Elmcrest Children's Center

The Ideas of March Character building is immersed in the care plan of each child who comes to Elmcrest. Every month, a few new character traits are encouraged in every aspect of their day-to-day living, even as part of the school curriculum. This month, the emphasis is on these four strengths: Enthusiasm, Social Intelligence, Love of Learning, and Humor. Everyone at Elmcrest, staff and children, are encouraged to find ways to assimilate these traits into their lives.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion The Board and Staff at Elmcrest are engaged in a process to ensure that all stakeholders are heard, valued, and equally represented in every aspect of the Agency. Elmcrest has engaged the services of Gwen Inc., leadership development consultants, to help guide this process. Gwen Webber-McLeod and associates work with Elmcrest teams facilitating the discussions and guiding the work of combined Board and Staff Committees. The shared purpose of this initiative is, Using one clear voice, build a culture of inclusion, belonging and equal opportunity by fighting racism and other biases. Currently, leadership staff are developing goals and strategies that, when woven into the fabric of the Center, will result in making our shared purpose a reality and enhancing the work we do with our children and families.

More than 30 children Elmcrest serves brought to life a Living Museum to celebrate Black History Month. After doing extensive research, they portrayed their heroes so others could learn about their importance. Read the full story: https://elmcrest.org/celebrating-black-history/

February is Heart Month, and the children at Elmcrest dedicated their talents to that theme. They created these colorful stained-glass pieces of art that brightened many a window in the cottages on campus. To add to their Valentine enjoyment, they each received a goodie bag filled with candy, Pokémon trading cards, pencils, and a Valentine card. These treats originated from a wish of Giada, a 5th grader at Woodland Elementary School. She wanted to do something for the children at Elmcrest. Her teacher, Mrs. Greabell helped the class to assemble 60 bags with all these delightful treats. The boys and girls who enjoyed these goodies all signed a Valentine thank-you that was delivered to the generous class at Woodland school. Thanks to allfrom the heart.