Breathe Magazine
Belonging Fall 2020
YOU BELONG! J o i n t h e g i a n t f a m i l y t o d a y Registration for Spring 2021 opens November 2nd | COS.EDU
BREATHE MAGAZINE
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YOU BELONG!
Magazine
FOUNDERS NOTE: As we head into the holiday season of 2020; I am personally looking forward to being intentional and protective of my time, family, friends, and the many blessings that are in my life. This has been a year filled with lots of loss, uncertainty, and division within our country. In this issue of Breathe Magazine you will read articles that we hope will inspire you to remember that we are all in this together because we are working together to create united change in a world and country where people are struggling with the notion of belonging. We want you to know that YOU BELONG, YOU ARE WORTHY, YOU ARE LOVED, and YOU ARE VALUED.
GWEN SCHRANK FOUNDER CONTACT GWEN 559-799-8259 Visalia, CA gwenschrank@gmail.com www.gsclubhouse.org
CONTRIBUTERS
You will also see valuable information about programs and resources that are in our community. We ask that you contact some of our contributors to let them know that you appreciate their involvement and information. If you know of any programs or organizations who represent TOGETHERNESS, BELONGING, UNITED CHANGE, AND NEW BEGINNINGS, we ask that you visit our website www.gsclubhouse.org and let us know so that we can reach out to them for their information. We also ask that you share your stories of change, experiences, and voice so that we can help save lives by stopping the stigma that is associated with mental health issues. Our next Breathe YOU’RE WORTHY Magazine issue will be released January 1, 2021 and will become a Bi-Monthly magazine issue available for free in digital and printed formats. We will also be creating a YouTube Channel, Podcast, and Facebook Live programs to help people continue to work together for finding ways to reduce stress and create a healthy mental wellness lifestyle. I look forward to growing together in the journey that we are on. Until we meet again- Have a Blessed and Safe Holiday Season! God loves you and I love you too!
GWEN SCHRANK
Gwen Schrank Brittany Schrank Antonia Rose T.Y. Condell Colijia Feliz Michael Handley Visalia Wellness Center Porterville Wellness Center The Source LGBT COS - College of Sequoias VAAAB SEW Task Force CRP
Disclaimer: Breathe Magazine is published quarterly and distributed online. Views expressed in publication are those of the columnist and not necessarily those of Breathe Magazine or our advertisers. Our goal is to provide mental wellness resources and stop the stigma associated with mental illness by providing a platform for people to share their journeys. All advertising funds goes towards Schrank’s Clubhouse a 501c3 non-profit organization to help those who suffer become integral parts of society. If you have and questions or concerns please contact Founder Gwen Schrank.
PHOTOGRAPHER OF COVER AND IMAGE: BRITTANY SCHRANK
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Kindness Matters Regularly check in with people especially those affected Encourage them to keep doing what they enjoy
Provide calm and correct advice to children Share WHO infomation to manage anxieties
SOURCE: UNITED NATIONS/WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
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Contents
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Worthy of Belonging
Self Care
You Belong
By: Gwen Schrank
By: T.Y. Condell
By: College of Sequoias
How life can be the same in many ways, but also be very different, but she still finds a way to include those who struggle.
Tips for Teaching at Home
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How parents can help get kids organized and prepared for distance education at home.
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How to become more than a conqueror by using your divine appointment and learning to discipline yourself without feeling alone.
10 Coping Skills
12 How using these skills can help you cope for better emotional health.
How the College of Sequoias is helping the community and why you should join the family by helping during tough times.
Making Every Day Count
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How to make each day of the week less stressful and more enjoyable during the holiday season. We Challenge You!
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Contents
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The New Normal
A Place To Belong
Looking Forward
By: The Source LGBT + Center
By: Michael Handley
By: Antonia Rose
How the LGBT+ Center is learning to grow, learn, belong, question, and support during times of social distancing.
How those who suffer from a mental illness are being supported in the community at Visalia Wellness Center during social distancing and Covid-19 realities.
How one moment can go from good to bad in a matter of moments and what can happen when you decide to keep moving forward.
United Change
Season of Belonging
Shout Outs
22 How our community is coming together to create United Change. An Update from Summer Breathe Magazine Issue.
33 How Porterville Wellness Center is helping community members get through the holidays with fun projects and activities.
38 How we at Breathe Magazine say “HELLO” to those in the community who are doing amazing things!
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DISTANCE
EDUCATION
Tips for teaching from home PREPARE
IN
ADVANCE
If you expect to teach remotely in the near future, look at the curriculum in advance and prepare lessons for the weeks ahead. Opt for content that's easily accessible online, in a variety of mediums.
SCHEDULE CHECK-IN
STUDENT
TIMES
Set time when you and your students can touch base and have them prepare questions they had during the exercises. Make use of video conference tools that allow for multiple people to dial in.
SET
UP
A
WORK
ZONE
Set up a comfortable, well-lit area and designate it for work. Avoid working from the couch or bed - when it is time to relax your brain might find it hard to shut off work thoughts.
CREATE
AN
ONLINE
QUIZ
Check in on your students' learning progress through online methods. Use a tool like Google Forms to make an online quiz any student can fill out with their device.
OVER-COMMUNICATE
Set out your expectations clearly in all relevant communication channels. Make sure students know exactly where to receive their assignments, submit their work, or ask questions.
BE
FLEXIBLE
Be empathetic of the home situation of students as some may not have available adult supervision or reliable internet. If students need special support, be open to their unique needs.
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Worthy
YOU BELONG!
of Belonging Written By: Gwen Schrank
She walked into the room with her head held high and her shoulders upright. The room was like many rooms that she entered before, but to the other attendees, it was quite different. The way she moved was in strength and confidence as her hair gently blew across her shoulders as the wind moved through the room from the outside entry doors. People couldn’t see the storms in her eyes or the heaviness in her heart that knew how previous experiences in her life had led her to moments such as these. The storms started hundreds of years before she was born but was woven into every fiber, vein, muscle, brain cell, beat, and organ in her body. Their eyes were upon her with thoughts of wonder and deliberate mistrust because she was different. Who is this woman? Who do she think she is? Why is she here? She was raised in a way that was harsh and gentle at the same time. Everyday included pain, love, and lessons of life. Neighbors and families would gather together on the weekends to enjoy the company of each other with homemade
meals and baked pies and cakes. Little girls like her would play jump rope and hop scotch on the side walk while the boys would play basketball or football. Aunties and Uncles would be sitting at the patio tables playing card games while sharing memories. On occasion someone would have too much to drink and the conversations would get loud, but that was all laughter too. Often times on her way home from school she and her friends would test their boundaries concerning the rules; but it would only last a few minutes before one of the ladies on the block would very firmly correct the behavior. She always knew that wouldn’t be the end of it though; because that same lady would contact their mothers to give full testimony to what she witnessed, how she handled it, and hoped that it wouldn’t happen again. If the neighbor 13
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Sunday dinners at Grandma’s house was where family, food, and forgiveness came together after many sins were taken care of from the previous week. It was the night of rest and readiness for the upcoming days. Her grandmother would always fill up her love tank for the week with many hugs and snuggles. Her mother, a single mom with four daughters, would take them home to make sure they had what they needed to get through the week.
lady corrected her, she expected her mother to correct her some more; because one correction wasn’t good enough to completely learn the lesson. There was always someone watching out. Sundays were very special days because those were the days when the elders would take care and remind the family what it meant to be family. It always started with church. That was the place the family showed up together but if the family couldn’t make it, the Sunday school bus was always on-time. That was the way she made it to church most weeks. Her grandmother would send the bus to pick-up the grandkids whose parents didn’t find time to get up early enough. Church was a big deal to her as she witnessed the beauty and grace of the women of the church. They would wear their best clothes, make-up, shoes, hats, and jewelry. They would often wear fancy white gloves because it represented cleanliness. It was a demonstration of carefulness and love that would always surpass the hospitality of those who were of the up most important by being in the presence of and by the power of the Holy Spirit. 14
When she grew up, she married her high school sweet heart and they had three beautiful children together. Her husband worked hard to provide for the family while she stayed home to take care of the kids. She taught her kids the same things that she learned growing up, took them to church, and spent many hours volunteering in the community. Those were the things that she valued growing up and in her life. She made her family a priority just like many of her ancestors before her; but her family went far beyond those who were blood relatives. They were the neighbors, the teachers, the people on the street who didn’t have a place to sleep at night. They were the kids without parents
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and the ones who society thought were the least of these. Family in her heart were those who had blood running through their veins that Jesus died for. Now her story is like many other women except for a few things that were left out such as the color of her skin; It was black, beautiful, fearfully and wonderfully made. Her hair was thick course and filled with curls. Throughout her life she was abused physically, mentally, emotionally, and verbally by those she loved the most. She was discriminated against, spoken down too, and ridiculed because she didn’t look like most people that she was surrounded by. She was treated unfairly, unjustly, and unequally in most jobs that she held. She had a mental breakdown, a few suicide attempts, and after surviving; she dusted herself off, stood back up, head held high, shoulders back, and she walked back into the room. Who is this woman? Who do she think she is? Why is she here? This woman is a strong black woman who loves others unconditionally. She thinks the way she does because she has been through and surrounded by the darkness of the world and
still remains faithful to her belief in God. She is here because she is WORTHY. She understands that belonging doesn’t come from other people’s acceptance of her. Belonging comes from her ability to love, forgive, understand, relate, accept, and empathize with people because they are worthy too! “Always pray to have the eyes that see the best in people, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses faith in God.” Writter is Unknown This woman is proud to be in a position to teach her grandkids the very same life lessons she received by believing! She wants all people to know that they Belong because they are Worthy regardless of what they have been through in life. You are worthy because you are loved, even when you don’t feel loved. This woman has since gone through a recent divorce after 25 years of marriage. She let go of the idea of growing old together with him, but is very thankful for their many marriage blessings. She still believes in unconditional love. Gwen Schrank is a grandma of 2 and loves the beach. She suffered from anxiety and depression for over 20 years.
A meaningful life is not being rich, being popular, or being perfect. It’s about being real, being humble, being able to share ourselves and touch the lives of others. 15
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Self-Care
YOUR DIVINE APPOINTMENT Written By: T.Y. Condell I’ve had numerous opportunities to speak with beautiful sharp women from business owners to domestic engineers and ministry leaders on the topic of self care. As a wife, Mom, Nana, and Independent Beauty Consultant I get a glimpse into the daily routines of women who share their regimen, or lack thereof. I noticed that women don’t spend time being consistent in pouring back into themselves by providing self care. Most women that I talk to make more withdrawals from self than deposits. Some ladies often wonder where they can find the time to apply a basic skincare routine that could take less than 30 minutes or exercise for 30 to 45 minutes. Most women know the value and benefits of maintaining a regular habit but due to their everyday hustle and bustle, they have a hard time being dedicated and disciplined. Moreover, if something has to be cut out of their daily routine or budget, self care is sacrificed without the blink of an eye. We as women often find ourselves doing whatever it takes to make it happen for others with no excuses. Oh wait… we’ll keep that mani/pedi appointment, and splurge on the hair as well, but what about those habits that produce inner peace and emotional intelligence?
“We Are More Than Conquerors”
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Let’s ask ourselves a few questions: What happens when we are overwhelmed and our love, joy, peace, and patience tank is low? What do we affirm to ourselves? Where is our self talk leading us? Quite frankly, those are the questions that should dictate how much time we spend making sure to become committed, disciplined and in the overflow.
SELF CARE includes attending to our inner and outer court, if you will. Photographer: Kevin Condell Biblical Connection: Esther 2:17 (NIV) Now the King was attracted to Esther more than any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen.
We demonstrate God’s love by loving ourselves the way He loves us. He is the example, His loving kindness towards us is our first clue on how to move forward in caring for ourselves. We see examples in the way Esther cared for herself. She meticulously prepared and cared for herself, mind, body and soul. She knew that God was using her based on her spirit and soul. Her outer beauty was secondary to her purpose, hence, the king was attracted to the essence of who she was. Her inner beauty sealed the deal. The Bible says she took the better part of one year, pampering herself with fine oils and herbs as well. She took the time to treasure, cherish and pamper herself and it showed . Despite her efforts to hide from the king what was so apparent to others, he saw her for who she was. Imagine, if we took the time to do the same, following that example. Who would see us and how would we show up? She nourished her spirit and soul. She received divine guidance and revelation on how to conduct herself to fulfill her purpose and ultimately her people benefited. She had a continuous conversation that produced revelation.
Water- Hydration and exercise go hand in hand. Taking in half of your body weight in ounces is what is required daily for your body to adequately do what’s required. If you’re watching your weight or making an attempt to decrease your BMI, its even more. For most, 64 ounces is sufficient. Healthy Meals- A healthy vegetable and protein in between three balanced meals each day, combined with proper hydration as I described above, incorporating regular exercise will get you there. Girlfriend Time- Your girlfriend / Sista. God knows there will be times when you won’t listen to your body, your rhythm will be off but your Sista will know exactly what you need in a way that only another woman can. This is that one person, outside of your spouse, that you would spend your mental health day with. Mental Health Days- The day when you drop everything, seeking just to be still and know that’s your Mental health day. It ask nothing of you, but often includes binge watching your favorite show in your favorite PJ’s and don’t
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forget a mug of java. It’s a Judgment Free Zone without rules. With all the benefits we stand to gain, why is it so hard to remain faithful to a routine of self care? Life experiences, failed relationships, bad decisions, less than ideal choices send us down a road where we pick up emotional conflict. Guilt, Shame, Regret, Unworthiness, Unforgiveness Each choice calls for us to do intentional works of releasing and affirming. Release the lie, affirm the truth. The experience to share in this platform came with it and opportunity for me to exercise exactly what I’m suggesting. Don’t think I didn’t have an inner conversation with myself. It went something like, “you’re not worthy of such an opportunity. No one wants to hear what you’ve got to say. You did XYZ ….”.
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If I had allowed that to continue, you wouldn’t be reading this today. We must continue to release the lie and replace it with truth and action. Taking the time to nurture ourselves on what is good daily will keep us in the river where we thirst not. I recommend a list of affirmations daily that affirm everything that God says about you so you’ll be ready. We are worthy and as women who collectively encourage one another, our self care habits promote a healthy lifestyle and community of belonging. TY Condell is a Health Systems Specialist with over twenty years of experience working with the Department of Defense, counseling the injured/ ill active duty population on benefits. MeeYah, as she is affectionately known, also empowers & encourages women as an Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant.
YOU BELONG!
Rest & Relaxation
Stay Healthy This 2020 Holiday Season
Making Everyday Count 7 Day Challenge! Monday
Healthy Foods & Enjoy family
Thursday Thursday is the day to check the entrance to your home. Step outside and sense the welcome factor. Finish with lighting a candle to spread a calming sense. Friday
Monday is for revamping your sanctuuary after the weekend. Take a walk through your home and bring everything back to balance. Finish the task with a nice cup of your favorite tea.
Friday is the day to line up your weekend. Set a nice table with light and flowers to enjoy the evening meal. Finish the job with yes, enjoying the evening.
Tuesday
Saturday
Tuesday is the day to nurse your flowers and house plants. Give a caring hand to breing everything back to life. Finish the job with a walk in the fresh air.
Saturday is the day with friends. Think of something handmade to bring attention to the dining table. Finish the job with 30 minutes in your own company with a cup of decaf coffee.
Wednesday Wednesday is the day for cleaning. Take a tour of your home and pay attention to cleaning the surfaces. Finish the job with a dance to some lively music.
Sunday Sunday is for family. Pack some sandwiches and take a tour out into nature. Finish the day with a steaming cup of chocolate with cream. 19
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YOU BELONG! JOIN THE GIANT FAMILY TODAY The College of the Sequoias (COS) is committed to making sure that Students, Faculty and Staff feel welcome and that they belong at the College. That concept of belonging shows up in many areas including marketing campaign tag lines such as Join the GIANT Family Today! Beyond tag lines, COS encourages and supports opportunities for Students to feel connected on all three of the District’s campuses: Hanford, Tulare and Visalia. During more traditional, in-person semesters, the Office of Student Activities and Affairs hosts over of 25 events for Students, organized by Student Senate Board Members. There are over 50 Student clubs available to join. Student Clubs include A2Mend, Pride Club, Puente Club, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, Dream Club, and Extended
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Opportunity Program and Services Achievers Club to name a few. Faculty and Staff are equally as important. The Academic Senate, COS Teachers Association (COSTA), COS Adjunct Faculty Association (COSAFA), Professional Association for Classified Employees (PACE), and California School Employee Association (CSEA) all host annual events recognizing Faculty and Staff for milestone years of work and service to the College. PACE also hosts numerous activities throughout the year including a Holiday Window Decorating Contest, where each office participates in a themed door decorating contest. During the Spring 2020 semester, COS had to drastically alter face-to-face engagement due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The District swiftly transitioned almost 1500 courses to an online format. Faculty worked
YOU BELONG!
diligently to transition their courses to a remote format and Students had to adapt to distance learning. In response to COVID-19, the District supported the immediate needs of Students, COS Staff and Faculty in several ways. The COS Health Center supported food-insecure Students by distributing grocery items and grocery gift cards. Over 600 Students received grocery items and 940 Students received grocery gift cards. Many Students also needed technology access. The Library/ Learning Resources Center (LRC) distributed technology for Students to continue their classes online. Since May 2020, 2,720 requests for laptops, hotspots, mice, and webcams have been processed. Over 1,800 tech items are currently in circulation and checked out to Students. During the Spring semester, despite the pandemic, a record number of Students graduated and transferred to four-year institutions. And the Office of Student Activities and Affairs did not allow COVID-19 to diminish the celebration. The traditional Grad Fest was hosted as a drive thru event. 451 COS Graduates drove on to the Visalia Campus, where they were welcomed by cheering Staff, Faculty, Administrators and Board Members. Students collected their Graduation Swag and listened to a live DJ as they drove through the Campus quad. The 93rd Commencement Ceremony was then hosted virtually a week later on May 21 and broadcasted live on KMPH, where 514 of the COS Graduates participated. These are unique times, not only for COS but for the country. It is so important that connection and a sense of belonging is maintained and continued. Through Zoom, Social Media, mass emails and communication, COS has banned together to build a bridge and link to Students, Faculty and Staff while working in a remote environment.
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Photo By: Sal Marro
What are we doing in Tulare County since our Summer issue of Breathe Magazine called “United Change”? Visalia African American Advisory Board.
Social Emotional Wellness Community Task Force
Community Reconciliation Project
Mission is to promote and bridge the gap with transparency, fairness, and equality through panel dialogue/discussions on education and cultural opportunites, projects, and special events to appropriately address and review any disparity of a non-existing and credibal council.
Mission is to bring together resource and service providers who support the students, staff, and families of Visalia. SEW hope is by coming together and sharing about the opportunities available to the members of our community, we might strengthen our relationships through effective collaboration and better provide access to needed social-emotional resources, training, services, and supports.
Mission: Focused on celebrating the diversity in our community and creating connections and inspiring empathy and understanding through the names, faces, and stories of others.
Current Inniative: VAAAB is working with Police Chief Jason Salazar and the VPD in working together to create a pathway of success with and for the youth in our community. Helping the community become aware of some of the programs that are already available within VPD.
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Current Inniative: SEW is working on the groundwork for the necesary groups that should be involved, steps to take, and sharing of information in order to effectively and efficiently roll out promote SEW Task Force Plans.
Current Inniative: Share stories through various social media and other platforms to highlight what it means to care for others as you care for yourself while also highlighting those in our community who are wonderful examples of being good neighbors. Currently developing communication strategy.
YOU BELONG!
Specializing in family, couples, maternity and graduate sessions.
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Election Day 2020
Voting is a super power. Use it well.
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Be a hero and vote! Voting Checklist 1. Register to vote. 2. Find out where your polling place is. You can also explore absentee and early voting options. 3. Research about the candidates in your area and what they stand for. 4. Create a list of who you're voting for. 5. Cast your ballot.
Even just one vote has the power to change the future.
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The New Normal OF SOCIAL DISTANCING The Source LGBT + Center Growing up in the Central Valley as a young queer or trans person is challenging. Not everyone understands. It might not be safe for you at school, or church, or home. It’s hard to know where you belong. Holidays can be especially lonely. Many families don’t accept their LGBT+ members, and some folks find themselves displaced and isolated because of their gender identity or sexual orientation. At The Source, we want you to know that there is a place for you. The Source LGBT+ Center was established in 2016 with the mission to create spaces in our community for LGBT+ people to Learn, Grow, Belong, Transform, Question + Support. Since the beginning, The Source has been a community driven effort. Our programs and services have come from direct needs expressed by our community, and for the last four and a half years we have responded by provided education, advocacy, and peer support for LGBT+ youth, transgender and gender nonconforming folks, and people living with HIV. As we move through a new normal of social distancing and virtual programming, there is an increased sense of isolation. There are stresses we could have never imagined a year ago. Our need to authentically connect to people who understand us, had never been greater.
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LGBT+ people thrive in community and we want you to know we are still here. The Source offers online support for folks with Mental Health Mondays, Healthy Boundaries Group, 12 Step Meetings, Youth Activities Board, Transgender Resources Program, HIVIP Support + Social, and our Kings County Pop Up Events. We have distributed over $85,000 in COVID Relief and are continuing to support our community with free mental health services.
YOU BELONG!
The Source is grateful we have been given the opportunity and space to serve and support our community. We look forward to a time when we can all be together again. One of the highlights of our year is marching side by side with our LGBT+ community in the Candy Cane Lane Parade and hosting our annual gift exchange in our Center over holiday break. We will miss that this year. We want you to know that The Source is your community center. We are here for you. And if you feel like you need support… you belong at The Source LGBT+ Center. For more information about programs, support, and services visit thesourcelgbt.org or call 559-429-4277.
Learn, Grow, Belong, Transform, Question + Support
ALL PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OFFERED VIRTUALLY YOUTH PROGRAMS • HIV SERVICES • TRANSGENDER RESOURCES • EDUCATION • ADVOCACY THESOURCELGBT.ORG 559.429.4277
SERVING COMMUNITY SINCE 2016
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A Place to Belong Written By: Michael Handley
Visalia Wellness Center This year most of us have experienced a sense of isolation due to sheltering in place. While this is a new experience for many, for those of us with a mental health challenge, this may be nothing new. Mental health challenges manifest in a variety of ways with a multitude of symptoms, but isolation is something many end up living in.
at getting out, I sometimes feel like I am king of the castle at my home. I feel in control. When you go through something that makes you feel like your control is ripped away. You feel like once you are interacting beyond the front door you have no control,” said MK. According to MK there was a big need for the phone calls, “the doctor visits don’t fit my needs as much as Visalia Wellness Center opened on August VWC. The support coming from you guys 23, 2019 as a drop-in center for those who was immense. I would have never made live with a behavioral health diagnosis it with out it. The support over the phone and their families. During the COVID 19 pulled me out of isolation. Helping to hold shutdown, the center continued to reach out to all its members through weekly phone calls. The center has now reopened to new and old members Monday through Saturday from 8:30am to 4:00pm. Upon arrival, members have their temperature taken and answer a short health screening survey. Members are also required to wear a mask at all times and follow social distancing guidelines. One member described what it feels like for him to be isolated. “I need to get better 30
YOU BELONG!
journey that he had not been able to prior to his time at Visalia Wellness Center. “When you are able to open up and tell your story, it is like a weight has been lifted and I don’t have to carry it anymore,” explained MK. He went on to describe some of his past trauma, including things that he hadn’t fully processed, and how it had interrupted his life. “I am a veteran. This stuff is truly important. It was a safe place and the staff made it feel like a safe place. I think they should have one of these in every single town,” he said. MK explained why he is pursuing writing and telling his story, “I have MST (Military Sexual Trauma). I was an Airman in the US Airforce and am a Combat Veteran. I thought I was the only one, that’s why we write our stories so that others can see that someone else is going through it and they are not alone.”
back the waves of depression. Sometimes GD has been taking part in the gardening my depression feels like waves that can class recently and gets to share his stories take you into the undertow. “ with a Peer Support Specialist who shares The staff at the Visalia Wellness Center is his diagnosis. He described his feelings made up of Peer Support Specialists, who when he is at the center, “I feel welcomed, have personal lived behavioral experience so I don’t feel nervous. I feel part of the or have a close family member who does. group, the family.” GD continued to explain Another member has found support at the the welcoming environment, “you are center, “staff is awesome because we can welcomed for who you are, you don’t have relate, we can talk about our illness and to be someone else. I don’t have to put on they have been through it. There is so much a mask. I feel open to be who I am. I am offered here, many classes and groups, around people who understand. It’s a lot of something for everybody. Everybody is familiar faces. We needed this a long time friendly and it’s not hard to open up,” said ago. When I wasn’t doing good, I felt safe GD. MK also appreciates the Peer Support there. I didn’t know where else to go. With staff, “I think that it’s really important for the pandemic it’s home or here.” someone to understand through personal Mike Handley is a Full-time experience, it’s very helpful, it bridges over Peer Support Specialist at the anxiety. It’s easier to open up to someone Visalia Wellness Center who has walked in similar shoes,” said MK. Through phone calls and support groups, MK was able to get to a point in his wellness 31
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“We’re in this together”
VISALIA
Wellness C enter
1223 S. Lovers Lane, Visalia, CA 93292
559-931-1001
PHONE The Visalia Wellness Center (VWC) offers a wide array of wellness and resiliency-focused services in a lively and supportive environment tailored to individuals who are on their journey to wellness.
What VWC is… • VWC provides a safe space where individuals can have the opportunity to connect with others who have experienced and understand what it is like to live with behavioral health challenges • Support group activities address and normalize behavioral health challenges to achieve wellness • Staffing is comprised of former and current consumers of behavioral health services
What VWC offers… • • • • • • • •
Stress Reduction & Techniques Wellness and Recovery Action Plan (W.R.A.P.) Depression & Anxiety Management Arts & Crafts Gardening Nutrition Education/Cooking Instruction Life Skills Training LGBTQ+ Support Group
Eligibility requirements include: 18 years or older, having lived behavioral health experience and being well along in one’s individual wellness journey.
Hours of Operation: Monday through Saturday • 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM Closed most major holidays
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Saturday • 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM Closed most major holidays
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Looking up the meaning of belonging online you will come across the description of belongingness as “the human emotional need to be an accepted member of a group. Whether it is family, friends, co-workers, a religion, or something else, people tend to have an ‘inherent’ desire to belong and be an important part of something greater than themselves.” This human need to be a part of something, to feel accepted, is something we come across every day, and I am proud to be a part of an organization that has created a welcoming and accepting environment for anyone and everyone that comes through our front doors.
judgement and full of encouragement that inspires everyone. This welcoming atmosphere is not only reserved for our members, but also continues from staff-to-staff. Our staff comes from many different backgrounds: ethnicities, economic status, veterans, members of the L.G.B.T.Q. community, and more, and we have all come together to be accepting of each other and share this inclusive belief with everyone we interact with both in and out of the center. This passion to not only help our community but our fellow co-workers
The Porterville Wellness Center opened May 30,2017 at 333 W. Henderson Avenue in Porterville and even though it is located on one of the busiest streets in our town, many people are surprised when they come across this hidden gem that is open to everyone who has a desire to work on their mental health and wellness in our community. A reporter from our local newspaper came into the center during an event once and described it as an “amazing place” with an “atmosphere [that] is friendly and welcoming.” The staff at PWC take pride in creating a place that members feel welcomed in, free of 33
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allows us to create a center that is truly united in our goal of uplifting one another and our community. The true spirit of belonging happens at the Porterville Wellness Center and we look forward to welcoming anyone who needs encouragement and a place to belong.
Support. Activity groups include Arts & Crafts, Art Journaling, Cooking, Gardening and more. For our monthly calendars and more information visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PWC333 or call the Porterville Wellness Center at
The Porterville Wellness Center is open Monday 559-759-3388. – Saturday from 9:30am-4:30pm. Come by for a tour and visit our own home away from home. Here are some brief descriptions of what we have planned for the following months. All events are held following proper social distancing requirements and are subject to change based on changing restrictions due to COVID-19. October – This October we will be beginning our Pumpkin Spice Season in our cooking classes. All our recipes will be Autumn inspired. We will begin our Halloween Movie Marathon by viewing Halloween classics such as Hocus Pocus, Goosebumps, and more. We will also be having outdoor fall activities. November – In November we will be presenting an awards ceremony to show our appreciation to staff and members alike. We will also be holding our annual Thanksgiving dinner that is prepared by PWC staff. December – December will be the start of our Peppermint Season; our cooking classes will have Winter/Holiday inspired recipes and baked goods. We will also be having our annual ornament making and gingerbread houses, along with our Christmas cookie trays that members make to give to their friends and/or families. We will also have a 5-days of giveaway raffles before the holiday break. The Porterville Wellness Center holds a Fun Friday luncheon every Friday to reward members for their hard work they have done while working on their wellness each week. Support groups offered each week are for Depression, P.T.S.D., Anxiety, W.R.A.P., Stress, Men’s and Women’s
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EAP
Employee Assistance Program
Health insurance not covering enough?
GAP
Guaranteed Issue Policies
Cash Benefits Return of Premium Call or text for a no obligation consult Local Licensed Agent Tamara Harvell
Solutions Oriented Insurance Solutions 559-736-0248
Affordable Benefits CA License #0H70151
Frequently Asked Questions About Employee Assitance Programs What is an (EAP)? An Employee Assistance Program is an employee benefit program that assists employees with personal problems and/or work-related problems that may impact their job performance, health, mental and emotional well-being. Who provides the EAP benefit? The EAP is a service provded by employers to help workers maintain their wellbeing in an increasingly complicated world. Counseling can assist with anyone dealing with personal and work-related problems. What are the benefits of an EAP program? EAPs can help employers reduce absenteeism, workers’ compensation claims, health care costs, accidents and grievances. In addition, they can address safety and security issues, improve employee productivity and engagement, and reduce costs related to employee turnover. How does an EAP work? An EAP provides outside counselors, resources, and referrals to assist employees and their family members. Any EAP benefits received by employees or family members remain confidential. This means that while the employer pays for the service, they have no insight into an employee’s specific use of the service. For Additional Information contact Tamara Harvell 559-736-0248
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Looking Forward Why depression didn’t ruin being with my family during Covid 19... As summer starts to wind down and I start noticing the leaves starting to Fall. I cannot help but look at this past year I realized that so many things have fallen away. My way of life has changed dramatically.
My Mother and Uncle, both in their 70s stopped coming by the house. Everyone was afraid and worried that Covid 19 could sicken or kill them. The place that I spent lots of time working and healing called Clubhouse Visalia, was forced to close it’s doors temporarily we all thought. This was the place that so many of us went everyday. Life as I knew it was shut down.
Last Winter, at the beginning of the year, I had a place to go to daily. I felt needed. I felt good about the fact that I could work to make a better place, here in my community of Visalia. I saw friends and family often. I went to the movies, shopping and made A few things happened at that point. plans for weekend getaways. I first went into denial and I thought it wasn’t Then February hit. My Grandmother, who going to last. I was completely alone. My good I live with, was taken ill and put into the friend, who I saw daily was also in isolation. hospital. At first it wasn’t a big issue because What was I going to do alone? Like many Grandma went into the hospital often and others, I started watching the news. The I knew that she would be home soon. But more news that I watched the more I was then, Covid 19 hit. Things got serious fast.
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afraid.This lasted a few months before things not immune and my hope is that everyone started to seriously go down hill. continues to stay safe. Depression had started to set in and I ate a lot of potato chips which of course made me feel worse because I was not taking care of myself the way that I planned. Some days I would stay in my pajamas and not get dressed at all. Lots of thoughts started to go through my head about past hurts and disappointments in my personal life and relationships. I withdrew from my friends and wouldn’t contact them through phone calls or social media. I felt like nobody understood what I was going through. My daughter Maria suggested that we do scheduled family Zoom time, twice a week. It was perfect because both of my daughters live in separate areas. I was so excited and happy to also see both daughters and my two Grandsons. One Grandson Ethan was born November 2019 and I have only held him once. The fun thing is I can still talk to him, see him laugh, cry and watch him look at us on the computer screen. He must have thought who are those people calling my name? I love them. The friends who I knew understood, I felt that The Woman that I raised my beautiful girls my problems and concerns would be a burden with, Jerri also joins in our meetings. For that on them so I kept quiet and didn’t reach out scheduled time I have my family back. This was my family for 30 years so being able to Then Easter in the spring came and I decided laugh, get to know each other, watch my girls that I was not going to be sad just because I interact has been the biggest blessing. We all would be alone. Instead, I planned a dinner for belong together, even though we live apart. myself. I bought a steak and even got a bottle Things between my family and I have improved of red wine. I had not ever been much of a because we make the effort to connect and drinker but I was going to celebrate. There is these things give me hope. something about spring, the weather changing, flowers blooming, and for me it brought a new perspective. Later that month, my Grandmother came home. I am happy to say my 95 year old Grandmother survived Covid 19. I have been tested four times and am so grateful the tests were negative. I however do know that Covid 19 is real and it can still happen. I am
Antonia Rose enjoys time with friends and leading guided meditation groups on Facebook live. @ Clubhouse Visalia
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We want to send a shout out to people in our community and say Hi! Thanks for being YOU!
Shout OUT
Happy 1 Year Anniversary VWC! Thanks for being a huge support in our community for those of us who need it most.
Thanks Nikki and Aharon for being good people and helping at Avila Beach! Loved your music!
Social Emotional Wellness Task Force Zoom Snapshot. Starbucks on Akers and Goshen in Visalia. We Love You! 38
Thanks for coming together to share information, ideas, and solutions in our community!
YOU BELONG!
Breathe Magazine Sends a Big
Thank You! This Team Helped Us Get Started and We Send Hugs and Love To Them!
Martin Velasco -Ramos
Valerie Barnes
Destina Hernandez
Editor
Former Publisher
Designer
Brittany Schrank
Ask Kate
Connie Armerding
Co-Founder
Youth Leader
Writer
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