We are excited to share news about the new TRANSFORM Research Center at Mount Hope Family Center, one of Children’s Institute’s longstanding partners and community neighbors. Dr. Jody Todd Manly, Clinical Director at Mt Hope Family Center, explained that the new Center will provide guidance to providers around ensuring child wellness, provide the latest research to lawmakers, and support education structures for parents. While the TRANSFORM Center focuses primarily on preventing child abuse and neglect, this research also informs childcare for all young people.
January is National Mentoring Month in the US, and with the new year comes an excellent opportunity to begin, build, or grow positive mentoring relationships for youth in your schools and programs. For those who have read Homer’s Greek epic The Odyssey (possibly not since your own school days), Mentor is known as the close friend of Odysseus who is responsible for Telemachus, Odyssesus’ son, during his long voyage and the Trojan War. Perhaps a bit closer to our modern applications, a mentor is simply an experienced and trusted advisor, guide, or friend.
In the spirit of reflecting on culture and the upcoming winter holiday season, our staff had fun chatting about our own families’ customs and cultural practices. We found a lot in common with each other and we heard some fun stories about unique traditions.
By Elizabeth Devaney
Director, Whole Child Connection
By Caitlin Orbanek