From the Director’s Desk, May 2018
Director’s Desk
May 2018
As a new single mom (my Parent Educator) helped me through colic, going back to work, legal stress, money stress, baby daddy stress…. not only does she help me understand and encourage my child’s development by giving me information and new activities and checking his milestones, she has been an integral part of keeping my sanity.
–2018 Home Visiting Participant
As an evidence-based program we are resolute about implementing best practices, evaluating outcomes, and getting feedback on our services. It is inspiring to me to read evaluations from our participants—and see the connection to our mission to strengthen children, families and communities through education, resources, and support. In this issue we highlight the experience of one inspiring parent who participates in our home visiting program.
It has been one year since I assumed the role of executive director. I continue to be motivated by the dedication, commitment, and professionalism of the Family Resource Center board and staff. I am humbled by the generosity of time, talent, and treasure donated by individuals and businesses in the community. Good work is being done to build strong families by many partner agencies and organizations in Pierce, Polk and St. Croix Counties. One example of the commitment of our supporters is the great turnout for the April 15 Reach for the Stars gala—despite a relentless snowstorm! Thank you all.
We welcome three new board members to the table this month—Mary Van Galen, Associate of the Chancellor at UW – River Falls; St. Croix County Sheriff Scott Knudson, and Tony Gould, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Amery Regional Medical Center. And to our departing intern, UW-Stout graduate Holly Davis—thank you for your service—and all the best in your career!
As I write this, we are in the throes of renovating and expanding our space in Baldwin. The expansion will provide work stations for our parent educators and an improved program area. We appreciate the volunteer time of Board members Jack Pollitt, serving as our general contractor, and Carla O’Connell for leading the interior design. Office manager Keri Fitts is our cheerful choreographer—keeping operations going under the construction chaos. Before its complete, an estimated 50 volunteers will have donated more than 400 hours for leasehold improvements—ceiling installation, wiring, priming, painting, moving, building shelves, laying bathroom floors, and window and doors installation. We also appreciate the winter-long labors of our landlord, Jody Ramberg, for all her renovation work – especially stripping the walls to expose the beautiful brick beneath. Please stop in and see the new space!
AGNES RING
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR