From the Assessment Program Manager's Desk:
When I think about the leaves changing, weather turning a bit cooler, and the holidays approaching, honestly, a part of me gets a little anxious. Then I take a minute to pause, breathe and remind myself of all the things I am grateful for. Very quickly, that pause allows me to feel at peace yet again. Gratitude has the power to improve our sleep, our health, and desire to help others, and even our relationships with others.
When I think about the things I am most grateful for, I focus on my children and my husband, the home we have built together, and the stability we have worked so hard to create. I’m grateful for a heart that is open, and for new adventures.
One particular new adventure I find myself on is being the new Assessment Program Manager, here at the Amani Center. I am so thrilled to be here and surrounded by such an amazing group of people. Most recently, I spent the last ten years working for the St. Helens School District. I had a lengthy title, but essentially supported students and their families during challenging situations. My roles as an advocate, support staff, and mom have led me to the Amani Center, and I am excited and grateful for this opportunity.
Over the next year, we will be partnering with our Mental Health Program Manager as we work together to develop new supportive resources here at the Amani Center. We are also looking forward to our Victim Advocates/Community Health Workers developing additional relationships with our community partners throughout Columbia County. I am so proud of the Assessment Team and how we work together to make the most of the resources we currently have as well as expanding our ability to find new resources to meet the needs of all the children and families we serve.
I would love to hear from you, and say hello for the first time, or re-connect in this season of gratefulness.
Jennifer Bartocci, Assessment Program Manager
What's New?
At this time of year as we head into the busy holiday season, we look forward to a world-wide day of celebration that happens annually, focused on generosity: Giving Tuesday.
Giving Tuesday began in 2012 as a special day dedicated to giving back to the causes and organizations that are the most meaningful to you. Each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, people all over the world come together to celebrate generosity through volunteerism and donation.
This year on Tuesday, December 3rd, you can help provide holidays of hope and healing for local children seeking Amani Center services by supporting us with your financial donation. Your donation directly helps children with concerns of abuse in Columbia County and assists them on the path toward recovery and healing. Use this link to donate to the Amani Center now to celebrate Giving Tuesday!
Don’t forget to share with your friends and family that you participated in #GivingTuesday by giving to the Amani Center and inspire others to give generously!
November Spotlight:
To celebrate this month’s focus on giving thanks, we’re shining a light on our most dedicated volunteers and expressing our heartfelt gratitude for their commitment.
These are the people who show up year after year, generously donating their time and energy to support child abuse victims by volunteering with the Amani Center.
Assessment and Event Volunteers:
Ali Englehardt, Christine Dahlgren, Connie Mendenhall, Debbie Tupper, Della Graham, Jason Moon, Jim Pulito, Jim Tupper, Luanne Kreutzer, Poppy Elshaug, Val O’Farrell.
Volunteer Board Members:
Stacia Tyacke, Department of Juvenile Justice – Board Member (Joined 2007)
Tami McDonald, school district counselor – Secretary (Joined 2010)
Stan Mendenhall, Department of Juvenile Justice (retired) – Chair (Joined 2012)
Maria Fenstermaker, nonprofit administration (retired) – Treasurer (Volunteer – 2013) (Joined Board – 2023)
Toni Nelson, school aide (retired) – Board Member (Joined 2016)
Dave Wasylenko, private sector (insurance) – Vice-Chair (Joined 2016)
Molly Hruska, private sector (real estate) – Board Member (Joined 2019)
Marco Castañeda, private sector (construction) – Board Member (Joined 2020)
Jaime Aanensen, Public Health Department – Board Member (Joined 2024)
We applaud the efforts of these volunteers and acknowledge that the Amani Center could not function in its current capacity without these incredible people. Thank you for being a hero to children in our community!
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, December 7th – Breakfast with Santa
Calling all merry families! Get ready for a magical morning of holiday cheer! Join us for a delicious pancake breakfast and have a chat with Santa Claus. While the little ones write their cherished Santa letters, parents can relax and enjoy the festivities. There will be fun reindeer games to get everyone moving, plus a chance to decorate delicious sugar cookies. Best of all, proceeds from the event will benefit the Amani Center and the work we’re doing to support our community’s vulnerable children. Don’t miss this festive opportunity to create lasting memories and support a wonderful cause! Tickets are $8.00 if pre-purchased, or $10.00 at the door. Use this link to pre-purchase your tickets today!
Sunday, December 8th – Brunch with Santa
Ho ho ho! Mark your calendars for this heartwarming first annual family event “Brunch with Santa” coming up on Sunday, December 8th from 1:00-3:30 p.m. at 305 W. 3rd Street in Rainier. Enjoy an afternoon full of family fun with a pancake brunch, along with North Pole festivities including cookie decorating, reindeer games, a cocoa café and more. Make some magical holiday memories together, all while supporting the Amani Center! Tickets are $8.00 if pre-purchased, or $10.00 at the door. Use this link to pre-purchase your tickets now!