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Breaking Barriers: School-Based Counseling Transforms Student Success

When Cole* began working with C+FS counselors at Elmwood Village Charter Schools (EVCS), his separation anxiety often caused him to arrive late or leave school early, disrupting his education. After receiving consistent support through C+FS’ new on-site counseling program, Cole recently achieved a major milestone – attending school for five full days in a row…
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Creativity Shines at Community Residence Art Show

The Community Residence (CR) recently displayed the talents of its young artists at a special art show where they showcased a variety of creative projects, ranging from drawings and paintings to impressive LEGO displays and large-scale, handmade creations. “Our CR kiddos are very into their art. It’s one of the ways they really love to…
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New Recreation Room Brings Fun to the Residential Program

We are excited to announce the completion of a brand-new recreation room for children in our Residential Program. After four months of planning and hard work, this special space is ready to provide opportunities for fun, relaxation and socialization. Thanks to generous donations, the recreation room is filled with exciting activities. Arcade-style games like NBA…
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Haven House Hears from Past Client

When a domestic violence survivor no longer needs Haven House’s services, it’s rare for their counselor or advocate to hear from them again. That’s why it was especially meaningful when Josie, Supervisor of the Counseling and Advocacy Program, recently received a message from Hannah.* Hannah had first called the Haven House hotline toward the end…
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Drumming Together: Celebrating Black History Month at C+FS

The word "Djembe" means "together," and what better way to celebrate Black History Month than by learning to play the Djembe drum? Recently, C+FS staff gathered in the gymnasium for an immersive educational and musical experience. Youssou Lo, an instructor from the African American Cultural Center, taught everyone how to play various instruments and shared…
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February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and Child and Family Services (C+FS) Haven House took an active role by visiting the Orchard Park Central School District. Alicia Stark, Development Manager, and Bailie Murty, Youth Trafficking Prevention Program Coordinator, delivered presentations to students across various grade levels, focusing on Teen Dating Violence and fostering healthy…
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Congratulations Leadership Development Cohort 4!

Last week, the Child and Family Services (C+FS) Leadership Development Program’s fourth cohort graduated and earned their certificates for completing the four-week training program. The Leadership Development Program is designed to help leaders learn new skills, increase leadership competencies, gain new perspectives and become more self-aware to be more effective in their roles. Individuals are…
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February is Black History Month

February is Black History Month (BHM) – a time to commemorate and reflect on African American life, history and culture. To fully embrace the impact Black people have had on U.S. history, Carter G. Woodson, one of the founders of BHM, decided to incorporate different themes every year. Child and Family Services’ (C+FS) DEI Committee…
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Stanley G. Falk Sixth Graders Become Published Authors

Mrs. Jessica Ecker, Sixth Grade Teacher at Stanley G. Falk School’s Roosevelt campus, discovered the Young Writers SOS Saga Collection competition and thought it was a great opportunity for her students to practice their creative writing skills. This year, sixteen students were selected to become published authors and have their story featured in the collection.…
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Thank You Toyland Donors!

Child and Family Services Haven House Toyland drive was once again a success thanks to the generosity of our donors! Held annually during the holiday season, Toyland helps support Haven House’s emergency shelter throughout the year by providing essential resources. “Without Toyland’s assistance, our clients may not be able to provide gifts to their children…
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Tips for Overcoming New Year Challenges from a C+FS Counselor

The new year often brings a wide range of emotions and expectations, which can lead to various challenges. We spoke with Kiara Dreyer, Mental Health Counselor at Child and Family Services, about suggested strategies to overcome these common struggles. Here is what Kiara had to say.  Following the holidays, many individuals experience “Post-Holiday Blues.” Strategies…
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C+FS Harold Tabi-Mensah and Yeli Colon Receive NYS Coalition for Children’s Behavioral Health’s Employee of the Year Award

The NYS Coalition for Children’s Behavioral Health recognized Child and Family Services’ (C+FS) Harold Tabi-Mensah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and Yeli Colon, Food Service and Custodial Team Leader at Conners Children Center, as Employee of the Year Award at their annual celebration. Harold started working for the Youth Assertive Community Treatment (Act) Program at C+FS in…
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