Upcoming Events Embracing Culture Autism Spectrum Easter Egg Hunts Foster Care Month Word Search Puzzle - Family Impact Network
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WHAT S NEW IN
VOL. 8 APRIL/MAY 2019
"FIN"LAND
'
In this issue: WILL SPRING EVER GET
HERE?
Upcoming Events
I LOVE Spring!! All the new growth: green grass and hills,
Embracing Culture flowers blooming in an array of bright colors. The days start
Autism Spectrum to get longer and warmer. It just makes me feel like a kid
again. In this edition, we will have an article about the
Easter Egg Hunts Autism Spectrum as well as an article regarding Foster
Care Month and some upcoming events. I hope you find the
Foster Care Month newsletter worth reading.
Word Search I hope you all have the best Spring ever!
Puzzle
Leona
Upcoming Events
April 2019 APRIL is:
*PCV/MANDATORY REPORTING CAR SEAT National Poetry Month,
TRAINING Guitar Month, Humor Month,
APRIL 10, 2019 Autism Awareness Month,
8:30 TO 4:00 PM Cancer Control and Occupational Therapy Month
1020 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. Animal Cruelty Prevention Month,
Books to Brighten Young Minds Months,
FIN ROOM 7
Community Spirit Month,
LUNCH INCLUDED Confederate History Month,
PLEASE REMEMBER TO RSVP Couple Appreciation Month,
LEONA # 509-309-3450 OR International Customer Loyalty Month,
LEONA@FAMILYIMPACTNETWORK.ORG International Legacy Month,
Keep America Beautiful Month,
*PCV/MANDATORY REPORTING CAR SEAT Lawn and Garden Month,
TRAINING - MOSES LAKE Mathematics Education Month,
APRIL 17, 2019 National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Month,
8:30 TO 4:00 PM National Pet First Aid Awareness Month,
National Poetry Month,
831 COLONIAL AVE. MOSES LAKE National Self-Publishing Month,
LUNCH INCLUDED National Smile Month,
PLEASE REMEMBER TO RSVP National Youth Sports Safety Month,
LEONA # 509-309-3450 OR Pets Are Wonderful Month,
LEONA@FAMILYIMPACTNETWORK.ORG School Library Month,
Spring Break Month,
*SUBSTANCE ABUSE DISORDERS - FREE Straw Hat Month,
APRIL 25, 2019 - THURSDAY World Habitat Awareness Month
1:30 TO 3:00 PM
1 April Fool's Day
EHF EVENT CENTER
1 International Tatting Day
1020 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. 5 National Walk to Work Day 1st Friday
SPOKANE, WA 14 Palm Sunday
LEONA # 509-309-3450 OR 15 Income taxes due
LEONA@FAMILYIMPACTNETWORK.ORG 15 Patriot's Day Third Monday
19 Good Friday
*PCV PROVIDER MEETING 19 Passover begins at sundown, lasts 8 days.
APRIL 24TH @ 1:30-3:00 PM 21 Easter Sunday
EHF EVENT CENTER 22 Earth Day (U.S.)
1020 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. 25 Administrative Professionals Day (formerly
"Secretaries Day" - date varies)
25 Take Your Daughter to Work Day (4th
Thursday of the Month)
26 Arbor Day (always the last Friday in April)
Community Events - April 2019
*GED & High School Completion Classes *First Monday Network for Spokane
Mon., April 1, 4-8 p.m. Entrepreneurs $10.00
Deer Park Library208 Forest St., Mirabeau Park Hotel1100 N. Sullivan Rd.,
Students receive instruction in math, science, Spokane Valley
social studies, writing, and more. Classes are A networking event held the first Monday of the
tailored to the individual, allowing students to month (5:30-7:15 pm), hosting sponsors and
complete studies at their own pace. For more speakers who can help business owners and
information and to enroll, call 509-533-4600. entrepreneurs in taking their business to the next
Spring Quarter is April 1-Jun 14. 533-4600 level. 208-640-1331
*ALSO:GED & High School Completion Classes
Cheney Library 610 First St., Cheney *LifeRing Secular Recovery Meetings
Call same number as above The Delaney Apartments TV Room
242 W. Riverside Ave.
*Showing Up for Racial Justice The secular nonprofit provides peer-run addiction
Community Building recovery groups offering support and assistance
35 W. Main Ave., Spokane to people seeking to recover from alcohol and
Join PJALS and members of the community to drug addiction, and also assists partners, family
continue our work fighting white supremacy, members and friends of addicts or alcoholics. It is
supporting racial justice organizing led by an abstinence-based recovery program with
people of color, and deepening our three fundamental principles: sobriety, secularity
understanding of race locally. and self empowerment.
Meets second and fourth Thursday of the Meets Mondays from 7-8 pm 707-304-1947
month,5:30-7 pm. 232-1950
*Unaccompanied Refugee Minors Information
*Second Harvest Food Sorting Night
Lutheran Community Services
Second Harvest Food Bank
210 W. Sprague, Spokane
1234 E. Front Ave., Spokane
An information night for anyone interested in
Join other volunteers to sort and pack produce
becoming a foster family for refugee youth.
and other bulk food items for delivery to local
LCSNW is looking for families who want to
emergency food outlets. Ages 14+.
provide a loving and caring environment for these
Shift dates and times vary, sign up online.
refugee youth coming to the U.S. Second Tuesday
252-6267
of the month, from 5:30-7:30 pm.
381-4945
Community Events Continued - April 2019
*Community Cooking Classes *Introducing Alternatives to Suicide: A New
FREE Approach to Crisis
Second Harvest Food Bank Wed., April 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
1234 E. Front Ave., Spokane Downtown Spokane Library 906 W. Main Ave.,
The Kitchen at Second Harvest provides nutrition This event is open to the general public
information, scratch cooking skills, budgeting, interested in the latest research and prevention
and more. Free hands-on cooking classes in the of suicide. Individuals who identify as suicide
kitchen teach low-income families how to attempt survivors and/or people who've struggled
prepare nutritious meals while making optimal with thoughts of suicide are encouraged to
use of their limited resources. See website for
attend. 324-2025
dates and times; typically meets Tue and Wed
from 5:30-7 pm.
*5th International Conference on Hate Studies
252-6249
Gonzaga University Hemmingson Center
702 E. Desmet Ave., Spokane - East Community
*Protection Order & Safety Planning Clinic This year's theme is "Building Peace through
Lutheran Community Services
Kindness, Dialogue, and Forgiveness." Events
210 W. Sprague, Spokane
include live performances, presentations,
A confidential clinic for those who have or are
documentary screenings and more. April 2-4; see
experiencing non-intimate partner domestic
complete schedule online. 313-3665
violence, harassment, assault, sexual assault,
stalking, biased/hate crime or vulnerable adult
abuse and who feel they may need formal, legal *Mommy and Me Lapsit
protection from the abuse or harassment, or Deaconess Hospital 500 W. Fifth Ave., Spokane
want help with a safety plan. Tuesdays at 11 am. Track your little one’s growth with weight checks
343-5060 at this twice-monthly meetup with other new
moms. Monthly on the first and third Wednesday,
*Hearts of Gold: Cardiac Patient Support Group from 1-2:30 pm. 473-BABY
St. Luke's Rehabilitation Institute
711 S. Cowley St., Spokane
If you are a cardiac patient or a family member
looking for emotional support, ideas and
information from others who understand what
you're going through, this is the group for you.
Meets at second floor of St. Luke's on the second
Tuesday of each month, from 5:30-7 pm.
509-622-2912
Community Events Continued - April 2019
*Spokane Community Observance of the *Diverse Voices Writing Group
Holocaust: Student Art Exhibit Spark Central
Gonzaga University School of Law 1214 W. Summit Pkwy., Spokane
721 N. Cincinnati St., Spokane A writing group for all experience levels that
The Spokane Community Observance of the supports and elevates diverse voices. This program
Holocaust committee is displaying art submitted is free thanks to community support. Join us for
by middle school and high school students Diverse Voices on the first Thursday of each month
competing in our annual contest. This year's at 5:30 pm. 509-279-0299
theme is "Speaking Up for the Other."
April 2-15, Mon-Fri from 8 am-6 pm. 747-3304 *Family Dance and Potluck
St. John's Cathedral
*Drop In & Science 127 E. 12th Ave., Spokane
Spark Central Learn easy circle, line, folk dances and contras at
1214 W. Summit Pkwy., Spokane this monthly event. No experience or partner
Spark's resident mad scientist shares needed. All dances taught by Susan Dankovich, with
experiments from the gross to the glorious, live music by Whirl'd Peas. First Friday of the month
inspiring a sense of wonder. All ages are from 6:30-8 pm. 533-995
welcome, but children under 6 years old should
be accompanied by an adult willing to *10th Annual Community Multi-Cultural Faire
participate with them. Third Saturday of the Sat., April 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
month from 3-4:45 pm 279-0299 Lakes Middle School, 930 N. 15th St., Coeur d'Alene
Festival, Music Events & Concerts, Food & Drink
*Fort Party FREE This event celebrates cultures from around our
Sat., April 13, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. community through authentic ethnic food, music,
Spark Central1214 W. Summit Pkwy., Spokane artifacts and crafts. Food and drinks are available
Team up with friends to build the fort of your for purchase. 208-659-0192
dreams, then play inside the structure you've
built. Learn to plan, collaborate and engineer in *Prevent Fraud & Identity Theft
a fun, whimsical way. Sign up online. Wed., April 10, 6-7 p.m.
Grades K-3. Argonne Library
509-279-0299 4322 N. Argonne Rd, Millwood Spokane Valley
Be proactive. Learn how to protect your hard-
*Free State Park Days earned money from predators and scams.
Sat., April 20, Mon., April 22 and Sat., June 1 Registration required at stcu.org/workshops.509-
Summer Guide 893-8260
All Washington State Parks are open for day
use without needing to show a Discover Pass;
includes access locally to Riverside, Mt.
Spokane and Palouse Falls state parks.
Community Events continued - April 2019
*Into the Arctic *Round Dance at North Idaho College
Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture Sat., April 13, 1-5 p.m.
2316 W. First Ave., Spokane 1000 W. Garden Ave., Coeur d’Alene
Visual Arts, Community, Museums North Idaho College's American Indian Student
This exhibit by Cory Trépanier presents the most Alliance present a round dance to celebrate
ambitious body of artwork ever created from the American Indian Heritage Week with native
Canadian Arctic, a wilderness so remote and dance exhibitions, drum groups, hand drum
untouched that many of its landscapes have singers and native craft making. 208-769-3300
never been documented before. Adding to his
majestic paintings are a series of three Arctic *Walk MS: Spokane 2019
films, which cinematically convey the wonder, Sun., April 14, 8:30 a.m.
awe, and challenges of his northern painting Spokane Falls Community College
expeditions. Feb. 16-May 12; Tue-Sun 10 am-5 3410 W. Fort George Wright Dr.,
pm. 509-456-3931 Join Team Global Credit Union to help fund
efforts to cure MS. Purchase a shoe at all
*The Inuit Art of Povungnituk participating Global branches or donate to our
Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture team page online:
2316 W. First Ave., Spokane http://ow.ly/mFYy30o2Tp4 509-533-3500
Visual Arts, Community, Museums
Working in a much colder climate than ours, in *NIC Diversity Symposium
fact considered part of the Arctic, Inuit artists in Tue., April 16, 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Povungnituk, Quebec, have been applauded for North Idaho College
their printmaking and sculptures. These art 1000 W. Garden Ave., Coeur d’Alene
pieces encapsulate the history and legends of the The 4th annual event includes discussion,
native people and animals against crisp, icy presentations and displays connected to the
backgrounds. Many of the pieces in this college’s diversity theme (Cultural Identity for
collection now on display at the MAC showcase 2018-20) and the common read (currently
the rituals that have allowed the Inuit people to Sebastian Junger’s Tribe). Presenters speak
survive in this unfriendly landscape throughout
about the ways in which our various identities
history. The village of Povungnituk was first
(gender, sexuality, ability, race, ethnicity, etc.)
established as a trading post by the Hudson’s Bay
affect our experiences in the world.
Company in 1921; its name is often shortened to
208-769-3300
simply “POV.”
Feb. 16-May 12, Tue-Sun from 10 am-5 pm
$5-$10 admission • northwestmuseum.org •
509-456-3931
Community Events continued - April 2019
*Chinese Culture Classes *Babies, Books & Bounces
Coeur d'Alene Public Library Sat., April 13, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
702 E. Front Ave., Coeur d'Alene Argonne Library
A course based on the culture and story of 4322 N. Argonne Rd, Millwood
Chinese festivals, including some traditional Brain development, social development and early
history, and how the festivals are celebrated now. literacy grow most rapidly in a child's first five
Students also do some Chinese-style practice in years. Explore nursery rhymes, stories and songs
class including calligraphy, Chinese paper cutting designed to introduce baby to the rhythm and
and painting. Second Thursday of the month, beauty of language, along with activities to build
from 7-8 pm, through April 11. baby’s physical and cognitive skills. This program is
208-769-2315 x 426 designed specifically for individuals working with
infants and young toddlers (ages 0–18 months). 2
*Family Painting Party STARS credits. Registration required. 893-8260
Thu., April 11, 4-5 p.m.
Otis Orchards Library *Homebuyer Education Seminar
2324 E. Wellesley Ave., Spokane Sat., April 13, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Kids and their adults explore colors and shapes North Spokane Library
while working on their language and literacy 44 E. Hawthorne Rd., Spokane
skills in this guided side-by-side art experience. In this free seminar, explore the major aspects of
Registration is required. Ages 4-8 with an the home-buying process in an unbiased format
adult. 509-893-8390 with SNAP Spokane instructors certified by the
Washington State Housing Finance Commission. To
*Sunday FunDay at Riverfront register, call 319-3040. 509-319-3040
Riverfront Park
507 N. Howard St., Spokane *Women's Suffrage: The Unfinished Fight
Play a sidewalk game, board games or get Tue., April 23, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
creative with crafts from Tomato Street Spokane Falls Community College
Downtown in the Looff Carrousel. 3410 W. Fort George Wright Dr.,
Sundays from 1-3 pm through May 26. 509-625- Learn about the women's suffrage movement
6600 during a presentation on what we can learn from
the battle for the vote and how women continue
*Earth Day Open House the long journey toward full equity. Sponsored by
Sat., April 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. SFCC Associated Student Government. 533-4331
West Valley Outdoor Learning Center
8706 E. Upriver Drive, Spokane Valley *Stand Against Racism FREE
Visit the OLC to celebrate Earth Day with
Fri., April 26, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
activities on conservation, composting and caring
Philanthropy Center,1020 W. Riverside Ave.,
for our planet. Enjoy crafts, outdoor activities and
Each year, the YWCA Racial & Social Justice
meeting resident animals. 509-340-1028
Committee organizes this event, joining a
national movement with 250,000+ people across
the U.S. The local event engages, in open and
honest dialogue, confrontation of stereotypes
and bias as a community
EASTER EGG HUNTS - April 2019
*Greenbluff Egg Hunt - Check-in and purchase tickets at
the store and take a wagon ride down to the peach
orchard to find eggs. Pet animals at Story’s Barnyard,
play mini golf and enjoy root beer floats and other treats
at the store. Saturday, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Greenbluff High
Country Orchard, 8518 E. Greenbluff Road. $8/child;
$3/parent. (509) 238-9545.
Hillyard Kiwanis Easter Egg Hunt - Featuring pictures
with the Easter Bunny. Saturday, 10-11 a.m. Harmon-
Shipley Park, 6018 N. Regal St. Free.
LWHD Easter Egg Hunt - Games, prizes and egg hunt
(begins at noon). Meet “Motomice” author Paul Owen
Lewis and get an autographed copy. Saturday, 11
a.m.-2 p.m. Lone Wolf Harley-Davidson, 19011 E. Sheridan Easter Egg Hunt - Egg hunt with 5,000 eggs,
Cataldo Ave., Spokane Valley. Free. (509) 927-7433. inflatables, face painting and barbecue. Hosted by Glad
Tidings Assembly of God. Saturday, 12:30-2 p.m.
Redeemer Lutheran Easter Egg Hunt - 15,000 eggs, Sheridan Elementary, 3737 E. Fifth Ave. Free. (509) 354-
candy, prizes, petting zoo, jumping castle and hot dog 4100.
lunch. For children in fifth grade or younger. Bring a
basket and arrive early. Saturday, 11 a.m. Redeemer Q’emiln Park Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza - Includes
Lutheran Church, 3606 S. Schafer Road, Spokane four age divisions: todders, 3-4 years, 5-7 years and 8-11
Valley. Free. (509) 926-6363. years. Bring a basket or bag for collecting eggs. Saturday,
1 p.m. Q’emiln Park, 12201 W. Parkway Drive, Post Falls.
Spokane Community College Easter Egg Hunt - Hunt on Free. (208) 773-0539.
the Central Lawn. Divided by age groups: 0-3 years at
11 a.m., 4-6 years at 11:15 a.m., 7-9 years at 11:30 *Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt - All ages of kids in the
a.m., 10-11 years at 11:45 a.m. Enjoy pictures with the community are welcome to come hunt Easter Eggs in the
Easter Bunny, popcorn, cotton candy, bounce house, dark. Bring a basket and flashlight. Saturday, 8 p.m.
obstacle course and human race balls. Free parking. Community United Methodist Church, 1470 W. Hanley
Saturday. Spokane Community College, 1810 N. Ave., Coeur d’Alene. Free. (208) 765-8800
Greene St. Free. (509) 533-7000.
Community Easter Egg Hunt - A family-friendly event with
areas for kids ranging in age from birth to fifth-grade,
including a special needs area. Co-sponsored by Real Life
Ministries-Coeur d’Alene and Heart of the City. Saturday,
10 a.m. McEuen Park, 420 E. Front St., Coeur d’Alene.
Free. (208) 664-4238.
EASTER EGG HUNTS Continued - April 2019
South Perry Egg Hunt - Games, crafts, face painting,
free balloons and free pictures with the Easter Bunny.
The Grant Elementary Drummers and Dancers will be
performing at 10 a.m. The first egg hunt begins at
10:45 a.m. followed by a second egg hunt at 11:15 a.m.
There are also separate ongoing egg hunt areas for
younger children (ages 0-2 and 2-5 years old). For
more information, go to
facebook.com/southperryeasteregghunt.
Sunday. Grant Park, 1015 S. Arthur St. Free.
(509) 625-6200.
Easter Program: “He Got Up, So That I Can Get Up
Again” - Easter Egg Hunt to follow the Easter Program
that is held at 10 a.m. Hosted by JITA City Church.
Sunday, Gonzaga University, Hemmingson Center, 702
Episcopal Church Easter Egg Hunt - Following the
E. Desmet Ave. Free. (509) 389-
festive main service on Sunday, 10 a.m., all are
welcome at the Easter Brunch and children’s Egg
6205.Gonzaga Easter Egg Decorating and Hunt - Egg
Hunt. Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, 15319
decorating, hunt and egg race. Sunday, Noon-2 p.m.
E. Eighth Ave., Spokane Valley. Free. (509) 926-
Gonzaga University, English Language Center, 1117 N.
6450.
Dakota St. Free. (509) 328-4220.
Veradale Easter Egg Hunt - Easter Egg Hunt follows
Spokane Club Easter Egg Hunt - Enjoy crafts, an egg
the main service held on Sunday, 10:30 a.m.
hunt and a petting zoo with rescued animals from
Veradale United Church of Christ, 611 N. Progress
Sedond Chance Ranch. Animal food provided. Reserve
Road, Spokane Valley. Free. (509) 926-7173.
by calling (509) 459-4239 or visiting Spokaneclub.org.
Saturday, 1-3 p.m. Spokane Club - Valley, 5900 E.
Covenant United Easter Egg Hunt - Children’s Egg
Fourth Ave., Spokane Valley. $15/child; $5/adult.
Hunt will follow the 11 a.m. service on Sunday.
Covenant United Methodist Church, 15515 N.
Gleneden Drive. Free, donations welcome. (509)
466-1768.
Audubon Park United Methodist Easter Egg Hunt -
Easter Egg Hunt begins at 10 a.m. Sunday. Audubon
Park United Methodist Church, 3908 N. Driscoll Blvd.
Free. (509) 325-4541.
Upcoming Events
May 2019 MAY is:
Date Your Mate Month
*PCV/MANDATORY REPORTING CAR SEAT Foster Care Month
TRAINING Lupus Awareness Month
MAY 8, 2019 - WEDNESDAY National Barbecue Month
8:30 TO 4:00 PM National Bike Month
1020 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. National Blood Pressure Month
FIN ROOM 7 National Hamburger Month
National Photograph Month
LUNCH INCLUDED National Recommitment Month
PLEASE REMEMBER TO RSVP National Salad Month
LEONA # 509-309-3450 OR Older Americans Month
LEONA@FAMILYIMPACTNETWORK.ORG Nurse's Week - first full week of month
Wildflower Week - week two
*IN HOME PROVIDER MEETING National Bike Week - third week
TBD National Police Week - third week of month
1:00 TO 3:00 PM Emergency Medical Services Week - fourth
EHF EVENT CENTER week of month
1 May Day
*ACES - FREE 1 Save the Rhino Day
MAY 24, 2019 - THURSDAY 2 Brothers and Sisters Day
1:30 TO 3:00 PM 3 Space Day - first Friday in May
EHF EVENT CENTER 4 Kentucky Derby Day (first Saturday in May)
1020 W. RIVERSIDE AVE. 4 Star Wars Day
SPOKANE, WA 5 Cinco de Mayo
LEONA # 509-309-3450 OR 6 National Nurses Day
LEONA@FAMILYIMPACTNETWORK.ORG 7 National Teacher's Day (Tuesday of first full
week)
8 V-E Day
8 World Red Cross Day / World Red Crescent Day
10 Military Spouses Day (the Friday before
Mother's Day)
12 International Nurses Day
12 Mother's Day second Sunday in May
14 Dance Like a Chicken Day
15 Police Officer's Memorial Day
17 National Bike to Work Day - third Friday of
month
18 Armed Forces Day (third Saturday of month)
25 National Missing Children's Day
25 National Wine Day
27 Memorial Day (last Monday of month)
28 Amnesty International DayEvents Continued - May 2019
*Magical Mondays *Imaginarium: Creative Play for Toddlers
Riverfront Park Spark Central 1214 W. Summit Pkwy.,
507 N. Howard St., Spokane Community, Crafts
Cecil's Magic has been thrilling audiences in the Discover new ways to play together and spark your
Northwest for over 25 years with his unique young one's healthy mental, social and emotional
style of magic. Come see him every Monday, growth. Meet other families, eat a healthy snack,
March-May, from 3:30-4:30 pm. and get creative in a relaxed and supportive
At the Looff Carrousel. 625-6600 environment. No registration required.
Third Tuesday of the month, from 10-11 am.
*Unaccompanied Refugee Minors 279-0299
Information Night
Lutheran Community Services 210 W. Sprague, *Pokemon Trainer's Academy
An information night for anyone interested in The Comic Book Shop
becoming a foster family for refugee youth. 11510 E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley
LCSNW is looking for families who want to Learn how to play the Pokémon card game; get your
provide a loving and caring environment for own deck and some special foil promo cards and
these refugee youth coming to the U.S. then learn how to play the game step-by-step.
Second Tuesday of the month, 5:30-7:30 pm. Suggested for ages 8+. Saturdays from noon-1
381-494 pm. 703-7600
*Real Cooking with Real Food *First Friday, Spokane
Main Market Co-Op44 W. Main Ave., Art galleries and businesses across downtown
Join Main Market and Recipe for Self for a Spokane and beyond host monthly receptions to
series of cooking and nutrition classes designed showcase new displays of art. Receptions held the
to take the mystery out of whole foods cooking first Friday of the month, from 5-8 pm. Additional
and teach the skills you need to obtain optimal details at firstfridayspokane.org
health in the kitchen and the market. Upcoming
classes: March 26, April 9 and 23, May 7 and
21, from 6-7 pm. 509-458-2667
*Creative Studio for Variously-Abled Adults
Spark Central1214 W. Summit Pkwy.,
People of all abilities are invited to gather for
social interaction and the chance to explore
creative interests on the second Wednesday of
each month, from 10-11 am. 279-029Events Continued - May 2019
*Protect Your Credit Score *Friends of the Moran Prairie Library Book Sale
Thu., May 2, 6-7 p.m. Sat., May 4, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
North Spokane Library Moran Prairie Library
44 E. Hawthorne Rd., Spokane 6004 S. Regal St., Spokane
Learn how a credit score is determined, how to Proceeds from book sales support library
earn and maintain a healthy credit score, and programs, activities, and services. For additional
where to go for help. Registration required at book sale dates and locations, visit
stcu.org/workshops. 893-8350 scldfriends.org. 893-8340
*Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure *Chamorro People: The Untold Story of Guam
First Interstate Center for the Arts Colonization
334 W. Spokane Falls Blvd., Spokane Wed., May 8, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
It’s Pirate Day in Adventure Bay and Ryder Spokane Falls Community College
needs all paws on deck as he and the PAW 3410 W. Fort George Wright Dr., Spokane
Patrol discover a secret treasure map while on a What is the untold story of colonization? How has it
mission to rescue Cap’n Turbot from a affected the history and narrative of generations?
mysterious cavern. May 14-15. 509-279-7000 Join for a presentation on the historical wrongs and
ways those victimized are still fighting to correct the
*Powerful Tools for Caregivers past for future generations. 533-3546
Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Continues through May 6 *A Walk Through Poverty
This program helps family caregivers reduce North Spokane Library
stress, improve self-confidence, communicate 44 E. Hawthorne Rd., Spokane
feelings better, balance their lives, increase their A 30-minute documentary and accompanying art
ability to make tough decisions and locate helpful exhibit by artist Cameron Day exploring the plight
resources. At Frontier Behavioral Health, 5125 N. and complexity of poverty in the Inland Northwest.
Market. Call to register. Meets Mon from 10:30 Art exhibit: May 10-24 (open daily), film screening
am-noon; April 8-May 6. 458-7450 on May 23 at 7 pm. 893-8350
*Hiking Steamboat Rock
Sat., May 4, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Mountain Gear
2002 N. Division, Spokane
Sports & Outdoors
A 4-mile round trip hike with about a 1/2 mile of
steep rigorous trail to the top of the butte that
explores nearly 640 acres on top of Steamboat
Rock. Transportation included. Pre-trip info
emailed after registration. Ages 16+. 755-2489Events continued - May 2019
*North Idaho Veterans Stand Down *Homebuying 101
Sat., May 11, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Tue., May 14, 6-7 p.m.
North Idaho College Argonne Library
1000 W. Garden Ave., Coeur d’Alene 4322 N. Argonne Rd, Millwood Spokane Valley
An event for veterans and their families to Community
engage with veteran community resources, Discover the factors to consider when you’re
including healthcare and benefits deciding whether to buy a home or continue to
representatives, organizations providing medical, rent: what it means to be a homeowner, how to
dental, counseling; assistance with wills, housing, find the right home, and what happens after your
clothing, clothing repair, food assistance, offer is accepted, before closing. Registration
haircuts, and bike repair. Employers with job required at stcu.org/workshops. 509-893-8260
openings also accept applications and interview
candidates. Lunch and breakfast served to *Pullman ArtFest
everyone. Military/VA ID or DD214 required to This annual festival shines a spotlight on art,
attend. 208-664-3095 culture and cuisines of the Palouse, bringing
together people of all ages and backgrounds to
*Friends of the Cheney Library Book Sale celebrate our shared community. May 16-18; see
Sat., May 11, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. link for detailed event schedule. 338-3269
Cheney Library
10 First St., Cheney *YMCA's Pedal for a Purpose
Proceeds from book sales support library Sat., May 18, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
programs, activities, and services. For additional Spokane Community College
sale dates and locations, visit 1810 N. Greene St., Spokane
scldfriends.org. 893-8280 A fundraiser for the YMCA Spokane in which 10
riders or walkers create a team, pick a time and
*Spokane Garden Expo secure a spot. Each team gets an hour time slot.
Sat., May 11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Register at any Y branch or online at
Spokane Community College ymcainw.org/pedal. 720-5629
1810 N. Greene St., Spokane
The annual event hosts more than 250 garden-
related vendors, with free parking, door prizes,
seminars, demos, kids activities, a flower show,
live music and food trucks. Vendors include plant
nurseries, garden stores, suppliers and
manufacturers and more, offering unusual
perennials, heirloom vegetables, tomato plants,
bulbs, hosta, succulents, annuals, trees, garden
artists and crafters, organizations. 535-8434April is Autism Awareness Month! Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 59 children in the United States today. We know that there is not one autism but many subtypes, most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges. The ways in which people with autism learn, think and problem-solve can range from highly skilled to severely challenged. Some people with ASD may require significant support in their daily lives, while others may need less support and, in some cases, live entirely independently. Several factors may influence the development of autism, and it is often accompanied by sensory sensitivities and medical issues such as gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures or sleep disorders, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and attention issues. Indicators of autism usually appear by age 2 or 3. Some associated development delays can appear even earlier, and often, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. Research shows that early intervention leads to positive outcomes later in life for people with autism. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association merged four distinct autism diagnoses into one umbrella diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They included autistic disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger syndrome. These are just a few of the key points to know about autism. A quick google search can help gain an even further understanding of ASD. Take the time to get informed!
MAY IS FOSTER CARE MONTH! Context Some people assume kids enter foster care because they have done something wrong. In reality, kids enter foster care because adults failed them - many are abused or neglected. These kids were the victim of someone. (Crystal Vail, Utah's Youth Services Program administrator, Deseret News, April 2, 2017). Who is willing to help these children heal, experience a stable family with a sense of belonging, and build a productive life? Who is willing to unlock their enormous potential and restore their trust? Of the 600,000 children being raised in the nation’s foster care system, about 75% have been separated from at least one sibling. For many, the trauma of being removed from their parents’ home is compounded by the separation from their siblings—a move often necessitated by the lack of foster homes. Children often depend on their siblings more than their parents to get through really tough times. They share a common knowledge about what happened to them. No matter how difficult their home life was, these children face separation issues. Today, the Courts take responsibility for parenting foster children, but foster kids face insurmountable obstacles inside a dysfunctional system that is supposed to be taking care of them. Although some kids do very well, others become hardened as they move through a dozen or more foster homes. Those kids have little chance to bond with parent figures. There are approximately 10,000 foster children in Washington, although nearly a third of those are placed with relatives rather than foster homes. Note that Foster parents receive money from the State to assist with the care of foster children and the children's medical and dental are covered by the State. For more information visit Fostering Washington at http://spokanecares.org/index.php?org_ref=848&search=Fostering Monthly state stipend given to foster families, per child, is $369-$1300, based on a child’s age and level of need. Foster parents are reimbursed by the state on a sliding scale. They also access medical coupons, clothing vouchers and other assistance for foster children. We simply need more good homes to place children in—homes which care about the children, not the increased income. Unfortunately, a number of children in Washington have been abused, neglected and died in foster care. A one-parent foster home is usually limited to 4 children; a two-parent home is allowed to care for six children at any one time (exceptions are infants and medically fragile children). Of the 350 Washington children who “age-out” of foster care each year, about 40% fail to finish high school, lose health care, housing, and nearly all other support. Within 2 years, a third of these youth will have children of their own. One in five will spend time in jail. The state has a plan to encourage foster children to continue their education, allowing them to remain in foster care and receive health benefits until age 21 if they go to college or receive vocational training. On May 25, 2004, Washington extended health coverage to foster children but only until age 19. This new plan also seeks to end the practice of shuffling foster children from home to home by more quickly establishing a permanent home—either with biological or foster families. For many foster children, turning 18 means facing adulthood, suddenly and harshly, on their own. Their real parents are unfit, and they have no permanent association with the unconditional support of family. They have no one to share their joys with, or to help them during times of trial. Many of these children are afraid. They have developed barriers for self-protection, and will end up unemployed, receiving government help to meet their needs, or homeless, or in prison. Foster children average 3 different placement changes. Foster children are twice as likely to repeat a grade, change schools mid- year, lose about 6 months of progress per change, and drop out of high school. Only about 3% of foster children go to college, and only 2% graduate from college. They need to learn things like self-discipline, stop wasting time watching TV, and focus on the future. 37% of foster youth drop out of high school, compared to 16% of the general population. Within 18 months of aging out of the system, up to 50% of foster youth become homeless. Each year, about 20,000 children “age out” of the foster care system without ever finding a permanent family. (Embrace Washington 2015) 60% of foster young men will be convicted of a crime, and 75% of these women will end up receiving government help to meet their needs. (The congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute) “I think the problem is that foster parents don’t make sense to most people. They don’t understand why we would take in other people’s children. I warn people: When you realize the need, it’s going to be hard to turn your back, even if it inconveniences your life.” -A Foster parent of 23 years
FOSTER CARE MONTH: Continued
In the month of January 2017 alone, Spokane County's Home Finders Unit searched for 136 placements for youth in foster care:
79% of them were coded as emergent (new and urgent placements), and 21% of them were declared to be planned placement
changes.
35% of the placements were initial placements for children as opposed to placement changes.
Of the placements, 39% were for girls & 61% were for boys.
52% of the children placed were part of a sibling group ranging in sizes of 2 children up to 5 children.
14% of children placed were under the age of 1.
52% of children placed were 7 years of age and older.
26% of children placed were ages 12 and up.
(Source: Home Finders Unit, Spokane Children's Administration, Dept. of Social and Health Services, February 2017)
Spokane County has 700-800 children in the foster care program at any one time. In Washington, more than 8,700 children are in
State care, and there are only 5,000 foster homes. Over 1/3 drop out of high school, and only 3% go to college. After reaching 18,
they have a high rate of crime and homelessness. In 2016, Washington had more than 8,700 children in State care, and there were
only 5,000 foster homes. (source: Embrace Washington)
The Spokane region places many new children in foster care each month—largely due to parents who have drug (mostly meth) and
alcohol problems, as well as physical abuse and neglect. Children may be placed for very short emergency stays, or may remain for
years. 70% of children in foster care have another sibling in foster care. Most of them are sent to live with separate families for a
variety of reasons. (2013) http://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/siblingissues/index.cfm
CASA sees about 51 children going into foster care a month, and has about 964 kids in care at any one time. The average age of
children in the program is around 5 or 6. (Pat Donahue, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program coordinator,
"Handcrafted Compassion," The Spokesman-Review, Jan. 14, 2017)
Many foster children are waiting for adoption. It is harder to find permanent homes for age 8 and older. (Robyn Nance,
Wednesday's Child, KXLY-TV reporter, Embrace Washington 2015 Benefit Breakfast) About 40-60% of foster children have at least
one mental health disorder. They also suffer PTSD at two times the rate of returning war vets. (Embrace Washington, 2015)
Real life Stories
Leigh Anne Tuohy, the woman who rescued a homeless African-American teenager and then adopted Michael Oher (inspiring the
movie "The Blind Side") stars in the TV series "Family Addition," which tries to encourage people to get involved and turn foster
homes into forever families. Leigh Anne said, "There are Michael Oher's in every city in this country, and all they need is someone
to love them. There are a lot of people with a lot of worth and a lot of value, and they just need an opportunity."
East Valley's football coach Adam Fisher and his wife Jolene invited Rodrick Jackson to live in their home in 2016. Rodrick had
bounced from home to home and lived on the streets, until he told Adam Fisher that he wanted to turn his life around, but he needed
help. The Fisher home included 2 middle school-aged daughters. Since moving in with the Fishers in March, Rodrick began to
prosper in the classroom and in life, and was considered a part of the family. When Rodrick turns 18 in December, he plans to
legally change his last name to Fisher. Adam Fisher said "We are literally living the 'Blind Side' movie."
Rodrick Jackson's story offers hope to other students who have contacted Rodrick and thanked him for inspiring them and having
the courage to share his story. A student from an area high school contacted Rodrick through Facebook and said, "My dad's in
prison and my mom is a drug dealer. You give me hope." He said he hopes others in tough situations can potentially better
themselves, if they have the courage to ask for help. ("Story of East Valley football player Rodrick Jackson gains national interest,"
by Greg Lee, The Spokesman-Review, NW Preps Now, October 26, 2016)FOSTER CARE MONTH: Continued A Successful Model for Foster Youth A 3-hour Foster Care Conference was held recently to assess San Diego County's foster care system. Testimonies of kids in foster care were inspiring, motivational, and transformed the local leadership of county supervisors and juvenile court judges. The dysfunction of foster care system was revealed; and the decision was unanimously made to create something new to give these kids a far brighter future. As a result of generous donors and supporters, the San Pasqual Academy was established where foster kids would live together in group homes with house parents. House parents work to create a home where the emphasis is on academics, work, work ethics, high school graduation, college preparation, employment, and the needs of the kids. Kids thrive when they feel like they have a home and people who care about them. Foster kids live together in this boarding school until they graduate from high school, where 95% graduate from high school, and 2/3 or more go on to college. They leave the academy with hopes, dreams, aspirations and skills to survive. For more information about San Pasqual Academy, San Diego, California, visit http://www.friendsofsanpasqualacademy.org; Friends of San Pasqual Academy (858) 759-3298; or Debby Syverson, San Pasqual Academy Development Liason at (619) 435- 4557. (Turning Point: San Pasqual Academy, BYU TV, January 3, 2015, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7rBUZUYfM) Not all people can do everything, but everyone can do something! Every child deserves to be deeply loved in a family. Help reverse the current situation, so that the number of people on waiting lists to adopt or foster children, is longer than that of kids who need temporary or permanent homes. There is an URGENT NEED for more foster parents. Parents can provide foster care in a variety of ways: Short-term care / Infants / Teens /Siblings / Foster to adopt, Be a respite provider for foster parents to care for children in the foster parent's absence or, Volunteer to drive foster children to therapeutic appointments. What You Can Do: -Child abuse awareness and prevention is the entire community's responsibility to protect the unprotected. Those in the community and positions of power (policymakers, government agencies, non-governmental agencies, faith-based groups) must not only discuss the need for child safety, but take action to make sure it happens. -Become a foster parent. There is an urgent need for more foster parents who can love and care for the 9,600 children in foster care every day in Washington—where we struggle to retain and recruit foster parents. Eligible individuals must receive training. In addition, background checks are run on everyone living in the household. If you are interested in becoming a Foster parent, contact Amber Sherman, Recruitment Coordinator Fostering Washington (509) 359-6130 Email: fosteringwa@ewu.edu http://www.fosteringwa.org Also: If you want to learn more about becoming an adoptive or foster parent, call 1-888-KIDS-414, Fostering Washington. -Become a temporary provider of emergency foster care. You may be needed to help other foster parents occasionally, or accept children placed by police during off-hours, such as nights and weekends. Become a specialized/structured foster care provider, caring for children who require increased care due to severe emotional, behavioral, or developmental problems.
FOSTER CARE MONTH: Continued -Become CASA/GAL Volunteers (Court Appointed Special Advocates/Guardian ad Litem). Volunteers investigate cases of child abuse and/or neglect and advocate, through the court system, to ensure a safe, permanent home for every child. CASA is the child's voice in court. For information about the CASA/GAL Volunteer program, contact: CASA/GAL 1208 W. Mallon St Spokane, WA 99201 http://www.casapartners.org My Bag (a program of CASA). Every foster child who comes into foster care gets a bag or backpack, depending on their age, filled with clothes, toys, school supplies, blankets, books, etc. All of these items are new. -Volunteer to be a mentor or advocate for a foster child by becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Call Fostering WA (on this page). -Invite Fostering WA staff to present to your service group, congregation, or business about becoming a foster parent. -Serve on community child welfare boards. Help knock down small barriers that would prevent a family from taking a child who is in crisis. -Become an advocate for children in the courts' legal system. Work to find a positive, permanent outcome for children entrusted to you. -Churches are part of the solution to the problems in society. Help them promote programs that are proven. Volunteer to tutor foster children. -Donate clothing to Spokane's Teen Closet for foster children. These clothes are given to foster children and their families for free. -Donate suitcases to the foster programs. The black garbage bag has become the official luggage of the foster-care system. -Become a mentor to inexperienced parents, giving teen moms and fathers encouragement and strong parenting skills. -Become a respite provider, and provide stressed foster parents with respite. You must be: 18 years or older, complete and pass a background check, have a valid Driver's License, complete CPR/First Aid (we have a class available to you), and complete a TB test. If you are interested, contact Fostering WA. http://spokanecares.org/index.php?org_ref=848&search=Fostering -Office Moms and Dads program, is available to most DSHS officers, where trained volunteers sit with children immediately following placement at DSHS, to offer comfort and support while social workers focus on finding the most appropriate place for those children to stay. Volunteer For: -Boxes of Love. Put together some Boxes of Love for children entering foster care. These boxes contain snacks, activities and hygiene items to help children in those immediate moments following removal from their homes. -Duffles for Darlings. Decorate new duffle bags for children to place their personal belongings in. -Sewing Miles of Smiles. Make stuffed animals to give to foster children. (For more information, see Embrace Washington)
FAMILY IMPACT NETWORK Directory Resource Specialists: Leona Flowers: 509-309-3450 Jenna Rockford: Lead: 509-309-3427 Mariah Holm: 509-919-3040 Jessica Martinez-Hopkins: 509-309-3438 Access Number (hotline): 509-309-3449 Shannon Selland, Program Manager: 509-309-3430 T Mike Fettig, Quality Development Manager: 509-309-3433 Alma Aguilar, Compliance Lead: 509-321-7503 Jaime Cervantes, Compliance Specialist: 509-309-3431 Jessie Hassler, Compliance Assistant: 509-309-3454 Jamie Chestnutt, Quality Development Specialist: 509-309-3451 Gabi Whitt, Billing Manager: 509-919-3057 Nicole Chambers, Billing Assistant: 509-919-3044 June Jackson, Billing Assistant: 509-590-2900 Sam Song, Concrete Goods Manager: 509-309-3452 Sheila Morley, Executive Director: 509-309-3432 Kelly Knutson, Executive Assistant: 509-309-3440 ADDRESS: 1020 W. RIVERSIDE SPOKANE, WA 99201
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