In February we shared news about an exciting new partnership between Children of Light Educare (COLT) and Arise Family, a Non-profit organisation (NPO) that offers family strengthening services. The first group of COLT parents who signed up for the 10 week ‘Roots to Resilience’ parent education program celebrated the conclusion of their training this month. There were tears of gratitude as each one shared what they had learnt, how through role play they had learnt about empathy, how they now listen to their children before reacting in a physical way. They better understand their role as a parent and had learnt that through discipline, not punishment, they can treat their child with love and understanding.
Hearts were filled with pride and confidence as each participant received a certificate of completion, a folder containing the written work they had done, and a special flower that represented their child. Following this amazing response, a request from the parents to continue with the program means that more families will benefit from these parent education programs. A small group of new parents has been invited to join the initial group to embark on the next 10 week program. COLT staff are being trained to facilitate the parent education program, with guidance from Alexa and Danielle at Arise Family.
Staff are fine-tuning the program to suit the needs of our parents and children. In addition to the standard program parents will be introduced to simple yoga movements, and creative activities to strengthen their fine motor skills. This level of commitment from COLT staff and parents promises to greatly improve the lives of our children and their communities.
A Family Care and Support Department will fall under our Social Auxiliary Worker, Nushfeekah Levendal who will continue with her bi-monthly supervision sessions with Alexa to strengthen and improve her group handling, and individual case management skills. Please help us cover the cost of her training – R4 800. We rely on donations for all of our funding. COLT banking details are below:
EFT payments:
Bank: Absa (savings account)
Name: Children of Light Educare Trust
Account No: 93 2207 3615
Branch: 632005 (Claremont)
Reference: Name surname and parent program.
SWIFT Code (for international donors): ABSAZAJJ
Donate now via Payfast
Kindly email your confirmation of payment to Devi at info@colt.org.za. We are most grateful to our COLT friends who have donated towards training for our staff and parents.
