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Daniel Memorial Institute Proudly Celebrates 21 Years
of Excellence!

"Growing Pains 2008"
September 3-6, 2008, Daniel Memorial will host the 21st Annual National Independent Living Conference in Orlando, FL. This year's conference will be held at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in the majestic city of Orlando, Florida - Just minutes from WALT DISNEY WORLD®!

Adults and youth are encouraged to apply to present workshops at this conference. If you are interested in the issues surrounding independent living and today's youth, this conference is for you!

For more information, call or e-mail Stephanie Waugerman, Conference Coordinator at (904) 296-1055 x:1013 or For more information, call or e-mail Stephanie Waugerman, Conference Coordinator at (904) 296-1055 x:1013 or swaugerman@danielkids.org

Click here for more upcoming events.
 
   

 

The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2008 KIDS COUNT Data Book is now available! National trends in child well-being have improved slightly since 2000, according to the 19th annual KIDS COUNT Data Book, but these trends are not on par with the improvements that were seen at the end of the 1990s. The annual Data Book is a national and state-by-state profile of the well-being of America’s children that seeks to enrich discussions concerning ways to secure better futures for all kids. The Data Book ranks states on 10 key measures and provides data on the economic, health, education, and social conditions of America’s children and families. This year, the KIDS COUNT Data Book essay, “A Road Map for Juvenile Justice Reform,” looks at the nearly 100,000 children confined to juvenile facilities on any given night in the United States, and what can be done to reduce unnecessary and inappropriate detention and incarceration and increase opportunities for positive youth development and community safety. The 2008 KIDS COUNT Data Book materials can be accessed and downloaded by visiting:

* Read the 2008 Data Book essay, A Roadmap for Juvenile Justice Reform

* Learn about Casey's Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative, a national movement that has strengthened juvenile justice systems, made communities safer, helped give youth brighter futures, and saved tax dollars since 1992

* Download Casey's resources on juvenile justice, including research reports and practice guides


 
 

 
 
 

 
 
Join NILA for FREE! That's right, you can now join NILA for free. Don't miss this great opportunity to join NILA at no cost. NILA is a grassroots organization that is committed to enhancing the futures of young people by promoting quality services for our most vulnerable and valuable population . . . its youth. Click on the "Join NILA" tab to join now..

Click here for more information about NILA.


 
 
 
 

The purpose of NILA is to provide a national network for sharing information from a grassroots level.

We provide technical assistance, youth advocacy, and support mechanisms to assist professionals working with foster care and promising youth who are making the transition into adulthood.

 
     
 
spotlight


 
   
 

Cathy Turner
Independent Living Coordinator for Project Prepare
Daniel Memorial, Inc.
Jacksonville FL.


Cathy Turner has worked for Daniel Memorial for over 19 years. She is currently the I.L Coordinator for Project Prepare. Project Prepare is an independent living program serving homeless youth, ages 16-21. Services consist of a three to six month residency at the Independent Village, mental health counseling, independent living skills instruction, and up to two years of case management. The goal of the program is to transition each youth from a state of homelessness to that of economic independence.
Cathy is an illustration of effective youth care work. She is creative and responsive to the needs of the young people and families she works with. Cathy is always looking for opportunities to promote insight and learning. She is a strong advocate for young people and families, and builds positive relationships with them. Many young people that Cathy has worked with still maintain contact with her years after leaving the program. Here are some comments from her past clients:

Her outgoing and compassionate nature is an immediate attraction.

She’s a fabulous person who really understands and cares.

Cathy is very understanding, supportive, and a great role model!

Cathy’s ability to problem solve crisis situations, her energy and willingness to be a team player and her human touch makes her an invaluable asset to us and all the youth she has touched over the years.


Thanks Cathy,
for helping our most vulnerable
and valuable population . . .
its youth.

Their tomorrow will be
better because of you!

 
     
Telephone: (904) 296-1038    E-mail: info@nilausa.org
 
       
 
 
 

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