Maine Boys to Men’s Post

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and this week, April 21-27, is specifically designated as National Youth Violence Prevention Week. During this time, various organizations concentrate their efforts on combating youth violence. This week focuses on examining various instances of youth violence that have transpired over the past few years. The initiative’s goal is to foster student involvement and ensure that individuals of all ages are equipped to address and prevent youth violence before it occurs. So How Can You Help? -Consider donating to the program that resonates most with you. -If monetary donations aren't an option for you, no worries! You can still make a significant impact by volunteering your time at organizations dedicated to addressing youth violence. -Actively being involved in groups or organizations that address youth violence. National Youth Violence Prevention Week: https://lght.ly/hnh1034 Paving the Way: https://lght.ly/elbpg0o #NationalChildAbusePreventionMonth #NationalYouthPreventionWeek #YouthViolence #Support

In recent months, gang activity has been resurgent in Mount Vernon and Skagit County, with several violent incidents, including gang-related shootings and confrontations. These events are concerning, especially as they involve young people, some as young as teenagers, becoming involved in gang-related violence. Recent shootings in Mount Vernon highlight the risks faced by the community if this trend is left unchecked. However, there is hope, and the community can take action to address this issue before it worsens. One powerful way to prevent youth from joining gangs is by investing in and supporting organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs. These organizations provide safe, constructive environments where young people can find a sense of belonging, learn life skills, and build healthy relationships with mentors and peers. Studies have shown that communities with active Boys & Girls Clubs experience reduced rates of juvenile delinquency, graffiti, and gang activity, as these clubs keep youth engaged in positive activities and away from negative influences. Now is the time for us to act. Instead of sitting back and watching this problem grow, let's come together to support local youth programs like the Boys & Girls Clubs. Whether volunteering, donating, or advocating for increased funding, we can create safe, nurturing spaces where young people can thrive without turning to gangs. Together, we can make a difference and build a safer, stronger community for everyone. Boys & Girls Clubs of Skagit County CHILDREN OF THE VALLEY Skagit Valley Family YMCA Triumph Teen Life Center Youth Dynamics Connect with one of our Skagit County youth-serving organizations now!

Racism, anti-semitism, and white supremacy are not welcome in this district or this community. Yesterday, a hate group marched through downtown Tallahassee. These neo-fascists preach white supremacy. I won’t name them here. They can take their fear and hate with them on their way out.  What do we as a community do now? (links are in the comments below & our bio) 1 - I am donating to the Southern Poverty Law Center, which monitors extremist hate groups and exposes their activities. If you are able, consider a donation to a group that works against extremist hate groups. 2 - They provide ten ways to fight hate: A community response guide.  3 - PBSKids has this video and other resources for anyone who wants to learn how to talk to children about racism. Love you all, -David

From a Caseworker’s Perspective: Today, as we continue through the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, I want to share why this campaign is more than a moment—it's a mission. Every day, I see the strength it takes for women and children to rebuild their lives after facing violence. For some, reaching out is the first step toward safety and healing. At The Family Co. we’re not just witnesses to these stories; we’re partners in creating change. Through safety planning, crisis support, and community education, we work tirelessly to break cycles of violence and empower families to thrive. Our Walk for Respectful Relationships happening this Friday 29th November at Don Lucas Reserve is a step toward building awareness, but the work doesn't stop there. We need your support to amplify this message and extend our services to reach more families. Here's how you can make an impact: Learn: Understand the signs of abuse and how to support someone safely. Speak Up: Start conversations about respect and equality in your community. Act: Join us in advocating for a future free of violence by volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness. If you or someone you know needs help, don’t wait. Reach out to: 📞 The Family Co. (02) 9528 2933 📞 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) – 24/7 National Helpline 📞 Lifeline – 13 11 14 📞 Safe Steps – 1800 015 188 Every action counts. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels safe, respected, and supported. #16DaysOfActivism #EndViolence #CaseworkersInAction #RespectfulRelationships

There exists an intersection at which the best interest of children—especially those in foster care--their parents, and their families run headlong into the powerful agendas of adults. Whether those agendas are political power, the next election, greed, what have you, these adult motivations are strong. Just beyond that intersection is one road the two must travel together. This means compromise. And as a result of compromise, what is best for children, their parents, and their families gives way becomes less and less ideal, less and less good for them, while the adults get to champion the compromise as personal success. The power imbalance between the two parties is greater than that of any other group (children don’t vote, don’t donate to campaigns, etc.). We need more people standing at that intersection and lending their power to children. The old ways aren’t working, and we need new, radical ideas if we want to see changes in the system.

Stand up to hate, harassment, and bullying - your nonprofit could win part of a $325,000 prize pool. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in collaboration with White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders launched the HHS Combating Hate and Promoting Healthy Communities Innovator Challenge to find community-led strategies and tools that will raise greater awareness of hate crimes and address bullying, hate, and bias to promote healthier communities. 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply, including community-based organizations (CBO), peer-run organizations, and faith-based organizations. Submissions are due 9/15/2024. Learn more and apply today at: https://ow.ly/iqsT50TgUkl

The top four reasons to consider including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse in your year-end giving: 1. 90% of Club members understand how their feelings influence their actions, and 89% work to figure out a solution if they have a problem. 2. 93% of Club members expect to graduate from high school, and 93% of members in 11th and 12th grades know what education or training they’ll need for the career they want. 3. 81% of Club members believe they can make a difference in their community, and 86% feel they can stand up for what they think is right, even if their friends disagree. 4. 94% of Club teenage members believe they have the skills needed to succeed in a job, and 94% of Club members can work with people who are different than them. One donation to BGCS supports three Clubhouses located in Syracuse neighborhoods with the lowest household income, and highest crime. Thank you for your consideration and best wishes for a happy holiday season and a peaceful new year! Ways to support Syracuse's youth: https://lnkd.in/en6a5a_Z #syracuseny #centralny #cny #philanthropy #communityinvestment #youthprograms

On this #WorldChildrensDay2024, under the theme#ListenToTheFuture, we must confront the uncomfortable truth about our justice system and its impact on children. Are we truly listening to the future when we allow a system to perpetuate cycles of trauma and hardship? The incarceration of mothers—often for acts of survival or self-defence against relentless abuse—raises critical questions about our commitment to the best interests of the child. Each time a mother is taken away, we are not just severing a vital bond; we are sentencing her children to a future marked by stigma, instability, and emotional turmoil. As we advocate for a world that listens to children and prioritises their well-being, we must confront the systemic flaws that perpetuate their suffering. We must stand together to demand justice that is not only equitable but also sensitive to the realities faced by families. Let us be the voices for those who cannot speak, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances. On this #WorldChildrensDay2024, let us commit to actively listening to the future—because their voices today will shape the world we all share tomorrow. A thought-provoking article on this issue is available at this link: https://lnkd.in/dWTdKmkE Join us as we continue our fight for the protection of mothers and their children during and post-incarceration by donating to our cause: https://lnkd.in/d7Kq-AyG #Decrminisalisepettyoffences #listentothefuture #childrensrights #Worldchildrensday2024

Did you know that thousands of children in Haiti dream of an education but lack the basic school supplies to succeed? YOU have the power to change that. With your help, we can provide notebooks, backpacks, pencils, and more to kids who are ready to learn but need the right tools. Your contribution can be the spark that ignites a brighter future for an entire community. Since 1945, the men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. have mobilized individuals and communities to act against systemic racism through advocacy, community organizing, and civic engagement while addressing the significant barriers to educational success, including discrimination, underfunded schools, and lack of access to resources and opportunities. We are asking all of our chapters to help support this effort because that is the essence of who we are as men of Sigma. Please, donate today via the following link: http://bit.ly/4impcxd and make a difference in these kids' lives. Every dollar counts, and every share helps. Together, let’s invest in education and uplift Haiti's next generation of leaders.

Donating to support widows can have a profound impact for several reasons: 1. **Economic Stability**: Widows often face significant financial hardships, especially in regions where women have limited access to economic resources and opportunities. Your support can help them achieve economic stability. 2. **Education and Empowerment**: Donations can fund educational programs, vocational training, and other initiatives that empower widows to become self-sufficient and improve their quality of life. 3. **Mental and Emotional Support**: Losing a spouse can be emotionally devastating. Charities and organizations often provide counseling and community support, which can be crucial for mental well-being. 4. **Social Justice**: In many cultures, widows may face discrimination and social exclusion. Supporting them can help fight against these injustices and promote equality. 5. **Community Development**: Helping widows can have a ripple effect, benefiting their children and communities by fostering a more stable and inclusive environment. 6. **Humanitarian Compassion**: Donating is an act of compassion and solidarity, showing that you care about the well-being of those who are vulnerable and in need of support.