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March 2014
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Volume 3, Issue 2
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National Self- Harm Awareness Month!!
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Imagine you have had a rough day. Perhaps the kids picked on you at school, or your parents yelled at you, or you were humiliated at work. For some, coming home to a long bubble bath, or playing a few hours of video games, or even talking to a friend can help them relieve some of the stress.
For others, however, they may turn to self-harm. For them it is not weird or disgusting: it is just what works for them. Self- harm is not always a suicide attempt, but a coping tool. Of course, self- harm is not a positive way of dealing with issues, but rather a way of covering it up temporarily. Unfortunately, self- harm can become addictive. This means, that if this is the way an individual deals with his or her stress then it can become a challenge to stop the behavior.
Signs of self-injurious behaviors
- Scars, such as from burns or cuts
- Fresh cuts, scratches or other wounds
- Bruises
- Hair loss or bald spots
- Broken bones
- Keeping sharp objects on hand
- Spending a great deal of time alone
- Wearing long sleeves or long pants even in hot weather
- Claiming to have frequent accidents or mishaps
The good news is these behaviors do not have to last forever. There are other ways of coping.
Brighter, Stronger Foundation has various programs that are designed to assist an individual struggling with
self-injurious behaviors.
Call today and ask about our
Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program,
Therapeutic Behavioral Services, and
Autism and Related Services.
Please join us on March 3rd and wear ORANGE to help support National Self Harm Awareness Month!!
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Meet Our New Full Time Staff!!!
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In February, Brighter, Stronger Foundation welcomed two new additions to the staff. LaKisha' Arrington and Danyelle Crawford have joined the team as Program Managers!
BSF is honored to welcome LaKisha' Arrington as the Manager of Mental Health Services. LaKisha' received her B.S in Psychology from Morgan State Universi ty and went on to earn her MSW at the University of Maryland. LaKisha' has served as a Case Manager at various known agencies, such as, United Way of Central MD and Chase Braxton Health Services. She has worked part time at BSF for more than a year. Her passion stems from her desire to impact the lives of others as well as, eliminate the judgem
ent that others have regarding mental health disorders. It is her hope to positively effect the lives of the individuals served at Brighter, Stronger Foundation by instilling hope and providing encouragement. BSF welcomes LaKisha' to the team!!
We welcome Danyelle Crawford as the Manager of Autism and Related Services. In 2010, Danyelle graduated with a B.S in Human Services. After graduation, she continued her education at the University of Maryland in the School of Social Work, with child and maternal health as her specialization graduating in 2012. Her personal family experience with Autism along with her knowledge of sensory and behavioral needs motivated her to enter the social work profession. Danyelle has worked as a Case Coordinator at Brighter, Stronger Foundation for the past year, gaining additional skills and knowledge as she worked with individuals with mental health needs. We welcome her to the Autism and Related Services program and are eager for what she has in store for our clients and families!
We at Brighter, Stronger Foundation are excited to bring these two individuals on board and we are certainly looking forward to a bright future!! |
Therapeutic Integration Program: Aquatic Recreation!!
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In February, the Therapeutic Integration Program implemented a new component to its offered activities; Aquatic Recreation.
To prepare for this new activity, the staff held a water preparedness class for individuals. This was done to ensure that they understood water safety and were prepared for what the experience may be like.
On February 21st the after school program traveled to an indoor pool for a session of water play and exercises.
As you can see from the photograph, it was great day for all who attended!!!
Please contact Robin Brooks at 410-485-7555 or
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Adult Day Program: Loving Me, Loving You
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Traditionally February is the month designated for love and who better to love then yourself!! The Adult Day Program explored different ways to develop/increase self-love and self-esteem. The individuals learned that before they could show love to others or expect love from anyone they must start with themselves. This carried over to the discussion about engaging in healthy friendships and relationships.
Nothing can tear an individual's self-esteem down faster than an unhealthy relationship.
To register and to make transportation arrangements, please call us at 410-485-7555
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Onsite Youth Group: Treat Others The Way You Want To Be Treated
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The golden rule has always been, "treat others the way you want to be treated", but how do you want to be treated? The Youth Onsite Groups talked about taking the time to get to know themselves; their likes and dislikes. By doing this they learned to respect themselves and demand respect from others.
The groups also explored the different components of a healthy and unhealthy friendship. By identifying these, individuals were able to develop skills necessary to make wise decisions regarding their circle of friends.
At the end of the month both youth groups were brought together for an evening of socialization and fun!
Please see the BSF Calendar of Events section for upcoming dates for March!!
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Job Announcements!!
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As you can see, BSF is growing and we are looking for skilled and passionate individuals to join our team. Is that you?
Please see below for a list of available job positions.
Click on the link for more details.
All interested applicants should mail their resume to jobs@brighterstrongerfoundation.com.
Have a great day!!
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Family Resources
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*Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus-Built To Amaze- Brighter, Stronger Foundation currently has various discount coupons for this show at the 1st Mariner Arena. The dates are March 26th-April 6th. Stop by our office to pick up your coupons TODAY!!!
*Loving Me, Loving You- Developing Healthy Relationships Seminar- March 5th, 6pm-8pm. Baltimore City Public Schools Office of Special Education and The Arc of Baltimore welcomes Ronda Cox of Brighter, Stronger Foundation as she presents on the topic of healthy relationships. For more information click here!
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BSF's Calendar of Events!
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Click here for BSF's Monthly Program Calendar
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Family Fun Activities!!
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Mar 4th
Baltimore's Child Camp and Summer Programs Fair - Directors from scores of programs meet with parents at this free fair to help them find the best programs for their children for the summer of 2014. Family entertainment for kids throughout the afternoon, and a chance to win a $250 campership to a camp or program at the fair. Crowne Plaza Hotel, Timonium, 12- 3 p.m., www.baltimoreschild.com/fairs.
Mar 15th
Port Discovery Children's Museum 15th Birthday Bonanza - Port Discovery Children's Museum is turning 15, and invites the community to help celebrate with a special reduced admission of just $5. Enjoy a full day of special birthday-themed programs and activities! Port Discovery Children's Museum, Baltimore, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Ages: 0- 10, Tickets Reqd. 410-727-8120, www.portdiscovery.org
Mar 16th
59th Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade - Watch thousands of parade participants march and celebrate Irish culture, music, and dance. Beginning at the Washington Monument, then continuing to Pratt Street and Market Place, Baltimore, 2 p.m., www.irishparade.net.
Mar 22nd
Unlock The Love Within: A self-esteem workshop for girls - I Am O'Kah! Inc. presents Unlock The Love Within: A self-esteem workshop for girls age 9-12 and will be facilitated by Kiara S. Lee, author of "Dark skinned, Light skinned or In Between." This interactive session will be positive and informative for all the girls we reach. Registration required. Enoch Pratt Free Library - Central Branch, Baltimore, 1:30- 3:30 p.m., Ages: 9- 12, Reserv Reqd. by 3/14/14 443-219-7407, www.iamokah.org.
Mar 29th
Y Spring Eggstravaganza - This family-friendly event will feature a family egg hunt and crafts. Times and activities vary by location, so please contact your nearest Family Center Y for specific details. Family Center Y's, www.ymaryland.org.
For more family fun events, click the link below
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We thank you for your time and please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
Have a positive and productive day!
The Staff of Brighter, Stronger Foundation
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