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TwoGether in Texas
provides FREE classes for engaged couples and married couples focusing on effective communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and the elements of a healthy and happy marriage. Couples seeking a marriage license who participate in one of these free 8 hour relationship education courses, will have the $60 state marriage license fee waived and the 72-hour waiting period waived. A wedding lasts only a day, but a marriage should last a lifetime. To find classes, click here!
Find other Twogether in Texas Service Providers in your Area CLICK HERE.
Providers CLICK HERE to complete a Summary Report.
Program Overview:
In conjunction with the TwoGether in Texas healthy marriage initiative, ANTHEM provides free, 8-hour relationship skills workshops that focus on conflict management, communication skills, and the key components of a successful marriage. Participation in one of these workshops, within one year of applying for their marriage license, qualifies as a waiver of both the $60 state fee and the 72-hour waiting period associated with the issuance of a marriage license. Research has shown that couples who have participated in premarital education and marriage enrichment programs improve their communication skills and increase their marital satisfaction, which in turn benefits child well-being.
ANTHEM also partners with pastors, clergy, community organizations, and counselors as Affiliate – Marriage Champions. Check here to see a list of our current Affiliates. Religious programs that are at least 8 hours, based in research and skills, focusing on effective communication, conflict resolution, and the keys to a successful marriage are acceptable. Although ANTHEM’s Affiliates do not receive financial assistance, they are able to provide their participants with the same benefit of the marriage license fee waiver.
History:
As of September 1, 2008 a new Texas law went into effect encouraging couples seeking a marriage license to attend a premarital education course. ANTHEM was selected in March 2008, as one of 12 Regional Intermediaries to coordinate this state-wide effort, by providing workshops in Texas Region 3East and partnering with organizations that have existing and effective pre-marital programs.
To assist in this effort, in July 2008, ANTHEM selected three subcontracted organizations: Lakeside Relationship Services, Marriage Management Consultants, and Inspiring Families. These organizations provide their own workshops and build relationships with Affiliate organizations in certain geographical areas. Since the beginning of the program, ANTHEM, along with our subcontractors, has built a growing Affiliate base of over 30 churches and mental health professionals.
Geographical Funding Areas:
Dallas County
Rockwall, Fannin, and Hunt Counties: Subcontracted to Lakeside Relationship Services of Rockwall
Kaufman, Ellis, and Navarro Counties: Subcontracted to Marriage Management Consultants of Kaufman
Collin County: Subcontracted to Inspiring Families of Plano
Populations Served:
TwoGether in Texas targets couples engaged in or considering marriage. However, workshops are open to married couples and singles, as well. ANTHEM’s goal is to serve 10% of the pre-marital population in Region 3East, for a total of 5,000 individuals over a one-year period.
Contact:
Sarah Arnold: Project Coordinator, TwoGether in Texas
sarah.arnold@anthemnorthtexas.org | 
