Kathy Murch | Nicci Ferguson
My blogs
| Industry | Non-Profit |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Birdies 4 Babies Team Members |
| Location | Bend, OR, United States |
| Introduction | MountainStar Family Relief Nursery (“MountainStar”) provides crisis intervention and a therapeutic classroom for babies and young children aged 6 weeks to 4 years old. These children come from families with multiple risk factors for child abuse and neglect, including low income, substance abuse, homelessness, mental health issues and domestic violence. While one risk factor alone can create high stress environments, our families experience an average of 20 of these risk factors. MountainStar’s Safety Net Program networks with multiple agencies to provide a comprehensive support system for over 275 children and families each year. We support parents’ efforts to provide a loving home and solid foundation for growth and development. MountainStar teachers and volunteers work one-on-one with over 70 children in our Healing Children Program, a “therapeutic classroom” where we address each child’s social, physical and emotional needs. In recognition of our significant contributions to the community as a nonprofit organization, in March 2006 MountainStar was named the first ever “Organization of the Year” by the Bend Chamber of Commerce. |