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Robert F. Kennedy Children's Action Corps |
November 2013
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National Resource Center Launch
The Robert F. Kennedy National Resource Center for Juvenile Justice, led by RFK Children's Action Corps, serves local, state, and national leaders, practitioners, and youth-serving systems to improve system performance and outcomes for dual status youth. Supported by a $1,000,000 grant from the MacArthur Foundation, the Center is a member of the Models for Change Resource Center Partnership, which addresses important issues in juvenile justice, including behavioral health, stronger public defense for poor youth, appropriate interventions for youth charged with non-delinquent offenses, and coordinated systems of care for young people involved in both the juvenile justice and child protective systems. The founding staff of the Robert F. Kennedy National Resource Center for Juvenile Justice (John Tuell, Janet Wiig, Jessica Heldman and Sorrel Dilanian) has been at the forefront of developing and implementing practice reforms in these areas since 2000, with a vast history of professional experience within child welfare and juvenile justice systems predating this work. To learn more, visit www.rfknrcjj.org
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Honoring John Spencer
On Wednesday, October 16th, the basketball court on the Lancaster Campus was dedicated in memory of John Spencer, who served as Supervisor of the Elizabeth Birk Oatis Children's Center from 1981 until 2007. An avid Chicago Bulls fan who loved sports and spending time outside, John was seen as a leader, mentor, and support system by his colleagues and as a favorite bedtime reader by the children in the program.
John's wife Candy, daughter, son, and grandchildren were in attendance, as were many friends and former colleagues.
A testament to the impact that John had on the lives of others, a client whom John had worked with over 20 years ago drove nearly two hours to attend, saying he wouldn't have missed it for the world.
The dedication included remarks from Ed Kelley, CEO and President, and John Darrell, a dear friend of John's. After the dedication, coworkers stayed to reminisce and share stories about John over refreshments. In the words of Linda Corey, Director of Training and Staff Development, "To me, he was
one-of-a-kind, a legend."
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A Shining Star 
We recently honored actor and Advisory Council member Charles Shaughnessy with the Commitment to Children Award, recognizing his continued dedication and support of the agency. The award was presented on October 6th at North Shore Music Theatre, after the final performance of La Cage aux Folles, in which Charles starred. Following the show, the theatre and owner Bill Hanney hosted a meet-and-greet fundraiser, where guests had the opportunity to ask questions, get autographs, and pose for photos with Charles. Board member Michael Connolly joined RFK staff in presenting the award.
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Help Make Winter Wishes Come True!
Make this holiday season a little brighter for the boys and girls in our programs by participating in our annual Winter Wish gift drive. With your generosity, we can ensure that every single child in our care receives a gift. This is not only a wonderful way for individuals and families to give back during the holidays, but there are also great opportunities for corporations to get
involved!
For more details, click here.
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On Saturday, September 28th, over 1,200 riders and 700 volunteers participated in the 23rd Annual Rodman Ride for Kids to support at-risk youth. Thank you to everyone who supported our children and programs by participating in this great event. RFK Children's Action Corps had an impressive 50+ riders and over 100 volunteers take part in the day. We are also proud to say that out of the top 10 riders for the 100 mile route, 4 were riding for RFK Children's Action Corps. Way to go Dan Bleck (who finished first out of all the 100 milers, congratulations!), Bill Connolly, Joe Roach, and John Kruse!
Even though the event has passed, please remember fundraising continues! Donations to support a rider or Team RFK will be accepted until Friday, November 29.
Click here to donate today
Check out photos from the day
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Quick Links
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Calling for Nominations
We are currently accepting nominations for the 2014 Embracing the Legacy Award through November 15. Check out the link below to learn more or to nominate an individual or organization who works tirelessly for children's health, education, protection, and rights.
Embracing the Legacy |
Thank You! We are thrilled to announce that we have received a $250,000 gift from Linzee and Beth Coolidge, Advisory Council members and longtime supporters of the agency. They are true champions for our children and, through their gift, have demonstrated their commitment to the work that we do every day. In their own words, "We care deeply about children, and for those less fortunate, we aim to give them an opportunity for a second chance. We hope that by making this investment, others will come forward to join us." |
Bright Futures Adoption Center held its annual summer picnic in August. See the photos of adoptive and birth families enjoying time together with the special children in their lives by
On October 22nd, the annual NYPUM (National Youth Project Using Minibikes) Rodeo was held at Lancaster Campus. 15 certified riders competed in the four events, and the entire campus came out to cheer them on and participate in the BBQ. |
Save the Date!
Taste of Autumn
November 22, 2013
The Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern
West Springfield, MA
Celebration for Kids
December 7, 2013
Seaport World Trade Center
Boston, MA
Fairway for Kids
May 12, 2013
Myopia Hunt Club
South Hamilton, MA
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Every Child Deserves a Chance
Robert F. Kennedy Children's Action Corps is a private, non-profit licensed child welfare agency providing community-based services, education, foster care and adoption, residential treatment, and juvenile justice programming to individuals and families in crisis. Our programs are focused on helping children and adolescents deal with past hurts, develop self-esteem, and have a chance for a brighter future as contributing members of society. All that we do at RFK Children's Action Corps is based on the belief that every child deserves the chance to lead a happy, healthy, and productive life.
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