As Christmas and Kwanzaa approach—and as one year winds down and another begins—it's natural to self-reflect. As always, there's a lot to think about. I hope what we share with you this week is helpful as you reflect.
We share practical tips from the Arc of the United States about helping our children with disabilities make decisions, especially as they become adults. We also share expert advice and the perspectives of a range of parents about talking to our children about the violence in Israel and Gaza.
We share an update about our Community Partnership Celebration on January 29. At first, that may not seem like something to reflect on, but we hope you will. We cannot do this work without your financial support and ongoing partnership. Please read about what we want to accomplish in the next year and think about ways you can support those goals. Your support makes such a difference and helps real families help their children in practical ways.
I wish each of you the happiest of whatever holidays you celebrate. My family celebrates both Hanukkah and Christmas. My heart longed for more light and love in the world as we lit the Menorah this year. I'm sure I was not alone in that feeling. I wish all of you who celebrate Christmas a very merry Christmas, and may it be merry in whatever way means the most to you and your family. For those of you who will begin celebrating Kwanzaa on December 26, I wish you Happy Kwanzaa, and I encourage everyone to learn more about the seven principles of Kwanzaa. They are meaningful to us all.
If you celebrate other holidays or don't celebrate at all, I wish you the very best. I am so thankful for everyone who is part of the work of Families as Allies.
Families as Allies' offices will be closed from December 21 to January 2. We will be available by phone at 601-355-0915 except on December 25, December 26 and January 1. If you have a mental health-related emergency with your child, please call 988.
