EVERETT – The Board of Directors at Deaconess Children’s Services announced this week it will re-examine the mission and goals of the agency for future success. Meanwhile, Deaconess Children’s Services will no longer offer services to children or their parents effective on Nov. 1, 2011. The change of direction follows severe reductions and loss of donations, grants and state referrals over the past three years.
“Deaconess Children’s Services has been hit hard just like many other non-profits around the nation,” President Felicia Freeman said. “We are working hard with other organizations to take over our current programs so clients will continue to be served.” The challenge has been that each program offered by Deaconess is unique and unduplicated throughout the County.
For more than 25 years, Deaconess Children’s Services’ IMPACT program has been working to keep our community’s most vulnerable children, those at risk of abuse and neglect, safe by empowering parents to accept their role as their child’s first and most important teacher. Parents learn skills to protect their children, interact with them positively and encourage their growth and development preparing them for school and the experiences of childhood.
Since 1996, the TEEN PARENT ADVOCACY (TPA) program has been serving pregnant and parenting Snohomish County teens (ages 13-20) and their children from birth to age five. Promoting positive parenting skills, healthy life choices and continued education, TPA empowers young parents to become self-sufficient, nurturing moms and dads. The agency works in alternative schools addressing the myriad of challenges teens face once they become pregnant or are parenting. Deaconess Children's Services has been able to boast a 0% to 7% repeat pregnancy rate, down from the national average of 50% within 2 years following the birth of a first child to a teen parent. The agency also boasts 96% graduation rates among the teen parents they serve, up from the 33% who graduate nation wide.
For nearly 20 years, LATINOS UNIDOS has helped to educate, empower and support Spanish-speaking parents in their efforts to provide their children with the basic necessities of life in Snohomish County. The program has offered two weekly Spanish-speaking support groups, one in Monroe and one in Everett as well as outreach to connect families to their neighborhood, each other, emergency services and provides help interpreting citizenship and immigration paperwork.
“Child abuse and neglect prevention and intervention treatments are very personal services, requiring highly educated, skilled , trained and dedicated employees who deserve to be paid for their amazing and transformative work,” Freeman said. “We believe the needs of children still merit attention, so this agency’s Board of Trustees will be meeting with as many stakeholders as possible to develop sustainable services for children during these critical times when children need so much, and resources are so limited.”
Deaconess Children’s Services has put the children of Snohomish County first for 114 years, beginning in 1898 as Snohomish County Orphanage. There children found food for their tummies and a safe place to sleep at night. There, children found forever families. During the Great Depression, many Everett families brought their children to Deaconess Children's Services to be cared for. Those children remained between 18 months and 2 years, while their parents sought work and found a way to care for their children again. As society changed, so did Deaconess Children’s Services, and in the 1950’s, they taught life skills to children with disabilities, behavioral disorders, mental health challenges, and intellectual challenges, preparing them for some level of independence as they grew up. In 1980, the agency very nearly closed when funding sources were cut again. Group home services were discontinued, and the agency hired the very able Karen Bachelder to work with various community stakeholders to design services for children that were sustainable. Deaconess Children's Services began offering child abuse and neglect prevention and intervention services in 1982, and has continued those services uninterrupted until now.
For 114 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First!
Monday, October 10, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
Who Works for Children? I work for Children! (part deux)
By Chanelle Carlin, M.A. Soc. Sci.
Vice President of Programs
The mission of Deaconess Children's Services is to transform the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect. As an agency, we do this primarily by working primarily with parents for the sake of their children, while always keeping each individual child at the forefront of every thing we do.
As we mentioned last time, there is one program at Deaconess, where the staff and volunteers get to work directly with the children participating in our programs. Theirs, by far, is the most fun and energetic program we have here and yet many of you never see them (unless your under 3 feet tall, of course). This next person we'd like to introduce to you is one without whom the Child Development Program staff and participants would be very hungry.
Let me introduce you to Jeanne...
As part of all of our evening parent education classes, Deaconess offers delicious, nutritionally balanced home cooked meals for parents, their children, Deaconess staff and volunteers. Those meals would be not possible without the dedication, of Mrs. Jeanne Crisp.
Like all Deaconess volunteers, Jeanne has varied interests and specializations. She holds a Master's Degree in Library Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and works as the Director of Technical Services and Facilities Development at Sno-Isle Libraries. Her hobbies include cooking, baseball, bridge, reading, gardening.
When we asked why Jeanne was willing to cook for Deaconess' participants, she said "my family doesn't want to eat as much as I want to cook, so it's a great outlet for my love of meal preparation."
We are so glad she enjoys cooking too. Jeanne prepares meals and cooks for our Incredible Years parenting classes. Thank you, Jeanne!
(L-R) Anna King, Child Development Coordinator, Jeanne Crisp, Volunteer
and Stacey Pfeiffer, Volunteer Coordinator
***********************************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire volunteer and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First! . To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Who works for children? I work for Children!
By Chanelle Carlin, M.A. Soc. Sci.
Vice President of Programs
The mission of Deaconess Children's Services is to transform the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect. As an agency, we do this primarily by working primarily with parents for the sake of their children, while always keeping each individual child at the forefront of every thing we do.
There is one program at Deaconess though, where the staff and volunteers get to work directly with the children participating in our programs. Theirs, by far, is the most fun and energetic program we have here and yet many of you never see them (unless your under 3 feet tall, of course). For the next few blog posts, we'd like to introduce you to some of our amazing Child Development facilitators.
Let's start with Susan...
Susan grew up in Wisconsin, and has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Marquette University, in Milwaukee, WI. She's lived in several other places before moving to the Everett area 3 years ago with my husband. Susan and Pete have 2 grown children living far away in Connecticut and South Africa, so they get to spend lots of time together. They enjoy being outdoors doing walks or hikes, sailing with friends, or just exploring places they haven’t visited yet. Susan is very energetic. Besides doing Zumba and other classes at the gym, she also tutor ESL students at Everett Community College.
She has worn many hats over the years: working as an engineer for corporations, assisting students and staff with computers, and volunteering with a variety of groups. She told us that she likes being with children and having the chance to look at the world through their eyes. After moving to Snohomish County, Susan missed being with her nieces and nephews, and decided that she wanted to volunteer for a group that helps children. That's when she found Deaconess!
And we are sure glad she found us. Susan works in our Latinos Unidas and Incredible Years Child Development Groups, bringing light, fun and enthusiastic nurturing to each child she meets. Thank you, Susan.
If you're interested in learning how you can volunteer to work with children at Deaconess Children's Services, please email our Volunteer Coordinator, Stacey Pfeiffer at spfeiffer@deaconesschildren.org. She will be delighted to talk to you.
****************************************************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire volunteer and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First! . To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
Vice President of Programs
The mission of Deaconess Children's Services is to transform the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect. As an agency, we do this primarily by working primarily with parents for the sake of their children, while always keeping each individual child at the forefront of every thing we do.
There is one program at Deaconess though, where the staff and volunteers get to work directly with the children participating in our programs. Theirs, by far, is the most fun and energetic program we have here and yet many of you never see them (unless your under 3 feet tall, of course). For the next few blog posts, we'd like to introduce you to some of our amazing Child Development facilitators.
Let's start with Susan...
Susan grew up in Wisconsin, and has a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Marquette University, in Milwaukee, WI. She's lived in several other places before moving to the Everett area 3 years ago with my husband. Susan and Pete have 2 grown children living far away in Connecticut and South Africa, so they get to spend lots of time together. They enjoy being outdoors doing walks or hikes, sailing with friends, or just exploring places they haven’t visited yet. Susan is very energetic. Besides doing Zumba and other classes at the gym, she also tutor ESL students at Everett Community College.
She has worn many hats over the years: working as an engineer for corporations, assisting students and staff with computers, and volunteering with a variety of groups. She told us that she likes being with children and having the chance to look at the world through their eyes. After moving to Snohomish County, Susan missed being with her nieces and nephews, and decided that she wanted to volunteer for a group that helps children. That's when she found Deaconess!
And we are sure glad she found us. Susan works in our Latinos Unidas and Incredible Years Child Development Groups, bringing light, fun and enthusiastic nurturing to each child she meets. Thank you, Susan.
(Anna, Child Development Coordinator (L), Susan, Child Development Facilitator
and Stacey, Volunteer Coordinator (R).)
If you're interested in learning how you can volunteer to work with children at Deaconess Children's Services, please email our Volunteer Coordinator, Stacey Pfeiffer at spfeiffer@deaconesschildren.org. She will be delighted to talk to you.
****************************************************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire volunteer and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First! . To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Engaging Fathers - For the Love of Our Kids
By: Chanelle Carlin, MA Soc. Sci., Vice President of Programs
If you’ve been kind enough to join our Father and Mother of the Year Cause on Facebook, you may have noticed some posts recently about how important it is to children that they have both their mother and their father involved in their lives. In fact, it is so important to their development as citizens that the right of children to have access to both their mother and their father is listed in the United Nations’ Convention on Rights of the Child, which is a legally binding instrument protecting the human rights of all children in the world. At Deaconess Children’s Services, we are passionate about engaging and celebrating both fathers and mothers. Each has their own very important role to play in their children’s lives, and in helping their children develop. While mothers traditionally help kids learn nurturing behaviors, how to engage with others, develop their social and other so called ‘soft’ (yet vitally important) skills, fathers are more often the ones to teach pragmatism, cause and effect and an ‘acceptance of what is’. Fathers tend to be seen as more about helping children learn physical skills like ball games, jumping, racing, touch football and wrestling, while mothers tend to seen as more likely teach sharing, taking turns, hugs, and kisses. Children need both sets of skills and therefore both parents, to help them develop and grow into balanced adults.
Unfortunately, in the United States today, over 24 million children in the United States live apart from their biological fathers - that is 1 out of every 3 children (According to 2009 U.S. Census Bureau data). Compare this to 1960, when only 11% of children lived without their fathers. That is a 22% increase in absent fathers in 50 years! Because of this devastating statistic, we’d like to focus today’s blog specifically on dads. We’d like to share some research on how father’s positively impact a child’s development and why we at Deaconess and other agencies have to work specifically to help father’s participate more fully in their children’s daily lives.
We mentioned above that 33% percent of children in the US live without their fathers. According to research presented on the National Fatherhood Initiative website, the statistics are worse for “African American children, with nearly 2 in 3 (64%) living in father-absent homes.” Children from other ethnicities don’t fare as badly, but their numbers aren't great either: one in three (34%) Hispanic children, and 1 in 4 (25%) white children live without their dads. This doesn’t only affect the children though - 27% of dads who don't live with their kids report not having seen their children at all in the past year.
These numbers are significant for two reasons: a) monetary cost - each year the US government spends nearly $100 BILLION on programs such as child support enforcement and anti-poverty efforts to support father-absent homes; b) societal costs - children who live without their fathers in their lives on a regular basis are, on average, at least two to three times more likely to be poor, to use drugs, to experience educational, health, emotional and behavioral problems, to be victims of child abuse, and to engage in criminal behavior than their peers who live with their married, biological (or adoptive) parents. However, there is good news. According to “The Father Factor,” the official blog of the National Fatherhood Initiative, father absence is preventable! It doesn't have to be this way.
So, how do we get/keep fathers involved in their children’s lives? First, we must recognize the problem and make a commitment to affect change. Understand that most fathers desire to build stronger relationships with their children and want their children to do better than they did. Often, however, they just don’t know how.
There is more good news too. Over the past decade, fathers have been making great strides in relationships with their children:
*The number of stay at home dads has increased three times in that period;
*The number of dads who walked their children to school increased 16%;
*61% of dads read to their children;
*68% have visited their child’s class room; and
*More fathers, 20% more in fact, are reaching out to other dads for support and information.
This is great for kids and their dads. The more involved fathers are in their children’s daily routines, the more they know about their children’s activities. They receive more disclosures from their children about what’s important and dads report that they have better parenting skills and are more confident (Journal of Family Issues, 2007).
Here’s your task: Support fathers you know in making every effort to be with their children as often as possible. Encourage them to really get to know their children by playing with them, reading with them, going to their school functions, taking them to their doctor or dentist appointments and watching their sporting events. It truly matters to their children, to them as fathers and to our society.
****************************************************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire Leader and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First! . To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
If you’ve been kind enough to join our Father and Mother of the Year Cause on Facebook, you may have noticed some posts recently about how important it is to children that they have both their mother and their father involved in their lives. In fact, it is so important to their development as citizens that the right of children to have access to both their mother and their father is listed in the United Nations’ Convention on Rights of the Child, which is a legally binding instrument protecting the human rights of all children in the world. At Deaconess Children’s Services, we are passionate about engaging and celebrating both fathers and mothers. Each has their own very important role to play in their children’s lives, and in helping their children develop. While mothers traditionally help kids learn nurturing behaviors, how to engage with others, develop their social and other so called ‘soft’ (yet vitally important) skills, fathers are more often the ones to teach pragmatism, cause and effect and an ‘acceptance of what is’. Fathers tend to be seen as more about helping children learn physical skills like ball games, jumping, racing, touch football and wrestling, while mothers tend to seen as more likely teach sharing, taking turns, hugs, and kisses. Children need both sets of skills and therefore both parents, to help them develop and grow into balanced adults.
Unfortunately, in the United States today, over 24 million children in the United States live apart from their biological fathers - that is 1 out of every 3 children (According to 2009 U.S. Census Bureau data). Compare this to 1960, when only 11% of children lived without their fathers. That is a 22% increase in absent fathers in 50 years! Because of this devastating statistic, we’d like to focus today’s blog specifically on dads. We’d like to share some research on how father’s positively impact a child’s development and why we at Deaconess and other agencies have to work specifically to help father’s participate more fully in their children’s daily lives.
We mentioned above that 33% percent of children in the US live without their fathers. According to research presented on the National Fatherhood Initiative website, the statistics are worse for “African American children, with nearly 2 in 3 (64%) living in father-absent homes.” Children from other ethnicities don’t fare as badly, but their numbers aren't great either: one in three (34%) Hispanic children, and 1 in 4 (25%) white children live without their dads. This doesn’t only affect the children though - 27% of dads who don't live with their kids report not having seen their children at all in the past year.
These numbers are significant for two reasons: a) monetary cost - each year the US government spends nearly $100 BILLION on programs such as child support enforcement and anti-poverty efforts to support father-absent homes; b) societal costs - children who live without their fathers in their lives on a regular basis are, on average, at least two to three times more likely to be poor, to use drugs, to experience educational, health, emotional and behavioral problems, to be victims of child abuse, and to engage in criminal behavior than their peers who live with their married, biological (or adoptive) parents. However, there is good news. According to “The Father Factor,” the official blog of the National Fatherhood Initiative, father absence is preventable! It doesn't have to be this way.
So, how do we get/keep fathers involved in their children’s lives? First, we must recognize the problem and make a commitment to affect change. Understand that most fathers desire to build stronger relationships with their children and want their children to do better than they did. Often, however, they just don’t know how.
There is more good news too. Over the past decade, fathers have been making great strides in relationships with their children:
*The number of stay at home dads has increased three times in that period;
*The number of dads who walked their children to school increased 16%;
*61% of dads read to their children;
*68% have visited their child’s class room; and
*More fathers, 20% more in fact, are reaching out to other dads for support and information.
This is great for kids and their dads. The more involved fathers are in their children’s daily routines, the more they know about their children’s activities. They receive more disclosures from their children about what’s important and dads report that they have better parenting skills and are more confident (Journal of Family Issues, 2007).
Here’s your task: Support fathers you know in making every effort to be with their children as often as possible. Encourage them to really get to know their children by playing with them, reading with them, going to their school functions, taking them to their doctor or dentist appointments and watching their sporting events. It truly matters to their children, to them as fathers and to our society.
****************************************************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire Leader and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First! . To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
Friday, August 5, 2011
7th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards
By: Chanelle Carlin, M.A. Soc. Sci.
It 's that time of year again. Deaconess is preparing to celebrate its 114th year of service to children and families in our community and we're inviting you to celebrate with us at our 7th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards.
Being a parent is the toughest, yet most rewarding job that most adults will ever have and yet, it's the ONE job that comes with few instructions and little consistent information.
Much research and attention has been devoted over many years to motherhood and its vital role in the rearing of children. However, we all know that mothers cannot and should not be solely responsible for raising the next generation of our society.
• Almost 24 million American children grow up in a home without a father and nearly half of those children have not seen their father in the previous year!
• Yet, studies show that children are 46% less likely to enter foster care if they have contact with even a non-custodial father.
Children with close relationships with their fathers have:
o higher self-esteem;
o better academic performance;
o more positive social behaviors; and
o fewer behavioral issues during adolescence.
Deaconess works with parents for the sake of vulnerable children, in order to:
- create a climate for men to remain involved with their children and be committed to providing financial support even if their adult relationship is no longer intact. Fathers must believe their role is vital and that they have value themselves.
- help mothers learn to believe that fathers will step up to a shared parenting role, that their children benefit greatly from involvement with their fathers and encourage them to spend time with their children (even if/when the adult relationship is over).
With your support for the 2011 Father and Mother of the Year Awards, Deaconess Children’s Services can build on our tradition of honoring both fathers and mothers for the sake of their children and continue transforming the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect.
******************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire Leader and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First!
It 's that time of year again. Deaconess is preparing to celebrate its 114th year of service to children and families in our community and we're inviting you to celebrate with us at our 7th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards.
Being a parent is the toughest, yet most rewarding job that most adults will ever have and yet, it's the ONE job that comes with few instructions and little consistent information.
Much research and attention has been devoted over many years to motherhood and its vital role in the rearing of children. However, we all know that mothers cannot and should not be solely responsible for raising the next generation of our society.
• Almost 24 million American children grow up in a home without a father and nearly half of those children have not seen their father in the previous year!
• Yet, studies show that children are 46% less likely to enter foster care if they have contact with even a non-custodial father.
Children with close relationships with their fathers have:
o higher self-esteem;
o better academic performance;
o more positive social behaviors; and
o fewer behavioral issues during adolescence.
Deaconess works with parents for the sake of vulnerable children, in order to:
- create a climate for men to remain involved with their children and be committed to providing financial support even if their adult relationship is no longer intact. Fathers must believe their role is vital and that they have value themselves.
- help mothers learn to believe that fathers will step up to a shared parenting role, that their children benefit greatly from involvement with their fathers and encourage them to spend time with their children (even if/when the adult relationship is over).
With your support for the 2011 Father and Mother of the Year Awards, Deaconess Children’s Services can build on our tradition of honoring both fathers and mothers for the sake of their children and continue transforming the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect.
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire Leader and as a member of the county, state and National Associations for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First!
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Be the Change – Help Us Put Children First! Part 2
By Kari Pendray, MA Human Development
Thank you for joining us for our 4-part interactive series on how we can find a solution to be the change we need in the world for children. Each week, we are moving forward in the change process together for a common goal of putting “Children First.” In Part 1 of this series, we queried our followers, “What is working well with putting children first?” The cumulative response was that you wanted to learn more. This month, in Part 2, we will ask, “What do we dare to dream for our youth?
There are a variety of opinions on how children develop into whole, healthy and successful adults. However, there are a handful of highly respected organizations whose daily mantra for children intersects with five key strategic platforms. These organizations leading dropout prevention include: America’s Promise Alliance’s 5 Promises, The National Governors Association, Communities in School and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development’s Whole Child Initiative. They all agree on five high level priorities that all children deserve: physical and emotional health, safety, community connection with caring and nurturing adults and a challenging education. By achieving these five targets, we ensure that the foundation for brain development is set and children have a better chance at success later in life. For more information on early brain development, please go to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University – “The Science of Early Childhood Development” at http://developingchild.harvard.edu/topics/science_of_early_childhood/
We know that children who have adverse childhood experiences face many obstacles in their lives. We know that criminals are made, not born. We know that child abuse and neglect has irreversible affects on the developing brain. We know that a whole child approach can prevent all of this. We also know that our country can have more great leaders, better health outcomes, generate more inventions, improve the environment, and lead the world in every way. All we have to do is commit to meeting the needs of the whole child.
What does your vision for children look like? How can every child become whole and live to their fullest potential? We want to hear from you!
*********************************
Kari Pendray is a Parent Educator at Deaconess Children’s Services. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Human Development. She is a PCI Certified Parent Coach ™ with over twenty years experience in client services, facilitation and training; and ten years of experience coaching and consulting clients with parenting, life and career skills. Kari is also the parent of two amazing children.
About Deaconess Children Services
Deaconess Children’s Services, founded in 1898, is the leading service provider of child abuse and neglect prevention programs in Snohomish County. Deaconess Children’s Services supports at-risk children and families with high impact, evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs that focus on building individuals’ strengths, positive relationships and supportive networks through parent education, child development and advocacy programs. To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
Thank you for joining us for our 4-part interactive series on how we can find a solution to be the change we need in the world for children. Each week, we are moving forward in the change process together for a common goal of putting “Children First.” In Part 1 of this series, we queried our followers, “What is working well with putting children first?” The cumulative response was that you wanted to learn more. This month, in Part 2, we will ask, “What do we dare to dream for our youth?
There are a variety of opinions on how children develop into whole, healthy and successful adults. However, there are a handful of highly respected organizations whose daily mantra for children intersects with five key strategic platforms. These organizations leading dropout prevention include: America’s Promise Alliance’s 5 Promises, The National Governors Association, Communities in School and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development’s Whole Child Initiative. They all agree on five high level priorities that all children deserve: physical and emotional health, safety, community connection with caring and nurturing adults and a challenging education. By achieving these five targets, we ensure that the foundation for brain development is set and children have a better chance at success later in life. For more information on early brain development, please go to the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University – “The Science of Early Childhood Development” at http://developingchild.harvard.edu/topics/science_of_early_childhood/
We know that children who have adverse childhood experiences face many obstacles in their lives. We know that criminals are made, not born. We know that child abuse and neglect has irreversible affects on the developing brain. We know that a whole child approach can prevent all of this. We also know that our country can have more great leaders, better health outcomes, generate more inventions, improve the environment, and lead the world in every way. All we have to do is commit to meeting the needs of the whole child.
What does your vision for children look like? How can every child become whole and live to their fullest potential? We want to hear from you!
*********************************
Kari Pendray is a Parent Educator at Deaconess Children’s Services. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Human Development. She is a PCI Certified Parent Coach ™ with over twenty years experience in client services, facilitation and training; and ten years of experience coaching and consulting clients with parenting, life and career skills. Kari is also the parent of two amazing children.
About Deaconess Children Services
Deaconess Children’s Services, founded in 1898, is the leading service provider of child abuse and neglect prevention programs in Snohomish County. Deaconess Children’s Services supports at-risk children and families with high impact, evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs that focus on building individuals’ strengths, positive relationships and supportive networks through parent education, child development and advocacy programs. To learn more, visit us at www.deaconesschildren.org, on facebook at www.facebook.com/deaconesschildren or call 425-259-0146.
Monday, March 14, 2011
What if we have an earthquake here? - Tips to respond and help support your children while wading through the news
By: Chanelle Carlin, M.A. Soc. Sci.
Earthquakes, tsunamis, political unrest...the trauma and devastation being flashed upon our television and computer screens over the past few weeks (not to mention our smart phones, ipads and radios), has been significant. For those living through the trauma, our hearts and best wishes go out to them. For those of us watching from a distance, I thought it might be helpful to review a few quick tips on how to help support our children and young people as they process all the information being thrown at them.
Tip #1: Please limit the amount of screen time your children have.
Studies in the US currently indicate that on average, children are in front of a screen for about 7 hours per day (TV, computer, games, Wii, smart phones, etc.). While child development experts believe that this amount of screen exposure doesn't aid a child's development, at times like this, when much of what is on the screen is traumatic, they tell us can cause symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including nightmares, changes in behavior and emotional responses.
Tip 2: Listen to your children.
They are likely to have a lot of questions, such as: Why did this Earthquake happen? What causes a tsunami to wipe out a city? What will happen if the nuclear plant explodes? Will we feel it here? Can this happen to us? It can be overwhelming to be bombarded with questions like these. According to Dr. John Medina, developmental molecular biologist and author of "Brain Rules" and "Brain Rules for Babies," (http://www.brainrules.net/brain-rules-for-baby), children are 'rookie human beings' whose raison d'etre is merely to figure out how to survive in this world. If we keep this in mind, their questions seem much easier to handle.
Tip 3: Please be honest with your child.
If you're comfortable in your scientific knowledge, it's a great idea to answer your child's questions in a manner that they can comprehend. If not, it's also ok to tell them you don't know the answer. This is a great learning opportunity for you both - a trip to the library could be very helpful in gathering information and having time together, which in itself could help alleviate any concerns they're having. Perhaps you can work together with your child to develop a safety plan for your family and put together disaster preparedness kits. This can help them feel as though they are more prepared in case of an emergency here.
Tip 4: Rely on your strength - your child's love.
You are the most important person in your child's life and you know them better than anyone:
- They come to you when they're afraid to seek solace. Hug them. Spend a few extra minutes letting them know how much you love them and that you will do everything in your power to always keep them safe. If you're a person of faith and it helps you, pray with them.
- They come to you for information to increase their knowledge and security. Listen to them and talk with them, even when they're young. By giving them a chance to express their thoughts and feelings, you empower them and give them courage. For very young children, when you identify their feelings, you help them increase their vocabulary and their security. You might even find a way for your family to get involved with the Red Cross or another reputable disaster relief agency, http://www.redcross.org/ . This can again, help them and you, feel like they're being helpful to someone who's needs might be greater than theirs.
- Help your child by showing them that you are sometimes afraid too, and that it is ok.
For older youth, children whose parent(s) travel a lot, or even where one or both parents are deployed with the military, one might think these children are immune to fear, or "used to it." For some, this may in deed seem to be the case, while for others it may not be hidden so well. All children need to feel safe, but also to know that their concerns are valid and ok to feel. Often, they just need someone to listen.
The key is to recognize that all children need support and guidance, especially in times of uncertainty, and they rely on adults to give that support and guidance.
******************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire Leader and as a member of the county, state and National Assns for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in thePacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First!
Earthquakes, tsunamis, political unrest...the trauma and devastation being flashed upon our television and computer screens over the past few weeks (not to mention our smart phones, ipads and radios), has been significant. For those living through the trauma, our hearts and best wishes go out to them. For those of us watching from a distance, I thought it might be helpful to review a few quick tips on how to help support our children and young people as they process all the information being thrown at them.
Tip #1: Please limit the amount of screen time your children have.
Studies in the US currently indicate that on average, children are in front of a screen for about 7 hours per day (TV, computer, games, Wii, smart phones, etc.). While child development experts believe that this amount of screen exposure doesn't aid a child's development, at times like this, when much of what is on the screen is traumatic, they tell us can cause symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including nightmares, changes in behavior and emotional responses.
Tip 2: Listen to your children.
They are likely to have a lot of questions, such as: Why did this Earthquake happen? What causes a tsunami to wipe out a city? What will happen if the nuclear plant explodes? Will we feel it here? Can this happen to us? It can be overwhelming to be bombarded with questions like these. According to Dr. John Medina, developmental molecular biologist and author of "Brain Rules" and "Brain Rules for Babies," (http://www.brainrules.net/brain-rules-for-baby), children are 'rookie human beings' whose raison d'etre is merely to figure out how to survive in this world. If we keep this in mind, their questions seem much easier to handle.
Tip 3: Please be honest with your child.
If you're comfortable in your scientific knowledge, it's a great idea to answer your child's questions in a manner that they can comprehend. If not, it's also ok to tell them you don't know the answer. This is a great learning opportunity for you both - a trip to the library could be very helpful in gathering information and having time together, which in itself could help alleviate any concerns they're having. Perhaps you can work together with your child to develop a safety plan for your family and put together disaster preparedness kits. This can help them feel as though they are more prepared in case of an emergency here.
Tip 4: Rely on your strength - your child's love.
You are the most important person in your child's life and you know them better than anyone:
- They come to you when they're afraid to seek solace. Hug them. Spend a few extra minutes letting them know how much you love them and that you will do everything in your power to always keep them safe. If you're a person of faith and it helps you, pray with them.
- They come to you for information to increase their knowledge and security. Listen to them and talk with them, even when they're young. By giving them a chance to express their thoughts and feelings, you empower them and give them courage. For very young children, when you identify their feelings, you help them increase their vocabulary and their security. You might even find a way for your family to get involved with the Red Cross or another reputable disaster relief agency, http://www.redcross.org/ . This can again, help them and you, feel like they're being helpful to someone who's needs might be greater than theirs.
- Help your child by showing them that you are sometimes afraid too, and that it is ok.
For older youth, children whose parent(s) travel a lot, or even where one or both parents are deployed with the military, one might think these children are immune to fear, or "used to it." For some, this may in deed seem to be the case, while for others it may not be hidden so well. All children need to feel safe, but also to know that their concerns are valid and ok to feel. Often, they just need someone to listen.
The key is to recognize that all children need support and guidance, especially in times of uncertainty, and they rely on adults to give that support and guidance.
******************
Chanelle Carlin has over 25 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally and currently works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services in her hometown of Everett, Washington. Chanelle earned her Bachelor's degree in History from Portland State University in Oregon and her Master's Degree in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain. Chanelle is also very active in her community. She serves as a Children's Commissioner on the Snohomish County Children's Commission, as a member of the Everett Rotary Club and Laureate Gamma Mu chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, as a Camp Fire Leader and as a member of the county, state and National Assns for the Education of Young Children.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Give Children Respect
For some of us, those three little words spark fear and feelings of frustration toward others of us who work in the child development and welfare worlds. However, fear not my friends, I am going to share some useful information on how to address some challenging behaviors.
As many of you know, I regularly read and share articles relating to Child Development on the Child Care Exchange.com website. Some of these articles are more scholarly, while many come from a hands-on provider perspective. Today's article, written by Mary Gertsen, a professional with 26 years experience, is a little of both.
Parents and professionals alike want children to be successful in school and life, and we recognize that in order for that to happen, we must teach them the skills they need to develop socially and emotionally. We are most effective and get the best results when we have realistic expectations, encourage positive behaviors, are proactive instead of reactive and teach with respect.
"It is important to give children the respect they deserve. Adults who are in control of their emotions are less likely to react hastily. They remain calm, evaluate the situation and proceed with caution (These sound like positive behaviors, don't they?). These folks also remember to use words that demonstrate respect (please, thank you, I'm sorry). Children learn most quickly through observation, so in reframing our words, or telling children what to do, instead of what not to do ("Please hang up your coat," instead of "Don't put your coat on the floor."), we are modeling the behavior that we want children to learn and use. We are giving (and teaching) children respect.
Mary Gertsen's article has a lot of good tips and examples. I hope you'll take a few minutes and check it out. http://childcareexchange.com/resources/view_article.php?article_id=5019770.
Chanelle Carlin works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services. She has over 30 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally. Chanelle holds a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honors in History from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon as well as a Master of Arts in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain.
As many of you know, I regularly read and share articles relating to Child Development on the Child Care Exchange.com website. Some of these articles are more scholarly, while many come from a hands-on provider perspective. Today's article, written by Mary Gertsen, a professional with 26 years experience, is a little of both.
Parents and professionals alike want children to be successful in school and life, and we recognize that in order for that to happen, we must teach them the skills they need to develop socially and emotionally. We are most effective and get the best results when we have realistic expectations, encourage positive behaviors, are proactive instead of reactive and teach with respect.
"It is important to give children the respect they deserve. Adults who are in control of their emotions are less likely to react hastily. They remain calm, evaluate the situation and proceed with caution (These sound like positive behaviors, don't they?). These folks also remember to use words that demonstrate respect (please, thank you, I'm sorry). Children learn most quickly through observation, so in reframing our words, or telling children what to do, instead of what not to do ("Please hang up your coat," instead of "Don't put your coat on the floor."), we are modeling the behavior that we want children to learn and use. We are giving (and teaching) children respect.
Mary Gertsen's article has a lot of good tips and examples. I hope you'll take a few minutes and check it out. http://childcareexchange.com/resources/view_article.php?article_id=5019770.
Chanelle Carlin works as the Vice President of Programs at Deaconess Children's Services. She has over 30 years experience working with children and families both in the United States and internationally. Chanelle holds a Bachelor of Science Degree with Honors in History from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon as well as a Master of Arts in Social Science from The Open University in Great Britain.
Deaconess Children’s Services is a champion of hope and opportunity for children and their families, especially those in greatest need, empowering them to BELIEVE in a life full of possibilities. For more than 100 years, Deaconess has been transforming the lives of children in the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect and putting Children First!
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Happy Parents = Happy Kids!
By: Courtney Orr, Teen Parent Advocate
“Everyone has stress. There are both good stressors and bad stressors. Both have an effect on parents and children. Learning to cope with stress is something that we all must do. Children, however, do not have the experience or practice in dealing with stress. They watch and learn from their parents” (2005, Parents as Teachers National Center). Understanding your own stress and learning to deal with it in an appropriate fashion is the most effective way to model for your children. After all, if you cannot manage your own emotions, how do your expect your child to manage theirs?
The key to stress management is to take a realistic look at what’s happening in and around your life and try to recognize what it is that’s stressing you out. There are many factors that contribute to stress; these are called “stressors”. Stressors can be both physical and psychological. When you start to experience stress as an individual or as a parent, do NOT ignore it! Take some time to identify how your body tries to tell you when the stress is your life is starting to take its toll. In this article you will find a few tips to help you manage your stress and teach your children to learn by example and do the same.
What stress looks like:
Physical stressors: Many people experience physical symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, muscle tension, sleeping problems, headaches, breathlessness, changes in appetite, though not all physical symptoms will be the same. For others emotional symptoms of stress will be their first tell tale signs that changes need to be made. Some common emotional symptoms of stress are anxiety, denial, depression, becoming easily upset, having difficulty making decisions, experiencing feelings of powerlessness or constant worrying. Alternatively, some people will first experience behavioral stressors, which will sometimes materialize through increased dependence on alcohol, tobacco, or other substances. Other behavioral symptoms of stress include neglecting appearance, crying, becoming “short” or “snappy”, withdrawing, avoiding responsibility, over or under eating, arguing with friends and family, and the list goes on…
Where stress comes from:
The next step in choosing how to deal with your stressors is to acknowledge where they are coming from. Most of us are more susceptible to certain stressors and they may change depending the day. Common reasons for stress are financial, environmental, family related, health or work related or stressors associated to the daily grind such as household responsibilities, car troubles, child care, mismanagement of time, traffic, etc.
How to “get a grip on stress”:
As a parent stress may seem like an unavoidable part of life, but you have more control than you think. This is your life…take charge, of your thoughts, emotions, schedule, environment, and how you choose to cope! Here are some tips to help you on your quest to manage stress and set a positive example for your children on how to be happy and healthy individuals:
• Invest in Your Relationships
Your relationships will be your saving grace in times of stress. When you are having a hard time it will more than likely be your friends, family, or significant other that you reach out to for support. Talking through your struggles or asking someone close to you for help is a healthy way to manage stress. Putting time and effort into your relationships is a great way to model healthy relationships and teach your children appropriate social skills. Investing in relationships may also extend to a larger scale, connecting with different groups and becoming involved with hobbies may help your child to feel more connected to their community.
• Let it Go!
If you can’t control something, don’t let it control you. You can’t change the 5 o’clock traffic jam or the choices of others. Instead of stressing about things beyond your control, focus on how you choose to handle those stressful situations.
• Live a Healthy Lifestyle!
Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals and get a little exercise. Leading a healthy lifestyle is an important factor in your child’s development, it will also improve your concentration, energy levels, patience, and ability to dedicate time to the things in your life that count.
• Focus on the Positives in YOUR life!
Celebrate your successes and the things in your life that you are proud of! This will be a great way to model self-confidence for your children.
• Prioritize
Remember that you don’t have to do it all! Make a list of what needs to be done now and then think about what can wait? Know what your limitations are and if possible say “no” to extra tasks.
• Share Your Feelings
Even if there is nothing you can do to change your situation, talking through your thoughts and feelings with someone from your support system can be helpful and make life feel more manageable. Sharing your feelings, shows people that you are human. In sharing you will also be teaching your children to express themselves better.
• Have Some Fun!
It’s incredibly easy to become so consumed with obligations that we often forget to turn up the radio, dance around the living room, and just live a little. Don’t forget that parenting can be fun and “fun” doesn’t have to mean long drawn out activities, play I Spy in the car, play dress up, or make some play dough and see how many shapes you can make! It is also important to make sure you can have fun without your children and set aside you time. Pick up a hobby, schedule a date night, or spend some time relaxing your way.
Now that you have identified where your stress is coming from, what changes will you make in the New Year to ensure that you are a “happy parent” with “happy children”?!
Courtney Orr has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Human Services from Western Washington University and works as a Teen Parent Advocate in Deaconess' Teen Parent Advocacy Program (TPA).
TPA is an outreach program serving pregnant and parentingSnohomish County
“Everyone has stress. There are both good stressors and bad stressors. Both have an effect on parents and children. Learning to cope with stress is something that we all must do. Children, however, do not have the experience or practice in dealing with stress. They watch and learn from their parents” (2005, Parents as Teachers National Center). Understanding your own stress and learning to deal with it in an appropriate fashion is the most effective way to model for your children. After all, if you cannot manage your own emotions, how do your expect your child to manage theirs?
The key to stress management is to take a realistic look at what’s happening in and around your life and try to recognize what it is that’s stressing you out. There are many factors that contribute to stress; these are called “stressors”. Stressors can be both physical and psychological. When you start to experience stress as an individual or as a parent, do NOT ignore it! Take some time to identify how your body tries to tell you when the stress is your life is starting to take its toll. In this article you will find a few tips to help you manage your stress and teach your children to learn by example and do the same.
What stress looks like:
Physical stressors: Many people experience physical symptoms such as chest pain, fatigue, muscle tension, sleeping problems, headaches, breathlessness, changes in appetite, though not all physical symptoms will be the same. For others emotional symptoms of stress will be their first tell tale signs that changes need to be made. Some common emotional symptoms of stress are anxiety, denial, depression, becoming easily upset, having difficulty making decisions, experiencing feelings of powerlessness or constant worrying. Alternatively, some people will first experience behavioral stressors, which will sometimes materialize through increased dependence on alcohol, tobacco, or other substances. Other behavioral symptoms of stress include neglecting appearance, crying, becoming “short” or “snappy”, withdrawing, avoiding responsibility, over or under eating, arguing with friends and family, and the list goes on…
Where stress comes from:
The next step in choosing how to deal with your stressors is to acknowledge where they are coming from. Most of us are more susceptible to certain stressors and they may change depending the day. Common reasons for stress are financial, environmental, family related, health or work related or stressors associated to the daily grind such as household responsibilities, car troubles, child care, mismanagement of time, traffic, etc.
How to “get a grip on stress”:
As a parent stress may seem like an unavoidable part of life, but you have more control than you think. This is your life…take charge, of your thoughts, emotions, schedule, environment, and how you choose to cope! Here are some tips to help you on your quest to manage stress and set a positive example for your children on how to be happy and healthy individuals:
• Invest in Your Relationships
Your relationships will be your saving grace in times of stress. When you are having a hard time it will more than likely be your friends, family, or significant other that you reach out to for support. Talking through your struggles or asking someone close to you for help is a healthy way to manage stress. Putting time and effort into your relationships is a great way to model healthy relationships and teach your children appropriate social skills. Investing in relationships may also extend to a larger scale, connecting with different groups and becoming involved with hobbies may help your child to feel more connected to their community.
• Let it Go!
If you can’t control something, don’t let it control you. You can’t change the 5 o’clock traffic jam or the choices of others. Instead of stressing about things beyond your control, focus on how you choose to handle those stressful situations.
• Live a Healthy Lifestyle!
Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals and get a little exercise. Leading a healthy lifestyle is an important factor in your child’s development, it will also improve your concentration, energy levels, patience, and ability to dedicate time to the things in your life that count.
• Focus on the Positives in YOUR life!
Celebrate your successes and the things in your life that you are proud of! This will be a great way to model self-confidence for your children.
• Prioritize
Remember that you don’t have to do it all! Make a list of what needs to be done now and then think about what can wait? Know what your limitations are and if possible say “no” to extra tasks.
• Share Your Feelings
Even if there is nothing you can do to change your situation, talking through your thoughts and feelings with someone from your support system can be helpful and make life feel more manageable. Sharing your feelings, shows people that you are human. In sharing you will also be teaching your children to express themselves better.
• Have Some Fun!
It’s incredibly easy to become so consumed with obligations that we often forget to turn up the radio, dance around the living room, and just live a little. Don’t forget that parenting can be fun and “fun” doesn’t have to mean long drawn out activities, play I Spy in the car, play dress up, or make some play dough and see how many shapes you can make! It is also important to make sure you can have fun without your children and set aside you time. Pick up a hobby, schedule a date night, or spend some time relaxing your way.
Now that you have identified where your stress is coming from, what changes will you make in the New Year to ensure that you are a “happy parent” with “happy children”?!
Courtney Orr has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Human Services from Western Washington University and works as a Teen Parent Advocate in Deaconess' Teen Parent Advocacy Program (TPA).
TPA is an outreach program serving pregnant and parenting
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Be the Change – Help Us Put Children First!
By: Kari Pendray, Parent Educator and Public Affairs Coordinator
Be the Change – Help Us Put Children First!
Join us for a 4-part interactive series on how we can find a solution to be the change we need in the world for children. Each week, we will move forward in the change process together for a common goal of putting “Children First.” Our inquiry begins with one question – “Why is it important to put children first?”
The Situation - Our Nation’s Children Are in Crisis
Before we can discuss solutions, it is necessary to understand the problem. In the last twenty years, not much has changed for children. Statistics of abuse and neglect are staggering. Unfortunately, however, we don’t really get to see much about this topic in the national media. The Every Child Matters Foundation reports that child abuse and neglect is a “national epidemic,” with over 2,500 deaths a year (see http://www.everychildmatters.org/home/coalition). Furthermore, this organization makes a bold claim that, “We are currently in a de facto blackout with the national media.”
The Cost to Our Nation
The estimated annual economic cost of child abuse and neglect was $103.8 billion in 2007 value (see
http://www.preventchildabuse.org/about_us/media_releases/pcaa_pew_economic_impact_study_final.pdf). These are the direct costs that go into intervention programs as a result of not investing in prevention. However, at the time of intervention, children have already experienced poor medical and mental health, poor school performance, risky and violent behavior, substance abuse and criminality. Children are our future. If we want our future to be bright, we need to act now and break the cycle of childhood abuse and neglect in the early years – before children experience these negative outcomes. By focusing on prevention, children will be healthy, safe, educated and better able to reach their potential in life, which will in turn allowing our nation’s to achieve its potential.
Information to Knowledge
We hear about the multitude of problems in our nation today, such as, war, poverty, school shootings, home invasions, healthcare crisis and corporate espionage. We have a choice on how to use this information. We can either choose to ignore it or be empowered by it. By being more intentional on how we obtain information, we can become more informed from a variety of sources. For example, when we see a story on a child who has been abused or neglected, how can we be a part of the change for the solution? How do we join together to shift our vision of a better future to focus on what is working well?
The Message of Change
Messages of change are a like a lighthouse that shines in the distance. We see the light from our ship in the sea amidst social, political and economic insecurity. One message remains clear, Americans have responded well to the message of change. We seem to agree that we want a brighter future for children, families and our community. This is good news! We have found common ground. If we are to seek change, we must first be the change. Here comes the interactive portion of this article. What do you think is working well with putting children first? Please share your response to this message of change?
About Deaconess Children Services:
Deaconess Children’s Services, founded in 1898, is the leading service provider of child abuse and neglect prevention programs in Snohomish County. Deaconess Children’s Services supports at-risk children and families with high impact, evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs that focus on building individuals’ strengths, positive relationships and supportive networks through parent education, child development and advocacy programs. To learn more, visit, http://www.deaconesschildren.org/ or call 425-259-0146.
Be the Change – Help Us Put Children First!
Join us for a 4-part interactive series on how we can find a solution to be the change we need in the world for children. Each week, we will move forward in the change process together for a common goal of putting “Children First.” Our inquiry begins with one question – “Why is it important to put children first?”
The Situation - Our Nation’s Children Are in Crisis
Before we can discuss solutions, it is necessary to understand the problem. In the last twenty years, not much has changed for children. Statistics of abuse and neglect are staggering. Unfortunately, however, we don’t really get to see much about this topic in the national media. The Every Child Matters Foundation reports that child abuse and neglect is a “national epidemic,” with over 2,500 deaths a year (see http://www.everychildmatters.org/home/coalition). Furthermore, this organization makes a bold claim that, “We are currently in a de facto blackout with the national media.”
The Cost to Our Nation
The estimated annual economic cost of child abuse and neglect was $103.8 billion in 2007 value (see
http://www.preventchildabuse.org/about_us/media_releases/pcaa_pew_economic_impact_study_final.pdf). These are the direct costs that go into intervention programs as a result of not investing in prevention. However, at the time of intervention, children have already experienced poor medical and mental health, poor school performance, risky and violent behavior, substance abuse and criminality. Children are our future. If we want our future to be bright, we need to act now and break the cycle of childhood abuse and neglect in the early years – before children experience these negative outcomes. By focusing on prevention, children will be healthy, safe, educated and better able to reach their potential in life, which will in turn allowing our nation’s to achieve its potential.
Information to Knowledge
We hear about the multitude of problems in our nation today, such as, war, poverty, school shootings, home invasions, healthcare crisis and corporate espionage. We have a choice on how to use this information. We can either choose to ignore it or be empowered by it. By being more intentional on how we obtain information, we can become more informed from a variety of sources. For example, when we see a story on a child who has been abused or neglected, how can we be a part of the change for the solution? How do we join together to shift our vision of a better future to focus on what is working well?
The Message of Change
Messages of change are a like a lighthouse that shines in the distance. We see the light from our ship in the sea amidst social, political and economic insecurity. One message remains clear, Americans have responded well to the message of change. We seem to agree that we want a brighter future for children, families and our community. This is good news! We have found common ground. If we are to seek change, we must first be the change. Here comes the interactive portion of this article. What do you think is working well with putting children first? Please share your response to this message of change?
About Deaconess Children Services:
Deaconess Children’s Services, founded in 1898, is the leading service provider of child abuse and neglect prevention programs in Snohomish County. Deaconess Children’s Services supports at-risk children and families with high impact, evidence-based prevention and early intervention programs that focus on building individuals’ strengths, positive relationships and supportive networks through parent education, child development and advocacy programs. To learn more, visit, http://www.deaconesschildren.org/ or call 425-259-0146.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
From overwhelmed to more confident with the help of Project Safecare at Deaconess
Imagine being a single mother, caring for four children with a baby on the way, and feeling overwhelmed by the daily pressures of life and a house that has gotten out of control. When Jennifer began participating in Project Safecare there had been concerns about the safety of the home for her children. She also said that she had been having challenges with the behavior of her four and five year old sons, Jordan and Matthew. She said that they constantly fought with one another, screamed loudly when they did not get attention, destroyed their room, and ruined their mattresses. Jennifer and the children’s father were not sure what to do, but they knew they were in need of new tools to help them parent their children.
Those new tools came in the form of Deaconess Children’s Services’ Home Visitor, Kristine Siebens and an evidence based intervention known as Project Safecare. Project Safecare provides in-home support focusing on basic skills such as home safety, healthcare and parenting. Depending upon their commitment level, it takes anywhere from 15-21 weeks for families to complete the program. This family was committed to making changes.
Jennifer quickly finished the health curriculum and soon moved on to home safety. Her home was evaluated for safety hazards and she learned how to remove the hazards and make her home safer for her children. During that time, she had continued to have challenges with the children’s behavior. Every week Jennifer actively sought information about parenting, even before starting to work on that portion of the program. She and her Home Visitor, Kristine discussed setting up rewards charts for the boys to help encourage them to be kind to one another and set up chore charts for the older children.
When they began work on the parenting module, Jennifer was excited learned new skills to help to make challenging activities go more smoothly with Jordan and Matthew. As she progressed in the program, she began to praise the children more frequently. She also began to establish firm rules and follow through with the limits that she set. Jennifer began to notice positive changes in Jordan and Matthew’s behavior; they listened to her more and began to share more readily with one another. They also began to reduce their screaming and asked Jennifer for what they wanted, rather than demanding it.
Since graduating from the program, Jennifer says that when she is in new situations or feels overwhelmed and unsure how to handle a circumstance, she works through the steps from Project Safecare. She said she finds this process helpful. Jennifer continues to work through parenting challenges with Jordan, Matthew and her other children. She feels that with the tools she learned at Deaconess she is able to be a better parent.
Those new tools came in the form of Deaconess Children’s Services’ Home Visitor, Kristine Siebens and an evidence based intervention known as Project Safecare. Project Safecare provides in-home support focusing on basic skills such as home safety, healthcare and parenting. Depending upon their commitment level, it takes anywhere from 15-21 weeks for families to complete the program. This family was committed to making changes.
Jennifer quickly finished the health curriculum and soon moved on to home safety. Her home was evaluated for safety hazards and she learned how to remove the hazards and make her home safer for her children. During that time, she had continued to have challenges with the children’s behavior. Every week Jennifer actively sought information about parenting, even before starting to work on that portion of the program. She and her Home Visitor, Kristine discussed setting up rewards charts for the boys to help encourage them to be kind to one another and set up chore charts for the older children.
When they began work on the parenting module, Jennifer was excited learned new skills to help to make challenging activities go more smoothly with Jordan and Matthew. As she progressed in the program, she began to praise the children more frequently. She also began to establish firm rules and follow through with the limits that she set. Jennifer began to notice positive changes in Jordan and Matthew’s behavior; they listened to her more and began to share more readily with one another. They also began to reduce their screaming and asked Jennifer for what they wanted, rather than demanding it.
Since graduating from the program, Jennifer says that when she is in new situations or feels overwhelmed and unsure how to handle a circumstance, she works through the steps from Project Safecare. She said she finds this process helpful. Jennifer continues to work through parenting challenges with Jordan, Matthew and her other children. She feels that with the tools she learned at Deaconess she is able to be a better parent.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
What's in the glass?
Many of us have been asked the question, "Do you see the glass as half empty or half full?" The question is supposed to tell the asker how you view the world, as a pessimist or an optimist, as if one is better than the other. A naturally optimistic person, I see both perspectives as necessary, especially in the work that Deaconess Children's Services does. A healthy dose of optimism goes a long way. However, according Austrian researchers, "people in negative frames of mind are more alert to — and therefore more healthily suspicious of — their surroundings, compared to those in more positive frames of mind. A dose of pessimism seems to aid critical thinking." (September 2010; odemagazine.com)
The article, "In Defense of Pessimism," goes on to quote Julie Norem, a psychology professor at Wellesley College in Massachusetts, who believes pessimism can be a performance-enhancing state of mind. Norem cites the example of a public speaker who is always nervous before a performance. "Convinced that the next talk will be a disaster, the prospective speaker imagines tripping over the microphone cord, crashing the PowerPoint presentation, or forgetting large portions of her speech. Because she’s so worried, she puts extra time into preparation, with the result that every speech is a resounding success."
However, according to the article (here's the balance part), "pessimists still need a dose of optimism to see possible alternatives and develop strategies to pursue them." Optimism is healthy too. It can protect against depression and anxiety disorders and promote emotional resilience. Optimists generally have better physical health than pessimists as well. Optimism even helps us cope more effectively with stress, affecting the immune system in largely beneficial ways. Optimists generally have wide social networks, which can also confer additional health benefits.
It's important to remember that both optimists and pessimists are necessary in our world and in our work. If everyone always only viewed the glass as half full, we would be likely to make some drastic errors or have a skewed perspective. Pessimists force us to look at both the upside and the downside of every decision. In other words, we need people to see the glass as half empty.
Better yet, perhaps we need people to ask a different question altogether, "What's in the glass?"
The article, "In Defense of Pessimism," goes on to quote Julie Norem, a psychology professor at Wellesley College in Massachusetts, who believes pessimism can be a performance-enhancing state of mind. Norem cites the example of a public speaker who is always nervous before a performance. "Convinced that the next talk will be a disaster, the prospective speaker imagines tripping over the microphone cord, crashing the PowerPoint presentation, or forgetting large portions of her speech. Because she’s so worried, she puts extra time into preparation, with the result that every speech is a resounding success."
However, according to the article (here's the balance part), "pessimists still need a dose of optimism to see possible alternatives and develop strategies to pursue them." Optimism is healthy too. It can protect against depression and anxiety disorders and promote emotional resilience. Optimists generally have better physical health than pessimists as well. Optimism even helps us cope more effectively with stress, affecting the immune system in largely beneficial ways. Optimists generally have wide social networks, which can also confer additional health benefits.
It's important to remember that both optimists and pessimists are necessary in our world and in our work. If everyone always only viewed the glass as half full, we would be likely to make some drastic errors or have a skewed perspective. Pessimists force us to look at both the upside and the downside of every decision. In other words, we need people to see the glass as half empty.
Better yet, perhaps we need people to ask a different question altogether, "What's in the glass?"
Thank you, Merci beaucoup, Mucho Gracias, Grazie, Спасибо (Spasibo)
You get the idea...
On October 1, 2010, Deaconess Children's Services and 150 guests celebrated 113 years of putting children first at our 6th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards ceremony. The evening had a masquerade theme and included beautiful desserts, great raffle prizes, a wine auction, our trademark fashion show and inspirational speeches by teen father, Alex Arellano, Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon, our Father of the year, Manny Garcia and our Mother of the Year, Holly Leach. For the planning committee, the event was a huge success. Everyone who came was re-introduced to Deaconess' mission and the work carried out by staff and volunteers every day with and on behalf of local children...oh and there was also plenty of fun to be had.
Events like the Father and Mother of the Year Awards take countless hours of planning and immeasurable amounts of energy by staff and volunteers to "pull off". We at Deaconess Children's Services would like to say thank you to all those who helped make the event such a success:
Event Sponsors:
Union Bank
Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Princess Cruises & Tours
Renee's Contemporary Clothing
Whitfields Insurance
Goodwill Industries International, Inc.
Sierra Media
Accents in Glass
Ben Bridge Jewelers
Port Gardner Bay Winery
Middle Sister Wines
Felicia
Camille's Cupcakes
Pave' Everett
North Marysville Albertsons
Trader Joe's
Marysville Haggen's
Jennifer Lang
Gary Rhodes
Latinos Unidas
Models:
Sue Amber
Debra Andre
Teresa Arnett
Josie Decker
Carolyn Johnston
Renee Peterson
Sharon Snell
Dr. Michelle Steinhubel DDS
Event Volunteers:
Debbie Bivens
Crystal Davis
Jennifer Lang
Vikki King
Chase King
Al Warren
Peggy McMiller
Matt McMiller
Holly Murphy
Debbie Whitfield
Adela Leggett
Sue Ruscha
Deaconess Board of Trustees:
Gary Rhodes
Kate Reardon
Pat Dodson
Marilyn Hanan-Hoover
Felicia Freeman
Bryan Bird
Dick Harsin
Anne Hayes
Rev. J. Allan Ocampo
Deaconess Staff:
Janice Anderson
Felicity Abeyta
Teresa Abeyta
Chris Boyd
Gina Boyd
Chanelle Carlin
Felicia Freeman
Adrienne Hall
Steven Kemberling
Anna King
Jenny Martin
Kelly McClain
Sandy Neumann
Courtney Orr
Kari Pendray
Wyonne Perrault
Stacey Pfeiffer
Marie Preftes-Arenz
Angie Scharbau
Kristine Siebens
Jami Voigt
Each and everyone of you makes a huge impact. With your support, Deaconess Children's Services serves over 3,500 at-risk children, birth to 18 years, and their parents throughout our community. Using high impact, evidence based prevention and early intervention programs, Deaconess transforms the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest and breaks the cycle of child abuse and neglect.
Thank you SO much! Know that you matter and you make a difference.
On October 1, 2010, Deaconess Children's Services and 150 guests celebrated 113 years of putting children first at our 6th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards ceremony. The evening had a masquerade theme and included beautiful desserts, great raffle prizes, a wine auction, our trademark fashion show and inspirational speeches by teen father, Alex Arellano, Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon, our Father of the year, Manny Garcia and our Mother of the Year, Holly Leach. For the planning committee, the event was a huge success. Everyone who came was re-introduced to Deaconess' mission and the work carried out by staff and volunteers every day with and on behalf of local children...oh and there was also plenty of fun to be had.
Events like the Father and Mother of the Year Awards take countless hours of planning and immeasurable amounts of energy by staff and volunteers to "pull off". We at Deaconess Children's Services would like to say thank you to all those who helped make the event such a success:
Event Sponsors:
Union Bank
Panasonic Avionics Corporation
Princess Cruises & Tours
Renee's Contemporary Clothing
Whitfields Insurance
Goodwill Industries International, Inc.
Sierra Media
Accents in Glass
Ben Bridge Jewelers
Port Gardner Bay Winery
Middle Sister Wines
Felicia
Camille's Cupcakes
Pave' Everett
North Marysville Albertsons
Trader Joe's
Marysville Haggen's
Jennifer Lang
Gary Rhodes
Latinos Unidas
Models:
Sue Amber
Debra Andre
Teresa Arnett
Josie Decker
Carolyn Johnston
Renee Peterson
Sharon Snell
Dr. Michelle Steinhubel DDS
Event Volunteers:
Debbie Bivens
Crystal Davis
Jennifer Lang
Vikki King
Chase King
Al Warren
Peggy McMiller
Matt McMiller
Holly Murphy
Debbie Whitfield
Adela Leggett
Sue Ruscha
Deaconess Board of Trustees:
Gary Rhodes
Kate Reardon
Pat Dodson
Marilyn Hanan-Hoover
Felicia Freeman
Bryan Bird
Dick Harsin
Anne Hayes
Rev. J. Allan Ocampo
Deaconess Staff:
Janice Anderson
Felicity Abeyta
Teresa Abeyta
Chris Boyd
Gina Boyd
Chanelle Carlin
Felicia Freeman
Adrienne Hall
Steven Kemberling
Anna King
Jenny Martin
Kelly McClain
Sandy Neumann
Courtney Orr
Kari Pendray
Wyonne Perrault
Stacey Pfeiffer
Marie Preftes-Arenz
Angie Scharbau
Kristine Siebens
Jami Voigt
Each and everyone of you makes a huge impact. With your support, Deaconess Children's Services serves over 3,500 at-risk children, birth to 18 years, and their parents throughout our community. Using high impact, evidence based prevention and early intervention programs, Deaconess transforms the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest and breaks the cycle of child abuse and neglect.
Thank you SO much! Know that you matter and you make a difference.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Who makes up Deaconess Children’s Services?
Meet Child Development Facilitator, Kelly McClain
Deaconess is staffed by 9 full time staff, 9 part-time staff and hundreds of volunteers, who serve over 3,000 children and their parents each year and work to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect by providing high quality, evidence based prevention and intervention services.
While each program at Deaconess compliments the others, one of our programs by its very nature directly supports all the others…specifically, our Child Development Program. Child Development at Deaconess Children’s Services provides every child the opportunity to become unique, confident and caring individual through identifying and helping to develop their individual strengths, fostering their hope in becoming the greatest version of themselves. By providing a safe place, Child Development Facilitators at Deaconess create an environment where children can seek support, have fun, share their feelings, learn new ways to communicate, listen, learn, be creative and be accepted for who they are.
The child development staff and volunteers at Deaconess play a vital role in making the programs at Deaconess successful. One of these amazing people is Kelly McClain. For the past 3 years, Kelly has been one of Deaconess’ dedicated and committed Child Development Facilitators. In addition to weekly children’s groups, Kelly also provides weekly transportation to the families that we serve, ensuring the families make it to their classes safely and on time.
According to Deaconess Child Development Coordinator, Anna King, Kelly has dedicated her time each week caring for children of all ages primarily in the Incredible Years Parent Education Programs. Her passion for working with children and families radiates and becomes contagious to those working around her. Over the years, Kelly has developed skills working with challenging children, becoming a consistent positive role model. The children in these programs have been able to connect with Kelly and establish a healthy bond with her.
Kelly has another life outside of Deaconess too. She also has many years of experience coaching and teaching children’s theater. This experience and knowledge in theater have allowed Kelly to provide enriching new activities and adventures for the children. Kelly strives to use her knowledge, enthusiasm and passion to provide a fun, encouraging, supportive environment for these children each week.
From day one, Kelly has also been proactive in her efforts to create positive relationships with her fellow staff and volunteers, making her an exceptional leader all around. Kelly McClain has been a blessing to Deaconess, sharing her enthusiasm and outstanding dedication to the Deaconess Child Development program. We are thankful to Kelly and the entire Child Development team for their outstanding support of the Deaconess child.
Deaconess is staffed by 9 full time staff, 9 part-time staff and hundreds of volunteers, who serve over 3,000 children and their parents each year and work to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect by providing high quality, evidence based prevention and intervention services.
While each program at Deaconess compliments the others, one of our programs by its very nature directly supports all the others…specifically, our Child Development Program. Child Development at Deaconess Children’s Services provides every child the opportunity to become unique, confident and caring individual through identifying and helping to develop their individual strengths, fostering their hope in becoming the greatest version of themselves. By providing a safe place, Child Development Facilitators at Deaconess create an environment where children can seek support, have fun, share their feelings, learn new ways to communicate, listen, learn, be creative and be accepted for who they are.
The child development staff and volunteers at Deaconess play a vital role in making the programs at Deaconess successful. One of these amazing people is Kelly McClain. For the past 3 years, Kelly has been one of Deaconess’ dedicated and committed Child Development Facilitators. In addition to weekly children’s groups, Kelly also provides weekly transportation to the families that we serve, ensuring the families make it to their classes safely and on time.
According to Deaconess Child Development Coordinator, Anna King, Kelly has dedicated her time each week caring for children of all ages primarily in the Incredible Years Parent Education Programs. Her passion for working with children and families radiates and becomes contagious to those working around her. Over the years, Kelly has developed skills working with challenging children, becoming a consistent positive role model. The children in these programs have been able to connect with Kelly and establish a healthy bond with her.
Kelly has another life outside of Deaconess too. She also has many years of experience coaching and teaching children’s theater. This experience and knowledge in theater have allowed Kelly to provide enriching new activities and adventures for the children. Kelly strives to use her knowledge, enthusiasm and passion to provide a fun, encouraging, supportive environment for these children each week.
From day one, Kelly has also been proactive in her efforts to create positive relationships with her fellow staff and volunteers, making her an exceptional leader all around. Kelly McClain has been a blessing to Deaconess, sharing her enthusiasm and outstanding dedication to the Deaconess Child Development program. We are thankful to Kelly and the entire Child Development team for their outstanding support of the Deaconess child.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Why We Give - Chris and Linnea Covington
By: Chanelle Carlin
For 113 years, Deaconess Children’s Services has been transforming the lives of children throughout Snohomish County and the Pacific Northwest. We have not done it alone, nor could we hope to. Like many organizations serving our community, Deaconess relies heavily upon the generosity of individuals and businesses that support our mission. With their donations, staff and volunteers at Deaconess are able to help make children’s lives safer and brighter, thereby ensuring their future as well as ours as a society. Two of these amazingly generous people are Chris and Linnea Covington, owners of Structural Design Associates and Port Gardner Bay Winery (of Everett, Washington). Chris and Linnea are very active in their community, supporting many organizations with their time, money and seemingly endless amounts of energy and enthusiasm.
I recently had an opportunity to speak with Chris and Linnea about their reasons for giving to Deaconess. Linnea, a psychologist, said she’s always been familiar with Deaconess. She has seen families struggling with many challenges come to Deaconess for support and within a short period of time those same families were experiencing success. Chris, on the other hand, was not as familiar with Deaconess personally. When asked why he feels compelled to give, Chris shared a story about his father who was a carpenter. His dad used to help neighbors fix items around their homes and build things they needed, but would never take any payment for his work. It was just his “little way of giving back,” which is exactly why Chris says he gives.
Well, Chris and Linnea, thank you. Thank you for helping Deaconess to transform the lives of children. While you may consider your efforts to be small gestures on your part, we consider them HUGE and we greatly appreciate your generosity and willingness to serve your community in all the ways you do.
For 113 years, Deaconess Children’s Services has been transforming the lives of children throughout Snohomish County and the Pacific Northwest. We have not done it alone, nor could we hope to. Like many organizations serving our community, Deaconess relies heavily upon the generosity of individuals and businesses that support our mission. With their donations, staff and volunteers at Deaconess are able to help make children’s lives safer and brighter, thereby ensuring their future as well as ours as a society. Two of these amazingly generous people are Chris and Linnea Covington, owners of Structural Design Associates and Port Gardner Bay Winery (of Everett, Washington). Chris and Linnea are very active in their community, supporting many organizations with their time, money and seemingly endless amounts of energy and enthusiasm.
I recently had an opportunity to speak with Chris and Linnea about their reasons for giving to Deaconess. Linnea, a psychologist, said she’s always been familiar with Deaconess. She has seen families struggling with many challenges come to Deaconess for support and within a short period of time those same families were experiencing success. Chris, on the other hand, was not as familiar with Deaconess personally. When asked why he feels compelled to give, Chris shared a story about his father who was a carpenter. His dad used to help neighbors fix items around their homes and build things they needed, but would never take any payment for his work. It was just his “little way of giving back,” which is exactly why Chris says he gives.
Well, Chris and Linnea, thank you. Thank you for helping Deaconess to transform the lives of children. While you may consider your efforts to be small gestures on your part, we consider them HUGE and we greatly appreciate your generosity and willingness to serve your community in all the ways you do.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Raising Hands
In this day and age, with everyone as busy as they are, it can be easy to forget to say thank you. This is the purpose of today's article.
Last Saturday evening, Deaconess President, Felicia Freeman and I had the opportunity to attend the Tulalip Tribes "Raising Hands" event at the Tulalip Resort. According to Mel Sheldon, Chair of the Tulalip Tribes, it is traditional at Tulalip to "raise their hands" to applaud and give thanks to those who have given to them. At this event, they "raised their hands" to the many organizations in our region that contribute to our communities.
For those of you not local to this area, and for those who are, some of you may be wondering who the Tulalip are. The Tulalip Tribes are federally recognized successors in interest to the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish and other allied tribes and bands signatory to the Treaty of Point Elliot. Their 22,000 acre reservation is home to about half of the tribe's 4,100 members and hundreds of non-native residents. Tulalip is also the third largest employer in Snohomish County, employing over 5,000 throughout the reservation.
Over the past 17 years, the Tulalip Tribes have donated almost 39 million dollars encompassing more than 250 organizations a year. Deaconess Children's Services' has been one of the organizations to benefit from Tulalip grants. Each of the funded organizations is equally worthy and I'm sure equally grateful for the financial assistance provided by these grants.
As a guest, it is an honor to be invited to "Raising Hands," Not only is it a beautiful ceremony, but it's also a fun event. Upon arrival, we were graciously greeted by Mel Sheldon, the Chair of the Tulalip Tribes, who thanked us for giving up our Saturday evening to celebrate with them. With over 500 guests in attendance, Raising Hands was a veritable "who's who" of our region's social service providers. As Mel said, it's a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. It's a good time to find out how others are serving our community.
The evening's program began with a formal presentation of the flag by the Tulalip Veterans and an Invocation by Marie Zackuse, Secretary of the Tulalip Board of Directors. Steve Gobin, General Manager of Quil Ceda Village greeted the guests and introduced Chairman Mel who welcomed us officially. During dinner, we were also treated to an informative talk with Tulalip's Chief Financial Officer, Chuck James. Keeping the details to himself, Mr. James assured everyone that tjhe tribes' finances are strong, allowing them to continue to employ as many local folks as they do and to continue their philanthropical work.
For me though, the hightlight of the evening (aside from the amazing meal) was the moving performance by the Tulalip Singers. This year, they also performed a song by the Makah Tribe and invited visiting Makah to sing with them. The Tulalip singers include people of all ages, young and old, all of whom sing and drum passionately. As I closed my eyes during the performance, I found myself feeling as if I were transported out of the room and in the midst of nature, completely relaxed. The ceremony ended with a gorgeous dessert and an opportunity for each guest to raise their hands to each other. If you ever get the opportunity to attend a Raising Hands ceremony, I urge you to go. You will leave feeling good about yourself, your community and full from a very healthy meal.
Thank you Tulalip Tribes for your support and for honoring the work we all do. We raise our hands.
Last Saturday evening, Deaconess President, Felicia Freeman and I had the opportunity to attend the Tulalip Tribes "Raising Hands" event at the Tulalip Resort. According to Mel Sheldon, Chair of the Tulalip Tribes, it is traditional at Tulalip to "raise their hands" to applaud and give thanks to those who have given to them. At this event, they "raised their hands" to the many organizations in our region that contribute to our communities.
For those of you not local to this area, and for those who are, some of you may be wondering who the Tulalip are. The Tulalip Tribes are federally recognized successors in interest to the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish and other allied tribes and bands signatory to the Treaty of Point Elliot. Their 22,000 acre reservation is home to about half of the tribe's 4,100 members and hundreds of non-native residents. Tulalip is also the third largest employer in Snohomish County, employing over 5,000 throughout the reservation.
Over the past 17 years, the Tulalip Tribes have donated almost 39 million dollars encompassing more than 250 organizations a year. Deaconess Children's Services' has been one of the organizations to benefit from Tulalip grants. Each of the funded organizations is equally worthy and I'm sure equally grateful for the financial assistance provided by these grants.
As a guest, it is an honor to be invited to "Raising Hands," Not only is it a beautiful ceremony, but it's also a fun event. Upon arrival, we were graciously greeted by Mel Sheldon, the Chair of the Tulalip Tribes, who thanked us for giving up our Saturday evening to celebrate with them. With over 500 guests in attendance, Raising Hands was a veritable "who's who" of our region's social service providers. As Mel said, it's a great opportunity to catch up with old friends and meet new ones. It's a good time to find out how others are serving our community.
The evening's program began with a formal presentation of the flag by the Tulalip Veterans and an Invocation by Marie Zackuse, Secretary of the Tulalip Board of Directors. Steve Gobin, General Manager of Quil Ceda Village greeted the guests and introduced Chairman Mel who welcomed us officially. During dinner, we were also treated to an informative talk with Tulalip's Chief Financial Officer, Chuck James. Keeping the details to himself, Mr. James assured everyone that tjhe tribes' finances are strong, allowing them to continue to employ as many local folks as they do and to continue their philanthropical work.
For me though, the hightlight of the evening (aside from the amazing meal) was the moving performance by the Tulalip Singers. This year, they also performed a song by the Makah Tribe and invited visiting Makah to sing with them. The Tulalip singers include people of all ages, young and old, all of whom sing and drum passionately. As I closed my eyes during the performance, I found myself feeling as if I were transported out of the room and in the midst of nature, completely relaxed. The ceremony ended with a gorgeous dessert and an opportunity for each guest to raise their hands to each other. If you ever get the opportunity to attend a Raising Hands ceremony, I urge you to go. You will leave feeling good about yourself, your community and full from a very healthy meal.
Thank you Tulalip Tribes for your support and for honoring the work we all do. We raise our hands.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Never Again...
Next Tuesday, September 21st is International Day of Peace, a day set aside by the General Assembly of the United Nations to encourage all mankind to work together toward a goal of world peace. While the first Day of Peace was in 1982, it wasn't until 2002 that September 21st was designated as the permanent International Day of Peace. In the spirit of peace, I'd like to share with you a story:
Robbie Waisman was born in Skarszysko, Poland and is the youngest of six children. He was ten years old when the Nazis invaded his town and was fourteen years old when he was liberated from Buchenwald Concentration Camp. Robbie eventually emigrated to Canada as part of the Canadian War Orphans Project, which saw the admittance of over 1,000 Jewish children to Canada.
For many years Robbie did not tell anyone of his experiences, except his wife. However, when he heard there was a teacher in Alberta, Canada who was telling his students that the Holocaust was a myth, Mr. Waisman decided the time had come to share his experiences and, since then, he has spent a great deal of time speaking to high school students and other groups, including our own Everett Rotary Club, which is how I came to hear his story. Today, Mr. Waisman is the President of the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre and as an educator-speaker, as part of the Survivor Outreach Program; he has shared his experiences of the Holocaust with thousands of students.
He was a child when he was imprisoned and forced to slave in a concentration camp and he was a teenager when he was liberated and moved to a foreign country on his own. He survived the trauma of losing his parents and siblings and then growing up in a world where few understood what he'd been through. Over the years, he has transformed his life.
Mr. Waisman recounted that when he was young and the concentration camp was liberated, a promise was made..."Never again," which he took to heart. He has spent his later years working toward that goal: that the world must never allow what happened during WWII to happen again. Unfortunately, as Mr. Waisman pointed out, it is happening again. Not only in other parts of the world such as the Darfur region of Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), Cambodia and others, but children are neglected, abused and trafficked right here in the Pacific Northwest.
So why is Deaconess Children's Services writing a blog article about International Peace Day and the story of a Nazi Holocaust survivor? Most of you are familiar with the mission of Deaconess Children's Services. For 113 years, Deaconess has been putting children first and transforming the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect. We can't do it alone - we need your help.
I know...those words are enough to strike fear in the hearts of most adults, but before you run away with anxiety, I'm not asking you to do anything too difficult. Children who experience neglect and/or abuse experience similar feelings of trauma, loss and fear that Mr. Waisman described in his story. Most of us agree that it is never acceptable for a child to be abused, starved, neglected, tortured, trafficked or enslaved, and that it is even worse when adults fails to act and protect them by preventing it from happening in the first place. Unfortunately, we don't always know how to act. Below are four, very practical, none too scary ways you can help:
1) Spend quality time talking with and playing with your children, or children in your life. Let them know how much they matter to you.
2) Volunteer your time in your community, helping children and others. Each of us matters to one another.
3) If you're able, donate money to a cause you feel strongly about, perhaps one that supports at risk children and youth; victims of abuse, violent crime or war; or one that prevents these issues from arising in the first place. It doesn't have to be much, whatever you have to offer. Every little bit counts...it all matters.
4) Visit www.internationaldayofpeace.org. Anyone, anywhere can celebrate Peace Day. It can be as simple as lighting a candle at noon or just sitting in silent meditation. It can even involve getting your co-workers, organization, community or government engaged in a large event. Imagine the impact that millions of people in all parts of the world, coming together, one at a time, for one day of peace, would have. It matters. You matter...we matter.
Perhaps, if each of us does just one thing in our community for someone else, we can eventually say..."it will never happen again."
How do you or will you show others they matter? We'd love to hear from you.
Robbie Waisman was born in Skarszysko, Poland and is the youngest of six children. He was ten years old when the Nazis invaded his town and was fourteen years old when he was liberated from Buchenwald Concentration Camp. Robbie eventually emigrated to Canada as part of the Canadian War Orphans Project, which saw the admittance of over 1,000 Jewish children to Canada.
For many years Robbie did not tell anyone of his experiences, except his wife. However, when he heard there was a teacher in Alberta, Canada who was telling his students that the Holocaust was a myth, Mr. Waisman decided the time had come to share his experiences and, since then, he has spent a great deal of time speaking to high school students and other groups, including our own Everett Rotary Club, which is how I came to hear his story. Today, Mr. Waisman is the President of the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre and as an educator-speaker, as part of the Survivor Outreach Program; he has shared his experiences of the Holocaust with thousands of students.
He was a child when he was imprisoned and forced to slave in a concentration camp and he was a teenager when he was liberated and moved to a foreign country on his own. He survived the trauma of losing his parents and siblings and then growing up in a world where few understood what he'd been through. Over the years, he has transformed his life.
Mr. Waisman recounted that when he was young and the concentration camp was liberated, a promise was made..."Never again," which he took to heart. He has spent his later years working toward that goal: that the world must never allow what happened during WWII to happen again. Unfortunately, as Mr. Waisman pointed out, it is happening again. Not only in other parts of the world such as the Darfur region of Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), Cambodia and others, but children are neglected, abused and trafficked right here in the Pacific Northwest.
So why is Deaconess Children's Services writing a blog article about International Peace Day and the story of a Nazi Holocaust survivor? Most of you are familiar with the mission of Deaconess Children's Services. For 113 years, Deaconess has been putting children first and transforming the lives of children throughout the Pacific Northwest by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect. We can't do it alone - we need your help.
I know...those words are enough to strike fear in the hearts of most adults, but before you run away with anxiety, I'm not asking you to do anything too difficult. Children who experience neglect and/or abuse experience similar feelings of trauma, loss and fear that Mr. Waisman described in his story. Most of us agree that it is never acceptable for a child to be abused, starved, neglected, tortured, trafficked or enslaved, and that it is even worse when adults fails to act and protect them by preventing it from happening in the first place. Unfortunately, we don't always know how to act. Below are four, very practical, none too scary ways you can help:
1) Spend quality time talking with and playing with your children, or children in your life. Let them know how much they matter to you.
2) Volunteer your time in your community, helping children and others. Each of us matters to one another.
3) If you're able, donate money to a cause you feel strongly about, perhaps one that supports at risk children and youth; victims of abuse, violent crime or war; or one that prevents these issues from arising in the first place. It doesn't have to be much, whatever you have to offer. Every little bit counts...it all matters.
4) Visit www.internationaldayofpeace.org. Anyone, anywhere can celebrate Peace Day. It can be as simple as lighting a candle at noon or just sitting in silent meditation. It can even involve getting your co-workers, organization, community or government engaged in a large event. Imagine the impact that millions of people in all parts of the world, coming together, one at a time, for one day of peace, would have. It matters. You matter...we matter.
Perhaps, if each of us does just one thing in our community for someone else, we can eventually say..."it will never happen again."
How do you or will you show others they matter? We'd love to hear from you.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Putting Children first while honoring Fathers and Mothers
It is said that being a parent is the most difficult job in the world and the one that most parents will tell you they love the best. Much research and attention has been devoted over many years to motherhood and its vital role in the rearing of children. Deaconess Children’s Services wholeheartedly acknowledges and supports this research. However, we all know that mothers cannot and should not be solely responsible for rearing the next generation of our society.
The statistics are staggering. Almost 24 million American children grow up in a home without a father and nearly half of those children have not seen their father in the previous year! To create a climate for men to remain involved with their children and be committed to providing financial support even if their adult relationship is no longer intact, fathers must believe their role is vital and that they have value themselves. Mothers must believe that fathers will step up to a shared parenting role, that their children benefit greatly from involvement with their fathers and encourage them to spend time with their children even when the adult relationship is over.
Children who have close relationships with their fathers have higher self-esteem, better academic performance, more positive social behaviors and fewer behavioral issues during adolescence. This even holds true with children involved in the child welfare system. Studies of these children show that those who have contact with even a non-custodial father within the past year were 46% less likely to enter foster care. Deaconess works with parents for the sake of vulnerable children for this very reason.
At Deaconess, we feel it’s important to recognize the vital role that mothers and fathers play not only in their children’s lives, but also in our community. On October 1, 2010, Deaconess Children's Services will celebrate 113 years of putting children first by hosting the 6th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards ceremony at Forest Park in Everett, WA. It's going to be a great night including beautiful desserts, a wine auction, a raffle with fabulous big ticket items, including a 50” Plasma TV donated by Panasonic Avionics Corporation, our trademark fashion show for the moms, inspirational speakers for the fathers, and much, much more!
So…mark your calendars for October 1st, pick your favorite bottle of wine to donate to our wine auction, program your GPS for Forest Park and join us for this free event!
Event Specifics:
Who: Deaconess Children’s Services
What: Father and Mother of the Year Awards
When: 6:00pm-8:00 pm on October 1st, 2010
Where: Floral Hall, Forest Park @ 802 E. Mukilteo Blvd. Everett, WA 98203
Please RSVP with Stacey Pfeiffer at 425-259-0146 or spfeiffer@deaconesschildren.org
We look forward to celebrating with you!
The statistics are staggering. Almost 24 million American children grow up in a home without a father and nearly half of those children have not seen their father in the previous year! To create a climate for men to remain involved with their children and be committed to providing financial support even if their adult relationship is no longer intact, fathers must believe their role is vital and that they have value themselves. Mothers must believe that fathers will step up to a shared parenting role, that their children benefit greatly from involvement with their fathers and encourage them to spend time with their children even when the adult relationship is over.
Children who have close relationships with their fathers have higher self-esteem, better academic performance, more positive social behaviors and fewer behavioral issues during adolescence. This even holds true with children involved in the child welfare system. Studies of these children show that those who have contact with even a non-custodial father within the past year were 46% less likely to enter foster care. Deaconess works with parents for the sake of vulnerable children for this very reason.
At Deaconess, we feel it’s important to recognize the vital role that mothers and fathers play not only in their children’s lives, but also in our community. On October 1, 2010, Deaconess Children's Services will celebrate 113 years of putting children first by hosting the 6th Annual Father and Mother of the Year Awards ceremony at Forest Park in Everett, WA. It's going to be a great night including beautiful desserts, a wine auction, a raffle with fabulous big ticket items, including a 50” Plasma TV donated by Panasonic Avionics Corporation, our trademark fashion show for the moms, inspirational speakers for the fathers, and much, much more!
So…mark your calendars for October 1st, pick your favorite bottle of wine to donate to our wine auction, program your GPS for Forest Park and join us for this free event!
Event Specifics:
Who: Deaconess Children’s Services
What: Father and Mother of the Year Awards
When: 6:00pm-8:00 pm on October 1st, 2010
Where: Floral Hall, Forest Park @ 802 E. Mukilteo Blvd. Everett, WA 98203
Please RSVP with Stacey Pfeiffer at 425-259-0146 or spfeiffer@deaconesschildren.org
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Two Words...oops
I'd first like to say thank you to everyone who took the time to read yesterday's article, "Two Words." It's gratifying for us to have the community acknowledge other members of the community supporting our children.
It seems we were remiss in thanking one group, so now seems like a good time to correct that mistake.
Gary Rhodes and the Road Kill Crew didn't just donate 10 pounds of prime rib. They also donated the full use of the banquet facility at the Marysville Masonic Center, meal preparation, and 80 pounds of Angus Rib Roast (Prime Rib), plus all other components of the dinner.
Thank you again to Gary, the Road Kill Crew and all the other volunteers and donors to the event. You made it successful and you allow Deaconess Children's Services to continue putting children first and transforming the lives of children by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect.
It seems we were remiss in thanking one group, so now seems like a good time to correct that mistake.
Gary Rhodes and the Road Kill Crew didn't just donate 10 pounds of prime rib. They also donated the full use of the banquet facility at the Marysville Masonic Center, meal preparation, and 80 pounds of Angus Rib Roast (Prime Rib), plus all other components of the dinner.
Thank you again to Gary, the Road Kill Crew and all the other volunteers and donors to the event. You made it successful and you allow Deaconess Children's Services to continue putting children first and transforming the lives of children by breaking the cycle of child abuse and neglect.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Two Words...
There are two words that, when spoken, have the most unfathomable power to completely change your life…THANK YOU.
Recently, a Hot August Nights fundraising event was held in Marysville, Washington to raise funds for some of our programs. Deaconess would like to say Thank You to everyone who helped make it such a huge success!
First, to our dedicated Deaconess volunteers and their families/friends who continue to offer their time and energy whenever asked:
*Deborah Bivens – serving the wine and singing for the guests
*Rebecca Fernandez – set up and clean up volunteer
*Sandy Fletcher – car show and clean up volunteer
*Bill Kehle – clean up volunteer
*Melissa Lewis – clean up volunteer
*Matt McMiller – set up and clean up volunteer
*Peggy McMiller – set up and clean up volunteer
*Holly Murphy – event coordinator and all around magician
*Jim Murphy – car show volunteer
*Shawna Murphy – car show volunteer
*Tricia Murphy – car show volunteer
*Mollie Ragland – set up and clean up volunteer
*Al Warren – set up and clean up volunteer
*Jed Wheeler – clean up volunteer
The following business and individuals also contributed items or time in support of The Deaconess Child at the Hot August Nights event:
* David George Jazz Quartet, Seattle, WA for delighting us with their great music for the evening;
* Chateau Ste. Michelle for contributing for 2 cases of wine;
* The Vintage Chevrolet Club of America and other classic car owners for donating their time and vehicles to support our event;
* Blockbuster on 20th & Broadway for the “Night in at the movies”;
* Governor Christine Gregoire for designing the beautiful handmade purse;
* Smokey Point Massage for donating 2 massages;
* Gary Rhodes for donating his huge 27 pound freshly caught king salmon;
* Caryl Estes & the Estes Group for the Flameless Candle Collection;
* Holiday Inn of Everett for the Overnight Stay;
* O’Reilly’s Auto Supply for hosting the car show site;
* J.L. Scott Realty for hosting the car show site;
* Antonville Winery for donating 16 bottles of wine;
* Gary Rhodes and the Road Kill Crew for donation of 10 pounds of cooked prime rib;
* Boy Scouts of America – Marysville Troop 84 for their help in serving dinner; and
* Job’s Daughters – Bethel 50 who also graciously served our guests dinner and throughout the evening.
The following grocery store bakeries donated desserts for our Dessert Dash:
* Central Market-Mill Creek: Jim Huffman, Manager, Debra, Megan and your Bakery Team
* Safeway-75th and Evergreen Way: Tom Novak, Store Manager and your Bakery Team
* Albertsons-Madison and Evergreen Way: Joe, Store Manager, Dawn and Bakery Team
* QFC-Claremont: Linda Scholl, Store Manager, Judy, Bookkeeper, and the Bakery Team
* Safeway-41st and Rucker: Gwynn, Store Manager, Linda, Cat and your Bakery Team
* Albertsons-Marysville (4th and State): Sherry, Store Manager and Bakery Team
We’d also like to recognize some of our local representatives and personalities that contributed to the success of the event:
* John McCoy, Washington State Representative for District 38;
* Mike Sells, Washington State Representative for District 38;
* Mark Roe, Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney and his wife, Lisa Paul;
* Shahram Hadiam, Candidate for State Representative; and
* Marlee Ginter, KOMO 4 News Reporter, for graciously emcee-ing our event.
A huge Thank Youto each one of you for your support of the Deaconess Child. We can’t thank you enough.
Recently, a Hot August Nights fundraising event was held in Marysville, Washington to raise funds for some of our programs. Deaconess would like to say Thank You to everyone who helped make it such a huge success!
First, to our dedicated Deaconess volunteers and their families/friends who continue to offer their time and energy whenever asked:
*Deborah Bivens – serving the wine and singing for the guests
*Rebecca Fernandez – set up and clean up volunteer
*Sandy Fletcher – car show and clean up volunteer
*Bill Kehle – clean up volunteer
*Melissa Lewis – clean up volunteer
*Matt McMiller – set up and clean up volunteer
*Peggy McMiller – set up and clean up volunteer
*Holly Murphy – event coordinator and all around magician
*Jim Murphy – car show volunteer
*Shawna Murphy – car show volunteer
*Tricia Murphy – car show volunteer
*Mollie Ragland – set up and clean up volunteer
*Al Warren – set up and clean up volunteer
*Jed Wheeler – clean up volunteer
The following business and individuals also contributed items or time in support of The Deaconess Child at the Hot August Nights event:
* David George Jazz Quartet, Seattle, WA for delighting us with their great music for the evening;
* Chateau Ste. Michelle for contributing for 2 cases of wine;
* The Vintage Chevrolet Club of America and other classic car owners for donating their time and vehicles to support our event;
* Blockbuster on 20th & Broadway for the “Night in at the movies”;
* Governor Christine Gregoire for designing the beautiful handmade purse;
* Smokey Point Massage for donating 2 massages;
* Gary Rhodes for donating his huge 27 pound freshly caught king salmon;
* Caryl Estes & the Estes Group for the Flameless Candle Collection;
* Holiday Inn of Everett for the Overnight Stay;
* O’Reilly’s Auto Supply for hosting the car show site;
* J.L. Scott Realty for hosting the car show site;
* Antonville Winery for donating 16 bottles of wine;
* Gary Rhodes and the Road Kill Crew for donation of 10 pounds of cooked prime rib;
* Boy Scouts of America – Marysville Troop 84 for their help in serving dinner; and
* Job’s Daughters – Bethel 50 who also graciously served our guests dinner and throughout the evening.
The following grocery store bakeries donated desserts for our Dessert Dash:
* Central Market-Mill Creek: Jim Huffman, Manager, Debra, Megan and your Bakery Team
* Safeway-75th and Evergreen Way: Tom Novak, Store Manager and your Bakery Team
* Albertsons-Madison and Evergreen Way: Joe, Store Manager, Dawn and Bakery Team
* QFC-Claremont: Linda Scholl, Store Manager, Judy, Bookkeeper, and the Bakery Team
* Safeway-41st and Rucker: Gwynn, Store Manager, Linda, Cat and your Bakery Team
* Albertsons-Marysville (4th and State): Sherry, Store Manager and Bakery Team
We’d also like to recognize some of our local representatives and personalities that contributed to the success of the event:
* John McCoy, Washington State Representative for District 38;
* Mike Sells, Washington State Representative for District 38;
* Mark Roe, Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney and his wife, Lisa Paul;
* Shahram Hadiam, Candidate for State Representative; and
* Marlee Ginter, KOMO 4 News Reporter, for graciously emcee-ing our event.
A huge Thank Youto each one of you for your support of the Deaconess Child. We can’t thank you enough.
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