Earlier this month, 80 supporters of our Healthy Start Program, which supports first time parents, gathered at Calvary United Methodist Church in Normal to enjoy an evening of food, fellowship, and literacy. These parents and little ones are working hard, together with our early childhood development experts, in their homes to ensure that their babies and toddlers are getting what they need. One thing every family needs in the home is books. Reading to a child is a wonderful way to bond and to form a foundation for learning. A big "thank you" to Krista Gaff and all our friends at Normal Calvary United Methodist Church for helping our young families celebrate literacy together!

The Baby Fold Staff had the pleasure of welcoming back two boys (now young men) who lived in our Residential Treatment Center and attended Hammitt School. We were all surprised at the clarity of their memories of the time they spent at The Baby Fold. They shared stories of how the staff made them feel safe and loved- even when their behaviors might have been difficult. What a joy to see that Lamont, has kept the Life Books that we created with him, and has continued to place pictures and comments in scrap books to this day. "My books help me remember the good times," Lamont told us. Brandon, now taller than anyone in the room, is shy. He simply smiles when we talk about his time at The Baby Fold. "I know I was trouble," he said, with a giggle. Today, both Lamont and Brandon live in group homes and have jobs. We are so proud of them! 

Did you know that you can support The Baby Fold while you shop on Amazon this holiday season? By using the Amazon Smile link below, you will have the same great Amazon shopping experience and they will donate a percentage of your purchase back to us. Simply click on the link below and sign on to your Amazon account as usual. You click, you shop, and they give!
https://smile.amazon.com/ch/37-0673453

Rebecca Kinsey is a Baby Fold social worker, who is embedded in Fairview Elementary School to assist at-risk families. Recently, she wrote a letter to The White House hoping to receive a word of encouragement from the President to her students. President Obama did not disappoint. Click here to read the letter he wrote and the pictures he sent to our kids!

Get ready, get set, snow! The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees is fast approaching. Mark your calendars for holiday fun at The Interstate Center in Bloomington. Bring your family and friends to enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas. Enjoy dozens of beautifully decorated trees, wreathes, centerpieces, and more! Everything you see will be up for silent auction bid, or if you fall in love with a piece, you can guarantee that you get it by paying the "angel price." You can also do some holiday shopping in our gift shop and vendor booths. And all proceeds go to support the excellent programs and services of The Baby Fold. So come, have a great time and help The Baby Fold make a difference in our community!
For all the details and to purchase advance tickets (they're at a discount) visit The Festival of Trees website. Just click here.

Thursday, November 17 Sneak Peek Event 6:00 p.m-9:00 p.m.
Friday, November 18 Senior Day 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. and
Avanti's Family Night 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 19 Breakfast with Santa and Julie K 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Festival is open to all from 9:00 am- 8:00 pm.
Sunday Worship Among the Trees with HOPE United Methodist Church 10:00 a.m. Festival hours are 9:00 am- 4:00 pm.
 

Alissa Calandra is not new to The Baby Fold. She has been  a recognized leader in the care of our residential children for many years. Alissa continues her vocation at The Baby Fold as our new Director of Residential Services. Alissa has been the Assistant Director for the past 8 years and knows every aspect of the job. She began her career here on the front lines as a residential specialist in 1999. We are blessed to have Alissa bring her years of expertise to the leadership level.