Summer is in full swing and the lazy, slower-paced days of the season seem to be elusive here at Safer. There has been a whirlwind of activity. That's a good sign, because it means that individuals who benefit from our services are being assisted each and every day. In this edition, you will read about some of these individuals as we share their stories as well as other exciting news and updates.
 
In April, we welcomed Quincy Davis as the new coordinator for our IMPACT Program. Quincy's leadership will help the program move forward while we strive to redirect troubled youth down more productive paths.
 
We had much to celebrate these past months, including staff who achieved both graduate and undergraduate degrees, clients who successfully completed programming, and a collaborative grant award that allowed Safer staff (as well as four other partner agencies) to participate in Aggression Replacement Training, a group approach that has shown a high degree of success with its adolescent participants. 

 

 

An event to showcase the artistic talents of our young people was held in June. We also took time to recognize our wonderful volunteers, employers and Safer advisory board members this past spring, all of whom support and enrich Safer's programming. We also made time to come together as team members to applaud the many achievements of the past fiscal year. We are fortunate to have a committed, compassionate and caring group of coworkers to carry forth Safer's mission. As one client commented on a recent satisfaction survey, "My experience with the Safer Foundation and its staff was positive. They treated me as if I was a family member."
 
 A special thanks to our dedicated staff whose encouragement and support make all the difference in the lives of our clients.

We are Safer! We are family!!
On June 6, Safer Foundation's Youth Empowerment and IMPACT Programs hosted a fundraiser at the Center that drew dozens of community supporters. Attendees admired and purchased handmade arts and crafts created by our youth. In conjunction with the art sale, a delicious chicken dinner was available for a $5 donation.
 Though all of the pieces of art were showcased, the main attraction was clearly the collaborative art book filled with writings and drawings. Containing poignant glimpses of our students' experiences, hopes and dreams, the book is a moving depiction of their lives told in their own words. Copies may still be purchased at the Davenport YEP site for $10 by calling 563-322-7002. Please help support our youth with a purchase of a book.
Click here to see attendees enjoying artwork and having dinner. In center, Elijah (IMPACT Program) is holding the artbook with the cover he designed.) 
Safer's youth programs both had the opportunity to make trips to Niabi Zoo in June. Youth were all smiles as they toured the grounds, posed for pictures, and watched for their favorite animals. The beautiful spring weather enticed the animals out of their shelters so there was plenty to see and do.
Read more
Safer's QC Advisory Board Recognized
 
Safer QC is fortunate to have the support of fourteen dedicated advisory board members who offer their guidance and insight throughout the year on a multitude of issues. A great deal of time is spent attending meetings, assisting with fundraisers, and acting as Safer ambassadors in the community. Several members also regularly attend completion ceremonies or other events recognizing Safer's clients. Members are generous with both their time and financial resources to help advance the mission of the organization. Special thanks to this wonderful group of individuals who give so much of themselves and their time and talents.
Tony Lowery, Director Public Policy Safer Foundation

Reducing recidivism is a monumental task. In order to make headway on this endeavor, Safer Foundation formed the Council of Advisors to Reduce Recidivism through Employment (CARRE) in 2001. CARRE represents a unique opportunity for community partners to work with policy advocates, employers and legislators to develop and implement strategies to reduce barriers to employment and encourage successful reentry. Read More
 
We are pleased to announce the 2016 Safer Foundation Quad Cities Craft & Vendor Fair Fundraiser!

Bring your friends, family and neighbors to shop at more than 45 craft and vendor booths! Come hungry - the concession stand will be open for lunch and baked goods will be available for purchase as well.

*All proceeds will go to help support QC Safer programs.*

If you are interested in being a vendor/crafter or for more information please call 563-322-7002. You may email: Jennifer.Boyd@saferfoundation.org or Janece.Hicks2@saferfoundation.org  to request an application. Please make sure to list Safer Foundation Craft & Vendor Fair in the subject line.
 
Volunteers at the Heart of Safer 
 
Safer expressed appreciation to its volunteers at a luncheon held May 16 at the Center in Davenport. A short program honored the volunteers and thanked them for their various contributions throughout the years.
 
In attendance were community members and Davenport Noon Optimists members, who assist with the organization's annual Safer Sacks fundraiser; various speakers who regularly share valuable information with our youth programs; advisory board members, who tirelessly give of their time and talents; and area students who have completed academic internships with Safer. Volunteers were served lunch by students from the Youth Empowerment Program and celebrated with cake. 
 
Each volunteer was given a gift card to Whiteys to enjoy as the weather turns warmer. Special thanks to our very special volunteers!!
      
 "Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." ~ Elizabeth Andrew
 

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