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the blog
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January 31, 2023
general
National Human Trafficking Prevention Month Guest Blog by CA Alliance Member - Sycamores
National Adoption Month Guest Blog by Yuri Kimura, Program Director over Foster Care, Adoptions, and Destination Family, Stanford Sierra Youth & Families
October 6, 2022
general
Mental Illness Awareness Week Guest Blog by Catalyst Center Intern, Priya Setty
July 19, 2022
generalSUPPORTING BIPOC MENTAL HEALTH AT VISTA DEL MAR Guest Blog by CA Alliance Member Vista Del Mar
May 31, 2022
general
Mental Health Awareness Month Month GUEST BLOG BY Eva Terrazas, Chief Public Policy and Advocacy Officer, Pacific Clinics
May 27, 2022
generalAsian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month GUEST BLOG BY CHRISTINE ISANA GARCIA Chief Executive Officer, Side By Side
May 26, 2022
general
Foster Care Awareness Month Guest Blog by Tiffany Sickler, Executive Director, Koinonia Family Services
May 24, 2022
general
Mental Health Month Interview with Mental Health Legislative Champion Senator Wiener
May 18, 2022
general
Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month - Guest Blog by Assemblymember Phil Ting
ACEs Champion Spotlight: Kings County – The Power of Community to Prevent Toxic Stress
Finding Faith Community, Nature, Exercise, Nutrition, and Mindfulness to Heal Intergenerational Trauma
This guest blog features a Catalyst Conversation with La Tausha Wade, Transformational Life Coach and Mental Health Coordinator, who discovered the power of alternative buffering protections, such as faith community, nature, exercise, nutrition, and mindfulness, to heal herself, and others from adversity and the cycle of intergenerational trauma.
From Pain to Progress: Transforming Systems to Put Patients at the Center
The piece below is shared by an anonymous guest blogger and takes you on a journey from how to navigate the healthcare system to advocate for ACE screening and toxic stress diagnosis, treatment, and referrals; to the importance of bolstering social connections and supports; to systemically transforming networks of care to also include education and awareness for leaders of the civil court system.
Addressing the Family Unit: Supporting Foster Youth and Families Through Adversity, Permanency, and Cross-Sector Collaboration
In this guest blog, Cynthia Garcia Williams, a Lead Parent Partner at Sycamores, discusses how cross-sector collaboration supports foster youth and families through adversity to permanency, to lead happy, healthy lives.
November 5, 2021
generalRising Up From Adversity: Connecting Transitional Age Youth to Life Skills
In this Catalyst Conversation, Otto Errett, Youth Advocate and Transition Aged Youth at Sycamores, proposes desired changes to the foster care system to address adversity, including connecting transition age youth to opportunities that teach life skills while they are still in safe, stable, protective, and equitable environments, to equip them before they transition out of the system.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Guest Blog By California State Senator Susan Rubio
Overcoming Intergenerational Trauma to Promote Healing: Moving Through Grief, Loss, and Love
Dretona Maddox shares her inspirational story of surviving early adversity, including parental loss to suicide, abuse, neglect, and becoming a pregnant teen, to reveal her motivation to heal black, intergenerational trauma through ACE screening, and access to community supports, including resources for pregnant and parenting teens of all backgrounds.
Supporting Survivors with a Comprehensive and Intersectional Approach for Long Term Success
October 14, 2021
generalUsing ACE Screening and Cross-Sector Referrals to Address Cumulative Adversity
A Stories of Impact Campaign Guest Blog Post by Ramiro ZúñigaVice President, Medical Director - Medi-Cal, Health Net.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Guest Blog by Helpline Youth Counseling
A guest blog post by Helpline Youth Counseling Executive Director Jeff Farber and Director of Development Angela Bolton.
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
A blog post guest authored by California Youth Empowerment Network Board Secretary Zofia Trexler.
The Case for Intervening with our Youth who Need it Most (because it is not their fault)
CDC Racism and Health Initiative
Dr. Walensky announced her agency’s new robust initiative to address racial disparities in healthcare, Racism and Health. This initiative’s goal is to bring race equity to the top of the CDC’s agenda. To Dr. Walensky, prioritizing race equity is crucial to the agency’s implementation of interventions. “It has to be baked into the cake; it’s got to be part of what everybody is doing,” she stresses.
July 30, 2021
generalStudent Mental Health Guest Blog post by Assemblymember James C. Ramos
A guest blog post on student mental health by Assemblymember James C. Ramos.
July 27, 2021
general
BIPOC Mental Health Month Guest Blog Post from The Guidance Center
Guest blog post in honor of BIPOC Mental Health Month by The Guidance Center in Long Beach.
Bringing the science of childhood trauma to the courtroom: How North Carolina is spearheading an effort to educate the court system on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Jewel and Her Journey in Cultivating Awareness to Heal Pain
“Here is something a lot of mental health advocates may not tell you: Meditation alone will not change your life. You have to find a way to put that conscious presence to work. You have to find practicable things to do if you really want to rewire your negative habits or make better decisions for your happiness. Putting mindfulness in motion is what my life has really been about.” – Jewel Having grown up with a turbulent childhood, singer Jewel cultivated awareness to heal pain. Read about her moving journey below!
June 30, 2021
generalPride Month Guest Blog Post by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara
Guest blog post in celebration of Pride Month by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara.
ACEs Aware Office Hour: A Discussion on Trauma-informed Care and Interoperability
May 19, 2021
generalHow to Save a Life by Sitting Down
"How to Save a Life by Sitting Down," a blog post written by David Bartley. David is a speaker, storyteller and trainer who sheds light on the issue of mental illness.
February 15, 2021
generalCommunity Alternatives and Resistance to Disruptive Systems that Harm Black Families
January 4, 2021
COVID19Mental Health in Light of Covid-19: California’s Underserved Youth and Families
With the data painting an alarming picture of the state of mental health within California, there remain several areas in which data collection must be improved. Primary mental health care information released during the pandemic looks to strategies for managing one's mental health on their own time, and within their own homes. Yet, many of these prescriptions disregard the systemic inequity contributing to populations experiencing far higher Covid death and hospitalization rates, as well as needing more tangible intervention, rather than informal care alone.
December 21, 2020
PolicyImproving Educational Outcomes: Educational Rights Holder Appointment and Responsibilities
This webinar focused on the importance of an active Educational Rights Holder (ERH), and how to ensure they are appointed for each child. Panelists discussed new ERH forms and how they can play a role in ensuring that child welfare, probation, local education agencies, and ERHs can work collaboratively to support the child’s education.
November 4, 2020
events
In Defense of Juveniles: What Delinquency Attorneys Need to Know about Working with and on Behalf of Youth
Juvenile justice is a complex and ever-evolving area of law, policy, and practice. Professionals working with and on behalf of children in delinquency cases require specialized skills, education, and training. Furthermore, children in these cases face potentially severe and enduring consequences as a result of involvement with the juvenile justice system. Juvenile defense attorneys are of critical importance ensuring that juveniles receive the care, treatment, and guidance upon which the juvenile court system is premised.
October 28, 2020
general
Managing Post-Election Stress
A recent Psychiatric Times article titled “Presidential Election Anxiety and the Role of Psychiatry,” by H. Steven Moffic, MD, discussed how the factors that contribute to today’s environmental traumas (e.g., the coronavirus pandemic, the economy, climate instability, physician burnout, an endless war on terrorism, returning to the classroom (or not), and racism, among other societal and personal stressors) can foster election anxiety. An excerpt from his description of election anxiety polls is provided below, detailing the impact on specific populations facing vulnerable circumstances, followed by a resource on how to deal with election stress that may help you and/or your staff address these very real experiences through a trauma-informed lens.
October 22, 2020
events
It's not too late to apply to the NHSC S2S Loan Repayment Program
NHSC S2S LRP applicants may qualify for up to $120,000 in loan repayment for their medical, nursing and dental school student loans. Eligible health professional students in their final year of school receive the award in exchange for a three-year service commitment in a high-need rural, tribal, or urban community. Read the 2021 Application and Program Guidance (PDF-1.2 MB) carefully before you start your application.
October 21, 2020
general
3 Benefits of Utilizing the Trauma-Informed Approach in Health Care Settings
As health care providers become increasingly aware of trauma’s contribution to negative health outcomes, there is a growing consensus of professionals who recognize the importance of utilizing trauma-informed approaches in health care settings.
October 14, 2020
generalReflections of ACEs Awareness from Provider Listening Sessions
Recently, the Catalyst Center hosted regional listening sessions throughout the state of California, convening partners from a variety of sectors such as healthcare, social services, and behavioral health. The listening sessions provided richopportunities for professionals with differing experiences to come together to discuss strengths and barriers of facilitating cross-sector partnerships in the treatment and prevention of ACEs in their communities of practice. The following are three key takeaways from these powerful sessions:
September 25, 2020
eventsUPCOMING CAA WEBINARS
Medi-Cal providers and others are invited to attend free Live online webinars from national experts. FREE 1.0 Credit Hour CME/CE
September 23, 2020
PolicyCALIFORNIA COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT GRANTS PROGRAM
This document provides applicants with information regarding the California Community Reinvestment Grants(CalCRG)program and instructions to access and complete the CalCRG program application. For more information regarding the CalCRG program, please visit www.business.ca.gov/CalCRG. If you have additional questions after reading the Grant Solicitation, please contact the CalCRG team by emailing CalCRG@gobiz.ca.gov or calling (916) 322-2683.
September 14, 2020
COVID19Updated Contact List for COVID-19 Inquiries by County
The California Provider Helpline, a program of CACFS’s Catalyst Center, has been working to support callers on a variety of issues and challenges, including those related to COVID-19. In response to multiple requests, the team has prepared a list of resources, by County, for COVID-19 related inquiries.
September 4, 2020
generalThe Potential Power of Cross-Sector Collaborations to Impact Prevention Outcomes
Systems for Action recently hosted a webinar to introduce a new study-in-progress to test an innovative model for preventing child maltreatment and adverse child experiences (ACEs) by aligning health and social services for vulnerable families in St. Louis.
August 27, 2020
COVID19Practical Guide for Financing Social, Emotional, and Mental Health in Schools
A guide for school district leaders interested in exploring partnerships and accessing Medi-Cal to meet the social, emotional, and mental health needs of students in schools
August 24, 2020
COVID19Overview of the Triumphs and Trials of Care-California’s Foster Youth Amidst COVID-19
With state budget cuts bearing down on numerous sectors in response to the pandemic, many foster youth and providers were left to sit in uncertainty as they awaited the finalized budget that would either provide for or cut programs crucial to their success.
August 24, 2020
COVID19
MHTTC Grief Sensitive Virtual Learning Institute
On behalf of all Mental Health Technology Transfer Centers and the National Coordinating Office, we are pleased to announce that registration is open for the two-part, no-cost MHTTC Grief Sensitive Virtual Learning Institute. In the wake of COVID -19 and the loss and grief experienced by our communities and schools, we are offering a two-part MHTTC Grief Sensitive Virtual Learning Institute to provide grief sensitive approaches, evidence-based practices, tools and strategies for community and school practitioners.
August 14, 2020
events
Psychotherapeutic Art Interventions for Navigating Trauma
PAINT (Psychotherapeutic Art Interventions for Navigating Trauma) • Are you a school-basedmental health provider working with students covered by Medi-Cal? • Do you want to deepen your knowledge of evidence-based, trauma-informed and relationship-centered practices? • Do you want to learn about innovative and engaging art-based interventions that have been adapted for Telehealth delivery?
August 14, 2020
events
Trauma Informed Care When Working with Youth and Families
Trauma Informed Care (TIC) aims to highlight the widespread prevalence and effects of trauma, various pathways to recovery, and consolidate the knowledge of trauma in bringing the best possible collaborative care to patients, families, and staff working in the helping professions.
August 14, 2020
eventsEliminating Inequities in Behavioral Health Care Webinar Series
The target audience for the series includes behavioral health care leadership, administrators and managers, ethnic service managers, peer professionals, clinical supervisors, clinicians/direct care providers, and care managers.
July 23, 2020
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Preliminary Results from University of San Francisco's survey on Foster Youth experience during COVID-19
Preliminary findings from University of San Francisco's Foster Care Research Group on impact of COVID-19 on foster youth.
August 5, 2020
eventsConnecting with Communities: Webinar Series
TCP is hosting a series of webinars with partners to inform and empower California’s children, youth and families on issues that impact their health and well-being.Topics include health coverage & access, youth mental health, back-to-school resources and telehealth.
August 5, 2020
eventsUC Davis Presents: Not Being Racist is no Longer Enough
Human Services at UC Davis is pleased to announce a new webinar series for Human Services leaders and staff as the kickoff to many additional course offerings that support anti-racist and culturally responsive practice in child welfare, eligibility, Wraparound and other Human Services programs. Join us each Friday morning in August from 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. for a new installment in the series.
July 31, 2020
events
California Youth Connection Virtual Town Hall and Special Session
Join CYC for two amazing events as part of the 2020 Summer Leadership Policy Conference (#20SLPC). The #20SLPC Town Hall on Aug 3rd, 2020 2-4pm PST and Special Session on Aug 1st 2020 11am-1pm PST
July 28, 2020
events
Join School Health Providers & Youth August 5 for a Morning of Advocacy
Join California School-Based Health Alliance for a day of advocacy on Wednesday, August 5.
July 28, 2020
events
Monthly Healing the Nation webinar presented by Well Being Trust
Webinar focused on mental health using the policy framework outlined in Healing the Nation. Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at 12:30 PM PST.
July 28, 2020
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Panel Discussion on Mental Health Access and the Safety Net
Panel on mental health access presented by State of Reform. Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 12:00 PM.
July 21, 2020
events
Partnerships to Advance Trauma-Informed Communities
The Catalyst embarks on a yearlong systems change initiative, working to raise the capacity of providers and the agencies that structure their supports to collectively Advance Trauma-Informed Communities.
July 7, 2020
events
Webinar for Caregivers: RFA Policies and Foster Youth Rights
Webinar for caregivers presented by CDSS. Free and open to all caregivers and those who work with caregivers.
July 1, 2020
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Webinar presented by John Burton Advocates for Youth
"Combating Summer Melt Amid a Pandemic" webinar presented by John Burton Advocates for Youth on July 16.
June 30, 2020
events
School Mental Health Webinar presented by MHTTC
Free webinar on School Mental Health presented by MHTTC.
June 30, 2020
Resource
Behavioral Health Telehealth funding opportunity presented by DHCS
Behavioral health telehealth funding opportunity for nonprofit substance use disorder and mental health providers (eligible providers only). Applications due by Monday, August 3 at 1 p.m.
June 18, 2020
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The Catalyst Center awarded $388,500 ACEs Aware Grant
The Catalyst Center awarded $388,500 ACEs Aware Grant! Read the full story.
June 18, 2020
events
Webinar Opportunity with Building Movement Project: Race to Lead Revisited
Webinar with Building Movement Project on Race to Lead Revisited report. Tuesday, June 30 at 12:00 PM PST.
June 15, 2020
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Rural Mental Health Webinar Led by The Harvard Education Redesign Lab
Webinar hosted by The Harvard Education Redesign Lab about the effects of poverty on social mobility in rural communities.
June 2, 2020
Resource
Anti Police-Terror Project Sacramento launches MH First
APTP Sacramento launches MH First, a non-police response to mental health crisis.
June 2, 2020
Resource
Upcoming Webinars from California School-Based Health Alliance
California School-Based Health Alliance has created a series of webinars to help guide the transition to telehealth services. Recordings and presentations of past webinars in the series are also available.
May 29, 2020
COVID19
Live Webinar with leaders from the Governor's Office
Recording now available! Free webinar with CalNonprofits and leader's from Governor Newsom's Administration about reopening guidelines, IBank loans, and other resources for nonprofits on Wednesday, 6/3 at 11:00 AM PST.
May 20, 2020
events
Webinar/Open Forum on Navigating Unique Work Environments during COVID-19
Join Seneca Family of Agencies for a Webinar and Open Forum on working safely with youth and families during COVID-19 on Thursday, May 21 from 10:30 to 11:30 AM.
May 20, 2020
events
Student Support Circle hosted by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and California Department of Education
Join State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and the California Department of Education for their first Student Support Circle on Thursday, May 21 from 3:00 to 4:30 pm.
May 15, 2020
Policy
COVID-Induced Budget Cuts Place Vulnerable Children at Even Greater Risk
The California Alliance of Child and Family Services released a statement in response to Governor Newsom's May Revise budget.
May 13, 2020
COVID19
FEMA Funding for private nonprofits
The Governor's Office of Emergency Services has released the schedule of Applicants' Briefings for Private Non-Profits from all counties beginning Wednesday, May 13. Potential applicants for FEMA-4482-DR-CA are encouraged to attend the Applicants' Briefings.
May 8, 2020
Resource
The Psychological Impact of COVID-19
Uplift Family Services, a comprehensive behavioral health organization serving children and families across California, publishes a white paper on The Psychological Impacts of COVID-19: Behavioral Health's Vital Role in Response and Recovery.
April 29, 2020
Resource
COVID-19 Family Resource Center Relief Fund
Family Resource Centers can start their application today to receive COVID-19 Family Resource Center Relief Funds!
April 15, 2020
COVID19
COVID Relief Fund Advocacy
California Alliance continues to advocate with our partner associations in order to get $100M included in the AB89 COVID19 Relief Fund.
April 10, 2020
COVID19
Need for STRTP Stability
The Alliance has submitted an urgent request for funding to maintain stability for our STRTPs during the COVID19 pandemic to the Department of Social Services.
