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News   |   March 2017
Did you know that just by reading our monthly emails, you are building a more resilient community? Keep going to learn how you can do more!
April is Almost Here...

For 34 years, National Child Abuse Prevention Month has raised awareness of the need to promote child well-being, build protective factors within families and communities, and ensure child safety. We all have a role to play, and you can help too. Here's how:
  • Learn the Facts about child abuse and neglect in MD.
  • Wear Blue on Friday, April 7th, National Wear Blue Day. Share your photos using #WearBlue4MDKids.
  • Plant Pinwheels (a national symbol for child abuse prevention) at your home, office or local green space. You can make your own or contact us to purchase them. Share your photos using #PinwheelsForPrevention!
  • Attend our free screening & discussion of Resilience, a powerful documentary revealing the long-term impact toxic stress has on a child's well-being. The screening will be held on Wednesday, April 26th from 12pm-2pm in Baltimore, MD. Email us to attend.
  • Stay Tuned for our Child Abuse Prevention Month campaign and toolkit!
Advocacy Corner

Here's a look at important state laws that we are celebrating, as well as federal legislation that will impact local children and families!

STATE LEGISLATION
  • Maryland Healthy Working Families Act - We're proud to share this act passed the Senate last Thursday! Email or call Governor Hogan to urge him to sign this act into law.
  • Expanding Child Sexual Abuse Statute of Limitations - House Bill 642 and Senate Bill 505 passed, extending the time victims have to file against their perpetrator to age 38. Join us in thanking Delegate C.T. Wilson for championing this cause to help victims and hold offenders accountable.

FEDERAL LEGISLATION
  • The American Health Care Act - Here's what will happen if Congress repeals the Affordable Care Act (also known as "Obamacare"). If passed, the replacement bill, which is being debated today by Congress, would end essential health benefits, including coverage for pregnant women and for mental health. This will seriously hurt millions of children and families across our country. Call your representative NOW to urge them to oppose this bill.
Maryland's Finest Culinary Event is 6 Weeks Away!

The 26th Annual Great Chefs' Dinner
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
The Grand Lodge of Maryland, Cockeysville, MD


On the coattails of Child Abuse Prevention Month is our mighty Great Chefs' Dinner. Known for its fine cuisine, unique auction experiences, and networking, this event raises vital funds for research-backed programs that prevent child abuse and neglect.

This year's dinner will feature a  5-course meal from LA chefs Vinny Dotolo and Jon Shook . These James Beard award winners have been credited with innovating the LA dining scene through their critically-acclaimed restaurants.

Reserve your seat today . Can't join us? Donate goods or experiences to our live and silent auction!
Creating Safer, Stronger West Baltimore Families

As depicted in a recent Baltimore Sun article, "Sandtown-Winchester faces some of the city's most enduring social ills." That's why The  Family Tree is joining forces with key players to help families create a safer, more stable community. 
            
Our work began in January 2016, less than 9 months after the devastating Freddie Gray riots. Since then, we've joined four coalitions (including the Breakthrough Series Collaborative), hired a full-time staffer , and are offering the following services: 10 week parenting classes, face-to-face resource linkages, family workshops, community events, and  weekly drop-in hours. We have also partnered with Booker T. Washington Middle School to provide Strengthening Families, an evidence-based program designed to improve parenting and discourage youth from risky behavior.

If you're interested in joining or supporting our efforts, contact Patricia Barger!
Bowl & Mingle at our Spring Happy Hour

Thurs., May 25, 2017
5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Mustang Alley's, Baltimore, MD

Are you looking for a fun and meaningful way to get involved in the community? Strike Out Child Abuse, hosted by The Family Tree's  Next Generation Network (NGN) , is for you!

Gather up your friends, co-workers and family for this bowling tournament that puts the fun in fundraiser. Learn more and register here.
Upcoming Classes & Trainings

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

*Thursdays starting 4/13, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

*Mondays starting 4/17, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

*Mondays starting 4/24, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. 

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

Parenting Partners
6-week parenting and leadership skills-building class
Cost: Free

*Wednesdays starting 4/26, 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

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

*Friday, May 5th, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.


*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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