May 28, 2020
 

We asked our staff to share highlights from work lately. Here are some things that have been keeping us inspired:

A memorable presentation I will not forget

Devan, Prevention Educator: 

“I regularly give presentations to youth on a variety of topics connected to sexual violence. Before shelter-in-place I had a presentation scheduled with Planned Parenthood Mar Monte's Youth Leadership Group in Soledad. However, we shifted to do this via Zoom. I always love talking to students who are already involved in activism work because the conversations and topics are often very rich and deep. This presentation ended up being just that! The students had thought provoking comments, observations and the discussion was incredibly powerful. Although I still prefer presenting in-person, this gave us the opportunity to present to not only their group in Soledad, but also Sacramento and Fresno! This was a very memorable presentation I will not forget!” 

Making classroom connections

Diana, Child Abuse Prevention Educator:

“I connected with a teacher from one of our partner elementary schools this week. He was very happy to hear from me and is excited about the safety videos that have been posted on our YouTube channel. Despite the challenges with distance learning he has gained skills with online apps and he can't wait to have me as a guest presenter in his class!” 

Feeling inspired by master classes

Erin, Community Engagement Specialist: 

“I’ve attended some online sessions by the Coalition to End Human Trafficking’s series Resilience: Human Trafficking Survivors Master Class. Hearing the wisdom of survivors who are leaders in the field has been both moving and educational.” 

Working hard to hold space for trauma, virtually 

Tiina, Therapist:

“I have been energized by and have learned so much from the generosity of the leaders in the trauma profession. I have attended free online training sessions for clinicians on how to connect with clients remotely and support their healing. It's been a great personal and professional learning experience!”

Some special birthdays:

We’d like to wish very happy birthdays this week to our two fearless leaders, Executive Director Clare Mounteer and Deputy Director Lauren DaSilva!

And last week, our therapist Denise officially became a mother! She and baby Olivia are home and doing well. 

We hope you are staying inspired these days! Please stay in touch with us on social media and/or by signing up for news and updates (below).