"Never doubt that a small group of 

thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing thatever has." 

  - Margaret Mead

 

The October edition of the e-Newsletter highlights many programs, services, and events that make a difference to the families in our Tri-City community of Fremont, Newark, and Union City, California. Enjoy!

 

On September 27, 2013, Human Relations Commission (HRC) Chair Debra Watanuki, Commissioner Beth Hoffman and staff attended the California Association of Human Relations Organizations (CAHRO) Northern California Regional Conference, which was held at the top of the Transamerica Pyramid.  With breathtaking views of the bay area as a backdrop, representatives from twelve city and county HRCs shared their recent projects and successes.  Many of the commissions have focused on combatting human trafficking and engaging youth in human relations work. George Gascon, San Francisco District Attorney, was the keynote speaker.  The San Francisco HRC will be hosting the annual CAHRO state-wide conference, which is tentatively scheduled for the last Friday of April 2014.  If you are interested in attending, please contact Marylou Johnson at (510) 574-2040. 

 

Transitions in Youth & Family Services

  

The Human Services Department will greatly miss the leadership and dedication of our respected colleague, Iris Preece, Administrator of the Youth and Family Services Division, who will be retiring on November 15, 2013 after 20 years of outstanding service.

 

During her tenure, Iris has promoted quality mental health programs serving families and youth in Fremont including counseling services in 20 Fremont schools; a collaboration with Fremont's Police Department diverting first-time youth offenders from the criminal justice system, an Alcohol and Drug Intervention program for teens; a Youth Empowerment and Employment Academy for Probation Youth, and many other programs fostering positive parenting and the strong social and emotional development of children. On November 5, 2013 Iris will be recognized by the Alameda County Human Relations Commission and Supervisor Scott Haggerty of District 1, for Excellence in Human Relations, and for fostering mutual respect for all people who live and work in Alameda County.

 

The Human Services Department welcomes Annie Bailey as the new Youth and Family Services Administrator. Annie is already on board and working with Iris to ensure a smooth transition. Prior to joining Human Services, Annie was Co- Principal Management Consultant and Executive Coach at Bibby LLC. She also recently completed her Master's Degree in Public Administration/Public Management from the University of Southern California and holds a Master's in Counseling and is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT). Annie worked for many years in Contra Costa County as a Mental Health Program Manager overseeing programs to support child development and to help families become self-sufficient. 

 

We welcome Annie to Human Services and look forward to working with her!

 

Support Group Meeting at the Park

 

Launched in 2001, and funded in part by the Older Americans Act, the Family Caregiver Support Program meets the needs of those who care for ill, disabled or frail family members. Caregivers come together to discuss the emotional, physical and spiritual aspects of devoting time and energy to their aged or ill family members, and in doing so, keep creating communities of caring and supportive friends. Whether in a Monday morning yoga/meditation class or a spirited support group gathering, participants laugh, cry, speak out and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with sharing their common journey. 

 

In January 2014, the popular Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction class, which runs for 8 weeks, will be offered for caregivers, and will offer helpful tools to better manage caregiving challenges. For more information, call Nancy Rothschild, LMFT, at 510-574-2035 or nrothschild@fremont.gov.

(510) 574-2050