The December Holidays are upon us - a time of year that often feels bittersweet to grieving people. To the families who lost their loved ones last February, this is the first season adjusting to the new world in which they find themselves having to seek comfort and solace during a time of year that surrounds us with images of family togetherness. We can support these families by encouraging them to embrace whatever blend of old tradition and new tradition feels acceptable to them. They may avoid the holidays completely this year, add in something or somewhere new, or keep the traditions the same - the most important consideration is that they decide what they plan to do, that they not be pressured into something they don't want to do, and that they have the ability to exit from plans at any time. For the students, teachers, school staff, first responders and their families, this time of year may also elicit challenging feelings. The best way for them to navigate the holidays is to practice kindness towards themselves in the form of self-care and to ask for help when they need it. Follow our Facebook page/group and twitter for updates on ways to support these families and to further your training in treating trauma.
Program Spotlight Rotary Garden Planting to honor Helena Ramsey
Excerpt taken from local 10 ten news: "Helena Freja Ramsay was an avid volunteer at the Rotary Community Garden and Food Forest of Coral Springs and her friends and family celebrated her love of nature Saturday. Ramsay, a 17-year-old junior, was one of 17 people killed in the February shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. In remembrance of the victims, Buddha Belly bamboo trees -- one for each victim -- were planted in a special section of the community garden. "Helena loved the sound of bamboo trees swaying in the breeze," said Anne Ramsay, Helena's mother. Her family thinks Helena would have loved the ceremony.The garden is expected to be completed on Valentine's Day, 2019 -- the one-year anniversary of the shooting." Photos of the garden can be seen here: https://www.local10.com/community/memorial-ceremony-held-for-parkland-victim-helena-ramsey Helena's family has a Go Fund Me page here: https://www.gofundme.com/helena-ramsay-msd-memorial-fund
PU4P Updates PU4P will be offering three upcoming trainings: