Autumn 2023 Newsletter by Family Building Blocks

AUTUMN 2023 NEWSLETTER

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & ORGANIZATION VALUES OFFICERS Nancy MacMorris-Adix, Chair Retired, Legacy Silverton Midwives Rich Schultz, Past Chair Cherry City Metals Jeff Moore, Secretary Saalfeld Griggs PC Mike Blanchard, Treasurer Johnson, Glaze & Co.

ORGANIZATION VALUES

FROM PATRICE

What would our community look like if every young child grew up in a safe and nurturing home? Can you close your eyes and imagine that for a minute. Every child safe and every parent able to provide a nurturing, loving home. What a world that would be.

Family Building Blocks was founded in 1997 in response to crises threatening our community’s families. The crises of mental health struggles and drug addiction led to unprecedented numbers of children entering our foster care and juvenile justice systems. At that time, nearly a third of children entering foster care were under the age of five. A critical, highly vulnerable time of life. Our community realized the families of young children affected most were receiving the least support and they responded. From law enforcement to state legislators to business owners, our community responded. Today, we remain focused on our mission. We are committed to fully serving our entire region, Marion and Polk counties, and to serving families with young children close to where they live. That’s why we have established brick and mortar locations beyond Salem in Woodburn, Independence, and the Santiam Canyon. We have grown, and seeing that growth, many ask, “Does Family Building Blocks really need my help?” The answer is yes. Now more than ever. The children and families we partner with are facing real challenges every day. They may be experiencing houselessness, they may be isolated, living in poverty, struggling with addiction, experiencing domestic violence, without employment, or lacking transportation. The more stressors faced by a family, the harder it is for that family to stay strong and together. And the stressors for local families present imminent threats. • Families living in rural Marion and Polk counties are among the poorest in Oregon, and 84% of school children in the Salem-Keizer School District live in poverty. That’s over 30,000 children. • Salem-Keizer is the only large district in the state that offers a free lunch and breakfast to every one of its students. • Oregon is 49th in the country for the prevention of death by suicide, and 50th for access to mental health services.

• We believe in the power of a securely attached family.

• 70% of the families waiting for Family Building Blocks services in southeast Salem alone identify as houseless - families with children under the age of five.

• We are family-centered, caring and supportive.

It can feel pretty hopeless and overwhelming. Where do we even start?

• We respect the unique personhood of each child.

• We strive for equity and celebrate diversity. • We are collaborative and ambitious.

We have the answer. We know where to start. Each child until we reach every child.

• We emphasize strengths and assume positive intent. • We honor vulnerability and courage. • We offer optimism and hope. • We express gratitude for our community’s generosity.

Patrice Altenhofen, Executive Director

HIGHLIGHTS WE ARE PROUD TO BE #8! Family Building Blocks Staff have voted – We are the 8th Best Large Nonprofit to Work for in Oregon in 2023! This annual survey, conducted by Oregon Business gives non-profit employees across the state an opportunity to rate their satisfaction with five features of the workplace: work environment; management and communications; mission and goals; career development and learning; and benefits and compensation. FBB’s “Rock Star” staff cited two all-day staff retreats per year, a summer all-staff and family picnic, and annual cost-of-living raises as key motivators in a work environment filled with caring for others. Staff also praised the benefits, flexible schedules, and a work culture that encourages self-care. Something absolutely key, in a field of work filled with emotion, intention, and challenges- the heart work of supporting families with young children at risk.

In 2023, our staff supported over 1,300 children and 850 families, and 99% of the children served, stayed safe and at home. No foster care. No abuse and neglect. Our staff dream of a world where every child has what it takes to live their happiest, healthiest, most fulfilling life. Our mission is big, important, and worth it. Our work is filled with intention, warmth, joy, connection, and love. We share this with the families we serve, and we share this in the workplace with each other. We are pursuing our mission, together. We are more than a charity; we are a force. This is why it is so important to Family Building Blocks’s Leadership Team and Board of Directors, that staff feel valued, safe, and accomplished at work. Our teams all look out for one another, jump in when needed, and take time to have fun and find joy together. Returning from “the field” to a space where we laugh, dream big and overcome challenges together, makes us all better at what we do and better at serving families. Many times, that work is hard, long, and built upon the foundation of relationships. Yet, it’s in this context, we see generational change. It’s a powerful and vulnerable way to spend your day.

“Working with our families and seeing them grow is the most rewarding thing to me not to mention our team. Can you imagine being surrounded by individuals that love what they do?! I love the quote, ‘when you do what you love you’ll never work a day in your life.’ It’s true. Our job is planting seeds of hope. That’s what I do. I plant, hope.” – Sulema Ochoa, Relief Nursery Program Supervisor, celebrating 9 years at Family Building Blocks

WE’RE HIRING

Join us, the 8th Best Large Nonprofit to Work for in Oregon, as we sow seeds of resilience, empathy, and potential in future generations. To learn more about our mission and culture, watch here

APPLY TODAY: familybuildingblocks.org/careers

ANGEL’S STORY DREAM BUILDERS LUNCHEON WRAP UP On October 18th, we celebrated our annual Dream Builders Luncheon, an opportunity for 700 friends and supporters to gather at the beautiful Salem Convention Center, for an hour of joy, heart, and hope. Jerry Moore, Family Building Blocks Board Member, welcomed our crowd: “In the simplest of terms, Family Building Blocks partners with parents to be the best parents they can be. Together, we help great little people grow into great big people. For me, that’s what it’s all about. I stand here today truly believing that all of us working together to build a community where everyone can thrive is the most important work. I truly do believe Family Building Blocks is more than a charity. They are a force. A force for good.”

Angel

For many, the most inspiring part of the event was Angel’s Story. Angel, now 7 years old, graduated from Family Building Blocks services two years ago. In early August, Angel and his mom, Isabel, came back to see his classroom and visit his teacher. Angel had also brought back the toys he received while enrolled in Family Building Blocks services to give to the children there now. “I miss my teacher and my classroom. Let’s go visit and donate my special things. Maybe they will help someone else like they helped me.” – Angel Before Angel left Chelsea’s Place that day, he thanked us, gave our staff some hugs, and pulled out his wallet. Inside he had $2.00. He carefully pulled out $1.00 and donated it to Family Building Blocks. His joy and optimism were contagious! We asked Isabel if we could share their story with our community. Fast forward to October, as Angel and his parents sat watching their own Family Story on film in a room full of love and support. At that moment, the sense of community was overwhelming, and Angel said to his FBB Home Visitor, Sulema, “I am crying tears of joy and gratitude, because I love my family so much. Now all these people see our family’s love too.”

Angel and his parents

Isabel, Angel’s mother, reflected on the experience, expressing with tears of gratitude, “We were able to take a couple steps back and really evaluate our experience at Family Building Blocks. We want to continue to be part of Family Building Blocks, next as volunteers.” To close the event, Christy Perry, Dream Builder, Sustainer, and Family Building Blocks Board Member, welcomed Angel’s Principal, Taylor Cooper and Teacher, Brenda Poton, from Lamb Elementary School, where Angel is a well-loved 2nd Grader who is known for his deeply caring and outgoing personality that makes others feel welcomed and appreciated. “It doesn’t surprise me at all that Angel would give back like this. This is his nature at school as well.” - Angel’s Elementary Teacher, Brenda.

Angel and his mother

Next, Christy announced Angel as our newest Stepping Stone Sustainer, a monthly donor! She added,

“We know the ability to establish strong bonds and attachments is foundational to the success of a child’s life. We know that when a parent looks at their children and finds the courage to ask for help, it is paramount that we say YES. And we know that because we all showed up here today, we can, and we will. Donors, staff, community members, and Family Building Blocks graduates, we are hand in hand today with amazing young people like Angel.” Angel is one of the many “Family Building Blocks graduates” whose life trajectory has changed, whose family is now on a path to give back and value the connection and attachment within their family. They are ready to chart a new course for generations to come. “I just want everyone in the whole world to be happy.” – Angel We are so grateful to our event sponsors for their support of our 2023 Dream Builders Luncheon

Senior Living

FOR YOU! BECOME A CLASSROOM VOLUNTEER TODAY! COMMITMENT: ONCE A WEEK FOR SIX MONTHS 9:15 AM–12:15 PM: Play with toddlers, read books, improve lives! LOCATION: YOUR CHOICE North Salem, South Salem, West Salem, and Dallas SIGN UP TODAY: MAKE AN IMPACT familybuildingblocks.org/give/#volunteer

“

May all children and families be happy. May all children and families be healthy. May all children and families be safe. May all children and families be at peace.

“

OUR CHILDREN ARE WAITING

Adaptation from Voyage to the Sun: A Children’s Version of the Tao te Ching

HIGHLIGHTS

CAROUSEL FAMILY NIGHT

PINT NIGHTS

Did you know every summer and winter, Family Building Blocks hosts a private event for the children and their families in our program with a free meal, family-friendly activities, and communityengagement opportunities? In September, we welcomed 500 children, parents, staff and volunteers to our Carousel Family Night. Thank you to our sponsor, Comcast, for grilling, hosting an educational booth and providing funds to purchase a book for every family. Thank you to our sponsor, Umpqua Bank, for sponsoring dessert. And thank you to our volunteers and staff for hosting activities for our families to enjoy together!

Thank you to our Young Leaders Council for presenting “Pint Nights,” a monthly fundraiser hosted by local restaurants. A percentage of each drink sold at Pint Nights is donated back to Family Building Blocks. The most recent event, held at Xicha Brewing – North Salem, raised almost $400 for children and families! Other hosts have included Basil & Board, Divine Distillers, and Croft Vineyards. Upcoming events will be scheduled at Turner Pizza and Taphouse, The Yard, and Willamette Valley Smokehouse. Details to come. Thank you to our hosting restaurants!

THANK YOU, SUNDT CONSTRUCTION! Sundt Construction, Inc. recently surprised us by choosing Family Building Blocks as their charity of choice at their Sundt Foundation PNW Partner Appreciation Golf Tournament. Thank you, Sundt Construction, for valuing the youngest among us – the need is great!

PLAYGROUP AT FORDYCE FARMS PUMPKIN PATCH One of the most frequent stressors our families experience is a sense of isolation. Family Building Blocks staff offer weekly and monthly playgroups at several of our Family Building Blocks sites. Teachers and Home Visitors encourage families to participate as often as they can as playgroups are a way families with young children can support their child’s development, build relationships and community, and create positive core memories. Recently, Family Building Blocks Families were invited to join in a playgroup for infants and toddlers and enjoyed an extra special treat – the annual “field trip” to family-owned Fordyce Farm Pumpkin Patch! On this sunny fall afternoon, children and their families visited the working farm, rode on hay bales in the farming tractor, climbed the hay pyramid, and even enjoyed pumpkin and apple picking. There were smiles all around! Thank you to Fordyce Farms for hosting us, to Autumn Harvest of Woodburn for donating pumpkins for families who could not attend the playgroup, and to our Teachers and Home Visitors for delivering the donated pumpkins to families.

SAVE THE DATES ANNUAL HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS GIVING PROGRAM SPONSOR A CHILD OR PARENTS IN NOVEMBER ‘Tis the season! We are delighted to kick off our annual Hope for the Holidays giving program. To ensure our families’ basic needs are met during this holiday season and that they can create memories together for years to come, we are partnering with businesses and individuals in our community to collect donations of winter coats, age-appropriate educational toys, pajamas, books in multiple languages, and gift cards for food for local families raising young children. Because of your generous support in 2022, Family Building Blocks was able to provide gifts and needed items and create sweet holiday memories with over 450 children and their families in our community. YOU made all of this possible! “There were many times, before Family Building Blocks, when we didn’t have enough money for food, electricity, Christmas gifts, or to have meals together to celebrate holidays. One of the highlights I remember after joining Family Building Blocks, was Hope for the Holidays. I realized at a very young age, there are people out there that really care about us!” – Maria, Family Building Blocks Graduate Please join us in providing Hope for the Holidays for children and families experiencing extreme challenges, often times alone and without community.

HOST A “GIVING TREE”: To participate as a business and collect needed items, please contact Julie Duran at 503.566.2132 or jduran@familybuildingblocks.org HOLIDAY WISH LIST:

GIVE ONLINE:

Visit us at familybuildingblocks.org/donate or scan the QR code to make an online donation.

Scan the QR code to fulfill the need for these gifts.

YOU’RE INVITED! Helping raise nearly $3 million since it began in 1990, the Gala of Trees has supported children in need in Marion and Polk counties. Celebrate the holidays and bid on a range of elaborately decorated holiday trees of all sizes. Accompanying these one-of-a-kind trees are unbeatable experience packages including luxury trips, family vacations, gift certificates, wine, home decor, specialized treats for your pets, and more! And, making their debut this year, JUMBO STUFFED STOCKINGS. Please join us for some festive holiday cheer during our favorite time of year! LEARN MORE: Contact Brit at bpena@familybuildingblocks.org or 503.566.2132 SPONSOR THE EVENT: Contact Julie at jduran@familybuildingblocks.org or 503.566.2132 Friday, DECEMBER 1, 2023 Salem Convention Center

PRESENTED BY

March 6, 2024 | 5:00-6:30 PM | FREE Join us to celebrate at the Salem Convention Center cvorse@familybuildingblocks.org

April 18, 2024 | Noon-1:00 PM | FREE Join us at The Gate in Independence, OR cvorse@familybuildingblocks.org

May 31-June 1, 2024 Join us for this premier event at Bryn Mawr Vineyards bpena@familybuildingblocks.org

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID SALEM, OREGON PERMIT NO. 64

2425 Lancaster Dr. NE Salem, OR 97305

PRINTING SPONSOR:

To update your physical address for our quarterly newsletter and to join our monthly IMPACT e-news list, contact Laura at lstovin@familybuildingblocks.org.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.

FAMILY CONTACT Contact our team! 503.566.2132 M-TH: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM F: 8:00 AM-2:00 PM

CHELSEA’S PLACE 2425 Lancaster Dr NE Salem, OR 97305 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

INDY PLACE 1601 Monmouth St, Suite 101 Independence, OR 97351 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

HELEN’S PLACE 180 18th St NE Salem, OR 97301 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

JEANETTE’S PLACE 1787 State St NE Salem, OR 97301 Open for Family Mental Health Appointments.

JAN’S PLACE Morningside United Methodist Church 3674 12th St SE Salem, OR 97302 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

GRACIE’S PLACE 1135 Edgewater St NW Salem, OR 97304 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

WOODBURN PLACE First Presbyterian Church 950 N Boones Ferry Rd Woodburn, OR 97071 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

FREEMAN PLACE 3772 Portland Rd NE, Suite A Salem, OR 97301 Open for Home Visiting services.

DORIS’S PLACE Cascade Resource Center 574 N 11th St Aumsville, OR 97325 Open for Therapeutic Classroom services.

Family Building Blocks (Main Office) 2425 Lancaster Dr. NE, Salem, OR 97305 | 503.566.2132 | familybuildingblocks.org