"IF YOU WANT ONE YEAR OF PROSPERITY, GROW GRAIN.

IF YOU WANT TEN YEARS OF PROSPERITY, GROW TREES.

IF YOU WANT ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF PROSPERITY,

GROW PEOPLE"- (Old Chinese Proverb)

            As important as the programs and support that the NH Children's Trust provides, and the passion for all NH Children and families that goes into the work, the foundation is the people who create these opportunities. In wanting to understand more of what the NH Children's Trust means to individuals within the community, I have interviewed Dr. Wendy Gladstone, an amazing woman who has shown continued support.

Why is it important to you to donate to the NH Children's Trust?

"I donate to the NH Children's Trust because of how important it is to prevent child maltreatment.  Any help we can give to support families and make childhood a time of love, growth and positive experiences is definitely worth doing.  We owe it to all kids."

As a physician, how important do you rate the strength of families?

"I have seen a lot of children and families in my practice over the years.  Every day I am impressed by the devotion and hard work families show in their care for children.  Without that strength, children would have a much harder time growing up.  And they would have a tougher experience as parents themselves"

How does your work everyday relate to the focus of the NH Children's Trust?

"The NH Children's Trust focuses on helping families provide the best possible care for their children.  That has big paybacks in terms of children's well-being, physically as well as emotionally.  Many adverse childhood experiences result in worse outcomes over the course of someone's life. So it makes sense to try to reduce those negative effects when children are little. "

How do you feel your contributions to the NH Children's Trust make a difference?

"I know that the contributions I make to the NH Children's Trust will be used to promote positive outcomes for children.  What could be better?!"

Jean Rich was a recipient of the 2008 NHCTF Unsung Hero award and has hit the ground running once introduced to the program.  Jean has served on the Unsung Hero Parenting Award Nomination Committee for the last few years.  When I asked her why she volunteers her time for the committee she said:  "I think the awards are a great way to recognize parents in NH for their dedication to their families and communities.  I love the fact these parents are truly "unsung" in that they have not been in high profile positions that often get attention for their hard work. 

Jean goes on to explain that "as a recipient of this award myself; I have to say that it provides a great sense of pride and accomplishment.   Especially for recipients who have had to struggle and overcome challenges, these awards can also provide incentive to continue to persevere even in the face of ongoing difficulties."  Having the chance to be recognized for hard work gives the recipient the assurance that they have been on the right track and ensures they will continue on this path.  Being recognized by the community, the Governor, and peers sends a very strong message.  It is because of programs like the Unsung Hero award that Jean supports the New Hampshire Children's Trust Fund. 

Jean goes on to explain that "I support the NHCTF because of all their great work in advocating for children and families in New Hampshire.  Parenting is a very difficult job and many families need outside support to perform this job successfully.  It is also critical to help prevent child abuse and neglect.  NHCTF is clearly dedicated to helping parents and families in NH through a variety of programs that improve parenting skills and help keep children safe." 

Because of Jean's efforts and the efforts of all of NHCTF's donors, volunteers, and staff, we can be proud to know that the lives of families and children across NH are improved every day.

The New Hampshire Children's Trust Fund was established in 1986 by legislative statute RSA 169-C:39 to support programs in New Hampshire that work to prevent child abuse and neglect. Our focus is primary prevention initiatives that keep children safe and families strong. 

The New Hampshire Children's Trust Fund believes that the most effective way to keep our children safe from abuse and neglect is to foster the development of strong families. The New Hampshire Children's Trust Fund advocates for positive change in both state and federal policies that effect children and families. 

The New Hampshire Children's Trust Fund is the New Hampshire chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America.