Volume 198 | October 2024 in Review | |
| October Treasure Talk 2024! | |
|
I wonder how often we quietly celebrate Halloween when it's not even October 31st? How honest are each of us about how we are feeling, especially if we are frustrated or overwhelmed, no matter if it is caregiving-related or something else?
A couple of years ago, during COVID, we had to wear a mask to protect ourselves and others. Today, sometimes, we wear an invisible mask to protect our emotions. That way, when someone says, "How are you doing?" it is easier to say "Okay" than honestly express ourselves. We wear our non-Halloween masks!
November and National Family Caregivers Month begins November 1st! We at AACY recognize and support you and all that you do - mask or no mask!
| |
| Activities Recap & Preview:
| |
|
Greetings, CYP Friends!
We had an incredible time at Camp Treasure this month! From canoeing, fishing, and archery to bonding with friends, it was a memorable experience full of outdoor fun. We especially loved the art workshop—your self-portraits turned out amazing! These portraits are a piece of you that we hope you’ll keep forever.
Looking ahead to November, don’t miss these upcoming activities:
11/14 | "You Got The Scholarship, Now What?" Workshop
11/21 | Resume Workshop
Save the Date | Holiday Party in December 2024!
Remember, as part of the CYP, you and your family will never be alone during the holidays. We’re here to make them special! If you need a turkey for Thanksgiving, reach out to your Family Specialist as soon as possible.
Stay tuned for more fun, and don’t forget to catch your event photos on our Instagram. Keep looking out for upcoming activities!
If you want to see some pictures of you and your events, visit (and follow!) our Instagram @caregivingyouthproject.
Thank you.
Andreana Holliman, BA
| |
|
This month, we held a special event just for you—Camp Treasure! It was an exciting and unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Day 1 Highlights: The first evening kicked off with a self-reflective treasure box activity, where each of you created a box to hold memories and special items. Afterward, we enjoyed camp songs, a delicious dinner, and, of course, yummy s’mores by the fire.
Day 2 Adventures: The next day was packed with outdoor fun! You went canoeing, tried fishing, and even practiced archery. A big thank you to our FAU interns, who led a presentation on mobility and shared some useful tips. Camp wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our sponsors, donors, staff, and volunteers, who worked hard to bring this event to life for all of you.
Camp Treasure was a time to make friends, try new activities, and enjoy some much-deserved respite and relaxation. We hope to see everyone back next camp for even more fun!
| |
| Self Portrait Art Workshop by Smita Sen | |
We're here to support you on your caregiving journey. We'll share fun and educational content, inspiring stories from caregivers who are students or people around the world who are trying to help, and reminders that you're not alone. Thank you for all that you do for your family. | |
| National Family Caregivers Month | |
|
Did you know that November is National Family Caregivers Month? This month is all about recognizing and honoring people like you who care for a family member in need. Family caregivers are people who help loved ones who may be sick, elderly, or disabled, and their support makes a big difference every day.
As Caregiving Youth, you are an important part of this group. You balance school, friends, and caregiving responsibilities—things many adults might find hard to juggle. This month reminds everyone about the important role you play and why it’s so meaningful.
Why National Family Caregivers Month Matters to You
National Family Caregivers Month is a time to bring attention to people who, like you, are family caregivers.
Here’s why it’s so important:
Raising Awareness: Many people don’t realize that young people like you help care for family members. By raising awareness, we help others understand what you do and why it’s important.
Celebrating Your Efforts: This month is a chance to celebrate all the hard work you do. Being a family caregiver takes patience, time, and energy, and this month reminds us to say thank you for everything you do.
Connecting with Others: Sometimes caregiving can feel lonely, but this month reminds us that you are not alone. There are other young caregivers out there who know what it’s like to care for a family member, and they face similar challenges.
How You Can Recognize National Family Caregivers Month
-
Celebrate Yourself: Take a moment to recognize the important work you do. It’s okay to feel proud of how much you help.
-
Talk About Your Role: If you feel comfortable, share your caregiving story with friends or teachers. It can help people understand what you do and make them more supportive.
-
Ask for Support: National Family Caregivers Month is a reminder that support is available. If you need help, reach out to your Caregiving Youth Project team or a trusted adult.
National Family Caregivers Month is a time to recognize the amazing work you do and remind everyone of the big difference you make in your family. We’re so proud of you and all you do to support your loved ones!
| |
Moo Deng's various moods perfectly capture the ups and downs of balancing school, caregiving responsibilities, and personal life. Just like Moo Deng, it’s okay to feel a range of emotions in a single day. Some moments you might feel determined and ready, and other times, you may just feel tired or need a break. Moo Deng’s moods remind us that every feeling is normal and part of the journey. Whether you’re upbeat or overwhelmed, each mood is valid and part of caregiving for others—and yourself. | |
| A Message of Hope from a CYP Alumnus | |
In a recent video interview, a Caregiving Youth Project alumnus shared his journey as a young caregiver and reflected on his time in the CYP program. His story was filled with insights, encouragement, and a powerful message of hope for those currently balancing caregiving responsibilities at a young age. | |
| |
In this Treasure Talk issue, we want to highlight Principal Jeremiah Stewart, who has been a valuable supporter of AACY and a true friend to Caregiving Youth at Roosevelt Community Middle School. Mr. Stewart is retiring this year after 30 years in education, including seven years as principal at Roosevelt, where he made a lasting impact on students, families, and staff.
Mr. Stewart is known for his compassion and support for students who balance school with caregiving responsibilities. Each day, he walks around the school, greeting students and staff, ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. His leadership has made Roosevelt a welcoming space for all, especially for students in the AACY Caregiving Youth Project.
Under Mr. Stewart’s leadership, Roosevelt’s academic performance grew, especially in science, and English Language Learners made impressive progress. His dedication and positive spirit have motivated students and staff alike to excel. Although we’ll miss him, his impact will inspire us long after his retirement.
Thank you, Mr. Stewart, for your support and kindness. We wish you all the best in your next adventure! – Carmen Del Pilar Brugman, RMHCI, Family Specialist
| |
| Caregiving Youth Project Participating Schools! | |
|
Join us and spread the word! To participate in our program, Caregiving Youth Project (CYP) participants must reside in Palm Beach County and can be referred through personal outreach, recommendations from school staff, or other organizations. Our support is provided both at school and in the home.
If you are a Caregiving Youth or know someone who is but they don't live in Palm Beach County, please encourage them to email us at info@aacy.org. We are committed to helping them find resources, no matter where they reside in the United States.
| |
988 Crisis Hotline
We at AACY believe that prioritizing mental health is a year-round endeavor. When you're having a difficult time, it's important to seek help. Thankfully, there is a new phone resource available no matter where you are in the US!: Just dial the 9-8-8 hotline.
This hotline is available 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Don't suffer in silence - get help and keep hope alive.
| |
Community Service Hours
A reminder: please submit your Community Service Hours for the work you do at home!
If you have any questions, need more information or help to complete the form, please contact your Family Specialist.
| |
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
| | |
Need help identifying a pill? Poison possibility?
Mixed up meds? Found a loose pill? Worried that a refill looks different? Suspect an overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222
| | | |
|
Are there any VETERANS in your Family? Resources Available: |
PBC has services that might be of assistance to your Family. Learn more here
Another resource is VeteranAid.org.
This organization offers details information on a Veteran's pension benefit called Aid and Attendance (A&A)
If a Veteran requires assisted living care in a community or at home, A&A gives the information they need to apply for this benefit for free. Senior Veterans and spouses use this benefit to help them afford quality home care. Learn more here
| |
Many Thanks to Our Partners: | |
The American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY) is a Florida 501 (c) (3) corporation.
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION (#CH12431) AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE OR AT WWW.FRESHFROMFLORIDA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
| | | | |