| Youth Eastside Services Lifeline Online |
October 2011
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 When News Turns Scary
Addressing fears and concerns about terrorism with your child
This year's back-to-school season was tinged by pervasive media coverage on the 10th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. Media coverage was filled with horrible images of death and destruction. Subsequent stories about the thwarting of planned attacks and the death of al-Quaida leaders keep alive the thought that our country is still a target.
Just because children don't mention fears about violence, war or terrorism, it is unlikely that the recent news hasn't caused them some measure of worry. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to consider simple ways to help children comprehend tragic circumstances, as outlined in their free downloadable resource, "Talking to Children about Terrorism and War." Simple steps include limiting your child's access to violent or upsetting images, offering consistent and reassuring answers (but not making unrealistic promises) and staying alert for symptoms related to stress and anxiety.
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 On the Road to Success
A mom and son find the support they need
Arthur* was referred to Youth Eastside Services (YES) by his mother because he was having difficulty forming relationships with his peers. He also struggled to complete his schoolwork. After numerous calls home from teachers and faculty, Arthur's mother decided to take the advice of the school counselor and call YES.
Arthur and his mother began working with a youth and family counselor at YES. Although Arthur's mom spoke only Spanish, at YES a number of our counselors are bi-lingual, and we also work with translators as needed by non-English speaking family members. Arthur was also assessed for post-traumatic stress disorder and, after three months of trauma-related work, his overall wellbeing increased. Arthur is now feeling self-confident and has seen great success with his peers and his schoolwork.
*The client's name was changed to protect his privacy.
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In The News
Important information you want to know
Parents Underestimate Teens Drug & Alcohol Uses: According to a recent study, parents believe other teens drink, but not their own. Alcohol is the number one substance abused by teens. For more information, click here.
Vulnerable teens think abuse is 'normal': Teens who have dealt with instability or neglect are more likely to experience physical and sexual abuse in their relationships and consider this treatment to be normal. For the full story, click here.
Weight Issues Take Toll on Teens' Self-Esteem: Media and bullying can take a toll on a young person's self-esteem, especially if a child is overweight. It can be challenging to encourage children to eat healthy and stay active without hurting their body image. For tips on how to stay positive and encourage healthy habits, click here.
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 YES Welcomes New Director
Monica Elenbaas joins YES team as the Director of Fund Development and Community Relations
Monica Elenbaas has joined Youth Eastside Services as the director of fund development and community relations. A three-decade nonprofit professional, she has served in a variety of leadership roles in program delivery, community outreach, public relations, special events and major gifts. For the past 19 years, she has worked with the YMCA, in Olympia, Seattle and most recently the national headquarters in Chicago.
"I am excited to return to the Eastside and help YES with fundraising and community outreach. It's an honor to commit my experience, local contacts and knowledge to benefit the critical lifeline that YES offers, to the benefit of those we serve," said Elenbaas.
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 New Artwork Unveiled at Bellevue Office
Longtime YES volunteer donates playful artwork
Longtime YES volunteer Mary Lynne Poole has created a new work of art for display at the YES' Bellevue offices. "YES Parade" was recently installed with the help of community volunteers and depicts actual YES staff, clients, and even the unofficial mascot, Bailey, a registered service dog who accompanies one of the organization's directors to work.
According to Mary Lynne, the display fills the YES building with the spirit of children and families. "It's designed to bring joy those who come through our doors," shares Mary Lynne.
"We are so grateful for Mary Lynne's service as a volunteer and so appreciate her willingness to create something so personal for our clients," said YES Executive Director Patti Skelton-McGougan. She added that clients waiting in the lobby have been enthusiastic about the art.
Mary Lynne has been a volunteer at YES since 2001; she and currently serves as the tech team chair and database specialist. But her talent extends beyond her knowledge of technology. She has created a number of community art installations including another found at Eastside Preparatory School in Bellevue.
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The skies were cloudy this past weekend, but smiles were bright at Camp Mariposa, a partnership generously funded by the Moyer Foundation. Boys and girls from families affected by substance abuse stretched for new skills and friendships to help them be successful in life. Our ability to support these children and their families received a special boost recently, thanks to the continuing generosity of the Robert Vasen Foundation, which has provided another grant to support aftercare for our campers. This kind of support, combined with so many contributions from volunteers and donors, enables us to offer vulnerable youth and families on the Eastside high quality services that help them overcome challenges and thrive. Sincerely,
Patti Skelton-McGougan
Executive Director |
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