrimination does not discriminate on the basis of the potential participant's race, gender, gender orientation, age, disability or religion.
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Program content is the sole responsibility of Encompass Connection Center and does not necessarily represent the views of the funders.
Encompass Connection Center services are provided to all eligible persons on a non-discriminatory basis. Encompass Connection Center complies with all applicable laws and regulations concerning discrimination does not discriminate on the basis of the potential participant's race, gender, gender orientation, age, disability or religion.
Registered 501(c)(3). EIN: 37-1485217