FSC Monthly Newsletter

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues, 

We are entering the last weekend of summer break, and I hope that summer has been a chance to reconnect with family and friends, revisit hobbies that the cold weather may have hampered, and for our students, a chance to have a well-deserved break from the demands of school.

However, I also know that summer, for some, has been a challenge -- and perhaps the return to school and structure presents a sense of relief.  We have staff who have lost loved ones and experienced other hardships over the summer, and students who too have had a summer that they might not be as eager to share about the first day of school.

During these first few weeks of school, please take some time to check-in with your children, with your colleagues, and your neighbors. 

Starting the year off on a positive note can sometimes be easier said than done. So, if those around you need a little extra support, patience, or simply just a bit more time to readjust, don't hesitate to be generous in meeting those needs.

FSC SUMMER WRAP-UP
Over the summer, the FSC still was operating, and continuing to provide supports and services to our students and families.  In addition to the individual mental health counseling supports that continued to be provided during the summer, some of the other highlights of the summer included:

• groups for elementary students focused on social-emotional skill building and art therapy, facilitated by our FSC School Social Worker, Penny Connors, and Sheridan Hill Art Teacher, Colleen Siskar
   
• The FSC supported former and current CHS students in presenting & sharing perspectives at the Igniting Equity in Education Conference at the UB Jacobs School of Medicine.  Maeve Cronin (class of 2024) presented on the pros and cons of high-achievement educational environments, and the impact they can have on student mental health. Maeve, along with Moon Schwartz (class of 2026), also served on a panel of local students discussing their perspectives on how to improve educational systems for all students.
   
• The FSC was recently named as recipients of the Fidelis Care Behavioral Health Grant , one of just ten other organizations across NYS out of a field of nearly 200 applicants.  This funding will allow us to better address some of the barriers many students and families face while seeking wellness-related and mental health services, including costs associated with counseling services and transportation.  In addition, it will provide funding to help support and expand our community wellness events, such as our Headlamp Hikes at the Clarence Nature Center.

HAUNTED HEADLAMP HIKE
Speaking of Headlamp Hikes, we will be hosting a "Haunted Headlamp Hike" at the Clarence Nature Center on Saturday, October 26th, from 530pm-730pm.

There will be trick or treating and educational stations on the trails, as well as other fun activities inside the Nature Center building.  Headlamps will be provided for those who do not have their own (thanks to the Town of Clarence Conservation Advisory Council and Clarence Community Foundation).

All ages are welcome, and costumes are absolutely encouraged (but not required)!
Mark your calendars, and be on the lookout for more information as we get closer to October.

UPCOMING CAREGIVER WORKSHOP @ FSC
If you are a parent or caregiver entering the school year looking to gain new skills in supporting your child's behavior at home, we will be offering the "Flip It" skill-building workshop, starting on October 21st.  This workshop offers a simple, kind, strength-based, commonsense, and effective four-step process to address children’s day-to-day challenging behaviors. 

October 21st, October 28th, November 4th
530pm-8pm @ Clarence Family Support Center
See flyer for more details, or contact us at fsc@clarenceschools.org 

"LIKE" - UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA
Earlier in the school year, Clarence Central School District purchased the film Like.

Like is a film-based program that explores the impact of social media on our lives. The film focuses on social media from the student perspective, the potential educational benefits of social media use, as well as how we can further understand the impact of technology and social media on the brain. The film also provides tools on how to navigate technology more safely. Like is meant for all ages including students, families, and staff .

The film itself is only about 50 minutes long and comes with other resources including chapter modules and guided activities. Feel free to watch this video on your own or share as a resource to others. Access to this film will expire on January 10, 2025.

You can watch the film on your own here: https://cct.impactful.co/like/watch.html?id=clarenceschools 

OTHER RESOURCES
In addition to this film, we have many other educational presentations on our website, including some on the following topics:
     - Suicide Prevention
     - Coping with Loss
     - Navigating Divorce
     - Trends in Substance Use

If you prefer learning through audio and podcasts, our "One Clarence" podcast has episodes on a variety of topics / conversations with local experts, school staff, and community organizations.  

COMMUNITY CALENDARS AND SOCIAL MEDIA
See below for community calendars / events and FSC social media:

• Clarence Public Library

• Clarence Youth Bureau
• Clarence Chamber of Commerce
• FSC Facebook Page, FSC Twitter / X, FSC's "One Clarence" Podcast

Please take care, and here's to the start of another great school year!
-Evan

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues, 

I would just like to start by thanking everyone for another great school year, and for all of the many people who have been willing to, in some form or another, find ways to help our office support folks in our community.

There have been some extremely generous and creative ways those in our community have tried to make a difference, often to support people in very difficult situations.

However, some of the most impactful ways I have seen people support each other in the past year have been through simple and genuine acts of empathy and kindness --- those actions that required no cost or planning, but changed the mood or outlook of another person in a positive way.

Our young people are trying to make sense of a world that they are experiencing both in real time, as well as in an often hyper-stimulating, abstract, and digital space. 
When the world around them begins to seem too complex, too confusing, or even too dangerous, the responsibility falls on the adults in their life to help them navigate safely, confidently, and with trust.  

This summer, please continue to create opportunities and spaces within your homes, neighborhoods, and community that remind our young people they are capable of great things and that there are people who are more than willing to help them if they need it.

FSC ANNUAL REPORT
To learn a bit more about how we have worked this past year to support Clarence, please feel free to review our Annual Report for the 2023-2024 year, which includes:
     - some of the ways we have directly supported students, families, and the community
     - ways the FSC has utilized community partnerships to support students, families, and the community
     - data related to our referrals for this year
     - goals for next year

We have been incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of amazing community members, community organizations, and mental health providers who have been willing to work collaboratively over the past year (and even longer) to support folks here in Clarence. 

With that said, we are always looking to expand our network to benefit the community, so never hesitate to reach out to us if you have an idea or way you think you could add to the growth of supports for our community.

COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
Over the past few months, we had sent out a community needs assessment to gather meaningful feedback on areas that our office can either directly support, support through partnerships, or help advocate on behalf of. 

We saw a 61% increase in the number of people who responded this year compared to last year's assessment, which was great to see.  

While it was not incredibly comprehensive or sophisticated, and had limits in its reach within the community, such an assessment is a small way to elevate the input, perspectives, and experiences of community members.  It also helps our office and our respective community partners have a clearer understanding of what could be put in place to better support our students, families, and community members. 

A summary of the results from the 2024 Community Needs Assessment can be found here.  

FAMILY PEER CONNECTIONS GROUP @ CLARENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY
If you are a caregiver of a K-12 aged child looking to connect with others in the same boat, consider attending the Family Peer Connections group at the Clarence Public Library hosted by New Directions Youth & Family Services
     -Monday, July 15th 6pm-730pm
     -Monday, August 19th 6pm-730pm

It is a great way to meet other caregivers / parents and provide support and perspective to each other on the various triumphs, challenges, and thoughts that come up as a caregivers.  

To RSVP (not required, but preferred) or learn more, please contact fsc@clarenceschools.org.

FSC SUMMER HOURS
Although school is out, the FSC will remain open during the summer, but with slightly limited availability.  
We will be open most Mondays through Thursdays, 8:00am-3:15pm throughout the summer, with evening hours available by appointment on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

The FSC will also be closed on:
July 4th
July 12th through July 21st
August 16th through August 25th

If you have an emergency or need to speak to someone immediately during that time, please contact:
Crisis Services 716-834-3131 (adults), Spectrum CARES 716-882-4357 (under 18), and the Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741) are all available. 

COMMUNITY CALENDARS AND SOCIAL MEDIA
See below for community calendars / events and FSC social media:

• Clarence Public Library

• Clarence Youth Bureau
• Clarence Chamber of Commerce
• FSC Facebook Page, FSC Twitter, FSC's "One Clarence" Podcast

Thanks again for a great school year, and please take care!
-Evan

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

As Dr. Frahm had mentioned earlier this month, May is "Mental Health Awareness Month."  With summer approaching, this is a great time to check in with your children and family members, and find quality time to connect over perhaps a meal, a walk or hike, or simply a free moment without our usual distractions. 

If you are looking to learn a bit more about mental health and other topics, connect with others in the community, or are interested in getting direct support, don't hesitate to reach out to our office.  Your child's school counselors, school psychologists, and school social workers are also great places to start.

Summer break offers our students a natural opportunity for reflection, growth, and if needed, intervention, before the hustle and bustle of the school year begins again in the fall.  Whether the school year was better than anticipated, or had some challenges along the way, it is important for our students to use summer as a chance to remember that school is just one component of a full life.  

COMMUNITY OPEN HOUSE THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 1st, 11:00am-2:00pm @ THOMPSON RD. PARK & CLARENCE NATURE CENTER
This Saturday we will be hosting another Nature Center event focused on family fun, community resources, and a guided hike on the Nature Center trails.  

The event will begin at Thompson Rd. Park (4730 Thompson Rd), where there will be lawn games, informational tables, and the Tiny Thai Food Truck.

At 12pm, a guided hike to the Nature Center will take place.  At the Nature Center, there will be:
     - Art on display from the CMS Art Club
     - Fun activities with the Town of Clarence Youth Bureau
     - Musical performance by the Friends of Harmony - Crescendo Quartet
     - Hiking on the other Nature Center trails
     - Light refreshments

A hike will be led back to Thompson Rd. Park around 1:30pm.
Folks are welcome to stay at Thompson Rd. Park, or at the Nature Center, until 2pm.

DIAPER AND CHILDREN'S CLOTHING DRIVE (Friday, May 31 / Saturday June 1st)
Basic needs continue to be a top priority for families referred to our office this year, and we have seen an increase in need for diapers and children's clothing.  With the clothing closet hubs now operating at the Clarence Library and Youth Bureau, we will be hosting a diaper and children's clothing drive to support Clarence community members and families.

2 Days to Donate:
Friday, May 31st, 8:30am-2:00pm @ Clarence Family Support Center
Saturday, June 1st, 11:00am-2:00pm @ Thompson Rd. Park (during the Community Open House)
Bins will be set up outside those locations

Items Accepted:
-Baby/Toddler/Youth Clothing (new or lightly used)
-Diapers
-Wipes

NEW PODCAST EPISODES
Check out the most recent student-run podcast ("One Clarence, Different Voices") episode, hosted by CHS 11th grader Jaeden Hartling.  This episode was focused on random acts of kindness, and Jaeden interviewed 11th grader Zoe Burget and CHS teacher Ms. Murdoch:

On the "One Clarence" podcast, listen to the most recent episode with Patty McCalister, who is a local mental health counselor who specializes in working with neurodivergent individuals and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Patty shares insight on supporting those who think differently, as well as personal stories related to the topic.

FAMILY PEER CONNECTIONS
If you are a caregiver of a K-5 student looking to connect with others in the same boat, consider attending the Family Peer Connections group at the Clarence Public Library hosted by New Directions Youth & Family Services
     -Monday, June 17th 6pm-730pm
     -Monday, July 15th 6pm-730pm
     -Monday, August 19th 6pm-730pm

COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
This spring, we sent out a community needs assessment to get a better understanding of the needs and perspectives in the community, and how we can work to best support some of them.  We will keep it open until June 1, and then report back on the results.
If you haven't yet completed it, please consider doing so.   Click here for the Community Needs Assessment.

COMMUNITY CALENDARS
See below for community calendars / events:

• Clarence Public Library

• Clarence Youth Bureau
• Clarence Chamber of Commerce

Thanks and please take care,
-Evan

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

I am writing to you today with an admittedly hazy-head, thanks in large-part to a beautiful little eight month-old boy at home who has a few teeth that have decided to poke through and disrupt his slumber. 

While I was rocking him back to sleep at 4am, looking at his mouth dangling open in comfort, I couldn't help but think about the simple joy in that moment we were both sharing, and how fleeting this time of his life will be.

The fortunate part of working with students of all ages for the past 15 years is that, despite being a new parent, I have been able to feel at least somewhat prepared for the likely and inevitable changes that will occur in my child's life.  The downside of that, however, is that I know how quickly those changes will happen, and how unpredictable they sometimes can seem.

Considering that our world has seen more exponentiality of change over that same decade and a half, it would be naive of me to assume that my son's childhood, his education, and his life experiences will mimic those of my own.  The reality is that, by the time he is ten, his world will undoubtedly be wildly different from mine at that age, and that difference will likely be far greater than the difference between the childhood experiences of mine and my father's.

This is simply a fact, and something that, as I am sure many of you understand, is out of my orbit of control.  As a parent, I feel an immense responsibility to ensure that his future will be one filled with happiness, positive and meaningful relationships, and a sense of purpose.
However, as caregivers, there are things that we can feel empowered in doing, and some steps that can be taken to feel a better sense of confidence when it comes to our ever-changing children in a fast-evolving world:

1. Staying caught-up on trends, research, varying professional perspectives, and personal experiences related to child and adolescent behavior can help us better support our own children and their needs.
2. Limiting screen-time and social media and instead building in opportunities for free and unstructured play into daily routines
3. Utilizing peer support, as well as caregiver-education opportunities and resources to think critically about how we are engaging with our children, as well as gaining new strategies to better support ourselves and our children.

This is all, of course, much easier said than done.  Even looking to do more of just one of those things, though, in addition to continuing to provide love and empathy for your child, can potentially have a big impact on your confidence as a caregiver, and your child's well-being.

To further support this, we will be hosting the "Flip-It" parenting program, which will be offered at the Family Support Center office from 5:30pm-8:00pm on the following Mondays: April 29th, May 6th, and May 13th.  It will be facilitated by our FSC School Social Worker, Penny Glena.  Please register in advance (still open spots).

NEW FSC WEBSITE
This week, the district launched its new website, which does seem to be far more user-friendly for both views as well as website-managers (like me).  Due to this change, our website will now move back to the district's website, and can be found here: https://www.clarenceschools.org/departments/family-support-center.

The main page will provide basic information on the FSC, links to our social media pages, as well as a link to access our new "Community Handbook."  The Community Handbook will continue to be updated as needed, and please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you feel there could be some other things we could consider adding to it.

On the left-hand side of the page, you should be able to navigate through various sub-categories on our FSC page, including providers and resources in the community to find support.  

CLARENCE NATURE CENTER OPEN HOUSE
This Saturday, the Clarence Conservation Advisory Council will be hosting an Open House event from 10am-1pm at the beautiful Clarence Nature Center (9030 Sheridan). 

The event will include a tree seedling give-away, a bluebird presentation, and a guided hike with a DEC forester.  
All ages are welcomed to attend, and for those of you who have yet to experience the Nature Center and its beautiful campus and trails, this weekend would be a great opportunity to check it out!  

COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
Last month we sent out a community needs assessment to get a better understanding of the needs and perspectives in the community, and how we can work to best support some of them.  We will keep it open until June, and then report back on the results.
If you haven't yet completed it, please consider doing so.   Click here for the Community Needs Assessment.

QUARTERLY UPDATE
Each quarter, we provide updates on progress, referral data, and other relevant FSC activities through a quarterly report.  The report for the most recent quarter can be found here, and previous reports from the 21-22 school year and thereafter can be found here. 

COMMUNITY CALENDARS
See below for community calendars / events:

• Clarence Public Library

• Clarence Youth Bureau
• Clarence Chamber of Commerce

TAKE BACK DAY
Finally, just a quick reminder that Saturday is also the DEA's national "Take Back Day," which allows for people to safely dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted prescription drugs.  To learn more, or to look up a nearby drop off location, click here.

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

Meaningful civic engagement is a cornerstone of healthy communities.  It can also help to foster healthy dialogue among community members who might not always communicate with each other about certain topics, or ideas for improving the community.  

Last week, we sent out a Community Needs  Assessment to get a better understanding of some of the needs, perspectives, and ideas from the community regarding ways our office can better support our students, families, and community members.

I would like to thank those who have already taken the time to complete it, and encourage those who haven’t to consider doing so.  

While it is certainly not comprehensive or incredibly sophisticated, such an assessment can be incredibly helpful when it comes to elevating the input, perspectives, and experiences of community members.

We will continue to keep the survey open until June, and will report out the results at the end of June. Again, the survey can be found here.

ONE CLARENCE, DIFFERENT VOICES PODCAST

Last week, we were happy to announce that we have published the first episode of a new student-run podcast series “One Clarence, Different Voices,” which is written, edited, and hosted by CHS 11th grader Jaeden Hartling.  Jaeden is also involved in the digital media program through Erie 1 BOCES.

In the first episode, he interviews Saachvir Singh (11th grade at CHS), and Chelsey Bieler (teacher at CHS).  The episode focuses primarily on discussions regarding the impact of Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

If you are a community member, teacher, or student with an interesting story or life experience you would be interested in sharing, feel free to reach out to us.

All One Clarence podcast episodes can be found here.

DONATIONS FOR EMERGENCY FOOD PANTRY

To help those who might be experiencing food insecurity, our office has maintained a donation-based emergency food pantry over the past two years.  This pantry has been a huge help to many families, and is typically utilized at least once per week.

While we always strive to help connect families with the Clarence Food Pantry and other sources that can be more robust and sustainable, having a small pantry in our office can help folks who might just need a few items to get through a weekend can make a big difference.

We are starting to get low on some items again, so if anyone is interested in donating, please reach out to us.  We are accepting donations of the following non-expired items:

• Cereal

• Granola / Breakfast bars

• Rice (smaller bags / boxes)

• Pasta and sauce

• Mac and Cheese

• Noodles / Ramen

• Canned Veggies

• Fruit snacks

• Individual cracker packages

We have a limited amount of storage and space though, so please email fsc@clarenceschools.org first if you are interested in donating and we can arrange for a time / amount.

UPCOMING PARENT / CAREGIVER SKILL BUILDING WORKSHOPS

For anyone looking for some extra skill-development and peer support as a parent or caregiver, consider the following programs that will be offered in April / May (see attached flyers at bottom of email):

FLIP IT Parent Program

• Mondays 5:30pm-8pm @ Clarence Family Support Center 
  April 29th, May 6th, May 13th 
   

• Power 2 Relate
  Mondays 5:30pm-8pm @ Clarence Public Library
  April 15th, April 22nd, May 13th, May 20th

COMMUNITY CALENDARS

See below for community calendars / events:
Clarence Public Library
Clarence Youth Bureau
Clarence Chamber of Commerce

OTHER FSC RESOURCES TO CONSIDER UTILIZING:
Educational Presentations
Support with linkage to mental health, basic needs, and other supports (feel free to contact us)

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER

Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

 

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

I hope this finds you well and that you all have been able to enjoy some of the more-than-seasonably warm weather over the past few days.  

After the early winter holiday season comes to a close, it can often seem like there is little to look forward to, so we wanted to again offer another opportunity to get outside, learn about great community organizations and resources, and get together with others in the community for some low-stress fun.

So, this Saturday, March 2nd, we will again be hosting a Headlamp Hike at the Clarence Nature Center (9030 Sheridan Drive, Clarence, NY).  The event will be from 6:30pm-8:30pm, and will offer a wide range of activities and fun (even for those who don’t want to hike!).  

Headlamps will be provided for those who don’t have any, thanks to generous donations from both the Clarence Youth Foundation and the Town of Clarence Conservation Advisory Council.  The trails will be lit thanks to the generous donation of solar stake lights from the Clarence Rotary Club.

In addition to the hike, the following organizations will also be there providing informational tables, light refreshments, kids activities, musical entertainment, and more:

• Clarence Youth Foundation

• Town of Clarence Conservation Council

• Clarence Rotary Club

• Town of Clarence Youth Bureau

• MATTERS Network

• Friends of Harmony (Crescendo Quartet)

• Go To Girls

• Clarence Girl Scout Troop 31160

• Double-Up Food Bucks Program

Come join us for some evening fun!

ERIE COUNTY ARTS ACCESS PASS

When considering the wellness of those within our community, it is incredibly important to understand the social determinants of health and, in particular, the impact that access to resources and enrichment opportunities, such as museums, can have on a young person’s well-being.

For anyone in the community who receives income-based public assistance (such as SNAP, Medicaid, etc.), the Arts Access Pass is a great resource to utilize to ensure you can provide yourself or your family with high-quality experiences in the community without breaking the bank. 

There are eligibility requirements, as well as some limitations on how frequently each month it can be used, but the pass does provide opportunities for a wide range of experiences in WNY, including some of the following partner organizations (and many more):

• Theater of Youth

• Alleyway Theater

• Aquarium of Niagara

• Lancaster Opera House

• Buffalo AKG Art Museum

• Buffalo History Museum

• Buffalo Museum of Science

• Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra 

• Explore and More Children’s Museum

• Penn Dixie Fossil Park and Nature Reserve

Also (again, with some limitations), transportation can sometimes be arranged through the program.

If you are interested and would like help registering, just contact us at the FSC and we can help you.

COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT PROGRESS

Last spring, the Family Support Center sent out a community needs assessment that focused on getting feedback regarding a variety of areas within the community that could be improved upon.  While some of the items were focused more on FSC-specific programming, there were some broader items that would need to be addressed from a community-based or municipal level.

There was one question, in particular, that asked “Which of the following would most improve our community in terms of access, support, enrichment, and recreation?”  The following were the top 4 responses of those who responded:

63% said "More Youth Activities (Not School-Directed)"
62% said "More Community Festivals"
47% said "A Dedicated Community Center"
44% said "Expanded Sidewalks"

Last month, the Town of Clarence announced in the “State of the Town” address that a new recreation center and expanded sidewalks will be a part of upcoming projects.

Similarly, the Clarence Youth Foundation will be hosting the International Day of Sharing soon on Saturday, March 9th.  It will be a community festival focused on highlighting the diverse range of cultures we have within the community through food, art, dance and music, language, and more.

The Clarence Public Library and Clarence Youth Bureau have also continued to expand programming for youth within the community in creative ways.

All of these additions to the community should have a direct and positive impact on the well-being of community members, especially our young people, and these improvements speak to the impact that civic engagement and elevating community voice can have.

With all of that said, we will plan on sending out another needs assessment in the coming months, so please consider taking the time to complete it.

OTHER FSC RESOURCES TO CONSIDER UTILIZING:

• Educational Presentations

• “One Clarence” Podcast episodes

Emergency Food Pantry (contact us if you are in need or are interested in donating)
Clothing Closet Hubs (contact us if you are interested in using and/or donating)
 Clarence HS
Clarence Youth Bureau
Clarence Library 

Support with linkage to mental health, basic needs, and other supports (feel free to contact us)

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER

Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
​​​​​​​Evan

 

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

As winter weather halted many plans (including classes) over the past few weeks, I wanted to recognize and thank the folks who came out to participate in our first ever “Headlamp Hike” at the Clarence Nature Center the other weekend!  

It was cold and snowy, but we had a phenomenal turnout!  

It was especially wonderful to see the smiling faces of the elementary students who attended as they trekked through the woods, had fun playing in the snow, and enjoyed some of the amenities provided in the lodge by student volunteers and the following community partners:

• Clarence Youth Foundation

• Town of Clarence Conservation Advisory Council

• Clarence Rotary Club

• Town of Clarence Youth Bureau

• MATTERS Network

• Buffalo Gurdwara (Sikh Community)

More than anything, the hike was a reminder that we in Clarence are incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of beautiful parks, trails, and green spaces that can be enjoyed by all ages.

There wasn’t a single person who came back from the hike in a worse mood than when they started, which is a reminder of the true power nature can have on making us feel well.

That said, we are hoping to hold similar events more consistently at the Nature Center and the other green spaces in Clarence.  So, if you missed out on this one, come join us next time!

UPCOMING / ONGOING FSC SPONSORED SUPPORTS

BEHAVIOR SUPPORT SKILL BUILDING PROGRAM

In partnership with Florida International University’s Center For Children and Families WNY, we will be offering a 5 week parent/caregiver skill building program focused on supporting children’s behavior at home.

It will run on Thursdays between February 29th and March 28th from 12pm-1pm.  
Parents / Caregivers will also receive a $50 stipend for their participation. Click here to register.

“GROWING WITH OTHERS” GROUP

The “Growing With Others” social group meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Clarence Public Library from 6:30pm-8pm.  

The group is focused on providing neurodivergent adolescents (preferably 14-18 years old) with a safe and comfortable setting to socialize, develop social skills, and have fun.  See attached flyer for more information.

CLOTHING CLOSET HUBS

As a parent of a fast-growing 5-month old, I am becoming well aware of how quickly kids grow out of (and spit-up on!) clothing. 

For anyone in need of children’s clothing, two community-based clothing closet hubs have been established at the Clarence Youth Bureau and Clarence Library (the library’s will be available again starting next week).

These hubs are open to anyone in the community, and folks are encouraged to both give and take (similar to “buy-nothing” groups).  

The hubs are organized and maintained by students at CHS, as well as Jillian Dean, who is the Career Development and Occupational Studies Coordinator for the district.

WATCH, LISTEN, LEARN

While the Family Support Center is always focused on trying to provide direct linkage and support to folks who might have immediate needs, we also want to find as many ways as possible to educate parents, students, staff, and the community on topics that may end up being relevant at some point in their life.

This past month, we have had the opportunity to host a few different educational presentations and podcasts around a variety of topics that might be of interest to some of those in our community.  Here in WNY, we have some absolutely phenomenal resources to support families, and some true experts in their respective fields (and some who live right here in Clarence).

See below for some of the recent educational presentations and podcasts hosted from our office:

RECENT EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS THROUGH THE FSC:

• Coping With Loss

• Navigating Divorce

• Utilizing Family Relationships to Support Well-Being

Click here for other FSC supported presentations (such as Suicide Prevention, Mental Health for Athletes, Trends in Substance Abuse, and more)

“ONE CLARENCE” PODCASTS

• Ep. 22: David Meichenbaum, Ph.D., Psychologist and Director of Community Consulting and Clinical Services, The Summit Center (Buffalo, NY)

• Ep. 23: Sumana Silverheels, Interim Director of Student Accessibility Services, SUNY Buffalo State University

• Link to all podcast episodes

FSC QUARTERLY REPORT (July 2023-Jan 2024)

Below represents the referrals made to the Family Support Center through the 2nd Quarter of the 2023-2024 school year:

Elementary Buildings	96
Clarence Middle School	42
Clarence High School	71
CCSD Staff	15
Non-Student Community Members	40
TOTAL REFERRALS	264

This is on par with the number of referrals we received by this time last year.

Of note, though, we have seen a decrease in referrals from CMS, and an increase in referrals from both staff and community members compared to last year.

For a more comprehensive picture of what the FSC has been doing this year, please refer to the attached 23-24 Q2 FSC Quarterly Report.

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER

Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

With the holiday break fast-approaching, I would like to take a quick moment to thank a variety of community organizations who have partnered with us for their generous support of community giving this holiday season.

Through the “Bundles of Love” initiative, Go-To-Girls was able to provide approximately 80 students in Clarence with new warm winter clothing.  This was the third consecutive year we have partnered with GTG on this initiative.

Similarly, the Clarence Community Giving Project, the the Clarence Youth/Community Foundation, the Eastern Hills Sunrise Rotary Club, the Clarence Lions Club, and Go-To-Girls, Inc. were able to support 28 families with TOPS, WalMart, and Visa gift cards to make the holidays a bit easier to navigate.

A big “THANK YOU” to all of those involved, including our school staff at each building who helped to coordinate with families!   

HEADLAMP HIKE - Saturday, Jan. 20th 5pm-7pm @ Clarence Nature Center

On Saturday, January 20th, from 5pm-7pm, we will be hosting an evening “Headlamp Hike” at the Clarence Nature Center (9030 Sheridan Dr, Clarence, NY 14031).

The event is for all ages, so anyone is welcome to attend!

The goal of the event is to showcase the beautiful Clarence Nature Center, take some time to enjoy nature’s beauty right in our backyard, and connect with others in the community.

We have an outstanding nature center here in Clarence, and are hoping more folks use it as an opportunity to decompress, get some exercise, and enjoy the company of nature and each other.

The event will include:

-A Guided Hike

-Light Refreshments 

-Arts / Crafts

-Musical Entertainment

-Informational Tables

-Family Fun

If you have a headlamp, please feel free to bring one, but we will have some provided thanks to our wonderful partners, the Town of Clarence Conservation Council and Clarence Youth Foundation.

Please consider joining us for what should be a relaxing, fun evening (but please dress for the weather…it will be January in WNY, after all!)

FSC ADVISORY BOARD PANEL DISCUSSION

Each quarter, we host an advisory board meeting that brings together the various school and community partners that collaborate with our Family Support Center.  This quarter, we focused part of the meeting on a robust discussion around supporting our youth, with a panel of the following professionals:

• Mary Jo Dunkle, Interim Director of Special Education, Clarence Central School District

• Kelli Hickey, Director, Enrollment Management & Biomedical Undergraduate Education, University at Buffalo

• Dr. Olivia M. Piegay., NYS Licensed Psychologist, Private Practice 

• Dr. Gregory Fabiano, Professor of Psychology at Florida International University (FIU)

If you are interested in learning more, the discussion can be viewed below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=560av4ixo3Q&t=1687s 

(Big “shout-out” to CHS 11th grader Gabe Rodrigues for sharpening his media skills and filming the event!)

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONNECTION

As increased emphasis has been placed on mental health over the past few years, more people have received support that might not have ever been accessed or discussed in previous generations.

However, our society’s natural tendency to support our well-being is often focused on finding single-solution interventions to issues that are complex and multi-faceted.  In addition, social media has, in many ways, contributed to the industrialization and monetization of mental health. Typical life stressors, as a result, have been sometimes made to seem more severe, furthering some individuals' decline in mental health and atypical responses to such stress.

Furthermore, despite the fact that mental health counseling is being accessed more than ever before, people across the globe are reporting high levels of loneliness.  

According to that survey, young adults aged 19-29 years old surveyed reported the highest rates (27%) of feeling “very or fairly lonely.”  

And according to Monitoring the Future, a national survey of adolescents conducted through the University of Michigan, the share of high school seniors who gathered with friends in person “almost every day” dropped from 44 percent in 2010 to 32 percent in 2022

Social outings for the typical eighth grader dwindled from about 2 1/2 a week in 2000 to 1 1/2 in 2021. 

In many respects, our years of adolescence and young adulthood are often most consequential in developing our identities, careers, and relationships. It is critical that we find ways to create meaningful ways to help our young people develop hobbies and connections before they graduate.

While clinical mental health supports can be a part of that, opportunities for meaningful connection do not always have to be through something highly competitive, highly organized, or incredibly ground-breaking in nature.  

A quick conversation about a topic of interest, a shared meal, or a quietly shared activity – like a nature hike – could all go a long way in creating connectivity and meaning in another person’s life.  When repeated over time, these are the small experiences and memories that can have a profound impact on our self-worth, our life’s direction, and our ability to feel supported in times of need.  
As we enter the long winter, I encourage all of us to find some extra time to connect with each other, especially our youth. 

Tips to help combat loneliness

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER

Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

 

 

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

I hope this finds you well after what, ideally, was a restful and enjoyable holiday weekend.

As we enter the winter months and the winter holiday season, there can be an incredible amount to celebrate within the WNY community and in our respective households.  

Please keep in mind, however, that the holiday season is one that often elicits a range of emotions, and can be especially challenging for those who might be coping with grief / loss, other significant life transitions, and others who might simply be overworked, overstressed, or overwhelmed.  

There are significant expectations that come with the winter holiday season; many folks are often stretched thin emotionally, financially, organizationally,  or some combination of those three.  Whether it is the first marking period ending, the fall sports season closing out and another beginning, school plays, holiday assemblies, or the other outside-of-school obligations many of our students take on, our children are undoubtedly also feeling the stress of a long winter approaching.

It is important to keep in mind that, as adults, we have an important role in modeling healthy behaviors for the young people we care for.  As we enter the winter months and holiday season, please keep in mind how attentive our children are to our behavior.  

How we choose to cope with and communicate about our own stress is being watched by even the smallest of our young ones.

If you find yourself needing support this winter, please don’t hesitate to seek it out.  If you don’t know where to start, you are always welcome to contact the Family Support Center!

QUARTERLY REPORT

As the first quarter of the school year has ended, we want to be able to share and highlight some of the work the FSC has been doing, and provide updates on some of the areas of need that we are seeing among our students, families, and community.

During the 1st quarter, we received a total of 96 referrals to the FSC:
Elementary: 36 referrals
CMS: 16 referrals
CHS: 27 referrals
CCSD staff: 7 referrals
Other Community Members: 10 referrals

Top 5 Areas of Need:

• Anxiety

• Behavior

• Divorce / Separation

• Basic Needs

• Grief / Loss

THE IMPACT OF ATTENDANCE
Over the past few years, many school districts have seen more concerns with regard to student attendance and chronic absenteeism.  

Recently, Education Week reported on analysis of federal attendance data conducted by the Everyone Graduates Center at Johns Hopkins University and Attendance Works.

Nationwide, 29.7 percent of students were chronically absent (10 or more days) in the 2021-22 school year.

While this is often viewed as just an issue faced by our urban and/or extremely rural districts, the reality is that this is a concern impacting the majority of districts at a national level.

In the 2017-18 school year, “26 percent of students were enrolled in a school where at least a fifth of students were chronically absent. In 2021-22, that number jumped to 66 percent of students.”

These trends, even early on, can have lasting implications on student success later in life.  Analysis of other contemporary research also indicates that “absentee rates were observed as early as kindergarten, and students who eventually dropped out of high school missed significantly more days of school in first grade than their peers who graduated from high school.” 

While this might not seem like a profound finding, the relationship between attendance and achievement is easy to overlook, and opportunities to intervene are often missed by teachers, students, and caregivers alike until it is too late.

Many of the referrals our office gets for more significant mental health needs are for students who also struggle, unsurprisingly, with attendance.  

Unfortunately, school is in fact one of the primary places within their community where they can find academic, mental health, and social supports.  When students are not attending, they are creating significant barriers to support that can be crucial in preventing more significant crises from developing.  

As we move forward in the school year, I encourage you to please consider the impact absences from school can have on your child and their academic, social, and emotional well-being.

If your child is struggling with such concerns, contacting their school counselor or school social worker is a great place to start.

If you would like to read more about interventions that have worked elsewhere, Harvard Magazine put out a great article discussing some research / recommendations in this area.

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER

Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

 

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

I wanted to start this month by acknowledging the outstanding teenagers we have here in Clarence.  Nearly every week, I see our secondary students devoting themselves to civic engagement and leadership roles within the community.  While some of these instances are a bit more public facing, there are many other times where these acts of service largely go under-the-radar.   

The other weekend, we hosted a community wellness event which we had multiple student volunteers from CHS help out with.  The maturity, positivity, and willingness to connect with their community (even in pretty miserable weather!) that they demonstrated was such a pleasure to witness.  

Similarly, we have students who come to our Culture and Community Club at the FSC to engage in fun games , cultural exchanges of food and community building, even when language might be a barrier.  

Far too often, the older generations (which, admittedly, I am now a part of…) are quick to judge our young folks as selfish, immature, and disengaged.  

I am certainly guilty of making a few “back-in-my-day” type comments from time to time.

The reality, though, is that we have some amazing young people in this community who will no doubt serve as leaders and catalysts of good in the future they inherit.  This is a testament to the parents and caregivers, community members, and school staff who all have a tremendous ability to impact our young people in positive ways.

If you have a teen at home, please continue to encourage them to get involved in their community, lead through their actions, and continue to find creative ways to make the future of their community a stronger one.

THE IMPACT OF “GREEN” AND “BLUE” SPACES ON MENTAL WELLNESS

Just recently, a study out of the U.K. was published that brought to light some of the ways “green” and “blue” spaces, and the accessibility of them within communities, can impact depression and anxiety.

Last school year, the FSC received 97 referrals for students related to anxiety and depression.  While connecting with therapy and mental health counseling play a crucial and often necessary role in supporting those areas, it is important to understand that there are also many other interventions that can be beneficial in giving a boost our mental health.

Here in Clarence, we are incredibly fortunate to have an abundance of wonderful parks, bike trails, and a beautiful Nature Center.  While the winter months and cold weather approach, it is important to remember that getting outside, no matter for how long, can have some profound and positive effects on how we feel and behave.

If you are looking to find more ways to get you or your children to jumpstart their mental health, consider getting out to some of the following local parks:

• Clarence Town Parks

• Beeman Creek

• Tillman Rd. Wildlife Management Area

• Akron Falls

• Knox Farm

FSC REFERRAL DATA FOR 2023-2024
So far this year, we have received a total of 81 referrals to our office.

• Elementary Schools: 27 referrals

  • CC Elem: 10

  • HH Elem: 6

  • LV Elem: 4

  • SH Elem: 7

• Clarence Middle School: 16

• Clarence High School: 22

• CCSD Staff: 6

• Community Members: 10

The top areas of need so far have been:

• Anxiety

• Behavior

• Divorce / Separation

• Basic Needs

• Grief / Loss

As we continue through the year, please do not hesitate to reach out if you or your family has a need for extra support.  Similarly, if you ever want to contribute basic needs supports for our emergency pantry, please contact us.  

We usually have a few families each month that utilize it, so every quarter we start to run low on certain items.  Items of frequent demand:

• Cereal and breakfast bars

• Pasta and sauce

• PB and J

• Canned soups

• Soap, Shampoo, General Hygiene, Feminine Hygiene  

Big thanks to community member Christine Wilkenson, who recently donated food and hygiene supplies!  

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER
Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

 

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

I hope everyone has been able to enjoy what has been some beautiful fall weather, and has found some time after summer break to resettle into the “back-to-school” routines.  

There is always a lot going on within the Clarence and WNY communities this time of year, so I hope that everyone is taking advantage of the Bills season, community festivals, farm markets, our beautiful Town of Clarence and Erie County Parks, and other ways to engage socially and healthfully with others.

CAR SEAT INSPECTION AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS EVENT

In hopes of finding more ways to effectively connect with families in the community in various ways, we are partnering with Erie County Sheriff to host a community wellness event on Saturday, October 21st, from 9am-1pm.  The event will take place in the parking lot outside of our office, which is located on the far east end of the CHS campus.

The event will offer:

• Erie County Sheriff deputies will be providing car-seat installation and safety checks for families

• Informational tables set up with a variety of community organizations and mental health providers.

• Lawn games (KanJam, bocce ball, etc.) available to play

• The Clarence Youth Bureau will have some fun kid-friendly activities planned

• Just Pizza and Wings will also be there for those who are hungry!

GROWING WITH OTHERS SOCIAL GROUP 

We are partnering with Patty McCalister (local mental health counselor) to provide a monthly social group for neurodivergent teens.  It is FREE and open to anyone in WNY, but will prioritize Clarence families first.  The group will be capped at a maximum of 10 participants.

The group will start meeting next week at the Clarence Public Library from 630pm-8pm, and will occur monthly on the 1st Tuesday of each month (unless otherwise specified).

Participants should be teens who:

• communicate primarily through speaking or who is able to use augmented communication devices effectively

• has demonstrated barriers to initiating, developing, or maintaining relationships with peers

• has expressed a desire to build relationships and be social (even if it might not be happening right now or is challenging)

• Participants do not have to have a diagnosis of ASD to participate.  It is open to any teens who might be more neurodivergent

Families who are interested should inquire and register by contacting Patty McCalister, LMHC at patriciamccalisterlmhc@gmail.com 

A PERSONAL THOUGHT

As Dr. Frahm had mentioned earlier, September is Suicide Prevention Month, and our office is committed to helping support anyone in the community connect to supports for their mental health needs.

September is also Neonatal Nurse Appreciation Month, which is very appropriate as my wife and I welcomed our first child on September 3rd.

During what ended up being an incredibly long, three-plus-day induction, followed by a five-night stay in the NICU, I was reminded that all of us exist within a true paradox of the human experience.  

The individuals who oversaw, treated, and cared for my wife and son were absolutely some of the most amazing people I have ever encountered, and to them they were just simply doing their jobs.  Along with their technical knowledge, the patience and empathy the nurses, doctors, and staff were able to provide our family allowed for what was the one of the most emotionally challenging and vulnerable experiences of my life to still be the most beautiful and rewarding.

It was a reminder of how truly fragile life can sometimes be, notably for our children.  

But most importantly, it reinforced that our children (and we as adults) have the capacity for incredible resilience, especially when we have the support of trusted and caring loved ones and skilled professionals. 

With that being said, I wanted to take a moment to recognize those in the community who work in the healthcare fields, whether it be neonatal and other nurses, health care aids, front desk clerks, doctors, mental health providers, and the many other incredibly integral professionals who devote their time and energy each day to making sure our community is well.  

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER
Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
One Clarence Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan

 

Good afternoon Clarence community members and colleagues,

While it may be hard to believe, we are already heading into the first week of a new school year.

And although the FSC has been chugging along through the summer, we know that many of our students and families have had many months away from school, and that transition can be cause of anxiety, uncertainty, and hopefully even some excited anticipation.

CCSD FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE SERVICES OFFERED?

• Individual counseling and therapy sessions with a diverse set of local mental health specialists who use our office 

• Consultation with FSC staff for short-term counseling supports

• After school enrichment groups

• Connection to other community agencies

• Emergency food and hygiene needs at FSC

• Connection to support for larger basic needs (food, clothing, housing)

WHO CAN UTILIZE SUPPORTS?

• Clarence Central School District students and their families

• Any community members who live within the boundaries of the CCSD

• CCSD staff and their families

LISTEN, WATCH, LEARN

On our website, you can find episodes of our “One Clarence” podcasts and videos from various presentations we have hosted, providing educational information from experts on topics related to mental health, grief & loss, substance use, supporting young children at home, and more.

CONSIDERING THE EXPERIENCES OF OTHERS IN OUR COMMUNITY 

As we begin another year of helping to teach the values of community, belonging, and empathy to our students and young people, the FSC would like to highlight the wide range of human experiences that exists among those within our community here in Clarence.

One of the roles of the FSC is also to support families who have or are actively experiencing housing insecurity, which could otherwise be defined as lacking fixed, adequate, or regular housing.

The data below represents the number of students lacking fixed, adequate, or regular housing over the past two school years:

2021-2022 School Year:

• 8 students identified as homeless or lacking fixed, adequate, or regular housing

• 3 were “unaccompanied youth” (meaning they were not living with legal guardians, often due to abuse or family conflict)

• 1 in hotel

• 1 in shelter

2022-2023 School Year

• 24 students were identified as homeless or lacking fixed, adequate, or regular housing

• 2 were “unaccompanied youth” (meaning they were not living with legal guardians, often due to abuse or family conflict)

• 13 were in hotels

This represents a nearly 200% increase in students experiencing housing insecurity, year to year. 

In addition, we have students and families each year who come to our community from other countries, and many other families who might continue to still strongly connected to their cultural heritage (I, for instance, am a 2nd generation descendant of Armenian Genocide survivors).  

For context, Clarence High School has seen an over 400% increase in English Language Learning (ELL) students over the past 5 years. 

As a result, it is imperative to help our students understand the vast experiences that exist in the halls, classrooms, and community spaces of Clarence.  Understanding the significance of our individual experiences, and how others learn about and discuss them, is crucial to whether or not the collective wellness of our community is strong.

So, as your children embark on another school year, please discuss with them the importance of being kind toward their peers, being inquisitive about those around them, and recognizing the impact their words and actions can have on those who might experience the world through a slightly different lens.

WAYS TO CONNECT WITH THE FAMILY SUPPORT CENTER
Office location: 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031
Office phone: 716-407-9244
Website: https://sites.google.com/clarenceschools.org/family-support-center/home 
Email: fsc@clarenceschools.org 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Clarence_FSC/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clarence-Family-Support-Center-108569115412305 
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6BBJXv9E6Juo3mLL1F6WPq 

Thanks and please take care,
Evan