The Baby Fold Lends Expertise to State of Illinois | |
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As a state leader in finding permanent homes for youth in foster care, The Baby Fold has been called upon to co-lead a collaboration with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) to ensure more children have the stable, loving homes they deserve.
With this initiative, known as the Regional Continuous Quality Improvement CQI Group, The Baby Fold is leading DCFS offices and other child welfare agencies throughout a 52-county region of Central Illinois to help move youth in foster care towards permanency in a high-quality and timely manner.
Lara Raper, The Baby Fold's Vice President of Quality Improvement shares, "We're developing action plans and trainings so that agencies can effectively engage families in goal setting, accessing services, and guiding cases toward permanency." Raper says the trainings and plans will focus on fostering open communication, building trust, and developing strong relationships that help families address the underlying issues that brought their children into the foster care system.
Monthly meetings will provide an opportunity for the group to refine strategies and concentrate on impactful, high-quality interventions to foster the strong relationships and support systems that are essential for creating lasting stability in the lives of children and families.
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Going Beyond Words with Art Therapy | |
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Adoption can be a transformative experience for children, but it often involves navigating complex layers of trauma that require specialized support and understanding.
Expressive Art Group, a six-week art therapy class at The Baby Fold, is now enhancing the therapies already provided to adopted children, ages 7-12, in our Adoption Support and Preservation Program.
"Traditional talk therapy may not work as effectively for everyone, especially for children who find it challenging to articulate their thoughts and feelings," shares Amanda Walters, LCPC in The Baby Fold's Adoption Support and Preservation program." The new art therapy class was created to open up new channels of communication and as a result, is bringing new healing opportunities.
The class uses non-verbal, creative activities like painting and sculpting that are specifically designed to support each child's therapeutic journey. In each class, children, ages 7-12, benefit from the presence of two therapists and one social worker. Walters shares, "These expressive interventions are designed to build on the work being done in their individual and family therapy sessions, such as social skills development, emotional regulation, and building identity."
The holistic support provided by innovative approaches like art therapy, not only honors their unique journeys but also empowers them to thrive in their new environments.
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"...the most understood I've ever felt that my child has been." | |
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With the implementation of a new data system at Hammitt Schools, local media partner WGLT stopped by to learn more about the system that is bringing critical insight into student behavior.
Developed by program coordinators Kelsey Kercheval and Alissa Calandra, the "Road to Regulation" system represents a significant advancement in addressing the needs of students with autism, emotional disabilities, and developmental challenges.
Historically, data systems have faced challenges, including a heavy focus on negative behaviors. The new system factors in executive functioning and social emotional development to provide a more comprehensive picture of student skills based on their developmental age, not just their chronological age. This critical data allows for highly-tailored interventions and much quicker feedback on whether those interventions are working.
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In the article by Lyndsay Jones, Alissa Calandra shares, "We use that information to really tailor our expectations of the students and it also gives us a map for what skills we really need to focus on and teach so that we can have them develop through that next level."
The new system has received positive feedback, with educators praising its potential to improve student outcomes. Kercheval shares, "One of the parents' feedback was, 'This is the most understood I've ever felt that my child has been.' There have been a lot of praises...they really feel like it is positive while also emphasizing the deficits that the students have and giving us a clear path for where we need to go."
“Our Hammitt School staff continue to showcase their visionary approach toward creating positive outcomes for children with intensive needs. The creation of this new data system further exemplifies The Baby Fold’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence,” shares Clete Winkelmann, President and CEO.
The Baby Fold's Hammitt Schools serve special education students from 20 counties within a 60-mile radius, providing essential support for those whose needs surpass the capabilities of their local public schools.
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"100 Caring Adults" Welcome Students Back to School | |
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Students at Fairview and Cedar Ridge Elementary Schools, two of The Baby Fold's Community Schools, were emphatically welcomed back to school with a "100 Caring Adults" event!
Thanks to the Promise Council and The Baby Fold's Community Schools program, friendly faces surrounded students, offering support and cheers to kick off a fantastic new school year! This heartwarming tradition helps ensure students feel encouraged and valued right from day one!
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Don't Miss this Once-a-Year Engagement Opportunity | |
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Each November, The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees lights up the holiday season with festive cheer, captivating children and families and marking the start of the holidays in Central Illinois!
This cherished community tradition and fundraiser also offers several fun ways to get involved!
Take a moment to view these once-a-year opportunities and join our community in making a difference in the lives of children and families! Thank you!
The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees is November 21-23 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington and online at FestOfTrees.org. Tickets sales begin October 1. All proceeds go directly into bringing life-critical services to local children and families.
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Master Therapist Hosts Trauma-Informed Workforce Training | |
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The Baby Fold’s Center of Excellence is excited to announce a new Trauma-Informed Workforce Training. This groundbreaking session, scheduled for October 23, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., will provide valuable insights and actionable strategies that can reshape your workplace culture and foster a more supportive and effective environment.
Keith Brotheridge, MSW, LCSW, the trainer, is a distinguished trauma therapist, supervisor, trainer, and consultant. With his extensive experience and expertise in trauma-informed care, Keith will guide participants through proven strategies and practical applications to enhance their organizational practices.
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Participants will receive an in-depth exploration of trauma-informed practices and discover how acknowledging and addressing adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can significantly reduce workplace turnover, enhance employee satisfaction, and lower health insurance costs.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and skills to positively impact your workplace! Register here!
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It's Your Chance to Shine! | |
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Are you looking for a way to give back to the community? The Baby Fold is looking for kind people who want to enhance our work through volunteerism. Here are several opportunities!
Brüegala, Saturday, September 28 - Brüegala is fun-filled night of local brews, live music, and raising money for charity. Age 21+ volunteer here.
Fairview Elementary School's Fall Festival, Thursday, September 26 - Help the event run smoothly for kids and families. Volunteer here!
The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees, November 21-23 - Set up decorations, run the cookie and coffee shop, greet guests, and more! Age 21+ volunteer here.
The Baby Fold's Christmas Wish List, December 10-16 - Bless Baby Fold kids by helping to sort and distribute holiday gifts. Great for groups and individuals! Volunteer here.
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Spotlight on The Baby Fold's Board of Directors | |
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To acknowledge the leadership that strengthens our organization, we’re highlighting two members of our Board of Directors every month!
This month, we spotlight Marlene Dietz, a retired Leadership Consultant and travel enthusiast. Marlene lives in Bloomington with her husband, former Illinois State University President Larry Dietz. We're also featuring Board Member Linda Park, who is retired from the insurance sales industry. Linda is an active member of Normal First United Methodist Church, enjoys baking, golf, and has been the co-chair of Gingerbread Village at The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees for over 20 years.
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Marlene Dietz
Program Committee Chair
When my husband and I moved to the area in 2012, I frequently heard about The Baby Fold and was curious to learn more. Later, I had the opportunity to attend a tour, where I discovered the organization's rich history and the profound impact it has on children and families. The heart and passion of the staff for these children and families absolutely captured my heart!
Not long after, I became actively involved with The Baby Fold. I believe the work they do on so many different levels, is life-changing. The Baby Fold's services are crucial for healthy child development, safety, and home stability. They are on the leading edge in therapies that transform lives.
Without the support of the community, many children and families will not receive the education, therapies, and care they need. The mission of The Baby Fold continues to inspire me and calls to both my husband and I through our time, talent, and treasure.
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Linda Park
Board Member
Growing up in the Methodist Church, I have been aware of The Baby Fold for many years. I always knew they helped children but it wasn't until I became involved in the Baby Fold's Festival of Trees that I learned of all the ways they help families and children learn, grow, & heal. Their love shows in all that they do.
Giving to The Baby Fold will improve the lives of children and families. It is an investment in our community and the future.
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