Children's Trust Tidbits - August Newsletter

August 2024

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S DESK

Back to School, and the Learning Never Stops!

This time of year is always exciting. New teachers, new classmates, new routines, and a year full of learning ahead. Here at the Children's Trust, we're learning better ways of connecting with our providers, who in turn can better serve our families. We recently held our first Afterschool Provider Convening, where leaders were able to connect with others facing similar needs in afterschool care. We're excited to convene this group again, as well as other organizations we fund. In addition to afterschool programs kicking off, we're also soon to announce awardees for our Enrichment and Youth Health funding opportunities. Stay tuned! As we head into the fall, we are ready to learn and grow and excel right along with all of you!

RECENT HAPPENINGS

Children's Trust had a wonderful time at WUFT's Fanfares & Fireworks as the title sponsor of the PBS Kids Zone

Even a little rain couldn't dampen the excitement at the first-ever PBS Kids Zone for this longstanding event held on the University of Florida campus. The youth enjoyed a range of activities with us and as provided by the partners we brought along. Thank you to the Cade Museum, Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville Circus Center, Gainesville Thrives, New Tech Now and UF Lastinger Center for Learning for helping make the night a fun time for all!

The first-ever Afterschool Convening

As the Trust continues to grow, new initiatives are being explored to unite providers. At the recent Afterschool Convening, the Trust's staff provided data, while providers offered valuable feedback and insights from the 2023-24 school year.

Read on and see more photos...

Flourish Alachua, postpartum doula program, kicks off late August

The Children's Trust of Alachua County is thrilled to launch the inaugural postpartum doula program, Flourish Alachua, in partnership with BEAM Birth Network. The six-month program is designed to equip participants with the essential skills needed to become a certified postpartum doula.

Children's Trust introduces Goldwire, Sumner as COO, CFO

Two familiar faces take on new positions here at the Trust. Kristy Goldwire as Chief Operating Officer and Scott Sumner as Chief Financial Officer.

Read the CTAC staff update...

A RESOURCE YOU MAY NOT KNOW

The National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT)

Since 2021, the Children’s Trust of Alachua County has been a proud member of the NCIT, an education and advocacy movement committed to ensuring families with children from prenatal to age three have access to essential resources. The Children's Trust supports programs focused on newborn and maternal health, providing vital resources both locally and through the NCIT network.

For more information on the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers, please visit its website.

PROVIDER SPOTLIGHT

Camp Just for Us

Founder LaToya Jennings-Lopez designed this summer camp to unite the youth that live at Lewis Place at Ironwood. The program includes preparation for the academic school year, field trips, street clean-up days, outdoor play and more! Eliminating transportation barriers makes this camp unique, with each camper being safely walked to camp and back home every day.