Spring has finally arrived in the Hudson Valley, and the Family and Consumer Education Program of Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County is flourishing with an array of programs and resources tailored for Dutchess County families and community groups!

This month, our focus revolves around two key messages. Firstly, as April marks Financial Literacy Month, we provide references information as guidance on fiscal matters and money management. Secondly, we are committed to supporting and disseminating information and resources from Prevent Child Abuse New York, particularly during Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Here are the principles we uphold:

·       Children serve as the cornerstone of a sustainable and thriving society.

·       Every child deserves to grow up in safe, secure, and nurturing environments.

·       All parents and caregivers are entitled to the support, resources, and knowledge required for effective parenting.

·       Preventing child abuse necessitates the strengthening of families and communities.

·       Each of us bears a responsibility in fostering stronger families, thus contributing to stronger communities.

Prevent Child Abuse New York stands as the sole private, nonprofit organization in the state dedicated exclusively to preventing child abuse in all its forms. Our efforts are primarily focused on prevention and proactive interventions aimed at addressing issues before they escalate—a strategy known as "primary prevention."

Our mission is to enhance family well-being through programs grounded in strengths, influencing public policy, and empowering families to apply evidence-based practices in their daily lives. Our staff provide invaluable support for relative caregivers through monthly gatherings, parenting workshops that emphasize positive discipline, adult leadership development via volunteer engagement, and youth development initiatives. Moreover, we are committed to delivering dynamic and pertinent workshops covering parenting skills, financial literacy, and wellness education to assist families in navigating various aspects of life.

#WearBlueDay:

Unite in a Sea of Blue

Date: April 5th

What You Can Do: Dress in blue to stand in solidarity with child abuse prevention efforts.

Get Social: Capture the moment and share it on your social media platforms. Use the hashtag #WearBlueDay2024 to join the nationwide wave of support.

Spread the Word: Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to participate and raise awareness about the importance of preventing child abuse.

Source: preventchildabuse.org

Digital Advocacy Day:

Amplify Your Voice for Children

Date: April 16th

Purpose: A call to action to contact your member of Congress and advocate for increased support and funding for child abuse prevention programs.

How to Participate:  Easy-to-follow guidelines and templates for reaching out to your representatives effectively are provided.

Impact: Your voice can influence policy changes and bring critical issues in child welfare to the forefront of legislative agendas.

CLICK HERE to take action now.

RAPP (Relatives As Parents Program)

FINANCIAL LITERACY

Spotlight: April is Financial Literacy Month

Heather Ohlson, Family & Consumer Education

April is Financial Literacy Month; a dedicated time to reflect on the state of financial education in local communities and across the nation. According to Standard & Poor's Ratings Services Global Financial Literacy Survey, only 57% of adults in the US are considered financially literate. While 100% of Americans are making decisions with financial impact, only half are equipped to do so.

"Financial literacy is an essential life skill for everyone's financial wellbeing, and that is why New York State continues to take bold steps to increase access to affordable banking services," Governor Hochul has said.

In addition to that state effort, Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County (CCEDC) has a history of providing financial literacy and educational resources, information and updates throughout the county.

"While we provide educational resources throughout the year, April is the time to encourage Dutchess County residents to focus on new financial tools, save a little extra money, and plan for their financial future," said Jessica Canale, Family and Consumer Education Program Leader of CCEDC.

Resources have been provided for easy weekly activities and articles to review on balancing your budget, managing debt, planning for your future and knowing your rights.

FISH ADVISORY

FAMILY & PARENTING

spring and summer season with your loved ones while keeping your budget intact! CLICK HERE to read more!

PASE (Parent And Support Education)

The Family & Consumer Education Program counts entirely on grants and donations to maintain and grow the services we offer throughout Dutchess County. Click the button below to see how you can contribute to maintaining the success of these initiatives!