A personal note from Starfish CEO Ann Kalass Dear friends, When I came to Starfish Family Services in 2007, I made two commitments on Day One. First, was to always do the right thing for children and families, even when it was hard. Perhaps most when it was hard. Second, was to steward the existing Starfish culture of loyalty to mission, teamwork, and deep love of children and families. In the nearly 15 years since beginning this journey, my own daughters have become amazing young adults, I’ve witnessed new teachers become master educators changing lives every day---and therapists partner with families to heal and build skills and resilience. I’ve shed tears as clients from the Starfish Family crossed a graduation stage, found stability and health, and discovered their power. I’ve sat in countless classrooms where children are joyfully playing, having their curiosity cheered on, and a lifelong love of learning is being born. No two days have been the same. All of them … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: Respect, support & #ThankATeacher
"Despite all of its challenges, this past year has made me prouder than ever to be an educator. It has been an honor to watch you rise to every occasion and meet every challenge with compassion, creativity, and care for all of your students."—National Education Association President Becky Pringle We are saying 'thank you’ today, this week, and throughout the year, to the extraordinary educators at Starfish Family Services, and the entire education team that supports them. For many, teachers are some of our first heroes. They often inspire us to believe in ourselves in ways we never imagined. They teach us how to shine. Yet, in recent years the job has become so much more complicated. Every day teachers are also asked to be doctors, mental health experts, emergency-readiness experts, technology gurus, referees, chefs, fundraisers, coaches, and advocates. The pandemic demanded that educators show even more grit and determination. And they became even more indispensable to … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: New Year sparks positive beginnings
The turning of the calendar to a new year sparks a new beginning. Adults typically take this opportunity to make resolutions for positive change—like being more active, eating more fruits and veggies. But what about kids? Helping your children to embrace positive energy can never start too early. Making resolutions is a great interactive activity to do with your children. If the word “resolution” sounds too intimidating, talk about setting goals—goals that are realistic. And have some fun! Kids love being involved in decision-making and charting their success. Depending on their age, create a sticker chart together or maybe experiment with flavors of vegetable smoothies that everyone can try. Encouraging your child to build healthy skills and habits now will carry well into adulthood. Below find some suggestions for age-appropriate New Year’s resolutions for kids adapted from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Preschool children I’ll pick up my toys and put stuff away where … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: Celebrating the spirit of the holidays
The holidays belong to us all. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Los Posadas, Diwali . . . what binds us together is hope, the joy of giving, faith, and family. At Starfish, we celebrate the spirit of the holidays. We celebrate YOU. At the end of another extraordinary year---a year of challenge and change, triumph and tragedy---it's essential to honor the people who have helped make the world better. At Starfish, your support is our greatest blessing. We, like you, seek a better today and an even brighter tomorrow: One in which all children have the opportunity to soar to their highest potential and all families can strive to reach their greatest goals. Because of you, Starfish can confidently remain committed to delivering meaningful work that moves children, families, and all of us forward. Because of your positive partnership, we know anything is possible. From your Starfish Family: Sharing humble gratitude for your trust and collaboration. Wishing … [Read more...]
Starfish blog: Talking turkey about Vax-giving
Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. Last year, during the first wave of the pandemic, many of us drastically limited our gatherings---spending the holiday alone or only with those in our immediate household. In 2021, we are still in the throes of a pandemic, but now we have more protective factors to help make safe decisions for ourselves and families. Many people are calling this Thanksgiving "Vax-giving," a reference to having most (or all) family members who are gathering on Thanksgiving be fully vaccinated (or children 5-11 years old receiving at least 1 shot). Hosting a “Vax-giving” can help protect children and adults in your family who are not yet eligible to receive the vaccine or cannot receive the vaccine due to medical or religious reasons. It can also help reduce anxiety for some. An added layer of protection families can utilize is at-home COVID-19 tests. These tests can be done hours before guests gather and can … [Read more...]
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