April news
april is national volunteer month!
We want to take a moment to highlight our gratitude and appreciation for our incredible volunteer mentors. Your time, encouragement, and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of the youth you walk alongside.
Thank you for showing up, building trust, and investing in meaningful relationships. Your dedication does not go unnoticed; we are sincerely grateful for the impact you make.
chicago sky games
If you haven't heard the news yet: Safe Families PLUS has been chosen by the Chicago Sky to receive tickets for 5 upcoming games — and you are invited!
These tickets are free, and they are first come first serve. We would love to see you and your mentee there.
All mentors and mentees, including alumni matches, are welcome to attend all five games. Please let us know if you'd like to come to the first game (on May 23rd) by April 24th. Stay tuned for more details to come — save the dates in your calendar!
mentor support groups
Tuesday, April 28th @ 6:00pm
The March support group on Navigating Boundaries with Your Mentee has been rescheduled for April 28th. This is an important topic, so we encourage you to attend if you’re able!
Also, in honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, we welcome you to share any stories/moments that you are particularly proud of as a mentor. We want to celebrate you!
Our virtual Mentor Support Groups are held on the last Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm. Whether you are an experienced mentor or onboarding to become one, we would love to have you join. If you have any questions or run into any issues, please reach out to our Mentorship Coordinator Katie at kende@safefamilies.net.
resource: mental health first aid training
Join us for a virtual Mental Health First Aid Training presented by Association House Chicago. This free event is on Wednesday, April 29 from 9am-12pm via Zoom.
This valuable training will inform about risk factors and warning signs for mental health and addiction concerns. In addition, this training will discuss strategies for how to help someone in these situations, and where to turn for help.
We encourage mentors who are not mental health professionals to take this training so you can be better equipped to support your mentee.
To register: scan the QR code above or click here.
resource: Podcast on healing through connection
Podcast: HOPEful Conversations About Child Development
We recommend checking out this podcast, especially the first episode: Healing Through Connection: featuring Dr. Bruce Perry.
This episode discusses the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) framework and explores how positive relationships, supportive environments, meaningful engagement, and emotional growth help children heal from trauma. It also highlights the power of physical, in-person connection in an increasingly isolated world.
The HOPE framework offers a powerful shift in how we view child development. Rather than focusing solely on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the toxic stress and negative health outcomes that can result, HOPE emphasizes Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). This strengths-based approach highlights how positive experiences can reduce the impact of stress and support children and youth as they grow into resilient, healthy adults.
As a mentor, you can have a profound impact in your mentee's life through the connection and positive experiences you share!
Click here to listen