February Greetings. Change is in the air! I would say “In with the new; out with the old,” but that would make me old and out, and that is not quite the message I have for you this month! It is not too far off however….

As a parent like so many of you, we have to balance a lot when just focusing on the mental health of our children can be a very full plate by itself. Parents don’t get to hide from all other responsibilities while we try to help our kids navigate childhood, teen years, young adulthood and beyond. We balance many other things, and those of us who work know all about the challenges of that balance. For me, it is time to step away from the full-time work responsibilities of leading an organization and quietly move to the background of supporting other people in leading FYIdaho forward. I am quite confident in Brenda Willson who has already been focusing on strategic planning and business development for FYIdaho as a staff member for 2 months and as a board member before that. I know she can successfully combine her skillsets in these 2 areas with her additional skillset in organizational leadership and take the full reins of FYIdaho effective immediately. What is left for me to do is assist in finding Brenda a great Director of Programs to allow both positions a manageable amount of exciting work ahead! Please see the job description for this position below in this newsletter in case you are interested or know good candidates for this important position.

I have loved leading this organization through significant change over 5½ years and I will love watching it continue to grow and evolve under new leadership. Welcome to the Executive Director position Brenda!

With sincere appreciation for my time at FYIdaho,

Ruth York

Ruth York, MPH

Executive Director, FYIdaho

Lived Experiences are as valid as any academic and/or scientific research.

They are as authentic as any educational degree and/or professional title.

If the job description below fits your skillset and interests, please go to this link to complete the first step in our interview process:

https://evaluate.indeed.com/jobs/c4d966e1-b453-47de-94fa-f3d5759d0764/interview

Job Description

Director of Programs

JOB TITLE: Director of Programs

TIME/HOURS: 1.0 FTE; 40 hours/week

SUPERVISOR: Executive Director

This position has a partially flexible schedule. Full-time schedule with occasional evening and weekend hours. Some state and national travel. This position reports to the FYIdaho Executive Director.

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

· This position will oversee FYIdaho programs and pursue opportunities that strategically support organizational growth and align with FYIdaho’s mission. The position will assess programs and staff for their strengths and excellence and recruit parents to bring their own voices of experience to child serving systems to provide a better understanding of youth mental health needs.

QUALIFICATIONS:

· Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s preferred.

· Lived and/or work experience with children’s mental health issues and advocacy.

Experience with support groups, public speaking and community outreach helpful.
Dependable vehicle required.

SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE:

Knowledge of Idaho’s youth mental health system
Excellent communication, interpersonal, organizational, problem-solving and creative thinking skills; superior verbal and written skills essential; strong multi-tasking and time management skills
A minimum of 5 years of experience in program development in human services
Successful track record authoring presentations and proposals
Strong analytical and conceptual skills
Strong management skills; prior personnel supervisory skills
Some statewide travel required

RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Manager of Family Support Line staff and Youth Programs Coordinator.

· Oversee existing FYIdaho programs for quality and growth opportunities.

Identifies and monitors new program development opportunities.
Assist with necessary tasks and processes for successful grant submission.
Responsible for successful grant execution; oversees fiscal and operational management of grants.
Keeps Executive Director apprised of the status of various organizational initiatives.
Identifies quality controls and monitors quality assurance for all grants.
Partners in the development of training materials that promote family and youth voice in YES system of care.
Partners in the development of training and educational events and support groups.
Conducts program-related presentations to community groups, the media, funders, and other agencies when requested.
Develops strong working relationships with community partners, and work collaboratively on events of mutual interest and benefit.
Participates on committees with system partners to represent FYIdaho and represent parent and youth voice into the system.

Call to Action!

We are in exciting and interesting times in Idaho as the legislative session is in full swing. We are asking you to make your voice heard on items that have an impact on our community.

Medicaid expansion repeal is a hot topic with House Bill 419 at the height of conversation. House Bill 419 is a repeal of Medicaid expansion that includes demands that are next to impossible for the state to meet, putting many of or state and community providers, families and youth at risk.

Contact your legislators to Vote “NO” on House Bill 419…. Your advocacy and voice is needed!

Rochelle Bettis

[email protected]

Jennifer Ruiz (Bilingual)

[email protected]

Did you know? We offer presentations about FYIdaho to providers, community events, and parent Need information, support or resources?

Contact one of our Certified Family Support Partners!

Call us at 208-433-8845 or email [email protected]

Join us for our online February support groups!

1) Parents of Youth with Complex Diagnosis

First Friday of the month at Noon

February 2nd

This month join FYIdaho Family Support Partner Rochelle Bettis, parents and caregivers who have a youth with a dual diagnosis. All parents are welcome!

2) Evening Caregivers' Support Group

First Monday of the month at 7:00 PM

February 5th

FYIdaho Family Support Partner Rochelle Bettis will facilitate a discussion among parent peers to help you manage the stresses of what can be an isolating journey at times. Also for parents and caregivers who need support as their child transitions to residential care or back to home.

3) Evening Coffee Chat: Feedback & Support

Third Thursday of the month at 6:30 PM

February 15th

Join FYIdaho staff member Jennifer Ruiz to discuss YES (Youth Empowerment Services) and find support/provide input for challenges you are facing.

4) Midday Caregivers' Support Group

Third Monday of the month at 12:30 PM

February 19th

5) Noon Coffee Chat: Feedback and Support

Fourth Wednesday of the month at 12:00 PM

February 28th

Join FYIdaho staff member Jennifer Ruiz to discuss YES (Youth Empowerment Services) and find support/provide input for challenges you are facing.

Treasure Valley Support for Parents of Kids Diagnosed with RAD

Join the private Facebook Group for details

Families and Youth of Idaho

208-433-8845 | www.fyidaho.org