| GROUPS |
Click here for a current list of groups in Minnesota. |
| CONTACT US |
Please send feedback and suggestions for
future issues to:
Circle of Parents® Statewide Office
Priscilla Bennett
Communications Coordinator
1821 University Avenue, Suite 202-S
Saint Paul, MN 55104
651-523-0099
pbennett@pcamn.org
Our Regional Coordinators:
Metro Office
Alice Lynch
Metro Program Coordinator
1821 University Avenue, Suite 202-S
Saint Paul, MN 55104
651-523-0099
alynch@pcamn.org
Northeast Regional Office
Joan Johnson
Northeast Program Coordinator
9057 Sunset Strip
Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
218-821-6429
jjohnson@pcamn.org
Southeast Regional Office
Barb Sorum
Director of Family Support Services
606 East 5th Street
Albert Lea, MN 56007
507-377-7665
bsorum@pcamn.org
Southwest Regional Office
Susan Thomes
Southwest Program Coordinator
PO Box 202
Silver Lake, MN 55381
218-308-1311
Western Regional Office
Mary Weaver
Western Program Coordinator
32662 Birchwood Shore Drive
Underwood, MN 56586
218-770-1385
mweaver@pcamn.org | |
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| FACILITATOR TIP |
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Barb Sorum, Director of Family Support Services
2010 Trainings and Networking
 As we continue to support families and educate communities in enhancing the strengths of families in the coming year, our Circle of Parents® staff understands the importance of ongoing training opportunities for your chapter volunteers (parent group facilitators, children's program, parent leaders, and advisory team members). However, it has become more challenging for volunteers to afford the time and expense required to attend training sessions. Though there are huge benefits to attending these sessions with other volunteers present, by April 1st we hope to have our complete Orientation session available by webcast on the PCAMN website (which will include the presentation outline and handouts) for all new development partners and volunteers to view at your convenience and in the comfort of your office and/or home. By mid-year, we also hope to offer our Basic Facilitation Skills and Children's Program sessions on the PCAMN website as well.
(read more) |
| CHAPTER HIGHLIGHT |
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Joan Johnson, Northeast Program Coordinator
Inside Out Connections
Children with incarcerated parents are among the most vulnerable population of children, at high risk for neglect, abuse, behavioral health problems, delinquency, and substance abuse. These issues, if left unattended, can produce intergenerational patterns of crime and violence. Unfortunately, few opportunities exist in Minnesota to support children of incarcerated parents. With this in mind, the Initiative Foundation is advancing a regional project to increase the capacity of local communities to address the needs of children of incarcerated parents. Eight county-wide teams are currently engaged in this process. If you are interested in participating on an existing team or starting one in your county, please contact the Initiative Foundation's Children, Youth, and Families Programs at 877-632-9255 or lkaufmann@ifound.org.
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| OUTREACH TIP |
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Sue Thomes, Southwestern Program Coordinator
Have you ever been uncomfortable trying a new activity for the first time? If so, you are not alone. For many people, having clear expectations of what will happen in a group and a familiar face when you arrive at your destination can make the difference between whether you actually join a group setting activity. Lori Clasemann, a Circle of Parents® facilitator in Renville County, has designed a referral form she uses with local professionals who provide services to families. The professional may introduce the idea of attending Circle of Parents® and ask the parent if they would like to be contacted to learn more. The parent signs a permission form and it is returned to Lori. Lori then contacts the parent(s), tells them about the group, answers questions, and encourages a face-to-face meeting with her. After meeting with her, if and when they decide to come to Circle of Parents®, they now have a familiar face when they walk in the door, which is important for many people to take the first step. Lori has shared her referral form with us (follow this link) and you may use and adapt as you see fit. Thanks Lori! |
| MOVIE OF THE MONTH |
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Joan Johnson, Northeast Program Coordinator
 The Blind Side
It isn't too late to catch this movie at the theatre. It has been running since Thanksgiving and still drawing crowds. The movie is based on the true story of Michael Ohr who is now in the NFL, playing for the Baltimore Ravens. A number of people intervened to help Michael move out of homelessness, neglect, and poor school performance. He was ultimately adopted by a family who noticed his struggles and brought him into their family. There is a great message for all of us in this story, and the kids will love all the football action. I even learned what the blind side refers to in a football game. Don't miss it. |
| THE AWARD SEASON IS COMING |
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Blue Ribbon County/Tribe Awards
Visit our home page at www.pcamn.org and access the Blue Ribbon County/Tribe nomination form. If your county or Tribe meets the criteria, you can nominate it this year. Counties and Tribes can win a Blue Ribbon Award every year if it meets the requirements. Don't be shy; your county works hard to prevent child abuse and neglect. Deadline for nominations is March 5th. Circle of Parents® Awards
Once again it's time to submit award nominations for outstanding service to Circle of Parents®. Go to this link to nominate your outstanding Facilitator, Parent Leader, Children's Program Leader, Chapter, and Volunteer. Deadline for nominations is March 10th. |
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Our Mission
The mission of Minnesota's Circle of Parents is to empower parents to create healthy and loving families through positive parenting and mutual self help. | |
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