Bridges aren’t built overnight, but you have to start somewhere.
A gathering Wednesday, April 30, in Glens Falls brought organizations from around the region together with the goal of improving communication among Warren County organizations who work with children, an effort to make connections between social services, school districts, and probation officials and preventive services, along with the non-profits that assist them.
The result was a day-long event at Cool Insuring Arena that helped 50 professionals who are dedicated to the well-being of local children learn more about the roles of others, and open lines of communication.
Dubbed "Building Bridges," the second annual event included a panel discussion, informational tables, networking sessions and more. It was organized by Glens Falls School District, BOCES, WAIT House, Warren County Youth Bureau and Warren County Department of Social Services.
Susan McManus of Adirondack Employee Assistance Program offered information about dealing with the stress of child-related work, while Jason McLaughlin, of WAIT House, a Glens Falls organization that provides invaluable serves to homeless youth, was the panel moderator.
“It’s all about communicating and understanding each other’s roles. At the end of the day, we all have the same goal,” explained Tammy Breen, Warren County Department of Social Services Director of Services.
Participants also took part in the annual “Walk a Mile for Every Child” walk through Glens Falls on Wednesday to culminate Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Cool Insuring Arena donated the use of Heritage Hall, while BOCES CTE program donated lunch for the attendees.