Moving Forward, Staying Strong

Dear Family Advocates Donors, Volunteers, Families, and Partners,

As the situation with COVID-19 unfolds, our staff is finding footing to move forward in these uncertain times. As we enter week 2 of working-from-home, we’re delighted to report that, while it’s been challenging, we can do this. We’re here, we’re operational, and, despite the necessary social distancing we’re implementing to contain the virus, we will continue to work tirelessly to keep kids safe and families strong. We will continue to maintain the same quality of work we’ve always done on behalf of the children and families we serve. The process will just be a bit different than what we’re used to.

COMMUNICATION

To keep you in the loop, here is how we’ll be communicating with all of you over the next several weeks, months, or however long we need to do social distancing to remain safe.

Family Strengthening

Family Strengthening is continuing to serve families in the Treasure Valley by transporting needed nonperishable goods to homes every Friday as long as resources are available. More importantly, we know parenting can become difficult when children are inside all day with their caregivers and siblings. Children can push parents to their limits, and parents may not know where to turn. Our Family Strengthening Program staff are available to listen, provide education, and refer to other agencies that we know are available to assist. Families need to know they are not alone. Please contact 208-345-3344 ext. 1015 for assistance or information.

CASA

The 4th Judicial District CASA programs’ mission remains steadfast, and we’re adjusting our practices and protocols to prioritize safety while still supporting our essential advocacy for children in need. In spite of the current hurdles with COVID-19, our program has served all children but one appointed to us this year (under the age of 12). Our CASA community (Guardians and pro-bono attorneys) are committed and dedicated to being the voice for Idaho’s children in our judicial footprint. We are still attending hearings (telephonically), visiting families (face to face or via technology), writing reports, and representing the best interest of children.

Social Media/Website

For the most up-to-date information about our organization, online events, and articles of interest, be sure to Like and “follow” our Facebook page. You can also currently find us on Instagram. Our handles for these are:

Facebook: @familyadvocate

Instagram: @familyadvocatesboise

Additionally, be sure to bookmark our website for updates regarding events and blog posts: www.familyadvocates.org.

FUNDING

FamilyAdvocates.org

And lastly, we can’t continue to keep kids safe and families strong without your support! This new situation we’re all in has been doubly challenging for our programs due to the measures we must take to remain safe for our staff, our volunteers, and the children and families we serve in Family Strengthening and CASA. If you can do so, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to our organization through our website (just look for the “Give” icons!). It’s the most effective way to give to us!

AmazonSmile.com

AmazonSmile is another excellent way to give to Family Advocates. AmazonSmile is a program that donates 0.5% of your eligible purchases on Amazon to a charity of your choice. All you need to do is start your shopping at smile.amazon.com. The donation will be made at no extra cost to you, and you can choose Family Advocates from nearly one million public charitable organizations.

A WORD FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

And last, but certainly not least, a few words from our Executive Director, Kathryn Seebold:

Our mission of safe kids, strong families, and brave volunteers resonates today more than ever. We know that incidents of child abuse surge during a crisis and families need more support than ever, so we will continue to provide the necessary resources to families, but we ask for your help to continue doing so. Please consider a donation to Family Advocates to support the need for more volunteers, trainings, and resources for the families and children we support in our community. We’re in this together, and together we can save lives. Thank you for your trust and support.

With gratitude

Kathryn Seebold, Executive Director