In Reach, Inc.

Magnifying The Mind - Teens Raising Awareness about Mental Health

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Thu, 27 Apr 2017 15:20:00 +0000

In Reach's Youth Ambassadors at Parkdale High School in partnership with the Parkdale Student Government Association held an awesome mental health forum. Pictured with presenters and adult facilitators.

“1 in 5 youth aged 13–18 (21.4%) experiences a severe mental disorder at some point during their life. For children aged 8–15, the estimate is 13%.”

On April 26, 2017, IN REACH’s Youth Ambassadors (YA) at Parkdale High School and members of the Student Government Association hosted a Mental Health Forum, Magnifying the Mind, to address teen mental health. The hands-on forum highlighted the warning signs of mental illness; coping mechanisms to handle stress; where teens can seek help; brought awareness to addiction, and how to break the stigma of “mental illness.”

The diverse panel of mental health experts included Chmaika P. Mills, PhD candidate, Clinical Psychology; Audrey Forka, CRNP a Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner; Pamela Little, CEO of Plate of X’pressions, LLC; Rossalyn Martinez, LCSWC and Jessica Prentice, LCSWC; Rosa Lindquist, yoga instructor; Ben Malecki, a youth advocate at Parkdale High School, and Tobacco Prevention Ambassadors from Parkdale HS.

Before beginning the program, YAs distributed a pre-forum survey to their peers, where they were asked, “How they would spot someone with a mental illness,” and “What characteristics they would possess?” 182 students responded, below are some of their responses:

“It’s not something that you can easily spot there are some people who seem or look perfectly fine which is the outside appearance but on the inside that’s where the problem is.”
“I don’t think there is a specific look for people with mental illness. Some characteristics possible are physical impairments such as twisted mouths, slanted eyes, but people can look totally fine & still have mental illness.”
“There are many different signs for all the different illnesses. Sometimes you may not even spot things at all some could be triggered by words, or sounds while in other’s you could never know. They look like all of us.”

During the forum, students rotated through several mental health stations, spending 10-12 minutes listening to different professionals speak on their area of expertise and the resources that they provide. Students learned how anxiety/stress and other mental health problems can negatively impact cognition and academic performance, and the stigma associated with receiving school accommodation. They also learned basic relaxation techniques; that using art as therapy can relieve anxiety; yoga and meditation relieve stress; and learned ways to give their brain a break when preparing for tests.

At the end of the forum, students were surveyed and asked if their knowledge about the subject increased as a result of participating in this activity? Of the student who responded, 32% said yes; 10% said no.

“Yes” responses included:

“I got to learn that those who need help have to speak out to get help because it may get worse if not treated over time.”
“Before the health fair, I initially referred mental illness to retardation, autism, etc. But now I know it extends to other things such as depression and others, this really broadened/ opened my mindset.”
“It has enlightened me that some people who have a mental disorder are mostly anxious or stressed; and also art and yoga helps to relieve stress.”

The Youth Ambassadors is a school-based college access with a service learning heart program. The program engages high school students in a variety of opportunities to become college and career ready lead meaningful service learning projects and build life skills through financial literacy. Learn more at www.inreachinc.org.

#heartofafterschool

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 24 Apr 2017 12:00:00 +0000

Our educators as afterschool professionals at Kenmoor Middle School. In Reach executive director, Toni Smith, third from left and program coordinator, Kayla Newsome, second from right.

In Reach, Inc. is joining with the National AfterSchool Association to celebrate the professionals that are at the heart of afterschool programs during "Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week" April 24-28, 2017.

There is no way we could operate without the dynamic educators who teach in our College and Career Ready 21st Century Community Learning Center or the superb principals who lead their school communities, Ms. Dorothy Clowers, William Paca Elementary School; Ms. Nancy Schickner, Carrollton Elementary School; and Ms. Maha Fadli, Kenmoor Middle School; and Dr. Lori Taylor at Parkdale High School for providing guidance for our Youth Ambassadors College Access Program. We appreciate you!

Carrollton Elementary School	William Paca Elementary School	Kenmoor Middle School
Ernesa Bess	Alma Ardita	Annie Arches
Eboney Brisker	Melissa Bates	Mary Bass
Wanda Brooks	Denise Bishop-Edwards	Jeffrey Garcia
Gail Flowers	Sharie Canty	David Green
Shemayne Hooks	Novilen Capadnyan	Beverly Neal
Alisa Kove	Ailyn Carillo	Elizabeth Robinson
Tammy Little	Randi Coward	Gina Urban
Antonio Logan	Renee Mahomed-Washington
Lisa Smith-Parker	Claribel Mendoza
	Aileen Montillano
	Florence Moreno
	Melanie Rich-Neal and Janet Rivera

We are joining the effort because we believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the life of a child. We encourage you to join us in thanking the afterschool professionals in your life. Here are some ideas on how you can show your appreciation:

Declare on social media: "I believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the life of a child. #heartofafterschool"
Give a hand-written card from you and/or your child to the afterschool professional in your life.
Send an email to an afterschool professional's supervisor describing why that person is appreciated.
Make treats for the staff at your afterschool program. For more resources and information check out www.heartofafterschool.com.

Scholarship Opportunity

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 17:09:00 +0000

In Reach is a community-based nominating organization to the Posse Foundation for their Leadership Scholarship. This scholarship is aimed at identifying outstanding high school students with extraordinary academic and leadership potential.

In Reach can nominate 10 rising seniors (currently in the 11th grade) for a chance to receive a four-year, full-tuition scholarship to one of five partner colleges and universities —Bucknell University, Lafayette College, University of Rochester, University of Wisconsin-Madison and Sewanee: The University of the South.

If you are the parent or guardian of a rising senior, or know any rising high school seniors in Prince George's County, MD that you believe should have an opportunity to become a “Posse” scholar, and they are not being nominated by their school, In Reach is here to help. Click here for In Reach nominating application materials. Contact Ms. Gross via jgross@inreachinc.org or 301.357-8433 ext. 7005 for additional assistance.

Prospective nomination applications are being accepted until Friday, May 26, 2017. Don't delay!!

In the meantime, visit the Posse Foundation website at www.possefoundation.org to learn more about this amazing opportunity!

Keeping the Lights On Afterschool for #Families

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Tue, 18 Oct 2016 18:06:00 +0000

October 18, 2016

Contact: Toni A. Smith
301.357.8433 ext. 7001

Keeping the Lights On Afterschool for Families

Landover, MD – On Thursday, October 20, 2016, at William Paca Elementary School children, parents, businesses and community leaders will come together to celebrate Lights On Afterschool. The national celebration is being held to draw attention to the need for more afterschool programs to serve the millions of children nationwide who are unsupervised and at risk each weekday afternoon. Locally, it is being organized to demonstrate the positive and powerful outcomes of communities working together to support the Prince George’s County Public School System. Lights On Afterschool for Families at William Paca Elementary School will be one of more than 8,000 such events across the nation emphasizing the importance of keeping the lights on and the doors open after school.

Hosted by community partner In Reach, the Lights On Afterschool for Families celebration will engage students, their families and the community in a number of hands-on and engaging activities to reinforce the importance of afterschool programs. Participants in In Reach’s College and Career Ready 21st Century Community Learning Center’s Afterschool Program and Family Academy will be in for a real treat as the 2016-2017 program kicks off with this event.

Recent data from America After 3PM, the research series on afterschool programs commissioned by the Afterschool Alliance, shows a vast unmet demand for afterschool programs nationwide. In Maryland, 150,112 children participated in an afterschool programs in 2014, only 16%, yet 280,319, or 36%, would be enrolled if a program were available. Further, 87% percent of Maryland’s parents were satisfied with their child’s afterschool program, and 64% percent agreed that afterschool programs give working parents peace of mind for that same year. More work needs to be done to meet the demand for afterschool programs that keep Maryland’s kids safe, inspire them to learn and help working families.

“In Reach has enjoyed an enriching partnership with the William Paca family for over four years and I am extremely delighted to be able to host this year’s Lights On Afterschool event with such a dynamic principal, Ms. Dorothy Clowers, a cadre of dedicated educators and amazing families. We are all very proud of our afterschool students and families,” said Toni Smith, executive director. There's no reason that learning should stop at 3 p.m., particularly if the alternative is unsupervised time in front of a television set, or any of the dangerous or unhealthy behaviors that can ensnare children in the afternoons. Like so many other afterschool programs around the nation, ours is supported by funding from the Maryland State Department of Education’s 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative. Since its creation, it has provided funding to allow hundreds of children to attend afterschool. We need to grow this funding stream for afterschool and summer learning programs.

In Reach’s College and Career Ready 21st Century Community Learning Center opened its doors to William Paca Elementary School students and families in 2015 with a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant from the Maryland State Department of Education. The College and Career Ready 21st CCLC serves almost 200 children, providing homework assistance, tutoring, and classes and clubs in sports, reading, and mathematics, and dozens of other subjects at three Prince George’s County Public Schools. For more information about In Reach, visit www.inreachinc.org.

Lights On Afterschool is organized by the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness and advocacy organization working to ensure that all children have access to quality afterschool programs. Lights On Afterschool has been celebrated annually since 2000. More information on the Afterschool Alliance, Lights On Afterschool and America After 3PM is available at www.afterschoolalliance.org.

Dedication | Patience | Love - #TeacherAppreciationWeek

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Tue, 03 May 2016 16:50:00 +0000

Our amazing team at William Paca Elementary School in Landover, MD
In Reach Executive Director Toni Smith (far left) and Principal Dorothy Clowers (third from right)

During Teacher Appreciation Week, In Reach warmly thanks all of the amazing educators it is fortunate to work with in the Prince George's County Public School System to implement its College and Career Ready 21st Century Community Learning Center Program and Youth Ambassadors College Access High School Program. We could not do our work without these awesome educators. They are an intricate part of our existence and make our work possible.

This week, we recognize our educators for their

Dedication - most people do not understand the level of dedication it takes to manage a classroom with twenty or more personalities, learn each personality, teach each unique child, give assignments, grade them, complete assessments, talk to parents and so much more and this is all in one day!

Patience - with so much on their plate every day including working with partners like In Reach, usually after an already long day, we are thankful for their patience.

Love - there is no way they could do all that they do without love. Although working with children can be very fulfilling, only love for them could truly sustain the amount of energy required to perform each day. We know this from experience.

Today, we recognize and thank each and everyone of our amazing and awesome educators.

William Paca Elementary School
Alma Ardita
Denise Bishop-Edwards
Novilen Bendebel Capadngan
Lisa-Michele Dunmore
Lekitta Epps
Renee Mahomed-Washington
Claribel Mendoza
Aileen Montillano
Florence Moreno
Teixeira Reynolds
Janet Rivera
Beverly Wilborn-Butler

Carrollton Elementary School
Ernesa Bess
Eboney Brisker
Tiffany Dupree
Rebecca Harrison
Edwin Ibias
Alisa Kove
Karen Mack
Teresa Trozzo

Kenmoor Middle School
Randi Coward
Jasmine Davis
Jeffrey Garcia
Beverly Neal
Elizabeth Robinson
Maya Webb

Parkdale High School
Erica Bullock
Shayne Swift
Melvin Twine

To Be Beautiful Means to Be Yourself - Children's #MentalHealth Matters!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 02 May 2016 13:00:00 +0000

May 1 – 7, 2016, marks the annual celebration of Children’s Mental Health Matters! Campaign Week. In Reach, Inc., has joined the Children’s Mental Health Matters! Campaign - a collaboration of the Mental Health Association of Maryland (MHAMD) and the Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF) with support from the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Behavioral Health Administration - to celebrate!

The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health. According to Harvard University’s Center of the Developing Child, the foundation for positive mental health begins taking shape in the earliest years. Experiences in the first 3 years of life, from relationships with parents, caregivers, and teachers can significantly impact a child’s developing brain. Negative experiences during critical developmental years can have lifelong implications such as hindering a child’s capacity for learning and ability to relate to others. Many costly problems, ranging from the failure to complete high school to incarceration, could be dramatically reduced if attention were paid to improving children’s environments of relationships and experiences early in life.

Each year, the network of nearly 250 partners and schools throughout the state celebrates Children’s Mental Health Matters! with over a week of events, workshops, media, outreach and other awareness raising activities. National Children's Mental Health Awareness Week is geared toward raising awareness to the issues and causes integral to the children's mental health field in each of the communities across the country.

To raise awareness and create dialogue about emotions and mental wellness among students, families, and educators, In Reach will host a family movie night at partner William Paca Elementary School in Landover, Maryland where it will screen the Disney film Inside Out. Students in In Reach's program at Kenmoor Middle School will view the movie and complete the Walk in My Shoes activity for the 4th Annual Anti-Stigma Art Project.

For more information and resources for addressing children’s mental health, visit http://www.ChildrensMentalHealthMatters.org

#heartofafterschool

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 11:30:00 +0000

In Reach, Inc.

Celebrates the Heart of Afterschool Programs During the First Ever

“AFTERSCHOOL PROFESSIONALS APPRECIATION WEEK”

April 25-29, 2016

Prince George’s County, MD, April 25, 2016 – In Reach, Inc., is joining with the National AfterSchool Association (NAA) to celebrate the professionals that are at the heart of afterschool programs during the first ever “Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week” April 25-29, 2016.

“We believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the life of a child,” said Executive Director Toni Smith “We encourage everyone to join us this week in thanking the afterschool professionals in their lives.”

Why is it important to recognize Afterschool Professionals?

An estimated 10.2 million children participate in afterschool programs each year. Today, afterschool programs are viewed as much more than just childcare. They are widely credited as the way to enhance education in STEM, literacy, the arts, social and emotional learning, health and wellness, and more. With that demand comes increased responsibility on the estimated 850,000 of professionals who are making a difference in the lives of our children.

What is Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week?

Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a joint effort of community partners, afterschool programs, youth and child care workers, and individuals who have committed to dedicating time to recognize and appreciate those who work with youth during out-of-school hours. The week is marked by celebrations and public relations efforts to encourage people to thank afterschool professionals serving children in programs and organizations across the nation.

Who is an Afterschool Professional?

An Afterschool Professional is someone who works with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours. Currently, there is an estimated 850,000 afterschool professionals in the US.

How can I thank an Afterschool Professional?

--Declare on social media: “I believe Afterschool professionals make a difference in the life of a child. #heartofafterschool”

--Give a hand-written card from you and/or your child to the afterschool professional in your life.

--Send an email to an afterschool professional’s supervisor describing why that person is appreciated.

--Make treats for the staff at your afterschool program.

When was Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week introduced?

Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week was announced during the NAA Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida, on March 20, 2016, by NAA President & CEO Gina Warner.

For more information about Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week visit: http://www.heartofafterschool.com. For more information about In Reach visit www.inreachinc.org or call 301.357.8433.

Prince George's County's Finest - Excellence Always!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 01:22:00 +0000

L-R, Mr. Cliff Barnes, Hon. Ingrid Turner, NHC President Tomeka Bumbry, Program Chair, Crystal Christmas-Watson,
In Reach's Executive Director, Toni Smith, and Mr. Ronnie Gathers

Prince George's County's Finest - Founder and Executive Director Toni A. Smith Receives Award of Excellence in Education

Prince George’s County, Maryland – On Sunday, April 10, 2016, In Reach’s Founder and Executive Director, Ms. Toni A. Smith, received an Award of Excellence in Education from the National Harbor Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., during its Fifth Anniversary Celebration. “How appropriate,” she said “for me to receive my first Award of Excellence from an organization that values family, education and service. It does not get much better than this.”

Since its inception in December 1999, Ms. Smith has worked tirelessly to build In Reach into a full-fledged community-focused education organization with the primary goal of bringing opportunity in reach to more students in their communities. Starting with forty students attending two partner schools, an elementary afterschool program and an in-school high school program, both programs focused on preparing students for college, work and life. Today, In Reach provides afterschool programs to nearly two hundred students attending Title I schools through its K-8 College and Career Ready 21^st Century Community Learning Center and Youth Ambassadors College Access High School Program.

Having worked in a variety of local and national youth advocacy nonprofit environments, Ms. Smith has over twenty-five years of experience in nonprofit service, management and leadership. She has a long-standing commitment to children's issues and an intimate understanding of the wide array of social justice issues faced by children, youth and families. Professionally, she has found her greatest joy through In Reach where she is able to bring her whole self to improving the lives of children and youth, empowering women and girls to reach their full potential, and promoting the vital work of the nonprofit sector.

Ms. Smith was delighted to share the spotlight with three other amazing recipients: the Honorable Ingrid M. Turner, Esq., for Civic Excellence; Mr. Ronnie Gathers, director of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County, MD for Recreational Excellence; and Mr. Cliff Barnes, member Epstein Becker & Green in the Health Care and Life Sciences Practice for Excellence in Health. However, the true star of the evening was Mr. Brandon C. Welcome, the National Harbor Chapter’s first Scholarship Awardee and student in the Academy of Health Sciences at Prince George’s Community College, graduating this year with a 4.25 GPA and a plan to attend Morehouse College in the fall to major in Political Science.

In Reach, Inc., is a tax exempt 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization designed to prepare students for college, work and life. Founded in 1999, In Reach envisions healthy, productive and prepared young adults in every family. To learn more about In Reach, visit www.inreachinc.org. In Reach is currently celebrating its sixteenth year, #TheBIGSixteen.

#Money, Money, Money!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 19:06:00 +0000

April is National Financial Literacy Month, the perfect time for a financial health checkup. For parents, especially, I am certain there are times where it feels like there is simply not enough money to go around. Between buying food, paying bills, and having enough funds for transportation, the money doesn’t seem last too long. Now is a great time to make a change. No matter what your finances look like today, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Here are five tips to get you started on your journey to better financial health:

1. $ave whatever you can, just get started. If you have $10 and can only save $1, then save $1. The important thing is that you begin to form a habit of saving, the more you do it the more you will want to do it and will begin to think about doing it.

2. Educate yourself on financial matters. The more you know, the better you will be able to plan. There is a lot to learn— everything from investing to retirement—so take your time. Look for free classes at your local library and through community organizations including your place of worship.

3. Think twice, purchase once. Do you really need whatever you are about to purchase? Really?

4. Include everyone in your household. There is strength in numbers. When you work together as a team, everyone moving in the same direction, you are more likely to be successful. This includes the children too.

5. Don’t compare yourself to others. We must all run our own race. Don’t let what others are doing with their money determine your course. Stay focused on your plan.

For a full checkup, visit www.mymoney.gov to learn more about the five building blocks for managing and growing your money.

Pick Up a Book and #Read with a Child

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Tue, 01 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +0000

Each year on March 2, we celebrate National Read Across America Day (Dr. Seuss’ birthday) with the goal of encouraging children to read for enjoyment and providing parents and families with the tools to help them do so.

Reading is at the core of learning and children who do more of it tend to be more successful in school. According to the International Reading Association, seven out of eight students with reading problems in first grade continue to struggle with reading in 9^th grade. They get better but never catch up.Students reading on grade level read twice as much outside of school (thirty minutes a day), and students reading two grade levels above, read for a full hour a day outside of school on average.¹

Parents play an extremely important role in encouraging and supporting their child in learning to read and continuously helping him/her strengthen his/her skills. Here are some tips supporting your child in becoming an awesome reader:

1. Stay engaged with your child's teachers to keep up with what’s going on in their classrooms. Ask teachers how you can make your child’s learning skills stronger.

2. Use the Library - your local public library is a wonderful place to start and continue your families reading journey. There are so many amazing resources onsite and online for parents/family members to sign up for, free, as well computers available at each location to use for job search, typing resumes and much more. Don’t have a library card? Now is an excellent time to get one for everyone in the household.

3. Subscribe to a Reading Rockets Growing Readers Newsletter for ongoing information and monthly tip sheets (available in English and Spanish) on raising strong readers and writers, http://www.readingrockets.org/newsletters/extras.

^1.The Future of Children (2012). Literacy Challenges for the Twenty-First Century, VOLUME 22, NUMBER 2, FALL 2012.

A Call to Action - For Immediate Release

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 08 Feb 2016 20:53:00 +0000

Contact: Toni Smith, 301.357.8433 ext. 7001

A Set-up for Failure: The Disbursement of 21st Century Community Learning Centers funds in the State of Maryland

As an organization that raises awareness about the issues that affect children, youth and families, this is certainly one of them.

In July 2015, In Reach applied for a 21^st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) grant through the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and was awarded the competitive grant effective September 1, 2015. We were elated to receive our congratulatory letter. Imagine our dismay and shock over six months later that we still have not received one drop of funding and when contacting MSDE, their reply is simply "we are working on it" and funds will be released "immediately".

Several weeks have passed and nothing has been received.

In Reach, like many of the other 21^st CCLC grantees, work with some of the most underserved and at-risk children and families and being located in Prince George’s County where funding is already scarce has made this a very difficult experience. It should never take this long for an agency to disburse funds. This would be an unacceptable practice in any other business structure. Why is it that an agency that has been disbursing 21^st CCLC funds for years, still lacks the ability to execute funding in a timely and efficient manner?

The implementation of an afterschool program does not happen in one day. It takes at least four weeks to get a program up and running and that's with everything in place so not receiving funding in a timely manner sets organizations up for failure. With an understanding that the grant is retroactive to its start date of September 1^st, In Reach decided to move forward with implementing its K-8 College and Career Ready 21^st CCLC afterschool programming at three schools with the goal of operating for the proposed seven months. Expecting some type of delay, we could not have imagined that it would take over six months to receive funding for the almost 200 students that we serve, their families, our afterschool teachers, and staff.

This is unacceptable. We need funds to be released now! 21^st CCLC grantees have invested everything into their programs and many, like In Reach, will not be able to continue serving children who need afterschool programs the most. This is an atrocity and an injustice. We have been set up to fail.

###

In Reach, Inc., is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization that prepares students for college, work and life. In addition to providing direct services, we raise awareness about the issues that affect children, youth and families.

The Maryland State Department of Education 21^st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Program is managed by the Office of Extended Learning.

Special #Education Day - Wednesday, December 2, 2015

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 02 Dec 2015 20:11:00 +0000

Today is Special Education Day. This day, in 1975, marks when United States President Gerald Ford signed the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, known today as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) into law.

Special Education Day, first celebrated in 2005, marks the anniversary of that very first special education law. The landmark law guarantees, “A free and appropriate public education to children with disabilities.” The law provides equal opportunities and access for more than 6 million students with disabilities and special needs. Since the law’s enactment, several programs have been implemented to help students with disabilities due to Special Education Day.

The Maryland State Department of Education’s Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services has programs and services related to infants and youth with disabilities and their families. These programs range from early intervention, preschool special education, access to nonpublic schools, Medical Assistance for school-health related services, autism programs and other mental health initiatives.

Find out more about programs and support available for children with disabilities in Prince George’s County, Maryland at http://www1.pgcps.org/specialeducation/ and nationally, https://ccrs.osepideasthatwork.org/, and http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/index.html.

Great Public #Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 19:49:00 +0000

In Reach was pleased to celebrate American Education Week with and the National Education Association. The week-long event, November 16- 20, 2015, celebrates public education and honors individuals who are making a difference in ensuring that every child in America receives a quality education.

This year’s theme, "Great Public Schools: A Basic Right and Our Responsibility," reflects on the National Education Association’s vision of calling upon every American to do their part in “making public schools great for every child so that they can grow and achieve in the 21^st century.” Each year, In Reach works with one of its partner schools to hold a special event and this year was no exception. Our amazing Youth Ambassadors at Parkdale High School showed their appreciation for teachers, substitute teachers and support staff with thank you cards, delicious delights, and by making their very own video showing gratitude for the amazing individuals that dedicate themselves to providing students with the best support and quality education.

Turn the Lights On Afterschool!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Fri, 16 Oct 2015 23:35:00 +0000

On October 22, more than a million people in thousands of schools and communities across the United States will turn their lights on for afterschool by joining the only national rally for afterschool programs.

According to the Afterschool Alliance, more than 8,000 afterschool programs are expected to participate in the 16th annual Lights On Afterschool. The day will take shape in various community service events, museums, parks and recreation facilities, state capitols, malls, and other settings.

Here in Prince George’s County, we are honored and excited to take part in our third Lights On Afterschool event in collaboration with our partner school, Carrollton Elementary, at their Fall Harvest Festival on October 23, with crafts, relay races and workshops that celebrate afterschool programs as they keep kids safe, inspire them to learn and help working families.

Lights On Afterschool is organized by the Afterschool Alliance to bring attention to the need to invest in afterschool programs, which provide homework help, healthy snacks, mentoring, physical fitness, robotics, computer programming, community service opportunities, art and music, college readiness, and countless opportunities for hands-on learning.

“Quality afterschool programs help students hone their skills and discover their passions, preparing them to succeed in school and in life,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. “Lights On Afterschool events give children and youth the chance to showcase the talents they develop at their afterschool programs, which offer hands-on, engaging activities that are both educational and fun. But too many afterschool programs are without the resources they need to serve all the children in their communities who need them and families, schools, communities and the country suffer as a result.”

During the 2015 celebration, In Reach is looking forward to raising awareness about the value and necessity of afterschool programs in Prince George’s County, MD. In Reach's Executive Director, Toni Smith shared, "Afterschool programs are an extremely valuable extension of the school day that all children should have access to."

Help us protect afterschool funding. Sign the petition! For more information visit: www.afterschoolalliance.org

What are you doing for Teen Read Week?

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 19:20:00 +0000

As an organization that provides academic afterschool programs to students, we are naturally concerned with the development of their literacy skills and abilities and encouraging their life long interest in reading. These are a few reasons why each year we join the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) in recognizing and celebrating Teen Read Week™, a national adolescent literacy initiative created to encourage teens to be regular readers and library users.

An annual celebration, this year’s theme, Get Away, encourages libraries to help teens escape from the day to day grind of school, homework, family responsibilities, part time jobs and other activities by picking up something to read.

In Reach found the Teens' Top Ten "teen choice" list, where teens nominate and choose their favorite books of the previous year, to be an amazing resource. Readers ages twelve to eighteen vote online and the winners for that year are announced the week after Teen Read Week. Below is the Top Ten for 2014. Encourage a teen to read at least one of these today. It's a great list to use as encouragement for reading throughout the year, i.e. read-a-thon, book club and so much more. We can barely wait to see what teens from across the country select for 2015.

2014 Teens’ Top Ten

1. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell (Macmillan/St. Martin's Griffin)

2. Splintered by A.G. Howard (ABRAMS/Amulet Books)

3. The Rithmatist by Brandon Sanderson (Tor Teen)

4. The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey (Penguin/Putnam Juvenile)

5. Monument 14: Sky on Fire by Emmy Laybourne (Macmillan/Feiwel & Friends)

6. Earth Girl by Janet Edwards (Prometheus Books /Pyr)

7. The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)

8. Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson (Random House/Delacorte Press)

9. Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo (Macmillan/Henry Holt Books for Young Readers)

10. The Eye of Minds by James Dashner (Random House/Delacorte Press)

#ThankaPrincipal During National Principals Month

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 18:51:00 +0000

National Principals Month recognizes the essential role that principals play in making a school great. Here at In Reach we know just how important the role of the principal is in facilitating not just all of the happenings in the school, but also in building community partnerships to make each of their schools even better. This is what each one of our principals have in common. They understand their vital role in shaping and leading a robust academic community.

We are pleased to join the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP), and the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) in honoring these unsung heroes for their tireless efforts in pursuit of excellence in education.

In Reach salutes the awesome principals of its partner schools. They rock!!!

Dorothy Clowers, William Paca Elementary School

Nancy Schickner, Carrollton Elementary School

Maha Fadli, Kenmoor Middle School

David Curry, Charles Carroll Middle School

Tanya Washington, Parkdale High School

#ThankaPrincipal today!

We smile when you select us on Amazon. Bring a smile to our faces today!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 16:30:00 +0000

What does public lands, partnerships and service have in common?

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Tue, 15 Sep 2015 23:33:00 +0000

MEDIA ALERT

September 15, 2015

Contact: Arielle Reynoso, Partner Engagement Specialist

Areynoso@inreachinc.org

The LEAPing Frogs Community Garden

The Value of Public Lands, Partnerships and Community Service

On Saturday, September 19^thStudents, family members, teachers and volunteers “LEAP” (Learning. Environmental Engagement. Awareness. Productivity.) into a day of active volunteerism and ownership in beautifying school grounds prior to and in honor of National Public Lands Day.

In Reach and Carrollton Elementary School have planned a day of activities to raise environmental awareness, encourage an active lifestyle and build community in the New Carrollton city of Prince George’s County, MD. A collaborative event, funded by a grant from the Maryland's Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism, will take place on September 19^th from 9am to 11am.

The day will consist of a general clean-up of the garden area, removal of invasive plants, planting of tulips and preparing the garden for the winter. Additionally, volunteers will take part in pre-planting stretching and light exercising inspired by First Lady Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move Outside” children’s health initiative as it aligns directly with the vision and goal in our growing partnership with Prince George’s County schools and in this event. In a report provided by Alliance of a Healthier Generation, Maryland is the 21^st most obese state in the U.S. for children at a shocking 32% while the physical inactivity rate is at a solid 25%. Our event will help decrease screen and couch time and get the children of the Carrollton Elementary community on their feet and outdoors to take part in a meaningful day which will bring the community together and create something beautiful to bloom.

Although National Public Lands Day is formally taking place on September 26^th, it is the nation’s largest volunteer event acknowledging public lands. According to the National Environment Education Foundation in 2014, about 175,000 volunteers took part in this event at various sites across the nation! National Public Lands Day is a fantastic opportunity to get off the couch and out into the beautiful outdoors. Volunteers can participate as a family, with a school, community or other national organizations and non-profits. All volunteers will undoubtedly get the satisfaction that comes from preserving and protecting public lands, along with physical exercise and family and community togetherness in a day full of, planting, enhancing and beautifying.

For more information about National Public Lands Day and if you want to learn more about how to get involved at site near you visit their website at publiclandsday.org. To learn more about In Reach visit our website.

In Reach is a nonprofit organization with the mission of preparing students for college, work and life. It organizes on-going events with its students, their families, partner schools, and other community members and entities to raise awareness, educate and build relationships to reduce the issues that challenge its mission specifically those associated with poverty.

How amazing are Prince George's County parents?!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 20:44:00 +0000

2015 Amazing Parent recipients (c) flanked by In Reach staff and presenters.

Largo, MD | On June 14, 2015, In Reach, Inc., held its Fourth Annual Celebrating Amazing Prince George’s County Parents Awards Program, an event honoring outstanding parents with children currently enrolled in a Prince George’s County Public School.

“Each year, I am more amazed than the last of our wonderful and diverse pool of nominees. Prince George’s County has many amazing parents and it is time they are recognized. It is my hope that In Reach can be a vessel for which these incredibly engaged and involved parents can someday, collectively, raise their voices on behalf of all children in the county especially those living in lower income and under-served communities. Our children deserve the best we have to offer,” said Executive Director, Ms. Toni Smith.

Congratulations again to our three 2015 Amazing Parent Award recipients:

Mr. Robert Mathieu, recipient of the Ingrid M. Turner Amazing Parent Award for demonstrating a strong sense of community as a volunteer, coach and mentor. Mr. Mathieu represents the Barnaby Manor ES community.

Ms. Sharon Lewis, recipient of the Parks and Recreation Amazing Parent Award for being an awesome and dedicated bridge builder in the lives of children. Ms. Lewis represents the (High Bridge ES) Samuel Ogle MS community.

Ms. Dina Bell Nance, recipient of the In Reach, Inc. Amazing Parent Award for being an all around selfless individual, active in the school and community, and an incredible parent who best demonstrates a well-rounded presence. Ms. Nance represents the Walker Mill MS community.

In Reach would also like to thank all 18 of the 2015 nominees: Mr. Mark & Mrs. Monique Adams, Ms. Gwendolyn Allen, Ms. Nicole Barnett, Ms. Gayle Brown, Ms. LaShawn James, Ms. Mary Lane, Ms. Sharon Lewis, Ms. Janice Lofland, Mr. Robert Mathieu, Mr. Jerrod Mustaf, Ms. Dina Nance, Ms. Lisa Ojeda-Brown, Ms. Christine Price, Ms. Sherry A. Rather, Ms. Debbie Robinson, Ms. Ayanna Niambi Shorter and Ms. Cynthia Weaver.

"Our children are our future and we need to build strong and vibrant communities and institutions to support them. We must support and encourage effective parenting, which is the most essential ingredient in child development. I am encouraged by the work of organizations like "In Reach, Inc." that have enhanced parent involvement and child advocacy as a primary goal," shared Alvin Thornton, Ph.D.

In Reach thanks all of the individuals and sponsors who helped make the Fourth Annual Celebrating Amazing Prince George’s County Parents Awards Program a success especially our passionate guest speaker Dr. Alvin Thornton; the Honorable Ingrid M. Turner, former Council Member, District 4; Ms. Shawna Fachet of the Prince George’s Department of Parks and Recreation; Mr. Jaracus Copes, President of New Destiny, LLC and Master of Ceremonies; and Kelly Bell, In Reach Board Directors, all pictured above.

In Reach, Inc., is a tax exempt 501 (c) 3 nonprofit organization designed to prepare students for college, work and life. Founded in 1999, In Reach envisions healthy, productive and prepared young adults in every family. To learn more about our work, visit www.inreachinc.org.

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 11 May 2015 22:00:00 +0000

Upcoming Opportunities

Who Is In Your Posse?

We want to nominate you!

In Reach is a community-based nominating organization to the Posse Foundation, a national organization that identifies public high school students with extraordinary academic and leadership potential who may be overlooked by traditional college selection processes.

In Reach can nominate 10 rising seniors (currently in the 11^th grade) from Prince George's County for the chance of a four-year, full-tuition leadership scholarship. The Posse Foundation will extend to selected students the opportunity to pursue personal and academic excellence by placing them in supportive, multicultural teams - Posses - of 10 students.

If you are a rising senior who is just awesome and believe you should have an opportunity to join a "Posse" and you are not being nominated by your school, please email Mrs. Katrina Robinson, manager of college access programs, krobinson@inreachinc.org for more information. In the subject line of your email type: Posse. Mrs. Robinson will contact you with further information or call 240.334.6167.

For more information about both organizations, visit In Reach and the Posse Foundation.

High School Training Internship Program

In Reach is planning the launch of its High School Internship Training Program this summer. A training program for rising juniors (current 10^th grade students), the four week program is designed to equip students with the appropriate employment, social, and workplace etiquette skills to thrive in a professional environment.

Students will receive training and then be placed in a two week internship to practice utilization of their new skills. If interested, please send an email to Ms. Samantha Trotter, partner engagement specialist, at strotter@inreachinc.org. In the subject line of your email type: HSITP. Ms. Trotter will contact you with further information or call 240.334.6167.

Children's #MentalHealthMatters

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Fri, 08 May 2015 20:39:00 +0000

MEDIA ALERT

May 8, 2015

Contact: Samantha Trotter In Reach, Inc.

240.334.6167

The Day May Have Passed but the Work Continues

In Reach, Inc. and Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

What is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day?

In 2006, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Center for Mental Health Services launched an annual national initiative called “National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day.” Awareness Day is designated as a day in May of each year to coincide with May Is Mental Health Month. This day presents an opportunity for children’s mental health initiatives within SAMHSA to promote positive youth development, resilience, recovery and the transformation of mental health services delivery for children and youth with serious mental health needs and their families.

The theme of Awareness Day is “Thriving in the Community.” Children’s mental health initiatives will hold similar events and other activities throughout the country to build awareness that children’s mental health needs are real and that progress is being made toward developing effective strategies for achieving the vision of a life in the community for everyone.

Why does In Reach participate in Awareness Day?

In Reach participates in Awareness Day to magnify one of the often forgotten entities of the well-being of our youth, which is mental health. Keeping in line with our vision of healthy, productive and prepared young adults, it is our duty to make mental health resources readily available.

Where can I get more information about Awareness Day and Child Mental Health?

For information and materials, and to learn more about children's mental health contact the Maryland Coalition of Families for Children’s Mental Health and Children's Mental Health Matters.

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Fri, 08 May 2015 19:49:00 +0000

Congratulations to our 2015 Nominees!

In Reach is pleased to present the 18 amazing parents nominated for its Fourth Annual Celebrating Amazing Prince George's County Parents Awards.

Mark & Monique Adams

Gwendolyn Allen

Nicole Barnett

Gayle Brown

LaShawn James

Mary Lane

Sharon Lewis

Janice Lofland

Robert Mathieu

Jerrod Mustaf

Dina Nance

Lisa Ojeda-Brown

Christine Price

Sherry A. Rather

Debbie Robinson

Ayanna Niambi Shorter

Cynthia Weaver

Join us on Sunday, June 14 to celebrate these amazing parents.

Purchase an Ad in our Program Journal.

“Libraries are for making . . . communities stronger.” #TTW15

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 22:27:00 +0000

Fairmount Heights Library

On Wednesday, March 18, members of In Reach's Girls of Worth Literacy Club at William Paca Elementary (sixth grade girls) and the Quantum Project at Kenmoor Middle School (eighth graders) celebrated YALSA’s Teen Tech Week “Libraries are for Making...”at Fairmount Heights Library. Teen Tech Week is when libraries make the time to showcase all of the great digital resources and services that are available to help teens succeed in school and prepare for college and 21st century careers.

The staff at Fairmount Heights Library rock! They engaged students, each group for ninety minutes, in a session of coding and a session working in the new Dream Lab which is set up like a studio with all of the bells and whistles, and students were encouraged to check out books at end of the visit, which many of them did. From the computers that students can learn and practice coding on, to simply checking out books, whether online or in-person, there are so many wonderful options available to children, youth and families right at their neighborhood library. Options that can help make our communities stronger by increasing and supporting literacy from every angle. The Prince George’s County public library system has even made it easier for students to apply for their own library card.

One of our goals, this school year, was to engage as many students as possible in the use of their neighborhood library. The PGCMLS offers homework help electronically or via telephone and assistance with preparing resumes and much more for adults. Our libraries offer teens a space to extend their learning beyond the classroom where they can explore, create, share content and connect in meaningful ways to gain the digital literacy skills they need to be successful.

For more information about library services in Prince George’s County, MD, contact www.pgcmls.info.

YALSA - Young Adult Library Services Association, http://www.ala.org/yalsa/

What do adults and Dr. Seuss have in common?

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Mon, 23 Mar 2015 20:44:00 +0000

On March 17, In Reach staff and guest readers from Kentland Palmer Park’s Transforming Neighborhoods Initiative (TNi) celebrated Read Across America day with eager elementary-aged students from the area. Each year, on Dr. Seuss' birthday, March 2, students everywhere celebrate his life and legacy by reading a good book. Inclement weather conditions may have delayed the celebration this year but not the fun of two events enjoyed in one - Dr. Seuss and St. Patrick’s Day. The Kentland Community Center’s Aftercare program services all school-aged students, while most commonly students are kindergarten to sixth grade.

After In Reach staff gave a hearty welcome, students watched Dr. Seuss on the Loose, a short film collection of three Seuss sing-a-long stories The Sneetches, The Zax and Green Eggs and Ham. Shortly afterwards, students were separated by grade level and our guest readers took over. Each guest reader read as many of their favorite childhood stories as they had time to read. With enthusiasm and the excitement of young children themselves, it was apparent, by the brightness in the children's eyes, that the adults were fully engaging each one of them and having a great time as well.

Before dismissal everyone enjoyed a delicious treat of St. Patrick’s Day themed cake and each student was able to choose one Scholastic book and a bookmark to take home. This celebration marked the official launch of In Reach’s Catch Them by Third Power of Literacy Program pilot at Kentland Community Center for second grade students designed to inspire and help them build literacy skills, ensure that they are able to continue to develop literacy skills throughout the summer, and help families foster language and literacy skill development in their young children.

Thank you to our awesome TNi guest readers: Lavinia Baxter, Ralph Moultrie, and Alexia Clark, and In Reach’s Dream Team: Katrina Robinson, program manager; Samantha Trotter, AmeriCorps VISTA partner engagement specialist and organizer of the day’s activities; Randi Coward, afterschool program facilitator; and Toni Smith, executive director.

Celebrating Amazing Prince George's County Parents 2015!

noreply@blogger.com (In Reach, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Mar 2015 19:13:00 +0000

If you are a parent with a child attending a Prince George's County Public School

or know a parent who does, we encourage you to nominate yourself

or another parent for one of three awards, and then plan to join us at the

dinner event on Sunday, June 14, for a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon.

We are planning a delightful celebration of parents.

Download the Nomination Form.