Well, after a lengthy round of holidays we are all back at work ready to take on 2010! There are a lot of challenges in this new year but also many opportunities for us to work together to create a healthy, thriving community. I hope your holidays were wonderful and that you are staying warm and dry. I would like to tell you about a visit we just received from Representative Jo Ann Emerson and also about some of our upcoming events.

Representative Jo Ann Emerson Vists The Partnership

Representative Jo Ann Emerson Listens to Jean Darnell, Director of Capable Kids and Families (top) and Shares a Laugh with Board Chair, Tom Manion

Even with all of the snow and scary weather, Darren Lingle, Legislative Aide, brought Representative Jo Ann safely to our front door. Darren called in December right before we left for the holidays and asked if we could spend some time with Representative Emerson talking about The Partnership - well of course. This morning we had a terrific visit with lots of great questions and discussion - board members Tom Manion, Mike Thompson, Ted Day, and David Duncan also joined us.

We asked how we could get funding to expand Capable Kids and Families. While we have started a small program in St. Louis we need continued and additional funds to take CKF state/nation-wide. Jean Darnell (pictured right) did a wonderful job explaining the need for the program and shared stories of families and children who have benefited from the program support and equipment.

We also talked to Representative Emerson about the disparities in child care subsidy reimbursement rates for rural providers; the need for medical care, especially for the uninsured; the needs of older foster youth; and even our need for a building. Jo Ann also commented on the great work Community Partnership's do in her district - which was nice to hear! We were so grateful for the time the Congresswoman spent with us - I will keep you posted on the results of the meeting. 

Girls Inc. Classes Coming Your Way!

Everyone Needs Help to Grow Up Strong, Smart, and Bold!

  

I get to teach another Girls, Inc. class this month! Growing Together is a five-week seminar for moms (or another trusted adult) and daughters ages nine to eleven. The next session will begin next Tuesday, January 12, 2010 with the first evening session for moms only.  The following four Tuesday evenings are for both moms and daughters. I LOVE teaching these classes because of the wonderful communication and sense of trust that grows between the daughters and their moms. Girls, Inc. emphasizes the parent’s role as the primary sexuality educators of their children and works to give them the tools they need to effectively and appropriately communicate with their daughters. Key topics include changes during puberty, anatomy, physiology and hygiene, adolescent sexual development and feelings, and values and expectations for teen sexual behavior. Girl's Inc motto is for girls to be Strong, Smart, and Bold. If you want to sign up or learn more please contact Valerie Brunk at our office.

We have additional training classes and networking meetings coming up this month - please give us a call or check out the website for additional information.

You might also want to consider attending an informational meeting for caring people who are interested in becoming foster and/or adoptive parents. Missouri Baptist Children's Home teaches classes required for foster care and adoption licensing in our area. The first meeting will answer general questions and in no way obligates you to become a foster parent - it is just a great way to learn more. The first session is next Tuesday (1/12/10) at Salem Avenue Baptist Church in Rolla at 6 p.m. If you would like additional information please contact Brock Ballard.

Please Keep Warm!