by C.A. Whitworth
They came by City bus, were dropped off by family or friends or walked (even during pouring rain) rather than miss a single class when Parenting Classes were held September through November 20 at the Community Action Center in NW Roanoke.
The extremely well received program was offered through a Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, Family Wellness Initiative and DDS to help meet the following goals in the Roanoke City area: *Reduce the number of parents and youth receiving services through the Department of Social Services (DSS) and Juvenile Court Services (JCS); *Reduce family conflict and increase family cohesion; and *Enhance protective factors and strengthen resiliency.
The classes are available to any interested parent in Roanoke City. Germane to the success of this series of classes was one particular theme by every participant–the facilitators!
Gwendolyn Coleman, a Family Service Supervisor with the City of Roanoke DSS, supervises the Ongoing Child Protective and Domestic Violence Services Unit. Gwen holds 2 Bachelor degrees in Criminal Justice and Human Services Counseling from Old Dominion University (ODU) and has been employed with the City of Roanoke for 10 years.
Odette Iferika, M.Ed is a Prevention Specialist and Family Wellness coordinator with Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare. This dynamic duo, with the assistance of Cathy Thompson, Nutritionist Supervisor with Alleghany/Roanoke City Health District, and Janis James with Blue Ridge Behavioral Health Care, teamed up to present the most intriguing and appreciated sessions imaginable to the eager participants who waited in line to give glowing comments after the final session.
“It was so informative! I’m so sorry it’s ending,” began the first to comment–a common theme echoed throughout every one that followed.
“It helped me to develop a different attitude and use more love and respect in raising my children,” another young man stated.
One of the grandmothers in attendance commented, “I came here with an attitude..” (what could these young kids be telling me about raising kids) “but soon gained highest respect from the way these ladies professionally handled every session. I learned a lot! It just proves you can teach an old dog new tricks,” she added.
An older, grey haired gentleman who walked to each session, never missing any, stated that he was raised by his grandparents who made him rise early every morning and earn his way through life. His comments also echoed those of the others who all agreed “the facilitators were wonderful, keeping the interest of all while answering every question with respect and helpful, logical advise. Most had attended every session. Only a couple of those interviewed had only missed one.
“We love what we do,” was the comment generally agreed upon by the “awesome” facilitators–and it certainly shows!
Along with the $-multi-billions well invested into childcare from earliest stages, HATS OFF to all now contributing in any way to investing into the source from which all children derive–and return daily home to.
