Children's Trust of South Carolina’s Post

Please watch this interview with Kim Parker about the work that The Parent Child Center of Tulsa is doing within our Know and Grow Oklahoma project. After watching please like, follow and share our Facebook page. You can also find us on Instagram and LinkedIn. #investinkids #investearly #erh

Each August, we remind ourselves of the importance of ensuring that the income support program serving 1 in 5 children in the US is working for families. But every day, elevated inflation and economic uncertainty make strong and equitable child support policy imperative for the well-being of families who experience the child support system.   Across the country – states, counties, and tribes have embraced the research and are modernizing their child support programs through holistic, family-centered policies and practices that build partnerships with parents instead of adversarial relationships.   In June, Commissioner Tanguler Gray announced renaming of the federal agency that oversees the national child support program from the Office of Child Support Enforcement to the Office of ChildSupport Services to underscore the program’s commitment to serve and support whole families. OCSS supports states and tribes by funding family-centered services like employment programs, fatherhood initiatives, demonstration grants, and reentry partnerships.   Learn more about what states are doing to adopt more pragmatic and family-centered child support policies in the  Centering Child Well-Being in Child Support Policy toolkit developed in partnership with Good+Foundation.

In a world brimming with challenges, our children stand as the most precious and vulnerable treasures. They're the custodians of tomorrow's dreams and aspirations, yet many face hurdles that impede their growth and potential. Today, I urge us all to take a moment and reflect on the support children need. It goes beyond the basics of food, shelter, and education. It's about nurturing their dreams, providing emotional guidance, and creating a safe space for their voices to be heard. As adults, it's our responsibility to become the pillars of support for these budding souls. Whether it's through mentorship, advocacy for their rights, or simply lending an empathetic ear, every action counts. Let's pledge to foster environments where every child feels valued, empowered, and loved. Let's listen to their stories, understand their challenges, and actively work towards solutions. Together, we can create a world where every child feels secure enough to dream limitlessly and strong enough to achieve those dreams. Let's be the change-makers, the guardians, and the advocates our children need today. Share your thoughts on how we can better support the children around us. 🌈✨ #supportchildren #EmpowerTheFuture #ChildrenMatter #emmanueliykefoundation

It mentions in the #FamilyPreservation redesign discussion paper that Family Preservation services are highly rationed, the question I have is what attempts have been made to expand the resourcing commitment to family preservation services to reduce rationing!

STATE OF THE STATE - CHILD CARE Governor Kathy Hochul's State of the State address included more emphasis on children than we have probably ever heard in one of these addresses. However, there was resounding silence around child care. While New York made historic investments in child care last year, the work is far from done. Earlier expressions of concern for the lack of quality, affordable child care mean nothing without sustained investment beyond short-term COVID relief. New York children need: (a) A permanent state child care fund to increase compensation for early childhood educators so they are paid on par with similar positions in public schools. (b) More availability of evening, night and weekend care because not all parents work 9 to 5. (c) Expanded access to care for children with special needs. Kids need care. Parents need predictability. Providers who give professional care need professional wages. We heard from the Governor. Now it's time for Albany to hear from you. Sign up to go to Albany for Child Care Advocacy Day on Feb. 6. Sign up at https://lnkd.in/ecmGfmvs

🚀 **Exciting News!** 🚀 I am proud to announce the launch of Rolling With Dads, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and celebrating fathers everywhere! When I began my fatherhood journey, I found myself in unfamiliar territory without the necessary resources, support, and community that would help me become a better father to my son. These challenges inspired the creation of Rolling With Dads. I established this nonprofit to have a significant impact on fathers so they never feel alone or unprepared to take on parenthood. Instead, they should feel empowered and capable of building strong child bonds, be exceptional caregivers, and have a community of dads to lean on when they need support the most. Created by dads, for dads, to enrich and strengthen the families in our communities. Our work aims to: -Support: Build a strong, understanding community for dads. -Educate: Provide expert-led workshops/clinics, and expert advice on parenting, health, and wellness. -Inspire: Share powerful stories from dads around the world. Visit our website, www.rollingwithdads.org to learn more about our mission and the programs we offer to support dads through their parenting journey. Join us in honoring the vital role of fathers. Your support can make a world of difference! If you'd like to partner or collaborate around any of our initiatives or events please reach out, we're actively looking for sponsors/partners that have shared brand values. #RollingWithDads #EmpowerDads #Fatherhood #Nonprofit #Community

The redesign discussion paper is out folks! If you want to be part of the sector response workshop and you're not already connected in with the Family Preservation Sector Network, make sure you get in touch👉 https://lnkd.in/gZxfia95

Reflecting on a Vital Question: What Permission Do I Need to Be Present and Be a Dad for My Kids? In my latest discussion, I explore a question that touches the core of fatherhood: our inherent right and the profound journey of being present for our children. It's a conversation that I believe is essential for every parent, especially fathers, who are navigating the beautiful complexities of parenthood. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Alex Lonati and the incredible team at SpeakEasy Stage Company for orchestrating a remarkable event last weekend. The panel brought together fervent advocates for fatherhood in Boston, setting the stage with the poignant play ‘A Case for the Existence of God.’ This narrative, which delves into the lives of two fathers, was the perfect precursor for our panel discussions. These conversations were not only enlightening but also deeply moving, highlighting the diverse experiences and challenges faced by fathers today. The event was a magnificent opportunity to learn from and celebrate the impactful work being done on behalf of fathers and families by John Badalament, Daniel Alfaro, MSW, LCSW, and many others dedicated to this cause. It was a privilege to be part of such a passionate group of advocates, sharing insights and strategies to support fathers in their quest to be actively involved in their children's lives. I am inspired by the dedication and passion of everyone involved in last weekend's panel and the broader community working towards positive change for fathers and families. It's clear that when we come together, share our experiences, and offer our support, we can make a significant impact. #Fatherhood #Parenting #Advocacy #Community #Support #FamilyFirst #fathersuplift

In honor of Grandparents Day this Sunday, here are a few tips for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren. It takes a family to raise children, and grandparents are a vital component to children's upbringing. #familyandrelationships https://lnkd.in/gm3y2xVs

Each year, Kentucky Youth Advocates releases the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children policy agenda featuring state policy and budget priorities for kids and families. The Blueprint is a coalition that speaks with a common voice and stands on three pillars: thriving communities launch strong families, strong families launch successful kids, and successful kids launch a prosperous future for Kentucky. "As we look ahead to 2024, there’s an abundance of opportunities and obligations facing the Governor and General Assembly, especially in the development of the biennial state budget. From access to affordable housing and child care to mental health and educational outcomes, all kids deserve safe, healthy, and thriving childhoods. That can only begin with a strong commitment and sustained investment in our youngest Kentuckians,” said Terry Brooks, executive director, Kentucky Youth Advocates. For 2024, the Blueprint’s priorities focus on various gaps and challenges in the lives of the Commonwealth’s children. Learn more and check out the 2024 priorities: https://bit.ly/3Re6WJC