November Newsletter
November: A Season of Thanks and Giving Hope
As the holiday season approaches, it’s a time of reflection and gratitude, but it’s also a time when the spirit of giving shines brightly. This is a time to remember the significance of fostering, donating, volunteering, and supporting those in need, especially children and families who may be facing challenging circumstances. Here’s why these acts of kindness matter and a glimpse of the impact they can have:
Fostering:
Fostering a child during the holidays and throughout the year is a powerful way to provide stability and love to a young life. Becoming a foster parent not only offers them a safe and nurturing environment but also a sense of belonging during a time when family is celebrated. Statistics show that approximately 125,000 children in the United States are waiting to be adopted, and fostering is often the first step in providing them with a loving forever home.
Donating:
Donating during the holiday season can make a profound difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Whether it’s contributing to a toy drive, providing warm clothing, or donating to a local food bank, your generosity can bring joy and comfort to families facing financial hardship. According to recent statistics, more than 35 million people in the United States struggled with hunger in 2020, and your donation can help alleviate this issue and bring warmth to homes during the cold winter months.
Volunteering:
Volunteering your time and skills is another impactful way to give back during the holidays. Whether you choose to serve meals at a shelter, spend time with elderly residents at a care facility, or mentor youth in need, your efforts can create lasting memories and positively impact the community. In 2020, approximately 77.4 million adults in the United States volunteered their time, demonstrating the collective power of individuals to make a difference.
Supporting Nonprofits:
Nonprofit organizations play a vital role in providing essential services to those in need. This holiday season, consider supporting organizations like Hope For Youth, which work tirelessly to empower children, youth, and families. Your support can help fund critical programs, such as counseling, foster care, and educational initiatives, ensuring that children have the resources and opportunities they deserve.
Volunteering Opportunities
Discover fulfilling volunteering opportunities with Hope For Youth that allow you to spread joy and support those in need. Your time and compassion can brighten the holidays for others.
Seeking Donations!
Join us in giving this season! Our Winter Coat Drive, Thanksgiving Food Drive, and Gift Card Donations are all underway. Your generosity warms hearts and fills bellies.
Wendy’s Wonderful Kids: Spreading Adoption Joy
The WWK program has seen 6 adoptions in the last 3 months! One family is 13 year old triplets, who through implementing the WWK child Focused Recruitment Model, were reunited with their neighbor they grew up with. This resource was located but had moved to Georgia several years ago. Through navigating the pandemic and physical distance these kids and their adoptive family were able to reunite and thrive! They were adopted in July!
in September a set of twins were adopted by their foster mother. This family has a positive relationship with the twins birth mother. The family was able to work out an agreement with the birth mother where the kids can still visit and have contact but still have a permanent loving stable home.
Last adoption took place in October. One child in the WWK program was matched with a foster family and fit in like a glove! This youth is extremely happy with his new family and has achieved permanency.
Youth Holiday Party , Wrapping Party
Be a Holiday Hero! This holiday season, you can be the reason for joy and laughter in the hearts of our youth. Sponsor our annual Holiday Youth Party and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and teens.
- Wednesday, December 13th
- 5-7pm
Join us for our annual Holiday Wrapping Party, generously sponsored by Starbucks. ☕ Spread holiday cheer by volunteering your time to help wrap gifts for children and youth in need.
- Monday, December 18th
- 5-8pm
- HFY offices
GIVE BACK
Target Circle
From October through December, you can make an even bigger impact with Hope For Youth through Target Circle. When you shop, simply select us as your chosen nonprofit, and every purchase will support our mission. Plus, don’t forget to cast your vote for HFY.
Walmart Spark Good
Did you know that every time you shop on Walmart.com, you can round up your change and donate it to
HOPE FOR YOUTH INC?
Learn how small acts can lead to big impact at #WalmartSparkGood
In-Kind Donations
Join our Monthly Giving Program and make a lasting impact! Your ongoing support, no matter the amount, is highly appreciated and acknowledged. Setting up your recurring donation is quick and easy with the QR Code.
October Newsletter
Harvesting Hope: Fall News & Stories from HFY!
Backed By Bango
Join us on Thursday, October 12 at Bango Bowls for a fundraising event benefiting Hope For Youth! Enjoy 20% off your purchase using code HOPEFORYOUTH and 100% of proceeds will be donated to Hope For Youth!
Target Circle
From October through December, you can make an even bigger impact with Hope For Youth through Target Circle. When you shop, simply select us as your chosen nonprofit, and every purchase will support our mission. Plus, don’t forget to cast your vote for HFY.
Coat Drive
October is here, and with it comes the promise of cooler days ahead. As we transition into the cozy season, we’re launching our annual Coat Drive!
Many in our community face the coming winter without warm coats. Your gently used or new coats can make a world of difference. Help us keep our community warm by donating your coats at our Amityville location throughout the month.
Thanksgiving Food Drive
Youth Holiday Party
Our Youth Holiday party is set to take place in December at Dave & Buster’s and we are seeking sponsors!
Please contact Nadia Campbell-Mitchell at
nmitchell@hfyny.org / 631-782-6540 – to learn more about this sponsorship opportunity for our youth.
We’re Hiring!
Join the Hope for Youth Team!
Exciting news! We’re on the lookout for passionate individuals to join us in making a difference in the lives of our youth. If you’re ready to be a part of a dedicated team working towards brighter futures, check out our job openings today!
In-Kind Donations
Join our Monthly Giving Program and make a lasting impact! Your ongoing support, no matter the amount, is highly appreciated and acknowledged. Setting up your recurring donation is quick and easy with the QR Code.
Open Hearts, Open Homes
Are you interested in becoming a Foster Parent? It is our mission to match our children with loving and nurturing foster families who open their hearts and homes.
Please consider joining our next orientation on Thursday, October 26th : 6-8 PM
Looking ahead at more orientation dates:
- Monday, November 13th : 6-8 PM
- No orientation in December
- Thursday, January 25th : 6-8 PM
Contact (631) 813-9572 if you are interested. All meetings are via Zoom.
September Newsletter
Hit the pavement with HOPE!
Get ready to run with us at the Run For Hope 5K Run/Walk! This annual event is a heartwarming celebration of unity and support for children and youth in need. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply want to take a leisurely stroll, this 5K is open to all. Together, we’ll make strides towards a brighter future, raising awareness and funds for programs that empower young individuals to conquer challenges and thrive. Save the date and let’s hit the road with HOPE and determination!
🗓️ Saturday, September 30th at 8:30 AM
Registration/Bib Pickup at 8:00 AM
📍 99 Quaker Meeting House Rd, Farmingdale, NY US 11735
🏃♂️ Run For Hope 5K – $25
💻 Virtual Run For Hope – $25
👧 Kids Run (8:20 AM – 8:30 AM) – $10
Register now for a day of togetherness and purpose:
We are seeking more Sponsors, Groups and Virtual Participants!
More information and Sign Up: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Farmingdale/HopeForYouth5k
FUNdraising for a Cause
Moe’s Southwest Grill x Hope For Youth
“Fundraising Is One Of Our Freshest Ingredients.” – Moe’s Southwest Grill
Stop by Moe’s in Massapequa on Thursday, September 14th from 11am – 9pm and 35% of your sale will support Hope For Youth!
Open Hearts, Open Homes
Are you interested in becoming a Foster Parent? It is our mission to match our children with loving and nurturing foster families who open their hearts and homes.
Please consider joining our next orientation on Tuesday, September 26th from 6-8pm.
Looking ahead at more orientation dates:
- Thursday, October 26th : 6-8 PM
- Monday, November 13th : 6-8 PM
- No orientation in December
- Thursday, January 25th : 6-8 PM
Contact (631) 813-9572 if you are interested. All meetings are via Zoom.
In-Kind Donations
Here is the list of in-kind donations that we are accepting and not accepting. Your donations are deeply valued and cherished. Thank you for your continued support and for making a difference in the lives of our youth!
August Newsletter
Sweet, Sweet Summertime!
What an unforgettable day at Summerfest! The joy and laughter echoed through the air as youth and families came together to enjoy a special day of outdoor games, swimming, sweet treats, music and dancing, face painting and so much more. With a record turnout of youth and families, this event was a resounding success, made possible by the support of our incredible sponsors, Certilman Balin & Ernst Young. Thank you for making this day one to remember!
A special thanks to our DJ, DJ Barry Blends, Stop & Shop for their beverage donation & Jeanie Ritter for face painting.
Overheard from Happy Parents:
“I haven’t seen him smile like this in so long.”
“I never would have been able to take them somewhere like this, it’s amazing.”
Run For Hope
Lace up your running shoes and join us for theRun For Hope 5K Run/Walk! This annual event is a celebration of unity and support for children and youth in need. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, this 5K is for everyone. Together, we will run towards a brighter future, raising awareness and funds for critical programs that empower young individuals to overcome challenges and thrive. Mark your calendars and let’s hit the pavement with HOPE and determination!
Saturday, September 30th starting at 8:30AM
99 Quaker Meeting House Rd
Farmingdale, NY US 11735
Run For Hope 5K – $25
Virtual Run For Hope – $25
Kids Run (8:20AM – 8:30AM) – $10
Photos from the Run For Hope 2022
We are seeking Sponsors, Groups and Virtual Participants!
More information and Sign Up: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Farmingdale/HopeForYouth5k
Do Good with Chipotle
Are you a Chipotle fan? Who isn’t?! We are so excited to announce our partnership with Chipotle for the Do Good with Chipotle fundraising event. On Saturday, August 19th from 5-9pm 33% of all sales will be donated to Hope For Youth!
Order online for pickup using code 8KVYEYA or show this flyer in store – 96 Sunrise Hwy, Lindenhurst, NY 11757
Back to School Supplies Drive
Believe it or not, Back to School is just weeks away! 🙈
Please consider donating any of the following supplies for our Youth this upcoming school year. 🏫📚🍎✏️👨🏽🏫
Supplies can be dropped off or shipped directly to:
201 Dixon Ave
Amityville, NY, 11701
You can also visit our Amazon Wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3BTKPRYMGX5XG
Monetary donations and gift cards are also accepted and appreciated. Thank you!
Visit our website at https://www.hfyny.org/ to learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference today.
In-Kind Donations
Here is the list of in-kind donations that we are accepting and not accepting. Your donations are deeply valued and cherished. Thank you for your continued support and for making a difference in the lives of our youth!
July Newsletter
Making a Difference for Homeless Youth
Hope For Youth’s Transitional Housing—Rapid Re-housing Program provides critical support to homeless youth aged 18-24 in Nassau and Suffolk County. Thanks to the support of state licensing, federal funding, Suffolk County, and the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, we offer safe housing options and essential services for these young individuals.
Our program focuses on empowering youth through low-barrier, self-determined housing solutions. With trauma-informed staff available 24/7 in our Transitional Housing, and dedicated case managers in our Rapid Re-housing sites, we provide counseling, case management, and independent living skill groups to ensure successful transitions to permanent housing.
Your support is key in helping us transform the lives of homeless youth. Join us today in making a difference.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Program Quick Facts
Max length of stay/program support: 24 months
Age: 18-24 as head of household
Referral Source CoC Coordinated entry list occupants 69
Transitional Housing
5 youth max occupancy
Rapid Re-Housing
3 scattered sites, 6 occupants
1-5100 | www.hfyny.org
Let’s Raise Some Dough!
On July 13th from 4-8pm, when you dine at Panera Bread, 20% of your purchase will directly benefit Hope For Youth. Indulge in your favorite menu items while making a positive impact on the lives of children and youth in need.
Available for In Cafe • Drive-Thru • Pick-Up • Delivery
*Participants MUST show a flyer on their phone or in person when ordering, for the proceeds to go to Hope For Youth
Ink For Hope
Ink For Hope
Get tatted this Sunday, July 16th from 11:30am – 8:30pm at Da Vinci Tattoo and 100% OF PROCEEDS go to Hope For Youth!
Spreading Happy Success Stories
At Hope For Youth, we are thrilled to witness the incredible journeys of our youth as they achieve remarkable milestones and overcome challenges. Today, we want to share three inspiring success stories that highlight the positive outcomes our programs strive to achieve.
- One of our youths will leave Seaford Boys home and move in with his foster mother. He will continue to reside with her after he ages out of foster care.
- One of the youths in our shelter is graduating from high school and will be attending Suffolk Community College starting in the fall
- A youth in our supervision and treatment program is graduating from the BOCES aviation program and was accepted into Delaware State University to pursue his goal of becoming a commercial pilot. We would like to congratulate him on all of his hard work!
In-Kind Donations
Here is the list of in-kind donations that we are accepting and not accepting. Your donations are deeply valued and cherished. Thank you for your continued support and for making a difference in the lives of our youth!
Visit our website at https://www.hfyny.org/ to learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference today.
June Newsletter
Give Back to Hope For Youth!
We are excited to announce a wonderful opportunity to support Hope For Youth while indulging in delicious food from an amazing partner: Blaze Pizza. By simply enjoying a meal at this fantastic establishment, you can contribute to the cause, as a portion of the proceeds from your purchase will be generously donated to HFY. So, let’s dig in, knowing that with each bite, we are helping to create a brighter future for those in need.
Let’s CAUSE A SCENE for a GOOD CAUSE!
On June 15th from 12pm – 9pm, Blaze Pizza will donate 20% of proceeds from your meal back to our organization!
Location: Blaze Pizza Hicksville: 213 Broadway Mall, Hicksville, NY 11801
Order Mode: In-Restaurant, Blaze Pizza App, Blazepizza.com
TWO WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR ORGANIZATION:
In-Restaurant: Bring in this flyer or show it on your phone before paying.
Online Orders: Orders must be placed online via the Blaze Pizza App or blazepizza.com.
Enter PROMO CODE: 1102A
VALID FOR PICKUP, CURBSIDE & CARRYOUT ONLY.
National Reunification Month
National Reunification Month, observed in June, shines a spotlight on the significance of family reunification within the child welfare system. It serves as a reminder of the immense value in restoring and strengthening family bonds. At Hope For Youth, we work closely with our dedicated foster parents and youth towards the common goal of reunification. We understand the significance of maintaining strong connections and rebuilding relationships, as it is crucial for the well-being and long-term success of children and families. Through our comprehensive support services, including counseling, education, and life skills training, we empower foster parents and youth with the tools and resources needed to navigate the reunification process successfully. Together, we strive to create a nurturing environment where families can heal, grow, and reunite.
Happy Pride
June is a time of celebration and happiness as we come together to honor and support Pride. It’s a month dedicated to embracing diversity, spreading messages of acceptance, and standing up for equality. Let’s join in the festivities, whether through parades, gatherings, or simple acts of kindness, as we show our support for the LGBTQ+ community. At Hope For Youth, we teach and shape the lives of youth with a focus on acceptance and inclusion. Together, let’s create a world where everyone can be their authentic selves and feel valued and loved. Happy Pride, everyone!
In-Kind Donations
Here is the list of in-kind donations that we are accepting and not accepting. Your donations are deeply valued and cherished. Thank you for your continued support and for making a difference in the lives of our youth!
Visit our website at https://www.hfyny.org/ to learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference today.
May Newsletter
National Foster Care Awareness Month
National Foster Care Awareness Month is an important time for us to reflect on the many challenges that children and youth in foster care face, and to recognize the incredible work being done to support them. At Hope For Youth, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to children and youth in foster care, and we believe that every child deserves the chance to succeed. We offer a range of programs and services that are designed to meet the unique needs of children in foster care, from out-patient and clinical services to diagnostic and emergency residential services. Our foster care program is committed to finding stable, loving homes for children who have experienced trauma or difficult circumstances, and we provide ongoing support to both the children and the foster families to ensure that everyone has the resources they need to succeed. Through our work, we’re helping to make a real difference in the lives of these young people, and we’re proud to be a part of this important effort. Join us in raising awareness about the needs of children in foster care and supporting our mission to provide high-quality care and support to those who need it most.
Did you know that there are nearly 391,000 children in foster care in the US and over 8 million kids worldwide? By becoming a foster parent with Hope For Youth, you can make a positive difference in the life of a child who needs it the most. Our foster parents receive extensive training and support, and are an integral part of our mission to provide high-quality care and support to children and families in need. 💜💛
It’s a common misconception that the majority of children in foster care are very young, but the reality is that the average age of a foster youth is 8 years old. Additionally, these children typically spend just under 2 years – or approximately 21 months – in foster care. At Hope For Youth, we’re committed to providing high-quality care and support to children and youth of all ages, and we’re dedicated to helping them achieve their full potential. Join us in making a difference in the lives of these young people today! 💜💛
Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC) Success Stories 2022!
- TFC has been working with a young woman since she was 16. The youngster was adopted as a baby, and her adoptive mother passed away, which led to her placement into foster care. A program was developed called FYI (Fostering Youth Independence); it was created to assist youth aging out of foster care with housing. This youth took advantage of the program and, at the age of 20, is currently residing in an apartment while working with FYI staff to learn all the skills necessary to be a successful adult. This youngster worked hard to obtain her goals with help from her TFC team, Health Homes team, and DSS. Way to go!
- A sibling group of three (ages 17, 12, & 6) came into the TFC program after being separated from their birth parents for the first time. TFC worked diligently with the children, their birth parents, and NDSS to reunify them with their family. The children established an incredible connection to their foster family. Once the children were reunited with their birth parents, they maintained contact with the foster family! The children also stayed connected to their TFC Caseworker and are still involved with the Health Homes team!
- A young man in foster care since he was a toddler was placed in several foster homes and felt defeated and unwanted. Once he was placed in his final foster home and connected to the family, he knew this home was different. This youngster felt strongly connected to the foster mother and family and was excited to make this his forever home. Through teamwork by the TFC team, Wendy’s Wonderful Kids team, and DSS, this youngster got his wish and was adopted into a fantastic family he calls his own!
Join us in making a difference today! Our next orientation is 5/25/2023 from 6pm – 8pm.
Contact Christina Anello at (631) 813-9572 if you are interested. If you cannot attend, we will work with you to schedule another meeting.
All meetings are via Zoom.
Visit our website at https://www.hfyny.org/ to learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference today.
Mental Health Awareness is of utmost importance, and at Hope For Youth, we are committed to promoting mental well-being among children, youth, and families. We recognize that mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and we strive to provide comprehensive support and resources to address mental health challenges. Through our programs and services, we aim to break down the stigma surrounding mental health, promote resilience, and empower individuals to seek help when needed. Together, let’s create a compassionate and supportive community where everyone can thrive and find the hope they deserve.
Collaborative for Children & Families is sharing information and resources to help aid in conversations surrounding mental health.
- SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration) Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit: Click Here
- Minnesota Department of Health Mental Health Toolkit: Click Here
- Mental Health America: Click Here
- National Institute of Mental Health- Digital Shareables: Click Here
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Kitchen Table Talks: Click Here
Thank you for Your Donations
Join our Monthly Giving Program and make a lasting impact! Your ongoing support, no matter the amount, is highly appreciated and acknowledged. Setting up your recurring donation is quick and easy with the attached QR Code.
April Newsletter
A Bittersweet Farewell to our CEO, Dr. Hegarty
Last month we bid farewell to Dr. Hegarty, the former CEO of Hope For Youth, who has retired after over 40 years at Hope For Youth. Though saddened by his departure, we remain grateful for his years of service and exceptional leadership. Under Dr. Hegarty’s guidance, Hope For Youth achieved remarkable success and positively impacted the lives of countless young people. His unwavering dedication, inspiring vision, and tireless efforts were a source of inspiration to us all, and we were privileged to have been part of his team. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Hegarty for his remarkable commitment to the mission of Hope For Youth. He provided us with endless opportunities to grow both professionally and personally, and we are thankful for his leadership. Although we miss him dearly, the impact of his leadership and dedication will continue to motivate and inspire us all.
We thank Dr. Hegarty for the incredible experience throughout the years.
We celebrated the retirement of Dr. Hegarty with family, friends and coworkers at Captain Bill’s
Employee Appreciation Luncheon
Every March, Hope For Youth hosts a lunch to celebrate Employee Appreciation Day and show our deep gratitude for the exceptional work of the Hope For Youth staff in making a positive impact in the lives of our youth and families.
Big shout out to Jackson Hall in East Islip for graciously hosting us this year
What’s Happening in April!
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time when we acknowledge the importance of promoting the safety and well-being of our children. At Hope For Youth, we are dedicated to supporting and empowering our youth through our various programs and services. One such program is our Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) program, which provides intervention for children from birth through age 5 who have experienced at least one traumatic event. This program helps to prevent and mitigate the effects of trauma, which can have a significant impact on a child’s development and overall well-being. Together, we can create a safer and more nurturing environment for our children and prevent child abuse from occurring in our communities.
April is National Volunteer Month, a time when we celebrate and honor the dedication and service of volunteers across the United States. At Hope For Youth, we rely on the support and generosity of volunteers to help us fulfill our mission of improving the lives of children, youth, and families in our community. Volunteering with Hope For Youth is a great way to give back and make a positive impact in the lives of our youth. From providing mentorship and tutoring to helping with special events and activities, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. Whether you have a few hours to spare or want to make a more long-term commitment, we welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experiences. By volunteering with Hope For Youth, you can help to create a brighter future for our youth and strengthen our communities.
Visit our website at https://www.hfyny.org/ to learn more about how you can get involved and make a difference today.
Learn more about how you can volunteer for Hope For Youth: https://www.hfyny.org/how-you-can-help/volunteering/
March Newsletter
Social Work Month! #SocialWorkBreaksBarriers
Social Workers are extraordinary individuals. The social worker’s job is not just about helping people, but also advocating for human rights and justice. They transform communities where clients can grow and thrive, creating healthier foundations for future generations. Words used to describe social workers include but are not limited to: change agents, problem solvers, critical thinkers, facilitators, advocators, counselors, clinicians, organizers, activists, planners, politicians, lobbyist, writers, and researchers. Source: UMBC
The positive impact our Licensed Social Workers have on our families and youth is life changing. Their devotion and continued support services and therapies help to bring positive change for our youth and their families – one full of bright light, healing, hope, strength and change.
Programs like our Therapeutic Foster Care and Residential Services enlist the help of our Hope For Youth Social Workers to ensure our youth’s care and needs are being met by offering unwavering support throughout their healing process.
Therapeutic Foster Care
- Out-of-home care by foster parents with special training
- Provide safe, caring homes
- Meet with HFY Social Workers for check-ins and therapies
Residential Services
- Provide a safe, inclusive and secure environment for youth
- Treatment planning with HFY Social Workers for continued growth and success
Meet Irgma Edington
We are thrilled and honored to have Irma Edington, LMSW continue to champion the mission of Hope For Youth as our new Executive Director and CEO! Irma was born in Puerto Rico and moved to Queens when she was 3 years old. She earned her undergraduate Social Work degree from St. John’s University and her graduate degree from Hunter College. Irma joined HFY as the Director of Foster Care in 2000, and rose to Assistant Executive Director in 2021.
During her time at HFY, Irma has been instrumental in growing HFY’s Foster Boarding Home, designing and implementing the Intensive and Supportive Case Management (ISCM) Program, Community Reinvestment Program, Nassau PINS Preventive Program, and HEART Program.
Irma is a dedicated, nurturing leader. She is a lodestar role model to her staff. Through her teamwork approach, intuitiveness, and emotional stability, she has been able to support, challenge, and guide them into long lasting and rewarding careers at Hope For Youth. Irma is very well regarded in the social work community and presents and communicates on behalf of the agency to bring attention to the need for all children to have a home and the need for families to consider opening their doors to children in need.
Donation Requests
Your donation changes lives. You can make a difference in the lives of our children, youth and families. We are always looking for toiletries, new toys, new infant clothes, diaper bags, diapers and wipes, and gift cards.
We are currently seeking:
Bibs and Pacifiers, Jumperoo, PS4 Gaming system
All donations can be dropped off at our Amityville location: 201 Dixon Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701
February Newsletter
Celebrating and spreading love and thanks
We laughed and smiled our way into the New Year and have hit the ground running in 2023. We enjoyed our youth and staff holiday events and shed bountiful thanks to our donors, supporters, and volunteers for going above and beyond.
Just because the holidays are over, the work doesn’t stop there. We’re focusing on strengthening our programs, hiring new teammates, and working with the community to help best serve our existing youth and families.
The Heart Program
What better month than February to spotlight Hope For Youth’s Heart Program.
HEART stands for Help Enhance Attachments and Remain Together.
The focus of HEART is to prevent a disruption of a family that will/could result in the imminent placement of a child in foster care, enabling a child who has been placed in foster care to return to his/her family at an earlier time than would otherwise be impossible, and to reduce the likelihood that a child who has been discharged from foster care would return to such care.
Licensed Social Workers provide therapies and support services to families/children in the HEART program with a large focus on treatments addressing the parent-child relationship for families with young children. The HEART Program also provides families with Case Planners who will meet with them at a minimum, twice per month. The Case Planners will work collaboratively with families, children and outside service providers to create service plans to address identified needs.
To learn more about our HEART Program call 516-221-5435 or email pins@hfyny.org
We Love a Success Story
Hope for Youth’s Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program (JDTC) provides clients with Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT). This therapy is often challenging for clients and families, but its rewards are abundant. The following success story (shared by a MDFT supervisor) is one of many from this program, and we feel honored to work alongside such incredibly talented and caring therapists, caseworks, and supervisors.
Client G was referred to Hope For Youth’s Juvenile Drug Treatment Court Program due to severe drug and alcohol use and experimentation, being physically aggressive with his family members, refusal to attend school, unmanaged symptoms of depression, anxiety and intense history of suicidal and homicidal behaviors. Client G and his mother received Multidimensional Family Therapy for 6 months where both identified individual and family goals that were necessary to achieve for Client G to remain out of placement from home and to comply with probation and court mandates.
At the start the engagement phase was challenging. However, soon Client G was able to connect how MDFT model approach was different from what he had experienced in the past and actually tailored to all the needs he was able to prioritize to feel and become a successful young man.
An initially extremely guarded client who struggled with identifying any positive relationships in his life soon developed a healthy therapeutic alliance with his therapist allowing himself to be vulnerable and honest with both therapist and family. During a 6 month duration the client actively engaged in treatment to work through issues in his life including building self-confidence, better understanding of family dynamics, and acceptance of his parents’ divorce. He learned to utilize healthy and socially acceptable coping skills to manage his symptoms of anxiety and depression. Instead of aggression he began to utilize effective communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.”
We applaud our clients for their hard work and success.