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News   |   February 2017
We love the month of February. It may be bursting with planning and projects, but it's one time of year where love is not censored. 
Feeling loved is the foundation of our self-esteem and self-worth. Most importantly, children need love to grow confident, to be bold enough to take chances, and to know they aren't alone in the world. So we hope you continue to show your love (to your family, friends and self), this month and every day thereafter. If you need an excuse, call us and we'll send you our cherished Hug Coupons - at no cost to you!

Read on to see how we can spread more love together.
Making Our State Stronger

Creating statewide change takes collaboration and creative solutions. That's why The Family Tree takes an active role in building relationships with local policymakers to increase resources and support for children and families. This year, TFT staff and volunteers met with 25 Senators and Delegates at our Advocacy Day on January 26th . We advocated for important legislation and collaborated on how to support more Maryland parents. 

Thank you to Policy Advisor Andrea Garvey, Senior Advisor Keiffer Mitchell, the Governor's Chief of Staff Sam Malhotra, and Delegate Eric Luedtke for encouraging and inspiring our team of advocates at the morning kick-off! 

Want to get involved? See our Advocacy Corner.

Are You a Parent Leader?

Every February, we honor and encourage parents to be leaders in their homes and communities. Parents play an important role in shaping the lives of children and families! Parent Leadership is also essential for preventing child abuse and neglect.  National Parent Leadership Month, a national initiative by Parents Anonymous®, teaches all parents that they have the potential to become Parent Leaders. Here's how you can too.

Learn more by  tuning in to WOLB 1010AM tomorrow (Feb. 25th) at 10am!
Join the Next Generation Network!

Are you a young professional who is passionate about family, children, and building a stronger community? Do you have bright young professionals in your family or office?  Our Next Generation Network (NGN) is looking for up-and-coming leaders! Benefits of our growing membership include:
Join today . You won't want to miss our Strike Out Child Abuse event on May 18th at Mustang Alley's!
An Unforgettable Meal, Crowd, And Cause

The Family Tree's 26th Annual Great Chefs' Dinner
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
The Grand Lodge of Maryland

This year's dinner will feature a  5-course meal from 5-star chefs Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook . These James Beard award winners are credited with innovating the Los Angeles dining scene - and were just featured in Vanity Fair !

Known for its fine cuisine, unique auction items, and the who's who of Greater Baltimore, the Great Chefs' Dinner is a vital role you can play in creating safer, stronger families and communities.

This sponsor-driven event sells out every year, and we want you on the guest list. Get inspired by our  Event Guide  and reserve your seat today.
Advocacy Corner Advocacy

The Maryland General Assembly is in session, debating bills that can affect you and your community. Here's what we are raising our voices in support of - and we hope you will too!

Maryland Healthy Working Families Act  - In Maryland, workers without sick/ safe leave are forced to go to work sick, send an ill child to school/ daycare, or stay home and sacrifice much-needed income or risk job loss. This would require companies to allow workers to earn paid sick leave or take unpaid time with no penalty.

Expanding Child Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations  - Many victims of child sexual abuse don't find the courage to speak out against their abuser or recover painful buried memories until many years later. If passed, House Bill 642 and Senate Bills 505 and 585 will extend the time victims have to file against their perpetrator from the current age of 25 to age 38. These are crucial bills for helping victims and holding offenders accountable.

Call or email your local Delegates and Senators to show your support!
Upcoming Classes

Mental Health First Aid Training
Groundbreaking 8-hour training (CEUs available!)
Cost: $100

*Friday, March 17th, 8:30am - 4:30pm

Parenting for Success
10-week research-based parenting class
Cost: Free

*Tuesdays starting 3/28, 10am-12pm

*Wednesdays starting 3/29, 10am-12pm 

*Wednesdays starting 3/29, 6pm-8pm 

Simple Techniques for Emotional Management (STEM)
9-week anger management program
Cost: Sliding scale fee (medical assistance accepted)

Positive Parenting Program
6-week research-based parenting class
Cost: Free

*Tuesdays starting 3/7, 10am-12pm and 12pm-2pm

Circle of Security
8-week for parents with children ages 0-5


*Advance registration is required for all of the above classes. All classes are held at The Family Tree (2108 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21230) unless otherwise stated.
The Family Tree | 2108 North Charles Street |  
 Baltimore, MD 21218  |  410.889.2300  |   familytreemd.org  
STAY CONNECTED: familytreemd.org

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