Resilient Guilford Network Set to Renew Commitment in Annual MOU Recommitment Ceremony

In a continued effort to fortify community bonds and resilience, the Resilient Guilford Network (RGN) is gearing up for its Annual Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Recommitment signing ceremony scheduled for January 17th, 2024, at the Lusk Center in Greensboro.

This ceremony stands as a symbol of collective dedication to fostering strength and support within the Guilford community, addressing the challenges posed by stress, trauma and adversity. Special guests, including Mayor Nancy Vaughan, Deputy Chief Renee Sigmon of the Greensboro Police Department, City Council Members Sharon Hightower, Marikay Abuziwaiter, and various community partners, will be in attendance, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the initiative.

The Resilient Guilford Network invites community members, agencies, and stakeholders to participate and reflect on past achievements and set the stage for future collaborations. RGN aims to spotlight the unwavering spirit of unity that defines Guilford's commitment to a resilient and supportive community.

Save the date, and we look forward to another year of impactful collaboration and community building.

Kellin Foundation's Hands of Hope Gift Drive Sparks Holiday Joy

In the spirit of the holidays, Kellin Foundation is pleased to share the resounding success of the Hands of Hope Gift Drive, made possible by the heroes of our community – our generous donors, who, with unwavering support from local churches St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, Pleasant Union United Methodist Church, Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, and the broader community, brought joy to 32 children under our care and raised over $500 in gifts for children and adult patients at Central Regional Behavioral Hospital.

Leading the charge for Hands of Hope was Erin Hanes, Kellin Foundation's dedicated Youth Peer Support Specialist, whose unwavering commitment played a pivotal role in transforming the gift drive into a festive success story. Erin's efforts, combined with the immense generosity of our community heroes, have left an indelible mark on the holiday season for local families.

As we reflect on the season of giving, our hearts overflow with gratitude for the community and the donors who made this extraordinary feat possible. Your acts of kindness have not only brought immeasurable joy and warmth to those in need but have also set in motion a ripple effect of compassion and happiness throughout our community.

Join us in celebrating the magic of giving and the profound impact our community has had on making the holidays brighter for those we serve. Together, we've created a season filled with warmth, joy, and the true spirit of generosity.

Nurturing Self-Love for the Holidays: A Vital Act during National Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can bring challenges, especially as December coincides with National Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month. At Kellin Foundation, we recognize the importance of addressing both the festive cheer and the emotional well-being of our community. This December, our "Self Love for the Holidays" workshop aligns perfectly with the awareness month, offering a supportive space to navigate the complex interplay of emotions during this time of the year.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder:

Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month sheds light on a form of depression that occurs seasonally, often in the winter months when natural sunlight exposure decreases. This condition can affect one's mood, energy levels, and overall well-being.

Why Self-Love Matters:

The holiday season, while joyful for many, can exacerbate feelings of isolation and low mood for those experiencing SAD. Our "Self Love for the Holidays" workshop provides a unique opportunity to address these challenges. By delving into mindfulness, self-reflection, and resilience techniques, participants can cultivate self-compassion and build emotional resilience.

How Self-Love for the Holidays Can Help:

1. Mindfulness Practices: Learn techniques to stay present and appreciate the current moment, fostering a positive mindset.

2. Self-Reflection: Explore personal values and set boundaries, promoting a healthier relationship with oneself and others during the holiday season.

3. Peer Support: Connect with others who may share similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding.

Taking Action:

Participating in the "Self Love for the Holidays" workshop becomes an intentional act of self-care during National Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month. By investing in your emotional well-being, you not only support yourself but contribute to a community that understands and values mental health.

Register Today:

Secure your spot in our Self-Love for the Holiday workshop by registering online or calling 336-429-5600. This December, let's not only celebrate the season but also prioritize the well-being of ourselves and those around us.

As we navigate the holidays together, let the spirit of self-love illuminate our paths, fostering a community that embraces mental health with open hearts.

Healing Lives: Give the Gift of Hope this Giving Tuesday

As the season of generosity approaches, the Kellin Foundation extends a heartfelt invitation to our valued community of supporters. Together, we have the power to make a profound difference in the lives of individuals navigating challenges like Kyle and Jennifer *. Middle school can be a tumultuous time for any young person, and adults too face their own unique struggles. This Giving Tuesday, (11/28/23) we implore you to join us in supporting the life-changing work of the Kellin Foundation and play a pivotal role in the success stories of countless individuals seeking recovery and resilience.

In the midst of struggles at school, battles with poor grades, and challenges at home, Kyle's grandparents found themselves at a loss. Kyle was grappling with issues that made his critical middle school years even more difficult. Recognizing the need for professional guidance, they turned to the Kellin Foundation for help.

At Kellin, Kyle found a safe space to explore his feelings of sadness, anger, and grief towards his biological parents, who were unable to provide the support he needed. Through the foundation's dedicated programs, Kyle learned to become aware of his emotions, manage them effectively, and express himself in healthy ways. The journey wasn't easy, but with the support of Kellin's compassionate team, Kyle began to transform his life.

One of the cornerstones of Kellin's approach is teaching essential life skills. Kyle, like many other children in our programs, learned how to communicate effectively, engage in healthy conflict resolution, and challenge unhelpful thoughts. These skills not only improved his mood but also empowered him to behave in ways that he could be proud of.

After participating in the program at Kellin, Kyle experienced a remarkable turnaround. The school environment, once fraught with fights and academic struggles, became a place of positive growth for him. His grades improved, conflicts ceased, and he found himself following the rules at home with newfound pride.

Yet, the impact of the Kellin Foundation extends beyond adolescence. Jennifer's story is a testament to the foundation's commitment to supporting individuals in their journey to recovery. Struggling with alcohol addiction, Jennifer attended our Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) class and peer support programs.. Through this class, she developed a series of tools to maintain her sobriety.

In addition to the wellness tools she's learned, Jennifer utilizes the support groups at Kellin Foundation. Inspired by her own recovery journey, she is now pursuing her Peer Support Specialist Certification and actively encourages peers by sharing her wellness tools and experiences. Jennifer embodies the spirit of resilience and recovery, serving as an inspiration for others.

The Kellin Foundation is grateful for such incredible examples of individuals working towards recovery, whether it's a young person like Kyle or an adult like Jennifer. However, the demand for our services is greater than ever. The Kellin Foundation currently has a waiting list of individuals seeking help. Your donation on Giving Tuesday can help us not only continue our vital services but also grow to reach more individuals in need.

This Giving Tuesday, let's come together to make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals like Kyle and Jennifer. Your support can be the guiding light that illuminates the path toward a brighter future. Join us in fostering resilience, instilling life skills, and empowering individuals to live the life they want and deserve. Together, we can rewrite the stories of countless lives and build a community where every individual has the chance to thrive. Donate to the Kellin Foundation this Giving Tuesday and be a part of the journey towards positive change in the lives of those around us.

*Names have been changed to protect identity.

Honoring Mandy's Legacy: Applications Now Open for the Amanda Ward Ireland Scholarship

We are pleased to share that applications are now open for the Amanda Ward Ireland Scholarship—a heartfelt initiative dedicated to honoring the memory of the extraordinary Mandy. This $1000 scholarship is an opportunity for graduating seniors in Guilford County to receive recognition and support for their commitment to leadership, service, and connecting with others.

Mandy, a beacon of leadership, service, and laughter touched the lives of thousands with her unwavering dedication to making a positive impact. As a child and family advocate and trainer, Mandy exemplified values that we proudly celebrate through the Amanda Ward Ireland Scholarship.

The scholarship is open to graduating seniors in Guilford County who embody a spirit of service to others, value connecting with all people, and showcase leadership both inside and outside the classroom. The selection process includes a written essay, demonstrated academic achievements, and recommendations from mentors, teachers, and/or coaches. We believe in recognizing and supporting individuals based on their passion for making a difference.

While all eligible applicants are encouraged to apply, we extend a special invitation to students from first responder families and girls' leadership academies. Mandy had a close connection with these groups, and we are eager to continue her legacy by supporting students who share her passion for service and leadership.

The application period is now open, and we invite all eligible graduating seniors in Guilford County to seize this opportunity. The deadline for submissions is February 29th, and the scholarship recipient will be announced in the Spring of 2024. 

Mandy's legacy lives on through the Amanda Ward Ireland Scholarship, a symbol of our commitment to fostering leadership and service in the next generation. We encourage you to share this opportunity with graduating seniors who embody Mandy's spirit.

For more information about the scholarship and the application process, please visit our website here. Together, let's honor Mandy's memory and inspire a new generation of leaders.

Kellin Foundation Chosen as a North Carolina Family Resource Center in Partnership with Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina

The Kellin Foundation is proud to announce its selection as a North Carolina Family Resource Center (FRC) in collaboration with Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina (PCANC). This partnership marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to strengthening families and preventing child abuse throughout our community.

The North Carolina Family Resource Center is a program initiated by Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina to provide essential resources, support, and education to families across the state. These centers serve as crucial hubs for parents, caregivers, and children to access the assistance and guidance they need to build safe, nurturing environments.

Kellin Foundation is honored to join forces with PCANC in this capacity. Kellin’s mission to strengthen resilience among children, families, adults and communities through trauma-informed behavioral health services focused on prevention, treatment, and healing aligns seamlessly with the goals of the North Carolina Family Resource Center program, which aims to create a safer, healthier future for every child in the state.

"We are thrilled to be chosen as a North Carolina Family Resource Center in partnership with Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina," says Dr. Kelly Graves, President and CEO at Kellin Foundation. "This collaboration will enable us to expand our reach and provide even more comprehensive support to families in need with a particular focus on prevention and early intervention/treatment. Together with PCANC, we will work tirelessly to support earlier and easier access to resources  and ensure that every child in our community grows up in a safe, secure and nurturing environment."

As a North Carolina Family Resource Center, Kellin Foundation offers a wide range of services and programs designed to strengthen families and promote child well-being. These services include parenting workshops, evidence-based treatment models such as parent-child interactive therapy,  support groups, child wellness educational opportunites,  and access to vital community resources.

The Kellin Foundation and Prevent Child Abuse North Carolina look forward to working together to enhance the lives of children and families and create a brighter future for North Carolina's children.