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“The Lighthouse Youth Crisis Center is an emergency shelter for youth age 10-17 who for various reasons cannot be "at home" with their families. Bullying was a pervasive problem among our residents as they attempt to enculturate in new surroundings with multiple other residents. Some of the bullying was obvious and out in the open and other instances happened more quietly in the bedrooms and bathrooms. COCA provided our staff with an in-depth look into recognizing bullying as well as how to deal with it when it is discovered. They also provide our residents with weekly bullying and violence prevention education. The result of this is a significant increase in resident safety ratings to now 99% self-reporting feeling safe while at the Youth Crisis Center as well as a significant reduction in significant incidences of violent and manipulative behaviors.
We attribute this to increased staff awareness and interventions as well as residents gaining insight into their own bullying/victim behaviors and learning ways of more effectively integrating in the Youth Crisis
Center and hopefully taking some of these tools with them when they leave.”
Geoffrey Hollenbach, LISW-S, Division Director - Runaway & Homeless Youth Division
"Working with the COCA has allowed our school to add another layer to prevention programs as we strive to build a positive school climate. Overall, our working relationship with the COCA staff has been professional and knowledgeable. We consider this program to be an invaluable tool to building a safe educational environment."
Christine Hamm, School Counselor - Nagel Middle School, Forest Hills School District
“I appreciate so much Karen’s willingness to speak to the Better Baby Sitter’s classes. I have had many opportunities to observe her as she thoroughly, but sensitively discusses what is, by its very nature, a distressing topic. The students unfailingly respond to Karen’s engaging, down-to-earth personality. I enjoy watching how comfortably she interacts with the students. They are always receptive to the information she provides, and the practical suggestions she offers on how to effectively and safely cope with a crying baby.
It is a privilege to be associated with such a worthy organization, and I am thankful for Karen and everyone who makes this program possible.”
Judy A. Merritt, Instructor – Better Baby Sitters/Kidz Home Alone – Enriching Kidz, Inc
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