Envrionmental Alternatives
Office Coordinator Jane Strohmaier and Social Worker Kate Pomeroy presented a very informative program on Environmental Solutions (EA) a private non-profit corporation that provides a variety of residential programs to children unable to remain in their own homes. Founded in 1981, EA is the third largest organization of its kind in California. The biological family is, of course, the first choice to raise a child. But when a parent is unable to take care of a child for any number of reasons – neglect, abuse, homelessness of parents. Some parents may voluntarily place a child in foster care temporarily while they concentrate on putting their lives in order – find a job, permanent housing, addiction, etc. Whatever the reason, EA is there to help. Unfortunately, they do not have the most important resource for a child placement – foster families.
What are the requirements? Foster parents are people who, having come to understand all of these realities choose to become substitute families for these children in need. They are people who are genuinely concerned about the well-being of children and families and want to help them grow into healthy, happy, productive adults. Parents who do choose to become foster parents are not alone in the adventure. They are supported by EA with weekly home visits by social work staff, substantial financial reimbursement, training and continuing education, 24-hour support, counseling and crisis intervention support services.
The program for youth transitioning out of foster care provides training to make them ready to live on their own. One of the goals is to help guide these young people in the direction of continued academics or vocational training. EA is looking for businesses to mentor them especially in a vocational environment.
Yet another way to support the program is to take advantage of the Lake Francis Resort operated by EA in Dobbins, California. The resort is designed for family camping experiences. Earnings from this resort are used to provide foster children with summer camp experiences at Camp Rockin’ U, also operated by EA. The camp is open to all children and is accredited by the American Camping Association.
Our newest members, Joe Edwards (sponsored by Jim) and Darryl Swarm (sponsored by Dwight). Welcome!!!
Pre concussion shot of Donna! Were was Joe (CHP) and our attorneys?
Inspirational Thought
Life Is An Amazing Journey
(by Nancy Ladd)
Life is an amazing journey and as you embark on this journey of your life - make
a choice. Choose to give the world the best you have. It won't always be easy;
but do it anyway.
Life, your life, is an incredible gift and as an individual you have so much to
offer the world and yourself. Don't be caged by your fears - either real or
perceived; don't be limited by other people's expectations of you and most
importantly - don't merely endure this amazing gift of life.
Throughout the journey of your life, you will encounter hopes, dreams,
challenges, set backs, new beginnings and the inevitable goodbyes. Yet
despite all of this, you must choose to give yourself and the world the best you
have.
Give the world the best you have by putting yourself out there and living life.
Don't merely be a spectator. Sure, it may be safer, but nothing compares to
living life, rather than merely watching it. Yes, it takes guts and daring and a
willingness to take risks - but it'll be so worth it - despite the bumps and
scratches and bruises that you are sure to receive along the way.
Cherish the amazing relationships in your life and worry less about who
may or may not like you. Listen ... really listen to others; have empathy and
compassion- strive to always build people UP rather than break them down.
Stop sweating the small stuff - dirty footprints on a polished floor, grubby
hands marking a crisp linen shirt as they encircle your waist in a hug, bad hair
days, less than perfect make-up, expression lines deepening as your face starts
to reflect life's experiences ... the relentless pursuit of wealth and the
accumulation of stuff!
Instead - laugh more, love more, forgive often. Smile irrepressibly, be
spontaneous and at times even impetuous, cry when your heart is breaking and
reach out when your heart is overflowing.
For it is this that will define your life! It is these qualities that will allow you to
give the world the best you have!
The people who will make the most difference in your life are not the ones with
the most credentials, the most money or the most awards and recognition. They
are the ones who care.
So, care enough to give the world the best you have and you will be giving the
world a tiny miracle - small ... yet hugely significant.