Project Anchor- adolescent victims of sexual abuse

Since my last update, we have expanded our teen services to include two adolescent support groups. We had a slow beginning in the first couple of weeks but as our services grow, more families have discovered our services. We consistently have five kids that come to this support group ranging from ages 12-17 years old. In the years that I have worked here, I have never seen relationships kindle so quickly. Although these teens have not known each other for very long, they have bonded and they take care of one another. It is truly amazing to see how much progress they are making. Our goal is to have these group members join our more “advanced” group which is held on Thursdays. For this group, we focus on first steps of healing and working on building their toolbox of coping skills. We want to create an easy transition into the next support group so they feel completely prepared as well as supported by their peers/staff.

To help facilitate this new group, we have hired a new youth services advocate! We are so excited to welcome her to our team. Amanda is a former Spanish high school teacher.  After nine years as a teacher, Amanda decided to turn her attention to a more direct way to help teens in crisis empower themselves through direct individual and small group interaction.  Amanda will use her Spanish education to interact with our bilingual clients. Amanda has always firmly held the belief that individuals can overcome all obstacles as long as they have the support they need to navigate through their most challenging life events. All things are possible for everyone with the proper guidance and through the power of God. One quote that speaks to Amanda is: “It is not possible to go forward by looking back.”  - Mies Van Der Rohe

We are also getting ready for our annual Fairy Tale Ball in November. This event aims to embrace the innocence of children with a family friendly fundraiser. Children are able to dress up as their favorite fairy tale characters, play games, and take pictures with the princesses. Our theme for 2023 is “How Far I`ll Go”. As we embark on the journey of expansion- this is the perfect mantra for our organization! 

As always, we are so grateful for our lovely donors. We appreciate every donation that comes in and our clients benefit from your amazing generosity. From the Fair Haven Team, we thank you all!