Learn about Adverse Childhood Experiences

 

Project Self-Sufficiency will continue the workshop and discussion series, “Connections Matter”, designed to facilitate the conversation about issues surrounding adverse childhood experiences, with virtual and in-person sessions in English, Wednesday, July 12^th, 2:00 p.m., and in Spanish, Thursday, July 13^th, 2:00 p.m.  An additional online session will be offered in English on Thursday, July 20^th, 6:00 p.m.  All virtual workshops will be offered over Zoom.  Sessions are free and open to the public; interested participants are invited to call 973-940-3500 for log-in details. 

 

Participants will explore the Connections Matter curriculum, a program funded by the New Jersey Department of Children and Families and led by Prevent Child Abuse New Jersey designed to engage providers, parents, and community members in building caring connections to improve resiliency.  Discussion will focus on understanding adverse childhood experiences and demonstrate how caring connections can serve as a primary buffer in the negative effects of trauma.  The training is appropriate for parents and providers raising and teaching school aged children.

 

Speakers will address the impact of adverse childhood experiences on social, emotional, and cognitive development, and offer tips and strategies for building resiliency.  Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are widely recognized as falling into three distinct categories, abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction.  Examples of negative behavior said to result from ACEs include smoking, alcoholism, drug use, absenteeism, and lack of physical activity.  These behaviors can cause a cascade of physical and mental health problems, from diabetes to cancer to suicidal thoughts.  It is estimated that approximately 67% of the population has experienced at least one adverse childhood experience.

 

Project Self-Sufficiency is bringing together professionals, providers, and parents who are committed to increasing awareness of the impact of childhood trauma on juvenile development, future violence victimization and perpetration, and lifelong health and opportunity.  “Our goal is to help make our community a place in which every child can thrive by providing education and training on adverse childhood experiences and assuring safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments,” explains Project Self-Sufficiency Executive Director Deborah Berry-Toon. 

Free Summer Camp for Kids in July

 

Children ages 4 – 8 are invited to participate in Project Vacation, Monday, July 17^th - Friday, July 21^st, 9:00 a.m. – noon, at Project Self-Sufficiency.  This year’s Project Vacation “Going to the Farm” will use fun activities, games, crafts, and special guest presentations to explore the plants, animals, and responsibilities associated with working on a farm.  The program is free and open to the public, but space is limited, and advance registration is required.  Project Vacation will take place at Project Self-Sufficiency’s Community Education Center, which is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton.  Project Vacation is a program of the Journey Family Success Center at Project Self-Sufficiency.  To register, or to find out more information about the summer activities for families at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500 or 844-807-3500.  Additional information is available at www.projectselfsufficiency.org.

Input from Parents Needed

 

Local parents are invited to attend an information session about the Journey Family Success Center Parent Advisory Board at Project Self-Sufficiency, Tuesday, June 27^th, 5:00 p.m.  Organizers are seeking input from families regarding area services, parenting challenges and concerns, and ideas for upcoming events. Family Success Center staff will highlight ways the agency can address issues facing local parents and incorporate feedback into future programs.  Dinner and childcare will be provided for those in attendance.  Advance registration is encouraged.

 

“Input from parents is crucial to the success of the Family Success Center and we are excited about offering residents the opportunity to meet area providers, express their concerns about gaps in services, and identify strategies for moving forward,” remarked Deborah Berry-Toon, Executive Director of Project Self-Sufficiency.  “The Family Success Center has supported Sussex County parents and children for many years.  Expanding the Parent Advisory Board will allow us to further respond to the needs of area families and incorporate their feedback into existing and new programs for the community.”

 

Project Self-Sufficiency is located at 127 Mill Street in Newton.  For information about the Parent Advisory Board, or to find out more about any of the programs at Project Self-Sufficiency, call 973-940-3500 or visit www.projectselfsufficiency.org.