Parent Conference Recap:

Breaking Chains and New Beginnings

Whittier, CA (June 15, 2024) — In collaboration with Human Services Association, LA County Child Abuse Prevention Councils, and SPIRITT’s parent-led community leadership groups (Comunidades Unidas, Parents As Leaders (PALS), and Mujeres con Poder), SPIRITT Family Services successfully hosted its annual Parent Conference, themed “Breaking Chains & New Beginnings.” The event took place at Whittier College, where attendees gathered to learn more about how to thrive as a family unit, break free from generational trauma, and embrace new opportunities.

The conference featured distinguished community leaders Teresa Vega and Aracely Martinez as the master of ceremonies. Dr. J. Ornelas, a renowned researcher, shared insights from her study on marianismo, drawing from her personal experiences in a Mexican household where she witnessed intimate partner violence. Her groundbreaking thesis, “Calladitas No Nos Vemos Mas Bonitas: Testimonios of Mexican Migrant Catholic Mothers’ Resistance To Marianismo,” is available online through the University of San Francisco website.

During the discussions, expert panelists and speakers delved into the complex interplay between mental well-being, cultural factors, and substance abuse, highlighting their effects on family dynamics, with a special focus on the LGBTQ+ community.

An impressive turnout of 247 individuals attended the conference, with over 80% expressing their commitment to implementing positive changes within their families based on the invaluable insights gained.

The Parent Conference Committee members: Teresa V., Araceli M., Ana Elena S., Elvy P., Anaih R., Jessica O., Kiara D., Estela U., and SPIRITT staff (Norma Y., Maria D., Daisy R., Amaris G., Evelyn C.).

If you would like to join or need more information about SPIRITT’s parent-led community leadership groups, please call us today at (562)322-1744!

July is BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month

SPIRITT Family Services joins the nationwide observance of BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month this July. This dedicated month aims to raise awareness about the distinct mental health challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities.

During BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, SPIRITT sheds light on the obstacles that often prevent BIPOC individuals from seeking the mental health support they deserve. These barriers include fear of judgment, cultural stigmas, and limited access to resources. By initiating open dialogues and breaking the silence surrounding mental health, we strive to promote healing and well-being within BIPOC communities.

SPIRITT, a dedicated advocate for mental health, celebrates over 50 years of unwavering commitment. Since our inception, we have championed the cause of well-being, empowering parents, and connecting families to vital resources. Our Integrated Behavioral Health Services serve as a lifeline for those navigating mental health challenges. By fostering resilience and promoting wellness, we create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive. In 2023, SPIRITT proudly assisted 10,088 BIPOC individuals, reinforcing our mission to break down barriers and ensure equitable access to mental health support.

For more information on our mental health services, please call us toll-free at (855)714-8800.

SPIRITT Receives

Unity in Community Award of the Year

(Pictured above from left to right: Enrique Zuniga, Yadira Carreon, Cristal Divas Guerrero, Esmeralda Chavez, Jessica Ancona – Mayor of El Monte, Norma Yoguez, Brenda Olivas, Gloria Olmos – Mayor of South El Monte, Emily Dual)

El Monte, CA (June 27, 2024) — SPIRITT Family Services proudly accepted the prestigious Unity in Community Award of the Year during the El Monte/South El Monte Chamber Business Awards and Installation Breakfast Ceremony. This recognition underscores SPIRITT’s unwavering dedication to providing essential support to children and families facing mental health challenges, substance use disorders, trauma, isolation, and poverty.

SPIRITT’s commitment extends beyond service provision; it embodies hope and healing. Through collaborative efforts with partners such as the El Monte/South El Monte Chamber, City of South El Monte, City of El Monte, Assembly Member Mike Fong, Supervisor Hilda Solis, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, and Senator Susan Rubio, we create a positive impact on our communities.

We express our heartfelt gratitude for this honor and remain steadfast in our mission to foster resilience, empower families, and build a brighter future for all.

Strengthening Father's Social Connections

SPIRITT Family Services commemorated Father’s Day and Men’s Health Month with a series of engaging activities for members of SPIRITT’s fatherhood program. A total of 32 fathers attended the Father’s Day Bingo Brunch, which included food, entertainment, games, raffles, and opportunities to strengthen social connections.

Additionally, some of the fathers got to enjoy a Dodger game with their families, while others had a thrilling adventure at Knotts Berry Farm & Universal Studios totaling 82 individuals who joined in on all the family outings.

Celebrating dads is important because fathers and father figures play a role in the lives of their children and families, which helps build healthy bonds within the family unit. At our SPIRITT Family Centers, we offer Fatherhood support groups in English and Spanish to provide them with the support they need to develop healthy parenting relationship, engage with their children, and connect with resources.

To learn more about our Fatherhood programs, please call us toll-free at (855)714-8800.

As we celebrate, let us empower men to prioritize their health and foster a culture of wellness and vitality. Together, we can make a positive impact on the well-being of our community.

SPIRITT Empowers Youth with Financial Skills for Their Special Celebrations

South El Monte, CA (June 21, 2024) – SPIRITT’s South El Monte Family Center hosted an impactful youth workshop, providing essential financial skills for individuals planning quinceañeras, sweet 16 parties, proms, graduations, and other celebrations. The event, held on June 21, 2024, aimed to equip young minds (ages 12-17) with the tools needed to make informed decisions that benefit their families.

Youth workshops included learning how to express their ideas through effective communication, planning for a successful event, and insights on reliable vendors for their special occasions. In parallel, parents engaged in a bilingual session focused on financial planning for the big day. Discussions covered budgeting, cost management, and maximizing resources.

The event drew an impressive turnout of 66 participants, leaving each attendee equipped with newfound knowledge and confidence. SPIRITT’s commitment to empowering families continues to make a positive impact in the community.

Upcoming Community Events & Programs

Parenting Class Opening Doors /

Clase de Padres Abriendo Puertas

Join SPIRITT and learn about the importance of early childhood development while exploring cultural identity and values. Each session uses a "dicho," or popular saying, and incorporates cultural familiar activities and data. Classes provide parents with practical tips for daily routines and situations.

Únase a SPIRITT y aprenda sobre la importancia del desarrollo de la primera infancia mientras explora la identidad y los valores culturales. Cada sesión utiliza un "dicho" o dicho popular e incorpora datos y actividades culturales familiares. Las clases brindan a los padres consejos prácticos para rutinas y situaciones diarias.

Location /Ubicación: 2000 Tyler Ave. South El Monte, CA.

Date/Fecha: Every Thursday (August 29th - November 7th) / Cada Jueves (20 de agosto- 7 de noviembre)

Time/Horario: 9:30am-11:30am

Register Today / Regístrese Hoy:(855) 714-8800

Sweet Moments

(Ages 1 - 4)

Join SPIRITT's Sweet Moments Play Group for Children 1-4 years old and explore ways to connect and bond with your child. Learn parenting tips and strengthen parental resilience. English group only.

Location: 2000 Tyler Ave. South El Monte, CA.

Date: Mondays (August 5th - September 23rd)

Time: 10:30am-12:00pm

Register Today / Regístrese Hoy:(855) 714-8800

Children's Art Class/ Clase de Arte Para Niños

Attention all artists! SPIRITT Family Services is hosting a children's art class for youth ages 11-15 at our Whittier & Bell Gardens Family Centers. Sign up, bring your creativity, and join in on the fun.

¡Atención a todos los artistas! SPIRITT Family Services está organizando una clase de arte para jóvenes de 11 a 15 años en nuestros Centros Familiares en Whittier y Bell Gardens. Regístrate, trae tu creatividad, y únete a la diversión.

Location /Ubicación: 8000 Painter Ave. Whittier, CA. 90602

Date/Fecha: Tuesdays (June 25th - July 30th) /martes (25 de junio-30 de julio)

Time/Horario: 10:30am-11:30am

Location /Ubicación: 7208 Garfield Ave. Bell Gardens CA 90201

Date/Fecha: Mondays (June 24th - July 29th) / lunes (24 de junio-29 de julio)

Time/Horario: 10:30am-11:30am

Register Today / Regístrese Hoy:

Whittier/Bell Gardens: 323-407-8011

Parent Cafe / Cafecito Para Padres

Immerse yourself in enriching parenting conversations while enjoying a delightful selection of coffee and pastries. You will have the chance to forge meaningful connections with fellow attendees while strengthening your protective factors.

Sumérgete en importantes conversaciones para padres mientras disfrutas de una deliciosa selección de café y pasteles. Tendrás la oportunidad de forjar conexiones significativas con otros asistentes mientras fortaleces tus factores de protección.

Location /Ubicación: 2000 Tyler Ave. South El Monte, CA.

Date/Fecha:Tuesday starting July 23/ los martes comenzando el 23 de julio

Time/Horario: 5:00pm-6:30pm

Register Today / Regístrese Hoy:(855) 714-8800

Domestic Violence Support Groups

Grupos de Apoyo Contra la Violencia Domestica

SPIRITT is hosting Domestic Violence Support Groups at our Whittier Family Center (English) and our Bell Gardens Family Center (Spanish). Our groups provide a safe and inclusive space where you can begin your healing journey while connecting with other survivors of intimate partner violence.

SPIRITT organiza grupos de apoyo contra la violencia doméstica en nuestro Centro Familiar Whittier en inglés y nuestro Centro Familiar Bell Gardens en español. Nuestros grupos brindan un espacio seguro e inclusivo donde puede conectarse con otros sobrevivientes de violencia domestica.

English Group

Date: Every Monday

Time: 5:30pm-7:00pm

Place: Whittier Family Center (8000 Painter Ave. Whittier CA. 90602)

Grupo en Español

Fecha: Cada miércoles

Horario: 5:30pm-7:00pm

Ubicación: Bell Gardens Family Center (7208 Garfield Ave. Bell Gardens CA. 90201

Register Today/Regístrese Hoy:

Whittier (562) 903-7000

Bell Gardens(323) 407-8011

Healing Hands for Humanity: Free Acupuncture & Chiropractic Care!

In collaboration with SCU of Health Sciences SPIRITT is hosting free acupuncture & chiropractic care services at our Whittier Family Center.

En colaboración con SCU of Health Sciences, SPIRITT ofrece servicios gratuitos de acupuntura y atención quiropráctica en nuestro Whittier Family Center.

Location/Ubicación: 8000 Painter Ave. Whittier, CA 9062

Date/Fecha: June 9, 2024

Time/ Horario: 12:00pm-3:00pm

Register Today/Regístrese Hoy:

(562) 903-7000

Fatherhood Support Groups (Ongoing)

Calling all father figures! Join SPIRITT's Fatherhood support group and cultivate healthy parenting relationships, strengthen bonds with your children, and engage in resource sharing with fellow fathers. Support groups are held via Zoom, at our South El Monte Family Center, and Bell Gardens Family Center.

Llamando a todos los papas! Unase al grupo de apoyo a la paternidad de SPIRITT y cultive relaciones de crianza saludables, fortalezca los vinculos con sus hijos y participe en el intercambio de recursos con otros padres. Los grupos de apoyo se llevan a cabo a traves de zoom, en nuestro Centro Familiar de South El Monte y en el Centro de Bell Gardens.

Zoom(English only/Solo Ingles)

Date: Thursdays

Time: 6:30pm-8:00pm

Register: (909) 630-6305

South El Monte Family Center

Date: Fridays / Viernes

Time/Horario: 6:30pm-8:00pm

Place/Ubicación: 2000 Tyler Ave, South El Monte CA 91733

Register: (562) 477-4037

Bell Gardens Family Center

Date: Thursday / Jueves

Time/Horario: 6:00pm-7:30pm

Place/Ubicación: Hybrid / Hibrido (7208 Garfield Ave, Bell Gardens, CA. 90201 )

Register/ Regístrese (323) 407-8011