| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
The Work Has Continued With Assistant Family-Teachers
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
The Work Has Continued With Assistant Family-Teachers
| <p>Assistant Family-Teaching, it's a job that requires no judgement and some good listening ears, according to someone who has been doing the job for more than 20 years. That person is Aaron Cobbs, he has been an Assistant Family-Teacher<sup>® </sup>(AFT) on Boys Town's home campus since May of 1998. </p><p>When Aaron first started his Boys Town career, he was no stranger to the program. Twenty-two years earlier, Aaron was a youth on Home Campus, graduating from Boys Town High School in 1982. It was during his time at Boys Town that Aaron met someone who changed his perspective on life, LaVerne Jennings. </p><p>LaVerne began her Boys Town career as an AFT in 1979. Since then, she has dedicated 30 years of her life to the mission and to helping youth grow and follow their dreams. In LaVerne's early years on campus Aaron was one of the youth that she got to inspire with her work. </p><p>"When I was a kid, she taught me to be a man with integrity and character," said Aaron. "LaVerne taught me to care for others, and not always think about myself. I feel that she plays a big part in me being the man that I am today."</p><p>Putting others before yourself is a rare quality these days but as an AFT it is one of the most important qualities you can showcase. </p><p>"Aaron is a good role model not only for our kids but for adults as well. He inspires others to follow their dreams," said LaVerne. </p><p>Aaron is not only an outstanding role model to the youth he serves but also to his own daughter, Lindsey Cobbs, who followed closely in her father's footsteps by becoming an AFT in 2016.</p><p>"Lindsey has always had a very kind heart, and a passion for wanting to help others, so it doesn't surprise me that she wanted to work at Boys Town," said Aaron. "She thrives on seeing others be successful." </p><p>Lindsey has been an Assistant Family-Teacher for three years now, but she started off in the Summer Youth Enrichment Program, where she also got to work closely with LaVerne. </p><p>"I knew then she would be a great assistant one day. She is definitely a daughter of Aaron Cobbs. Lindsey leads by example and is someone you can count on for support," said LaVerne </p><p>LaVerne was right, Lindsey loved the Summer Enrichment Program so much and knowing that she was making an impact on the lives of others was all it took to get her to apply to be an Assistant Family-Teacher.</p><p>Lindsey knows she has a great role-model in her dad when it comes to working with the youth by displaying strength, compassion and understanding. When it comes to her own difficulties with the job she can always rely on her dad for some expert advice and an encouraging "you got this". </p><p>Regardless if they have been doing the work for three years or thirty years when asked what the most rewarding part of the job was, all three Assistant Family-Teachers had the same response—"Seeing the growth" that the youth make in their time here at Boys Town. </p><p>"A lot of the kids are totally different people when they leave, then when they came here. It's so awesome seeing the changes in the way they think, and act," said Aaron. </p><p>Awesome is an understatement and it takes a lot of one-on-one work with the youth they serve to help them realize they have a whole life full of potential to go out there and follow their dreams. </p><p>"I am still following my dreams of helping kids get better and getting their second chance in life," said LaVerne. <br></p> | 2019-04-16T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Arron Lindsey Laverne" src="/blog/PublishingImages/Arron_Lindsey_Laverne.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Nebraska;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
A Year of Triumph for Boys Town Family-Teacher
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
A Year of Triumph for Boys Town Family-Teacher
| <p>An award-winning year as a Family-Teacher<sup>®</sup>, a PhD and a baby on the way, 2018 was quite the busy year for Nicole Wilson who is a Family-Teacher<sup> </sup>on Nebraska's home campus. </p><p>"Nicole is the woman every parent wants their little girl to grow up to be. She is compassionate, dedicated, and ambitious," said Jordan Wilson, Nicole's husband and Family-Teacher.</p><p>Nicole and Jordan have been working at Boys Town for over five years as Family-Teachers. They currently oversee a boys' home in community three on Home Campus. In 2018, the couple won the <em>Dedication to Youth and Families Award</em> for their amazing work as Family-Teachers. This award was started in 2016 by a man whose daughter's life was impacted by Boys Town. </p><p>This year was a little more hectic for the Wilson family though, specifically Nicole. Not only was she finishing her Human Capital Management PhD in the fall, but she was also getting ready to welcome a new baby girl into the family. In December, Nicole gave birth to baby Emma. The couple also has a seven-year-old son together. </p><p>In the month following the birth of her daughter, Nicole walked across the graduation stage in what was not only an outstanding achievement for her but a proud moment for her husband. </p><p>"Her ambition is the glue to our program. I get things done, but she gets them done the best they can be. Always striving to be better has been the motivation that allowed her to reach her PhD goals," said Jordan. "She inspires me daily to be a better husband, a better parent, and a better all-around person."</p><p>Being a Family-Teacher<sup> </sup>is no easy task; it requires love, patience, time and caring for other's children as they are your own. </p><p>"Nicole is a wonderful example of someone who lives out Father Flanagan's mission each day. She ensures that the boys in her home are extremely well taken care of. She keeps them happy and well-fed while challenging them to meet their goals and stay connected to their families," said Natalie Samson, Director, Family Home Program. "I find it incredible that Nicole continued to maintain all of this while pregnant, taking care of her son and finishing her PhD program. I feel proud to have Nicole as a Family-Teacher."</p><p>Natalie also mentioned that both of the Wilsons do an excellent job at supporting the Boys Town community by leading events such as summer slip-n-slides, Okoboji vacations and guest visits. In addition, Nicole serves on a number of Home Campus committees</p><p>Thank you to Nicole and Jordan Wilson for the work they do as Family-Teachers and congratulations on their achievements in 2018. <br></p> | 2019-04-16T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Wilson" src="/blog/PublishingImages/Wilsons.JPG" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Nebraska;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town Iowa Employee Receives Tom Lewis Memorial Award
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town Iowa Employee Receives Tom Lewis Memorial Award
| <p>Mike VanBeest, Boys Town Iowa Family Consultant, received the Tom Lewis Memorial Award in acknowledgement of the work he has done for children and families of the Iowa community. The award is presented by the Coalition for Family & Children's Services in Iowa during the Champions for Children Award Reception held in Des Moines, Iowa. </p><p>"We are thrilled and honored to have one of our own receive this award," said Chris Jackson, Boys Town Iowa Senior Director. "Mike is a positive role model and is dedicated to the families he helps in Iowa. Mike truly cares about the success of each family he works with and wants the best for them." </p><p>Every year, the Coalition selects a number of individuals from different agencies across Iowa who serve children and families. The Tom Lewis Memorial Award recognizes a person who has shown outstanding dedication, longevity and diversity in duties to those they serve. </p><p>Mike began his career as a police officer in Harlan, Iowa. He moved to Sioux City to continue his police officer duties until 2011. Prior to joining Boys Town Iowa, Mike worked in Family Safety, Risk, and Permanency Services for the Sioux City area. One task has remained the same throughout Mike's career on the police force and working in social services, the duty of saving families and children. </p><p>Mike was awarded this honor because of his compassion for children and families and his innate ability to problem solve and engage well with the families he serves. He is "solution focused" in his approach to his work with families. With his colleagues, Mike is always eager to go the extra mile to ensure success. He is a team member committed to supporting staff in their career.</p><p>"I am very honored to be nominated and receive such a prestigious award. I wouldn't be where I am without all my former and current co-workers, friends and family who have given me guidance and inspiration," said Mike. "I am truly blessed to work for such an outstanding organization that makes a difference in so many people's lives." </p><p>Boys Town would like to recognize other employees that were nominated for awards at the reception: </p><ul><li>Sue Pitts-Fischer Award nominees: Heather Anderson and Destiny Jorgensen </li><li>Al Schulte Award nominees<strong>:</strong> Lacy Dube and Shana Michalski </li><li>Tom Lewis Award nominee: Grace Pellot</li></ul><p>Congratulations Mike on receiving the Tom Lewis award and to the other nominees for keeping Father Flanagan's mission of changing the way America cares for children and families.<br></p> | 2019-04-16T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Mike TL Award" src="/blog/PublishingImages/Mike_TLAward.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Iowa;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town Nebraska Displays Pinwheels for Prevention
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town Nebraska Displays Pinwheels for Prevention
| <p>In one year, more than 3 million referrals are made to child protection agencies about the abuse and neglect of a child. Every April for Child Abuse Awareness month, communities all over the nation dedicate their time to spread awareness about this ongoing problem.</p><p>Project Harmony is partnering with other organizations in Omaha, Nebraska to continue to stand up against child abuse and neglect, through participation in the National Pinwheels for Prevention campaign.</p><p>This April, for the ninth year Boys Town Nebraska Foster Family Services is participating in Pinwheels for Prevention by placing 1,000 blue pinwheels at the Pacific Street entrance of the Boys Town National Headquarters. </p><p>Boys Town's display is one of many that is being put up across the Omaha area with the hopes to do our part in raising awareness. Boys Town's mission has been saving children since 1917, and supporting this campaign is another way to help end the fight against abuse and give children a voice.</p><p>The pinwheels are a symbols to remind our community that each child deserves a heathy childhood so that they may have a bright future. </p><p>"Boys Town Foster Family Services is honored to participate in the "Pinwheels for Prevention" campaign once again. We all have the power and responsibility to protect a child and this campaign brings to light the problem of child abuse in our communities. Together, we must prioritize safe and healthy families," said Matthew Priest, Director of Nebraska Foster Family Services.</p><p>Boys Town thanks Project Harmony for their endless support of serving children in need in the Omaha area. Through community partnerships we can all work together to end the harsh reality of child abuse.<br></p> | 2019-04-12T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Child Abuse Awareness" height="591" src="/locations/new-england/PublishingImages/April.jpg" width="468" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Nebraska;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town Nevada Participates in Children's Week
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town Nevada Participates in Children's Week
| <p>March 11 through 14 Boys Town Nevada participated in Children's Week at the Nevada Legislature in Carson City. </p><p>The purpose of Children's Week is to represent Nevada's children and strengthen their families. In the past four legislative sessions, more than 80 nonprofit, corporate, philanthropic and state agencies and organizations have joined to show support for the children and families of Nevada with a goal to improve the communities through events and outreach efforts geared towards children. </p><p>Each day of Children's Week the event focused on a specific topic. The themes were children's day, school readiness, children's safety and children's health.</p><p><img src="/locations/nevada/news-and-events/PublishingImages/BoysTownEmployees.jpg" alt="Boys Town Nevada" class="ms-rtePosition-1" style="margin:5px 10px;width:400px;height:300px;" />Those who represented Boys Town Nevada at this week-long event were John Etzell, Executive Director Boys Town Nevada, Jessica Sasso, Senior Director Program Operations Boys Town Nevada and Lisette Burton, Vice President Youth Care Policy and Advocacy. </p><p>"It was great that Boys Town could be the voice for the youth and families in our community. We shared how our services are a resource in the community. Having elected officials understand the services and impact can help influence funding," said Jessica. </p><p>Child Advocacy Alliance (CAA) did their 2018 Nevada Children's Report Card which shows the national ranking of Nevada in certain areas that effect children, including health, safety, education and economic well-being. Nevada's best score was a C- in the safety category, and their worst score was an F in the education category. Additionally, Nevada ranked low for reading, math and preschool enrollment. </p><p>These stats prove that there are still areas of improvement for youth in Nevada. Boys Town had the opportunity to discuss with multiple legislative members the outcomes of our program Well-Managed Schools as part of the "LIFT Together" community initiative. </p><p><img src="/locations/nevada/news-and-events/PublishingImages/future.jpg" alt="future" class="ms-rtePosition-2" style="margin:5px 10px;width:350px;height:467px;" />"Building relationships with elected officials can help to bring light to our services. We are often not a recognized provider in the community and we are looking to change this," said Jessica Sasso. </p><p>The Boys Town representatives at this event were able to meet with department director and administrators for the Department of Health and Human Services, Nevada Department of Education, seven senators, eight assemblymen and woman and the Governor's Legislative Director, Keith Hightower. </p><p>Boys Town Nevada has several programs such as In-Home Family Services<sup>®</sup>, Common Sense Parenting<sup>®</sup> and Care Coordination Services<sup>®</sup> that can save the lives of at risk youth and help strengthen families in need. This event was a great way to highlight all that we have to offer to the community and gain support from local officials. <br></p> | 2019-04-05T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Childrens Week" src="/locations/nevada/news-and-events/PublishingImages/ChildrensWeek.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" />
<img alt="Childrens Week" height="528" src="/locations/nevada/news-and-events/PublishingImages/ChildrensWeek.jpg" width="870" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Nevada;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Justices Show Boys Town Students What It’s Like to Serve on Nebraska Supreme Court
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Justices Show Boys Town Students What It’s Like to Serve on Nebraska Supreme Court
| <p></p><p><em>This article is written by Scott Stewart. It was posted to </em><a href="http://www.omahadailyrecord.com/index.cfm?show=10&mid=84&pid=9"><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><em>omahadailyrecord.com</em></span></a><em>.</em></p><p>Hands shot up into the air at the Boys Town Music Hall last Thursday afternoon as justices of the Nebraska Supreme Court fielded a variety of questions from students wondering how much money they made, how they remain unbiased and what it took to land a spot on the bench.</p><p>The court visited Boys Town High School as part of its high school outreach program. Students watched an oral argument and spent about a half hour peppering the justices with questions and occasionally filling the auditorium with laughter, smiles and a whistle at the mention of the justices' salaries.</p><p>Asked about whether having legal problems as a young person would prevent a career in the law, the justices told the Boys Town students to look up the story of Shon Hopwood, a Nebraska bank robber who eventually became a lawyer and Georgetown University law professor. Responding to a question about embarrassing moments, they also mentioned a time that a chair broke on the bench, causing a justice to fall backwards during an oral argument. </p><p>Shiann Janousek, a Boys Town senior from Fremont, said the visit provided her peers an opportunity to learn what goes into being a judge or an attorney.</p><p>"It gave all the students here an opportunity to see that firsthand and to know what it could be like to go through a court case or, if any of the youth want to go into law school, they got some better insight and information on how to do so," Janousek said. "It was really cool that we could ask questions afterwards because I felt a lot of the youth here understand what was going on."</p><p>The court heard oral arguments on State v. Manjikian, a case involving issues of double jeopardy and whether a defendant made a free, voluntary, knowing and intelligent plea of no contest. Students in attendance reviewed the case in advance, and Douglas County Juvenile Court Judge Douglas F. Johnson gave them an overview of the court process shortly before the session.</p><p>Among other issues, defense attorney Jason E. Troia of Dornan, Troia, Howard, Breitkreutz & Conway PC LLO asked the court to consider whether the judge should ask the defendant entering a no contest plea if they understand they are waiving a right to an appeal, too. Melissa R. Vincent of the Nebraska Attorney General's Office said that it's implicit in a no contest plea that the outcome can't be appealed. </p><p>Students watched the justices ask questions about precedence and how they should weigh American Bar Association recommendations against how courts have traditionally operated in Nebraska. After the hearing, the students were urged to look up a case – State v. Irish – that repeatedly came up in the oral arguments because it examines how the court assures a no contest plea is voluntary and intelligent. </p><p>Boys Town High School senior DeAngelo Speaks of Balitmore said he was surprised how quickly the arguments wrapped up. </p><p>"It was definitely more chill and laid back than any TV lawyer would be because it was like really brief, get to the point," Speaks said. "It gave me an insight on how hard these judges work and how hard their job really is. It's not just you put on a robe and become a judge. It really takes time." </p><p>Chief Justice Michael G. Heavican said it's important for high school students to have confidence in the court system and learn how democratic institutions operate. </p><p>"Part of our job is to communicate with the community – by community, I mean with the state as a whole – on the broader issue of what is the law, what is the court system, what is civic responsibilities and so forth, and we find that visiting high schools is one of the ways we can perform that part of our job," Heavican said. "Every time we go to a high school, we find it to be a learning experience for us and we are delighted by the whole process." </p><p>A few high schools are chosen annually to participate in the court's outreach program. Students at Scottsbluff High School will receive the court on April 29 to mark Law Day. Last year, the court visited Millard North High School, Grand Island High School and Schuyler High School. </p><p>Asked why the justices chose Boys Town by one of the students, Heavican said they look for schools that want to host an oral argument – which requires heightened security, with the State Patrol treating the meeting space as an official state courtroom. </p><p>"We got a very enthusiastic response from Boys Town," Heavican said. </p><p>Boys Town Superintendent Bob Reznicek described the visit as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" for the organization's students and staff. John English, a Boys Town social studies teacher, said the event was a field trip that came to campus and provides a chance to connect real examples with classroom lessons. </p><p>The Nebraska Supreme Court also held oral arguments and a question-and-answer session Thursday morning at Creighton Law School. The court has visited the state's law schools annually for more than 30 years as part of its effort to raise awareness and promote civics education, according to a release.</p> | 2019-04-05T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="" src="/locations/nebraska/news-and-events/PublishingImages/SupremeCourtBoysTown_opt.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" />
<img alt="Nebraska Supreme Court Justices" src="/locations/nebraska/news-and-events/PublishingImages/SupremeCourtBoysTown_opt.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Nebraska;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town South Florida Remembers Shooting Victims
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town South Florida Remembers Shooting Victims
| <p>February 14, marked one year since the day 17 innocent lives were taken in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida. </p><p>Boys Town South Florida has been serving children and families in Broward County for over a decade. Through a strong partnership with stakeholders and partners in that area, Care Coordination Services has been providing direct support and connection for students placed at one of Broward County's alternative schools, Cypress Run Education Center.</p><p>This year all the schools within Broward County school system held commemorative events for the one year anniversary of the shooting. Brittney Staab, Care Coordination Services consultant, Boys Town South Florida, and her supervisor, Christine Ruiz, participated in the day of remembrance at Cypress Run. </p><p>Care Coordination Services has a close relationship with Cypress Run, serving a caseload of students at the school. The goal is to support them in their transition from the alternative school setting back to their home school. Additionally, some of the students currently attending this alternative school were students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas during the 2018 shooting. </p><p>This "Day of Service and Love" at Cypress Run included several different activities that the student body rotated through, such as making stress balls, yoga classes, painting flowerpots and listening to a guest speaker who talked about the importance recognizing and treating mental health disorders. </p><p>"It was heartwarming to see the students identify with the speaker who was troubled as a teenager but is now a therapist giving back to the community," said Christine. "Being present for the moment they realized there are better paths to take is something I'll always remember." </p><p>In addition to listening to the speaker Brittney and Christine participated in helping the students paint 17 flower pots, one for each of the victims of the shooting. These flower pots were filled with plants and then placed in the school garden as a memorial. </p><p>February 14 was a day for the community to join together to remember those who tragically lost their lives. For anyone who was having emotional stress due to the anniversary, mental health counselors were present to talk with throughout the day. </p><p>Broward County Public Schools stated on their website, "February 14, 2018, will forever be in our hearts. As part of the Broward County community, the District will always remember and honor those whose lives were taken in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy, and will continue to support the injured and hurting." </p><div class="hidden-gal">
<a title="Planters" class="image-group cboxElement" href="/locations/south-florida/news-and-events/PublishingImages/PlantersOne_opt.jpg">image 1</a> </div> | 2019-04-04T05:00:00Z | | <img alt="Christine and Brittney" src="/locations/south-florida/news-and-events/PublishingImages/ChristineandBrittneyOne_opt.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | South Florida;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Salvation Army Supports Spiritual Growth of North Florida Youth
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Salvation Army Supports Spiritual Growth of North Florida Youth
| <div class="hidden-gal">
<a title="Salvation Army Supports Spiritual Growth of North Florida Youth" class="image-group cboxElement" href="/locations/north-florida/news-and-events/PublishingImages/IMG_0592.jpg">image 1</a>
</div><p>Throughout the summer of 2018, the Salvation Army of Tallahassee partnered with Boys Town North Florida to support the spiritual growth and development of the children in Boys Town's Family Home Program. </p><p>"Much like Boys Town, The Salvation Army has a long history and legacy of helping needy individuals within their community," said Bethany Lacey, Sr. Director of Program Operations, Boys Town North Florida. "So it was really exciting to me when Lt. Amber Meo approached me about partnering to help meet the spiritual needs of our children in a safe and fun environment through our resource center at ART Town." </p><p>All summer they've provided opportunities for kids to explore their faith through weekly devotions and bible study. The summer enrichment opportunities culminated in a week-long Vacation Bible School (VBS). </p><p>The overall theme of the VBS was "Shipwrecked" with a mission to anchor kids in the truth that Jesus carries them through life's storms. This point was reinforced by crafts, snacks, bible stories and games that are all centered on the fact that Jesus carries us through life's hardships. </p><p>"I was excited to come out and work with the Boys Town youth this summer and give back to these wonderful kids. I realized after working with them how much I received in return from getting to interact with such amazing young people," said Alison Hamilton, Youth Outreach Coordinator, Salvation Army of Tallahassee. </p><p>This summer program was a wonderful way for kids to do something productive and worthwhile during their break from school routine. It was also great preparation for the challenges that a new school year can bring.</p> | 2019-03-19T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Salvation Army - Boys Town North Florida" height="511" src="/locations/north-florida/news-and-events/PublishingImages/MainPhoto.jpg" width="380" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | North Florida;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Local High School sees Decrease in Office Referrals following Boys Town Training
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Local High School sees Decrease in Office Referrals following Boys Town Training
| <p>For over three decades Boys Town experts have been collaborating with educators, youth care workers and schools across the country to create safe and effective learning environments. </p><p>These individuals make up the Boys Town National Training Department, whose primary responsibility is to disseminate the Boys Town Education Model<sup>® </sup>to schools and agencies through educational resources and professional development offerings. This evidence-based and results-orientated model is made of three components: </p><ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li>A behavior management approach that is proactive rather than reactive.</li><li>A complete social skills curriculum that empowers students to make better decisions.</li><li>A consistent referral process that values teaching over punishing. </li></ul><p>In recent times the Boys Town Education Model, which originated in 1979, has extended its influence into the local educational arena. This past year, outstanding success has been observed at Omaha South High School. In the summer of 2018, two workshops were conducted, the first an Administrative Intervention workshop for 18 of the school's administrative faculty, the second, a Safe & Healthy Secondary Schools workshop for 178 educators school-wide.</p><p>Following training, and a full semester of implementation, data showed that Omaha South experienced a significant decline in office referrals. Prior to training, Omaha South documented 2,329 referrals. In the fall semester of the following school year, referrals had decreased by 571. A dramatic decline over a 12-month period. </p><p>When asked about the impact of this decline and its relationship to community development National Training Director, Susan Lamke stated, "I believe the service we provide is important to our community because it gives educators, youth care professionals, and parents practical strategies for supporting students in their social and emotional development. This in turn, increases their chance of success in school, at home, and in their future careers". </p><p>In addition to professional development for educators, Boys Town provides other services for children and families in the South Omaha community. When students are struggling academically or suspended from school, they can continue their educational routine in a Positive Intervention Classroom at <a href="/south-omaha/pages/default.aspx"><span style="text-decoration:underline;">Boys Town's South Omaha</span></a> office. This program aligns with Boys Town's Positive Alternative to Suspension model, which helps students acquire and practice social skills while remaining on track to complete academic requirements. </p><p>For more information on Boys Town National Training visit: <a href="http://www.boystowntraining.org/"><span style="text-decoration:underline;">http://www.boystowntraining.org/</span></a></p> | 2019-03-18T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Meet Our Trainers" src="/locations/nebraska/news-and-events/PublishingImages/meet-our-trainers.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Nebraska;# | | | |
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town cooking up new energy with remodeled kitchen
| Boys Town: Saving Children, Healing Families, Parenting Tips |
Boys Town cooking up new energy with remodeled kitchen
| <p><em>This article is written by Danielle Davis. </em><a href="https://www.ksnblocal4.com/content/news/Boys-Town-cooking-up-new-energy-with-remodeled-kitchen-506914041.html"><em>It was posted on ksnblocal4.com on March 8, 2019.</em></a><em> </em></p><p>GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) - Boys Town in Grand Island has been serving the community for almost 30 years. They've also been working with a kitchen that is as old as the home, Friday they cut a ribbon on a new kitchen.</p><p>Experts recommend that families spend dinner time together to strengthen their bond. When you are living in a temporary home environment that sense of normalcy can become even more important.</p><p>The Boys Town newly upgraded kitchen is giving the home a new energy.</p><p>"These are kids who have been labeled bad kids, and they are not. There is no such things as a bad boy, only things like bad training, bad examples and bad thinking. They just need new skills and we are here teaching them those skills and it is really encouraging to see kids thrive as we reinforce those skills," said Megan Andrews, Boys Town Senior Director.</p><p>Tours of the house were given by the kids. </p><p>"Everything at the shelter is aimed at giving the kids a real family and give them a strong family feeling," said Founder and Volunteer, Dori Bush.</p><p>The kitchen was completely gutted and rebuilt to reflect modern times. The entire project cost about $150,000 and was done completely with community donations.</p><p>"I am really glad the community has stepped up and helps out because this is an important facility for not only Grand Island but the entire state," said Senator Dan Quick, (R) Nebraska</p><p>Although the home is temporary for kids, while they are there they have improvement programs and structure. </p><p>"A lot of our kids come from fractured homes where it is not normal to eat, cook or pray together. We try to give them that normalcy as much as we can. We really believe that every kid deserves to know what it is like to be part of a family. Our kitchen is a big piece of accomplishing that," continued Andrews.</p><p>While the kitchen was being rebuilt, businesses, organizations and individuals brought them food every day. The house can hold 18 kids at a time. </p><p>They are currently in need of:</p><p>1) Parent Child Interaction Therapy Equipment</p><p>2) Video Equipment for Doctoral Student Training</p><p>3) iPad (2)</p><p>4) Window coverings</p><p>5) Loveseats (4)</p><p>6) Chairs (4) </p><p>7) End tables (4)<br></p> | 2019-03-15T05:00:00Z | News | <img alt="Boys Town Central NE" src="/blog/PublishingImages/Banners/btsign.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" />
<img alt="Boys Town Central NE" height="329" src="/blog/PublishingImages/Banners/btsign.jpg" width="555" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | Central Nebraska;# | | | |
