SWR Workshop Focuses On Breaking Cycle of Crime, Incarceration

From Community Outreach Ministry: The founders of the Community Outreach Ministry wish to thank the Heald Academy Center for inviting the non-profit organization to its Head Start preschool on April 8 to provide a workshop for parents. Established in 2001 by Dr. Mona Davies and her husband Bob, Community Outreach, a 501 C3 non-profit group, is dedicated to helping youth who have one or both parents in prison to divert the prison track.

“After listening to Mr. and Mrs. Davies' presentation on Breaking the Cycle of Crime and Incarceration at a Community Collaborative in Lake Elsinore, I knew that I had to invite them to one of our…sites to provide a workshop for our families,” said Silvia Beas, Parent Coordinator Specialist of Heald Academy Center, part of the Lake Elsinore Unified School District (LEUSD). “Their area of expertise is one that isn't very common around our community, so we are thankful to have them as a resource for families that would directly benefit from their information and services,” added Beas.

The April 8 event took place from 9 to 11:15 am and was a huge success. The Community Outreach Ministry along with its partner, Temecula Children’s Behavioral Health presented a workshop on both Breaking the Cycle of Crime and Incarceration and Wellness. Parents engaged in presentations and received materials for after school enrichment opportunities as well as literature on substance abuse and mental health. Community Outreach Ministry donated the Breaking the Cycle of Incarceration Model and resource lists for children of incarcerated parents, caregivers and incarcerated parents. In addition, Community Outreach donated PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL CHILD IDENTIFICATION KIT and brought free clothing to the event for parents and their families.

The Riverside University Health System Behavioral Health of Riverside provided a presentation and handouts on substance abuse prevention treatment (SAPT). The Temecula Children’s Behavioral Health Clinic (TCBH) and Mid County Youth Hospital Intervention Program (YHIP) provided presentations and resources to benefit children and families. The resources benefited parents by providing invaluable information on substance abuse prevention and intervention. The goal of such resources is to help parents become more knowledgeable on community-based services that empower children with academic connections, summer camps and recreational activities.

Throughout the year, Community Outreach Ministry offers outreaches, camping and Mentor Protégé workshop programs on Breaking the Cycle of Incarceration. Each holiday season, community members, area businesses, volunteers and many public servants such as firefighters and law enforcement officers dedicate their time to helping the ministry create a fun-filled annual Angel Tree Christmas party at which children of incarcerated parents enjoy a festive holiday party replete with donated food, gifts and lots of entertainment. Volunteers are always welcome to join Community Outreach Ministry year-round to serve children and families. We welcome donations for needy and at- risk children to participate in summer camp activities. To get involved or to learn more about the ministry, call 951-698-7650 or send an email to info@communityoutreachministry.org.

Photos courtesy of Community Outreach Ministry