We are thrilled to share the exciting highlights from our recent Parent/Family Partner orientation event, where Parent/Family Partners and youth leaders came together to kick off our 2024 recruitment efforts for the Parent Engagement Collaborative Action Network (PECAN).
Peer-to-Peer Recruitment
We’re excited to announce the launch of our peer-to-peer recruitment campaign, led by our esteemed PECAN Ambassador, Monica Graham, alongside her dedicated Parent/Family Partner support team, Toyin Anderson and Gail Berkes. Their efforts have been instrumental in spreading the word by conducting telephone conversations similar to that of an interview, sending emails and extending calendar invites and inviting community members to join us in this important work.
Teambuilding and Connection
We kicked off the orientation with a lively team building exercise of speed-friending, providing an opportunity for attendees to forge meaningful connections quickly through a series of quirky, personal questions about themselves. This activity exemplifies our commitment to fostering a strong community through collective impact. We know that relationships are built at the speed of trust
In-Person Orientation Success
Our in-person orientation was a tremendous success. We had a fantastic turnout of community members eager to learn more about PECAN, the role of a Parent/Family Partner and the ability to join one of ROC the Future Alliance’s workgroups earning $40/hr. for their lived-experience and perspectives. We provided childcare services offered by Marvelous Minds, delicious food, and transportation, ensuring that all barriers to participation were eliminated.
Youth Leader Contributions
Our youth and young adult leaders played a crucial role in the orientation, serving as front door greeters, assisting with registration, and guiding parents to designated childcare areas. They also led segments like our “Shout Out” segment, recognizing moments of joy and positivity throughout the event and Voices of Impact, video testimonials capturing powerful reflections from community members, sharing their diverse experiences, insights, and perspectives. These interviews serve as a testament to the strength and diversity of our community. Our youth are compensated $15/ hr. for their hard work.
Congratulations to our youth & young adult leaders:
1. Na’Zyria Miller
2. Ja’Yonna Anderson
3. Cayden Bharath
4. Sergio Barton
5. Nazareth Miller
6. Malachi Chioslm
7. Nhaziah Bedell- Scott
8. TaLeah Chandler
9. Meseret “Mezzi” Elko
Bingo Winner and Fun Facts
Congratulations to our Bingo winner, Tiffany, who impressed us all with her knowledge of ROC the Future Alliance and Parent/Family Partner trivia! As a reward, she received exclusive ROC the Future Alliance merchandise, including a t-shirt and foldable water bottle.
StriveTogether
As a result of our tremendous work over the last few years, StriveTogether reached out to us to inform a new course they are developing on the Training Hub. Their course will walk participants through the importance of authentic engagement, foundational skills needed for engagement, and steps to build effective relationships. They want to showcase network members doing great work in this area. The session is being held virtually on June 10 from 3:00-4:30pn ET.