AN UPDATE FROM OUR DIRECTOR:

Like so many others, approaching the one-year mark of the pandemic seems surreal. Exactly one year ago yesterday would have been our 7th annual St. Patrick's Day event, and it seems like yesterday and also a lifetime ago. Through the power of social media, we are still connecting our community and celebrating in a new way through our St. Patrick's series, so be sure to follow along there!

2020 was also our 40th anniversary year, which quickly shifted from celebration to survival. However, it also draws a parallel back to our founder, Bob Wilson, and the forgiveness, empathy and resilience he demonstrated 40 years ago.
“When the world stopped, I was terrified. I was worried about losing my job, being a single mom, homeschooling my child, and not getting sick. EPIC made me feel like I wasn’t alone, even during the loneliest time of my life.”
-EPIC support line caller, April 2020
Much like Bob, we used the past year to set our best-laid plans aside and focused on one thing: the needs of families. Programming quickly shifted to virtual models, the Parenting Doesn't Stop Project was created, along with support lines, parent cafes and self-care workshops. When families needed us most, we were there, advocating for them and listening to them. Parenting didn’t stop, so neither did we.

As you reflect back on your own pandemic experience, please know we are here for you. It is never too late to need support.

To good health and happiness this year and beyond,

Tara
Tara N. Burgess, Executive Director
and the entire EPIC team 
FOR THE PARENTS:

The Mansion on Delaware Ave. is hosting a special "Irish Getaway Package" through March 21 that includes themed grazing boards, cocktails, live music and a donation to EPIC! Click here to learn more.
FOR THE KIDS:

Read Silly Mc Gilly with us, then follow him him through Buffalo as he visits famous Irish spots like Clann Na Cara, the Mansion on Delaware., Museum of Science, Buffalo Library & Irish Companies. Happy St. Patrick's Day!