Denver Department of Human Services desires to broaden and deepen our partnerships with the greater Denver community. This newsletter is an opportunity for members of the community to network with others who desire to effectively support and serve Denver's families.

Denver Human Services

Useful Phone Numbers

April Edition, 2012

Mandated Reporting: What Happens Next? Many states, including Colorado, designate professions whose members are required by law to report child maltreatment. Deemed mandated reporters, these professionals are required to report suspected child abuse or maltreatment when, in their professional roles, they have reasonable cause to suspect intentional harm has been inflicted. “Although mandated reporters are required by law to report, anyone who witnesses abuse or suspects that a child may be being abused should call,” said Korey Elger, Intake Supervisor for Denver Human Services.

A 24-hour hotline, at 720-944-3000, is available for reports of suspected child abuse or neglect. When calling, highly trained Child Protection Professionals will ask questions that will result in the obtaining the most relevant information. “You have the first hand knowledge from the family, and we want to know what you have observed,” said Amy Beery, Intake Administrator for Denver Human Services. “Your communication with the hotline might be long and full of many questions, but your helpfulness in reporting allows us to find the balance between being over-intrusive and under-responsive.” Story continued on page three

Child Abuse Hotline 720-944-3000

Adult Protection Hotline

720-944-2994

DHS Customer Service

720-944-3666

Child Support Services

720-944-2960

Foster Care 720-944-4000

GIVE Denver 720-944-GIVE (4483)

City & County Information

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Colorado Relay/TDD 711

Mark Your Calendars! The next Community Engagement meeting

will be held: May 22

9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. At Denver Human Services (1200 Federal Blvd, Denver)

On any given day, there are around 850 children in Denver living in out-of-home care because they been abused or neglected. As a society that places priority on keeping children safe and out of harm’s way, we must do all we can to make sure future generations are treated with dignity and respect. Throughout the month of April, Denver Human Services and Prevent Child Abuse Colorado, a nonprofit organization, are teaming up to plant blue and silver Pinwheels for Prevention gardens throughout Denver. The pinwheels are reflective of the bright futures that all children deserve to have. “It’s everyone’s responsibility to look out and protect children,” Toni Rozanski, Child Welfare Services Director at Denver Human Services says. “The pinwheel garden symbolizes our commitment to helping children thrive and achieve the bright futures they are meant to have; free from child abuse and neglect." There are five simple ways parents and adults can prevent child abuse and neglect.

Pinwheels for Prevention Gardens Reflect Children’s Bright Futures

Story continued on page two

The first is Family Resilience. Since challenging times impact every family, it’s important to re-member that hope and a positive attitude will help families overcome obstacles. Next is parent development. Just as children go to school, it is vital parents take time to learn about child development. Learning comes in the form of reading books, taking a parenting class or conduct-ing research online. This knowledge empowers parents with how to set realistic expectations and gives us tools to cope with challenging parenting situations. Third is child development. Parents need to help children develop emotionally and socially. These life skills help children identify their feel-ings, clearly communicate to other people, and problem solve. Perhaps the most important is for parents to surround themselves with a strong support net-work made up of family and friends. Being a par-ent is tough and no one can do it alone. Family and friends provide parents with breaks, support and advice. A good network prevents parents from becoming isolated, which is vital to preventing child abuse and neglect. Finally, turn to teachers, day care workers, doc-tors or other child care professionals for advice. These child professionals can easily offer parents advice during times of need. It takes parents and the entire community working together to keep kids safe and protected. As we embark on Child Abuse Prevention month we encourage every person to reach out and support parents and children. Pinwheel Gardens will be on display at the Denver Botanic Gardens, Children’s Museum, and at various city buildings and Denver Public Schools throughout the month of April. The Barnes and Noble downtown location will also showcase parenting books during this time. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, please call your local county human services de-partment. In Denver, the hotline is 720-944-3000. Additionally, if you feel your voice is not being heard by a child protection agency, please call the Office of Colorado Child Protection Ombudsman toll-free at 855-5-SAFEKIDS (855-572-3354) to voice your concerns. For additional information, please visit www.denvergov.org/PreventChildAbuse.

Pinwheels, Continued Denver Human Service Upcoming Events

Free Love & Logic Parenting Workshop, 3815

Steele St., April 26, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. (DenverGov.org/PreventChildAbuse)

Safe Summer Kickoff, Kepner Middle School, May

12, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Memorial Day Remembrance March & Ceremony, Downtown Denver, May 26, 9 a.m.

(DenverGov.org/Veterans)

It’s Okay to Speak Up: A World Elder Abuse Awareness Event. City Park Pavilion, June 15, 9

a.m. – noon (DenverGov.org/ElderAbuse)

Foster Care Information Meetings (DenverGov.org/FosterCare)

On June 29, from noon to 4p.m., Denver Human Services—along with CASA, Community Partners, Denver Juvenile Court, GALS and attorneys—will be holding Denver’s 2nd Annual “Reunification Day” celebration. The event celebrates families who have successfully reunified in 2011 or early 2012 (with a closed case). The celebration will be held at the Denver Zoo. In addition to a short ceremony honoring the hard work of the families, there will be food, fun with zoo animals, and an afternoon for exploring the zoo. In order to make Reunification Day a successful event, Denver Human Services needs your help in identifying families who might be interested in participating. Please send a short email with the information on a family you would like to invite to either jude.liguori@denvergov.org, nathan.oneal@denvergov.org, or gretchen.russo@judicial.state.co.us. Please submit the information regarding any families you would like to invite by April 13, 2012.

Reunification Day Needs Family Nominations

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When calling the hotline, be prepared to answer questions such as: the name of the child; the name(s) of the alleged perpetrator(s); address and phone information of the family; and the details of what you have observed. “It is important that you only report facts, and not your own speculations,” said Elger. “From there, our hotline staff will determine if there is an eminent danger to the child and respond accordingly.” If eminent danger is determined, Denver Human Services staff will respond immediately to the hotline call. If the hotline staff determines that there is not an immediate risk, the case will be investigated within one to five working days. While Colorado Statute prevents Denver Human Services staff from sharing reporter information with the alleged perpetrators, individuals calling have the hotline have the option to remain anonymous. Anonymous reports, however, eliminate you as a resource for intake workers during their investigations, should additional questions arise. “As a reporter you have rights and responsibilities,” said Elger. “You have the right to not disclose your name, and you have the responsibility to only report—and not prove—what you have seen.” Reporters may call the Hotline to inquire about the status of their report. With respect for confidentiality, hotline staff will only disclose if the report was assigned for investigation or not. After an investigation takes place, multiple outcomes can occur: assessments can be closed with community resources provided to the family, or Team Decision Making Meetings (TDM) involving the caseworker, the supervisor, the parents/caretakers, facilitators, and anyone the family requests to be present can be held to determine if out of home placement is appropriate for the child. When safety concerns for the child cannot be resolved, a dependency and neglect case will be filed in Denver Juvenile Court. “I’ve never met a bad parent,” said Elger. “I have only met parents without coping skills. And that’s why we work with them.” Elger added that she is “always happy to do trainings” with community partnering agencies to educate on abuse and neglect. If you have additional questions or would like to schedule a training, she can be reached at Korey.Elger@denvergov.org. “Our system is written in past tense, so it is up to you to make the report on behalf of an abused or neglected child,” said Beery. “We rely on you and count on you to help us with future prevention efforts to keep our children safe.”

Mandated Reporting, Continued

In addition to Denver Human Services’ Child Abuse and Neglect hotline, a not-for-profit organization is providing an anonymous way for young people to report threatening behaviors. Safe2Tell, an organization based on the Colorado Prevention Initiative for School Safety, operates a free 24-hour hotline where youth can report child abuse, as well as other violent behaviors such as planned fights, teasing and harassment, suicidal threats, sexual misconduct, weapons, or animal abuse. “The program focuses on kids and the issues they face today,” safe2tell.org reports. “This program was based on the Columbine Commission Report’s recommendation that students need a safe and anonymous way to keep lines of communication open, that tragedies could be prevented if young people had a way to tell someone what they knew without fearing retaliation.” Protected by C.R.S. 07-197, the reporting party’s information will remain unknown to Safe2Tell staff. Reports can be made by calling-1-877-542-7233 or through the internet by logging onto www.safe2tell.org. Safe2Tell wants every student to know that “telling isn’t snitching.” Rather, “Telling is when you need to keep yourself or someone you know safe from threats, harmful behaviors, or dangerous situations.”

Safe2Tell Provides Youth an Anonymous Reporting Hotline

What to do if you suspect child abuse or neglect:

• CALL: 720-944-3000 to file a report with Denver Human Services.

• Ask enough to know the basic information, then discontinue questions and leave the details to the investigating worker.

• Do NOT take pictures (they cannot be used by Human Service Workers or the Police, as they would be part of a criminal investigation).

• Refrain from reacting verbally, emotionally or physically to the declaration.

• Report the outcry as quickly as possible, being sure to report only what you know and not what you suspect or believe.

Nonprofit organizations can take advantage of an intentional connection to the City and County of Denver. The Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships (DOSP) serves as a liaison between the City of Denver and the nonprofit sector. Created in January of 2004, DOSP operates under the core belief that by working together collectively, both the public and nonprofit sectors can be more efficient and effective in strengthening Denver’s communities. “We serve as a bridge between the city and local nonprofits to help create the change we all want to see,” said Dace West, DOSP Director. “We are intentional about the variety of ways in which we can be in community.” DOSP has three areas of focus: connecting government and nonprofits, actively supporting collaborations, and

maximizing community resources. The first strategy focuses on providing nonprofit and government agency staff the skills, tools, and information to be able to build new partnerships or deepen those they currently have. This occurs through trainings, capacity building, personalized introductions, and other resources. DOSP facilitates conversations around the readiness to partner, the cultural/process differences between nonprofits and city agencies, and making the best use of established relationships. Additionally, DOSP typically provides active support to one to two collaborative efforts at a time, and remains actively engaged with those projects for a period of two to four years. “An example of our active support of collaborations would be our Green and Healthy Homes Initiative,” said West. “We facilitate conversations between all the providers who make greener, healthier, safer homes, and how they can work together to get families needed resources.” Organizations that want to introduce themselves to DOSP are invited to do so at DOSP’s monthly “Connection Sessions.” Set up in half-hour increments, these opportunities for connections are open to anyone associated with a nonprofit or City agency. Time slots can be reserved with West at dace.west@denver.org. “If you haven’t intersected with our office, come talk to us, sign up for our newsletter, or come to a training,” said West. “We are really excited to get the Denver community working together.” For more information about DOSP, please visit www.denvergov.org/strategicpartnerships/.

The Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships fosters active collaborations between Denver nonprofits and City Agencies. Photo credits: www.denvergov.org/strategicpartnerships/

DOSP Fosters Community Collaborations

Summer is a high risk time for youth. With the closing of schools for summer vacation and the ending of many after-school programs, youth are often left in vulnerable situations throughout the summer months. The Safe Summer Kickoff is a collaborative community event that brings together local residents and organizations to celebrate and promote a safe and healthy summer.

It is organized by the S o u t h w e s t D e n v e r Coalition. This year’s event will be Saturday, May 12, from 11a.m.—2p.m. at Kepner Middle School (911 S. Hazel Ct. Denver, CO 80219). A community resource fair is offered in addition to the fun activities for children, as well as free food and entertainment for the whole family. Any community partner or business that serves the

southwest Denver area is invited to participate in the resource fair. There is no charge for a booth and all participants will receive a free lunch. If you have any questions about the Safe

Summer Kickoff, or if you a r e i n t e r e s t e d i n participating in the r e s o u r c e f a i r o r vo l unteer i ng , p l eas e contact Jodi Lockhart at jodi.lockhart@denvergov.org or 720.944.2839.

Coalition to Host Safe Summer Kickoff; Community Resource Fair

Youth enjoying the festivities of the 2011 Safe Summer Kickoff event.

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A Denver-based grassroots organization is providing space for accountability, youth success, empowerment, and restoration. T h e V i c t i m O f f e n d e r Reconciliation Program of Denver, or VORP, operates under the vision of a community where all kids can succeed in reaching their highest potential because they’ve had the opportunity to learn from their mistakes, gain the skills needed to deal with conflict, and never become involved in the Criminal Justice System. Founded in 1993, in response to Denver’s summer of violence, VORP works in collaboration with the Denver juvenile justice system to provide an opportuni ty for intervention before youth offenses, such as shoplifting, lead to crimes resulting in incarceration. “Our values are based in social justice, community, non-violent conflict resolution, and family,” said Angell Pérez, executive director of VORP. “We work for empowerment and healing, not for punitive action.” VORP has two programs tailored to serving youth and the community: RESTORE, and Community Group Conferencing (CGC). The RESTORE Program provides a voluntary opportunity for youth who have shoplifted to deal with their charge in a way that is meaningful to themselves and the community. “Low-level shoplifters and their families come together on a Saturday morning and meet with our panel of community members to talk about how to restore trust,” said Pérez. “Because so many of our youth report that they feel they don’t have trusting relationships with positive adult role models in their lives, our panel discussion is critical to their success.”

In the past, the panel has included loss prevention representatives from King Soopers, as well as a husband and wife team of Reverends that actively work with the incarcerated. The husband candidly shares his personal story of incarceration, which he adamantly believes stemmed from his teenage years of shoplifting. After the panel discussion, the youth and their families divide themselves into groups of two or three to dig deeper into their stories and experiences. They are asked questions such as, “How did it feel,” and “What effect has your shoplifting had on your family?” “One of our program participants shared that he is now constantly asked by his little sister, ‘Brother, why would you steal?’” said Pérez. “By creating space to have mediated conversations, he and other teens are achieving restoration—both in their families and in their communities—and working to fix their harms.” Youth work together with the group to develop a contract that will outline the actions they will take to be accountable for the harm they’ve caused. This could be an art project, community service, or even a letter to the merchant they stole from. The youth and families then come back a month later to talk about how the contract was completed and what was learned. The second program offered is

Community Group Conferencing (CGC). This process allows for the creation of a safe environment where victims of crime, such as petty theft or graffiti, can face the offender that caused them harm. The victims get to see the offender take responsibility for their crime, and negotiate a contract to repair the harm of their dispute. VORP’s programs, RESTORE and CGC, could not be accomplished without the work of community volunteers. Volunteers receive extensive training on restorative justice and inclusiveness, and learn to develop practical skills on how to support youth and families in an empowering way. VORP will hold its next restorative justice and inclusiveness training on Saturday, April 21, beginning at noon. The training will last approximately four hours, and will be held at VORP’s office (430 West 9th Avenue, Denver 80204). For more information, or to sign up for the training, contact Executive Program Assistant Cayenna Johnson at 303-534-6167 or visit VORP’s website at www.vorpofdenver.org. “We need volunteers who are interested in supporting youth, who can connect with their experiences, and who can build strong rapports,” said Pérez. “If you have a heart for this population, I strongly encourage you to come to one of our trainings.”

Participants of VORP’s RESTORE Program listen a panel of speakers before breaking into groups to discuss their experiences. Photo Credits: http://www.vorpofdenver.org/

Youth Restoration: the Story of VORP

The Colorado Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center (CSADVC) is planning an event dedicated to survivors of sexual assault, and are asking survivors, families & friends to come and enjoy a day of planting, shopping and eating. CSADVC’s first annual “Garden of Hope” event will take place on April 21, from 9a.m. to 5p.m. CSADVC will offer a garden space for planting flowers and other greenery in honor of all victims, families and friends who have been affected by sexual assault. Planting this garden will foster the development of a community of unspoken victims. Studies have shown that gardening brings people together from a wide variety of backgrounds working together for one common goal. CSADVC invites you to bring a plant, stepping stone or lawn ornament to be placed in the “Garden of Hope”. Guests have the option of purchasing plants for a small donation or can bring their own plants. In addition to the gardening, CSADVC will also be host a silent auction throughout the day. Some items include health and beauty gift certificates, comforters, and jewelry. Proceeds from the silent auction will be used to support the center in caring for the victims of sexual assault. A BBQ will be held at the event from 11a.m. to 1p.m. CSADVC is honored to be hosting this event and looking forward to spending the day with all who attend. If you have any questions regarding this event p l e a s e c o n t a c t C S A D V C D i r e c t o r , Bernadine.Mellinger@csadvcdenver.org or A s s o c i a t e D i r e c t o r LisaMarie.Ramirez@csadvcdenver.org.

CSADVC to Host First Annual “Garden of Hope” Event

For over 25 years, the Domestic Violence Program (DVP) has served as the sole state government entity devoted entirely to funding and sustaining community-based domestic violence programs. DVP, a program of the Colorado Department of Human Services, ensures that services to domestic violence victims and their children are readily available through Colorado’s diverse communities. “By coordinating with community partnering agencies, we are making sure we have a shared understanding of what domestic violence is, and how we can effectively intervene,” said Ruth Glenn, DVP Program Director. DVP’s community coordination efforts occur in a variety of forms. In addition to funding domestic violence programs, the program is responsible for working collaboratively with state entities, counties, and community stakeholders to address domestic violence policy and legislative initiatives. “We fund 44 programs within in the state,” said Glenn. “To receive funding, they have to meet certain requirements such as 24/7 service to victims and crisis intervention.” Local programs funded by the DVP represent rural and urban, shelter and non-shelter, and specialized services. Programs also provide direct services to victims in traditionally underserved areas and populations. Community partner agencies are invited to apply for DVP’s special projects funding. Information can be found on their webpage at http://www.colorado.gov/cdhs/dvp.

DVP to Provide Special Projects Fund

Innocent accident victims often find themselves struggling to afford even the most necessary household expenses. Marrick Medical founded Marrick Cares, a non-profit organization, to give back to our community and serve the under-served. The mission of Marrick Cares is to assist individuals and families, who through no fault of their own, are in a situation where it is difficult to provide basic needs such as food, clothing, or transportation for themselves or their family. If you have a client treating through Marrick Medical who needs help making ends meet, fill out the Marrick Cares application today. If chosen, your client will receive a $100 Grocery Gift Card from Marrick Cares acknowledging your thoughtfulness on their behalf. For more information, please visit Marrick’s website at http://www.marrickmedical.com.

Marrick Medical Helps Accident Victims

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iFoster began in 2010 when co-founders Reid & Serita were trying to think of ways to help at-risk children and youth in foster care. Over the past two years, iFoster has grown to become one of the largest and most inclusive nonprofits serving child welfare and low income families. They support over 850,000 children, maintaining a focus on emancipating foster youth who are about to leave the child welfare system with little to no support. In August 2011, iFoster launched a

program called “Get Connected!” in response to the community’s most f r e q u e n t l y r e q u e s t e d n e e d : inexpensive computers and internet access to help children succeed and graduate from school. Through partnerships with Microsoft and LifeSpan Technology Refurbishing, iFoster offers high-quality, low-cost, business-class laptops and desktops, including Windows 7 and Microsoft Office Basic and other Microsoft software, shipped directly to customers, for prices far below the cost of the software alone. To sign up to receive discounted computers and free tech support for

y o u r y o u t h , p l e a s e v i s i t www.ifoster.org. iFoster will email you a welcome letter and secure login information to access their website once they have confirmed your eligibility to join.

iFoster’s Affordable Technology for Child Welfare and Foster Youth

iFoster provides affordable technology for at-risk youth within child welfare.

The University of Denver is in need of participants for a new GRAD Study on genes and reading disabilities. Children ages 8-15 of Latino or African American descent are invited to volunteer to help in a research study of dyslexia, a learning disability that impairs a person’s fluency or comprehension accuracy in reading. “Learning disabilities have only been studied in Caucasian children,” said Dan Leopold, Graduate Research Assistant for the University’s study. “We want to expand what we know about these disabilities and create screening tools so we can intervene with struggling children as soon as possible.” The study involves taking school tests and a saliva (spit) DNA sample. Children will be compensated $25.00 for the 2.5 hour study, and parking will be free. “We are targeting children who are struggling in school,” said Leopold. “Families will also receive feedback letters on their child’s performance.” For more information or to sign up to participate in the study, contact Dan Leopold at (303) 871-3701 or dan.leopold@du.edu.

Dyslexia Study Needs Participants

As a young man, Robert Miller was very caring for his family in Clifton Forge, VA. In his professional life, Robert worked as a Clinical Psychiatric Social Worker. He left a legacy of truly caring about people, and assisting them in achieving self-sustainment. It was only natural that Robert’s daughter Jocelyn would dedicate an educational center to her father. Thus, the Robert A. Miller Educational Resource Center (RAMERC) was formed. Located at 2811 Harrison Street in Denver (80205), RAMERC provides support for parents, caregivers, and teachers by co nduct ing interactive workshops and classes. RAMERC also has life skills activities and programs for children and young adults. RAMERC features a variety of workshops for parents and caregivers, including classes such as “Copycats,” a lesson in the importance of parents as role models for children, or

“Two Languages Spoken Here,” a resource for raising a child bilingually. Parents who participate in RAMERC’s coaching program have reported strengthened bonds and communication with their child, better coping skills in dealing with stressful situations, and the importance of participating in educational activities with their child. Youth within RAMERC’s program have also had positive growth in self-esteem, the prevention of health disparities within their families, and the development of organization and life skills. This spring, RAMERC will celebrate its 7th Anniversary of service to Denver’s most vulnerable populations. All are invited to attend anniversary celebrations, including a Kinship Support/Drum-line Clinic (for youth) on April 20, conversational English/Spanish classes on April 27, and a Spring Fling celebration on May 13. RAMERC appreciates your RSVP at 303-321-3202. For a schedule of classes, as well as more information about RAMERC, please visit their website at www.ramerc.com.

Educational Resource Center Benefits Denver Parents; Youth

Gardeners work outside the RAMERC Center, fostering community and growth in more ways than one.

The American Association for Strengthening Families and Communities welcomes your involvement within its Metropolitan Denver Branch. At its Citywide Coalition Summit (boasting record breaking attendance) in March, 2012, the community established the desire for a coalition effort in order to enhance the following activities: sharing information/networking, collaboration, and policy informing. As the hub for a citywide coalition, the AAFSC seeks to facilitate partnership among a multitude of entities including, community and faith based, public sector, private sector, and other organizations. The goal is to develop a Community Based Family Systemic Approach

to serving and protecting future generations in the Denver Community. This goal is attained through a variety of venues identified as five Task Forces including: Economic Development, Reentry (DOC), Youth Issues, Homelessness, and Healthy Relationships/Domestic Violence (Dually-Headed Households). As a result of its recent Coalition Summit, the AASFC will be meeting monthly (every third Friday afternoon, from 2:00-3:30p.m.), in preparation for its annual conference on August 24, 2012. For more information please e-mail AASFC@CCESJ.org, call 303-831-4500 or visit www.CCESJ.org.

AASFC Invites Community Involvement

Please help us Celebrate the 7th Anniversary of

RAMERC (The Robert A. Miller Educational Resource Center)

2815 Harrison Street, Denver (80205)

April 20

Kinship Support 12:00—2:00p.m.

April 27

Conversational English/Spanish classes 2:00—4:00p.m.

MAY 13

Spring Fling! 2:30—6:30p.m.

$1 Donation at the Door is appreciated *please call (303) 321-3202 to RSVP

The Miracles Program is a substance abuse treatment program designed specifically for women. Our integrated approach to recovery addresses multiple issues, such as trauma and mental health in addition to substance abuse disorders. The Miracles Program addresses illegal drugs, prescription drug abuse, addictive behaviors, and a broad range of related issues. Our program deals with nearly every area of life that negatively impacts a women’s ability to attain and maintain sobriety. Miracles is a program for women 18 and older. Referrals from primary health care providers, Child Welfare, court ordered treatment, Department of Corrections, Human Services and probation or parole are all welcome. The Miracles Program also accepts Medicaid. Please contact us for further information at abelcher@milehighcouncil.orh or cgibson@milehighcouncil.org.

Introducing: The Miracles Program

Searching for Resources?

Family Voices Colorado is happy to introduce…

The Colorado Resource Directory

www.coloradoresourcedirectory.net

This online search engine has thousands of resources primarily geared toward families or professionals who work with children or adults who have special healthcare needs. Want to add a Resource? Click on the “contact us” button to make your suggestion. *This site converts resources into various languages.

Flagship Help Center is currently recruiting low-income youth to be a part of its new “Anchors Away” program. The program, created for youth ages 14-21, provides help with graduation, job placement, career exploration, GED prep programs, assistance with vocational school/college selection, and job readiness. It also offers mentoring and leadership development. Youth living in zip codes 80205, 80207, 80238, 80239, and 80249 are eligible for Flagship’s programs. Because “Anchors Away” is a WIA funded program, youth in the program must meet at least one of the following requirements, in addition to being low-income: reside in district 8 or 11; be a school dropout; be pregnant or parenting; be an offender; have deficiency in basic literacy skills; have a disability; or require additional assistance to complete an educational p r o g r a m o r t o s e c u r e e m p l o y m e n t . For more information about the “Anchors Away” program, please contact Mr. Habakkuk Ammishaddai or Mr. David King at 303-371-6351. The Flagship Help Center is a community-based, nonprofit organization located at 4755 Paris Street, in Denver (80239).

“Anchors Away” Program Recruits Youth

Colorado State University Extension is offering a free nutrition program for eligible families. The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) teaches participants about healthy eating and the importance of being active in 60 to 90 minute lessons. The program lasts eight to ten weeks and is administered by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. “These classes break down the barriers to explain how easy it is to eat healthy and live healthy, even on a limited budget,” said Akwe Starnes, EFNEP educator. Participants in the EFNEP will learn about saving money at the grocery store, cooking and planning healthy meals, and keeping food safe. Each lesson will also have the opportunity to prepare and taste new recipes. Program eligibility requirements target limited resource homes. Families who are eligible for programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), WIC, or Head Start are eligible for EFNEP. In addition to the free EFNEP lessons, participants will receive free take-away items such as a produce brush, measuring cups and spoons, and a cook book. Past EFNEP participants have also reported an increase in self-confidence, leading to an increased pride of community. For more information about the program, please visit www.efnep.colostate.edu.

CSU to Offer Free Nutrition Program

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The Denver Housing Authority (DHA) Family Self-Sufficiency & Service Coordinator Program Coordinating Committee (PCC) allows DHA staff, DHA Program Participants & residents of Public Housing & Section 8, and Community Agencies to come together to establish a relationship to share and seek services to assist our clients work towards economic self-sufficiency. Residents will provide insight on what services they feel are in need and let us know what services have been beneficial for them. The DHA is interested in expanding the committee to collaborate with more agencies to provide services and self-sufficiency classes for our program participants and residents of DHA Public Housing and Section 8. Classes will be focused on education, employment, financial fitness, life skills and computers. The PCC meets 4 times a year (January, April, July, October ) for an hour and a half at one of the DHA Opportunity Center. The next PCC Meeting will be held on April 25 from 10a.m. to 11:30a.m. at the Westwood Opportunity Center (855 S. Irving St. Denver, CO 80219). For more information, please contact Kasandra Ornelas at kornel@denverhousing.org or 720-956-3817.

Program Coordinating Committee Invites Agencies to Share Insights

Denver Public Schools is excited to take enrollment for its new City Park Innovation School, DC -21. DC-21 opened in August 2011 to serve students in grades 6-12 from the metro Denver area. This alternative options school is an ideal choice for students who are over age and under credits, or who have not experienced success in traditional high school offerings. The school is housed at 1690 Williams Street. With a self-paced curriculum, DC-21 serves as a “Re-Engagement Center” for students who might have previously dropped out of school. Small class sizes, positive teacher-to-student relationships, and teacher supported online classrooms (with hands-on project-based learning) make the school an attractive option to students. DC-21 is looking for motivated students who may be struggling with external/internal challenges, who desire to graduate from a DPS high school, and who would like to

further their education. Preference is given to students who have had no more than two behavior suspensions per year in the last two years, as well as no less than 75% attendance per year in the last two years. In addition to earning one’s Diploma, DC-21 offers an in-house GED program. For enrollment information or additional questions, please visit http://dc21.dpsk12.org/.

DPS to Offer New Innovation School

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News & Information

Special thanks to Elizabeth Rumbel for her contributions of stories and the creation of this newsletter. For more information or if you would like to see your organization featured in the “Community Engager,” please contact Patricia Garcia at Patricia.Garcia@denvergov.org or 720-944-1170.

GIVE Denver Center Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday

9a.m. – 3 p.m.

It could be said that Caitlin Oken was the first official volunteer within the GIVE Denver Center. With her volunteerism starting in May of 2011, Caitlin has watched the GIVE blossom from its chaotic beginning to its contemporary effectiveness as a stop-gap organization. “It’s amazing to see how things have grown here,” said Caitlin. “When we first opened our doors to clients we were wondering how things would turn out, and if we would even have clients to serve.” Caitlin serves as a Resource Navigator (RN) within the GIVE. As an RN, she assists clients with their state program applications, answers questions about programs and resources, and supports populations by working as a partner in acquiring resources for walk-in clients. “I keep in mind the servant-leadership philosophy when working with clients,” Caitlin explained when asked how she recharges and continues to keep coming back to an environment that can be emotionally challenging. “I know I can only effectively serve when I am able to understand the struggles of our clients, and care for them.” Caring and compassion go hand-in-hand for Caitlin. She observed that often clients just want to feel like their stories are heard—and that being a sounding board for the daily struggles of Denver’s underserved population is just as valuable as the physical resources the GIVE is able to provide. Physical resources provided by GIVE Resource Navigators include diapers, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, brushes, and household cleaners. These basic necessities are donated to the GIVE and are accepted any time the GIVE is open. Monetary donations are also welcomed. “Our clients are working so hard to take care of their families that they sometimes don’t have time to talk about their emotions,” said Caitlin. “Being there for them in that capacity is one of my favorite parts about this volunteer position.” The idea of volunteerism is not new to Caitlin. It has always been stressed within her family, and she has freely given her talents and service to a variety of Denver nonprofits.

“I’ve done a lot of volunteer work, but this was the first time I have seen how much my insight matters,” said Caitlin, referring to her inclusion in many GIVE Denver decision making processes. “It is great to serve in an environment where my feedback allows us to better develop our practices.” Caitlin’s dedication to the team of RN’s at the GIVE has allowed over 300 clients to be served since the GIVE’s inception. She works closely with a team of other RN volunteers, sharing resources and providing hope to foster children, veterans, homeless individuals, at-risk seniors, and families. “The GIVE does a good job at maintaining a sense of cohesiveness between volunteers,” said Caitlin. “We all have a heart for service and I love everyone I work with.” By volunteering within Denver Human Services, individuals can serve a variety of populations while utilizing their own skills and experiences. Additionally, volunteers contribute to making Denver a better place to live. Denver Human Services has various volunteer opportunities throughout the year. For more information about the GIVE, or to become a volunteer like Caitlin, please contact 720-944-4483 (GIVE) or give@denvergov.org.

Caitlin will celebrate one year of volunteer service with the GIVE Denver Center this May.

Spotlight on Volunteers: Caitlin Oken