PRINT THIS CALENDAR (PDF)

HOTLINES
FAMILY SUPPORT, EDUCATION & WORKSHOPS
 WEEKLY playgroups
WEEKLY STORYTIMES
WEEKLY – FAMILY SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES
BI-WEEKLY– FAMILY SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES
MONTHLY: Workshops for Parents who are Divorcing, Separating or Living Apart
MONTHLY– Family Support Opportunities
Continuing Education, Courses & Resources
Support Groups and Resources available on-line
On-Line Education, Courses & Resources
F R E E SELF-STUDY OPPORTUNITIES at the HANCOCK COUNTY CHILDREN’S COUNCIL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

FAMILY SUPPORT, EDUCATION & WORKSHOPS

MAY is:

• National Women’s Health Month. Downeast Health Services Family Planning Staff urge women to celebrate and reconnect to their health. Clinics in Calais, Machias and Ellsworth are offering FREE exams and pap smears during the month of May to any woman who has NO health insurance, who hasn’t had an exam or pap in the last two years and who isn’t already a client. FMI, call 1-800-492-5550
• Have MaineCare? Maine’s Family Planning providers are here for you! Call 1-877-326-2345 for the health center nearest you. Or visit www.mainefamilyplanning.org
• National Foster Care Month – see www.fostercaremonth.org or www.casey.org FMI
• Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month – see www.aanma.org FMI
• Clean Air Month – see www.lungusa.org FMI.
• Hepatitis Awareness Month – see www.hepfi.org FMI.
• National Arthritis Month – see www.arthritis.org FMI.
• National Mental Health Month – see www.nmha.org FMI.
• National Physical Fitness and Sports Month – see www.fitness.gov FMI.
• National Teen Pregnancy Prevention Month – see the following sites: www.advocatesforyouth.org & www.teenpregnancy.org FMI.
• May 6-12: National Nurse’s Week – see www.nursingworld.org FMI.
• May 11th: Mother’s Day – THANK YOU to ALL Mom’s on this special day!
• May 11-17: Women’s Health Week – see www.4woman.gov/whw/
• May 19-June 1st: “Click it or Ticket Week” – see www.buckleupamerica.org FMI
• May 28th is National Senior Health & Fitness Day – see www.fitnessday.com FMI

5.02.08 Blue Hill 7:00pm:

“The Trial” and “Bloqueo”, 5th in the Cuba Today film series to be presented at Blue Hill Library. Refreshments, art & literature will be available. FMI, call 326-4405.

5.03.08 Machias 9:00am-4:00pm:

FREE Childbirth Class at Downeast Community Hospital. FMI and to register, please call Jane at 255-0438.

5.03.08 Blue Hill 9:00am-11:00am:

“Helping Children Cope with Stress and Feelings While Nurturing Ourselves at the Same Time” workshop for parents, teachers & caregivers with Nancy Hathaway, M.Ed. $20 (no one turned away for lack of funds). Call 664-6181 to register or FMI.

5.03.08: Washington County:

3rd Annual Downeast Adventure Race: 12.3 miles Mountain Biking, 3.6 miles Whitewater Canoeing, 2.3 miles Running, and 2.9 miles Sea Kayaking for Teams, Relay and Individuals. $80 fee per team, includes t-shirts. FMI, Course Map and registration: www.downeastadventurerace.org

May 4th-May 10th 2008:

Children’s Mental Health Week – FMI, contact G.E.A.R. Parent Network Statewide toll free at 1-800-264-9224.

5.04.08: Orono

“Great Maine Bike Swap” at University of Maine Student Recreation & Fitness Center, Orono – FMI, www.bikemaine.org

5.04.08: Winter Harbor:

“Realm of the Lobster” combines extraordinary one-of-a-kind footage and spectacular vistas to reveal the rich variety of marine life in “Lobster and Scallop Fishing in Penobscot Bay” with Niles Parker, Penobscot Marine Museum. FMI, contact Mary Laury, 963-2569

5.06.08 Southwest Harbor 6:00pm-8:00pm (2 days, continued on 5.13.08):

Introduction to American Sign Language for Providers #2 with Mary Ellen Martel at Harbor House in Southwest Harbor. Students will learn and practice more signs, games and simple conversations which can be used with young children every day. Intro to ASL #1 is a prerequisite. FMI, call Joy at 1-800-834-4378.

5.07.08: Portland 8:00am-3:30pm:

The Built Environment and Physical Activity workshop at Eastland Hotel, Portland. FMI: www.healthymainepartnerships.org/panp

5.08.08: Augusta 8:00am-4:30pm

MANP Annual Conference “Nonprofit Leadership: Dynamic Practices for High Impact” at the Augusta Civic Center. FMI – www.nonprofitmaine.org

5.09-11.08: Bar Harbor (3 days):

“Speaking Peace in a World of Conflict”, a training with Peggy Smith in nonviolent communication at St. Saviour’s Church, Bar Harbor. Friday (5.09.08) 7-9pm is an open introduction at no charge with an option to enroll for the complete workshop on Saturday & Sunday. $100 workshop fee with scholarships available. FMI, call Peggy Smith at 789-4299 or email peggy@MaineNVCnetwork.org.  You may also contact Nan Miller at 244-7145.

5.09.08 Lewiston 8:00am-4:00pm:

21st Annual Conference of the Maine Association for Infant Mental Health presents “Responding to Children and Families Impacted by Trauma” with Patricia Van Horn, J.D., Ph.D. at the Ramada Conference Center, Lewiston. FMI, call Debra Nugent Johnston at 375-8184. $125 fee by 5/2/08.

5.10.08 Blue Hill 10am-noon:

“Boot Camp for New Dads” (for expectant Dads) at Blue Hill Memorial Hospital. FMI and to register for FREE session, call Cathy at 667-5304, ext 225 or email: cjacobs@downeasthealth.org.

5.13.08 Brewer 8:00am-3:45pm

“Why the Future Matters Now” – maximizing returns by investing in the Families and Children of Maine – a targeted one-day conference for business and community members. FMI, contact lforstadt@umext.maine.edu or phone 581-3445. $30 registration due by April 14th.

5.13.08 Augusta:

“Maine Immunization Conference: Immunizations: Considering the Past, Embracing the Future” at the Augusta Civic Center, Augusta, ME. FMI, http://www.neias.org/SATAdcal.html

5.13.08: Portland:

8th Annual “Boys To Men Conference” at University of Maine’s Portland Campus. The conference will explore the cultural images of masculinity through a variety of exciting workshops, dynamic theater performances and informational panels.

5.13.08 Belfast 6:00pm-8:00pm:

“The World of Tantrums: A Discussion About Why They Happen and What To Do” presented by G.E.A.R. Parent Network and Broadreach Family & Community Services at Capt. Albert Stevens School Library, Elementary Lane, Belfast. Mike Mithcell, LCSW Crisis & Counseling Centers will talk about the various reasons behind many of the big blow-ups and practical ways to manage these situations. FMI, contact Cindy Seekins at 1-800-264-9224.

2008 PLANT A ROW: Would you like to grow some extra fresh produce to donate to our neighbors in need? FMI, contact the University of Maine Cooperative Extension at 667-8212 before May 30th. Gardeners who sign up can receive some free flower & vegetable seeds & a series of helpful educational newsletters.

5.15.08 Ellsworth, Machias & Calais:

2nd Annual Women’s Health Fair at Downeast Health Services

5.15.08 Bar Harbor 10:30am-11:30am (3 days, continued 5.22 & 5.29):

“Learn to Massage Your Baby” for parents and infants aged one-month to pre-crawling, with Karel Weissberg, Island Baby, 1221 State Highway 102, Town Hill. Infant massage is an ancient parenting tradition that has been discovered and adapted to our modern world. Clinic evidence has shown that this type of loving, nurturing contact has a positive impact upon the infant’s subsequent growth and development. Bring to class: your baby, a baby blanket, and a couple of toys. $40 (sliding fee scale available). To register & FMI, call Karel at 244-3168.

5.15.08 WERU-FM, 89.9: 10-11am

“Baby Talk” with Cathy Jacobs, Parents Are Teacher Too. . Archived programs and streaming online at www.WERU.org

5.15.08 Calais 8:00am-2:00pm:

“Mission Transition” at Washington County Community College, Calais. Break out workshops will include: employer panel, real games, 411 disability disclosure/self advocacy, teen safety, drug & alcohol awareness, wage equity & girls in trade. Free lunch. FMI & registration 1-877-963-2588.

5.16.08 Bangor 9:00am-4:00pm

“Understanding Risk & Fostering Resilience in Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, & Questioning Youth” at the Spectacular Event Center, Bangor. $55 fee, no charge for consumers who are members of Penobscot County Dual Diagnosis. FMI, http://www.neias.org/SATAdcal

5.17.08: Ellsworth: 9:00am-12noon:

Downeast Health Services presents the 2nd Annual Early Childhood Fair at Knowlton School, 160 Main Street, Ellsworth. The Early Childhood Fair is a fun, hands-on way for children 0-5 and their families to play together while learning about school readiness, area resources, and other topics pertaing to early childhood. FREE, music, prizes and giveaways. FMI, call Anitra at 667-5304 ext. 257 or email alaroche@downeasthealth.org

5.18.08: Winter Harbor:

Video Highlights from the 2007 Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium presented by Jesse Salisbury, Richard Kane & Jane Weil. FMI, contact Mary Laury, 963-2569

5.20.08 Bangor 6:00pm-8:00pm:

“Positive Behavioral Supports” by Mike Mitchell, LCSW, Crisis & Counseling Centers, Inc. at Wings for Children & Families, 900 Hammond St., Bangor. To register, call 1-800-9224 or www.gearparentnetwork.com

5.22.08: Machias 8:00am-3:00pm:

“Thinking Outside the Box: Strengths-based Strategies for Working with Children with Challenging Behavior” with Marjorie Withers at the University of Maine, Kilburn Commons, Machias. Space is limited. FMI, contact Jackie Stanley, Maine Parent Federation, 1-877-963-2588 or email: bammy2@verizon.net

5.23.08 Ellsworth 9:00am-3:00pm:

“Autism Spectrum Disorders Training” Presented by: Margaret Fernald, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist, at KidsPeace Office, 125 Oak Street, Ellsworth. $45.00 fee; please contact the Staff Development Office at 664-1216 or by emailing tgallant@kidspeace.org to register.

5.23.08 Ellsworth 10:30am-12noon:

“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” with guest speaker, Renee Taplin, LCSW, at KidsPeace, 16 KidsPeace Way, Ellsworth. Presented collaboratively with G.E.A.R. Parent Network and KidsPeace, workshops are free to all parents/guardians of children with emotional and behavioral health needs. To register, call 1-800-264-9224.

5.27.08 Ellsworth 6:00pm-10:00pm:

“Basic Water Safety Training at Child & Family Opportunities, Ellsworth. $50 per person, this course is designed for child care providers or any individual taking care of persons on or around a body of water. 3 year certificate from State of Maine, DHHS. FMI, call Joy at 1-800-834-4378.

5.27.08 Surry 4:30pm:

“Introduction to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction” offered by Nancy Hathaway at no charge. FMI, call Nancy at 664-6181. Office: 541 Morgan Bay Rd., Surry, ME.

5.29.08 Belfast:

Initial Team Traning / Team Renewal Training at Hutchinson Center, Belfast. FMI, contact Jackie Stanley, Maine Parent Federation, 1-877-963-2588 or email: bammy2@verizon.net - To register Call Nancy Drake, Maine Department of Education Student Assistance Team Unit Trainer at 255-3625.

5.29.08 Augusta 8:00am-4:00pm

Maine 2008 LGBTI Health Summit at Augusta Civic Center. Through a variety of work sessions, the summit will provide an opportunity for state and local health officials, members of the LGBTI community, community advocates, and state policy makers to meet and strategize ways to increase awareness of health disparities and the collection of health data on the LGBTI community as well as increase self-advocacy in consumers. FMI: http://www.neias.org/mecdc/lgbti08.html

5.30.08 Ellsworth 9:00am-3:30pm (2 days-continued on 6.06.08):

“Wraparound: Creating New Options for Children & Families” training by Marjorie Withers at St. Andrew Lutheran Church, Ellsworth. $20 fee. Register with Cathy Jacobs. Email cjacobs@downeasthealth.org with “wraparound” in subject line. FMI, call Cathy at 667-5304 ext. 255.

5.30.08 Winter Harbor 7:30pm:

Last Friday Coffeehouse presents Gray Cox at Hammond Hall, 427 Main Street, Winter Harbor. $10.00 suggested donation Kids under 12 FREE! Doors open 6:30, Great food! - Kids under 12 free! For more info, call 963-7670 or 963-2569 – www.schoodicarts.org

JUNE is:

• Celebrate National Family Month
  • Build Trust: Strong families build trusting relations by following through with promises.
  • Show Commitment: Strong families feel like a team. They share traditions like having a family picnic on the Fourth of July or taking walks together after dinner. Family members show commitment to the family by making time for family events and making sacrifices for one another.
  • Communicate: Members of strong families talk to one another about important decisions and daily plans. They discuss feelings as well as day-to-day activities at school or work. When there are conflicts, strong families take time to cool down before responding. They don’t bottle up their anger or let it get out of hand. They talk about possible solutions to problems and work together to carry out the best solution.
  • Grow Through Crises: All families experience crises. Strong families use these experiences to learn and grow. They know even bad experiences can bring about good changes and help them to become closer. They admit problems instead of hiding them. They seek help when needed.
  • Spend Time Together: Strong families spend time together, talking, reading, playing games, taking walks, cooking. Some special times involve closeness, like reading a good-night story and tucking children into bed with a kiss.
  • Have Fun as a Family: Strong families know that having fun is important and make plans to have fun together. They plan family trips or parties. Strong families know that laughter is important and use humor to help reduce stress. Family members laugh with one another, not at one another.
  • Show Love and Affection: No matter what children say or do, they need to know that their parents love them. Strong families show caring in many ways. Family members say to each other, “I love you” or “I’m happy we’re in this family together.” They give hugs and show affection in other small ways. They may call each other nicknames and enjoy remembering family stories.
• National Safety Month – see www.nsc.org or FMI
• June 1st is STAND FOR CHILDREN DAY – see www.stand.org FMI
• June 9-15 is National Men’s Health Week – see www.menshealthweek.org FMI
• June 15th is FATHER’S DAY – THANK YOU to ALL Dad’s on this special day!

6.03.08 Surry 4:30pm-6:30pm:

“8 week Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR)” offered by Nancy Hathaway at 541 Morgan Bay Rd., Surry, ME. FMI, call Nancy at 664-6181. $275 includes workbook.

6.04.08 Southwest Harbor 1:00pm-2:30pm:

MDI Early Childhood Task Force meeting at the Harbor House Children’s Center in Southwest Harbor. FMI, contact Doug Michael at doug@healthyacadia.org

6.07.08 Ellsworth to Milbridge:

“Downeast Spokes for Folks” bike ride. The route will begin in Ellsworth. Cyclists will travel along part of the coastal Schoodic Scenic Byway almost to the town of Steuben and return to Ellsworth. This event has been designed for cyclists of every level. You will have the option of completing a 12, 30, or 50 mile ride. Children, ages 10 and up, are welcome to participate under the supervision of an adult.Don't Wait! Register today at www.downeasthealth.org or by calling (207) 667-5304 ext. 224.

6.07-09.08 Winter Harbor (7pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Sunday)

“Children’s Variety Show” at Hammond Hall. If you sing, dance, tell jokes, read poetry, play an instrument or do a back flip and consider yourself a child, contact Angela Alley at 963.2015. Help raise money for the new stage at the Peninsula School - Sponsored by Reach for Excellence Campaign, Prospect Harbor.

6.08.08-6.09.08 Portland 2 days:

“Strategizing the Link” Helping Communities and Policy Makers Stop The Violence Against People and Pets - a National Town Meeting on advancing public policy and community coalitions will be presented by The Linkage Project at Holiday Inn by the Bay, Portland. This innovative conference will focus on the link between animal and human abuse. $175 fee and registration is required by May 1st. FMI, 622-5330, email Susan@GreatGatherings.com or register online at www.linkageproject.org

6.13.08 Bangor:

“Beyond the DBT Basics: Therapy with Adults with a Borderline Personality Disorder” at the Spectacular Events Center, Bangor, ME. FMI, http://www.neias.org/SATAdcal.html

6.13.08-6.15.08 Machias:

25th Special Family Weekend at University of Maine at Machias. SFW is an annual event for children with special needs and their families to share experience, knowledge and love. FMI, call Lillian Leighton at 565-2774.

6.21.08 Blue Hill 10am-noon:

Maine Parent Federation recently surveyed summer camps around Maine regarding camping opportunities for children with special needs and compiled that information for you. You may view the camp directory at www.mpf.org or call 1-800-870-7746 to receive a printed copy.

“Boot Camp for New Dads” (for expectant Dads) at Blue Hill Memorial Hospital. FMI and to register for FREE session, call Cathy at 667-5304, ext 225 or email: cjacobs@downeasthealth.org.

6.27.08 Ellsworth 10:30am-12noon:

“Anxiety Disorders in Children & Adolescents” with guest speaker, Paula Kirkpatrick, LCSW, at KidsPeace, 16 KidsPeace Way, Ellsworth. Presented collaboratively with G.E.A.R. Parent Network and KidsPeace, workshops are free to all parents/guardians of children with emotional and behavioral health needs. To register, call 1-800-264-9224.

6.27.08 Winter Harbor 7:30pm:

Last Friday Coffeehouse presents Evergreen at Hammond Hall, 427 Main Street, Winter Harbor. $12.00 suggested donation Kids under 12 FREE! Doors open 6:30, Great food! - Kids under 12 free! For more info, call 963-7670 or 963-2569 – www.schoodicarts.org

SAVE THE DATES:

7.13.08 Surry 10:00am-3:00pm

“Being Present with Our Children; A Day of Mindfulness for Families” to be held at the Morgan Bay Zendo, 532 Morgan Bay Rd., Surry. This will be a time for famiies to take time to enjoy being present together with a vegetarian lunch offered. Write info@MorganBayZendo.org FMI or registration.

9.26 & 9.27.08

"What Families and Youth Want Conference"

WEEKLY playgroups
Many Groups are FREE of charge

Tuesdays 10am-noon: Ellsworth

Held at the Unitarian-Universalist Church, 121 Bucksport Road, for babies and toddlers (under age 3) and parents. Call Parents Are Teachers, Too 667-5304 ext. 225 for info. FREE.

Tuesdays 10am-11:30am: Deer Isle/Stonington

Held at the Deer Isle Congregational Church for babies & toddlers (< age 3) & parents. FREE. Call PATT 667-5304, ext. 248 FMI.

Tuesdays 11:00am-noon: Cherryfield

Family First: Parents Are Teachers Too (PATT) infant / toddler playgroup meets Tuesday mornings at the Weald Bethel Chapel. FMI, please call Ellen at 255-0212.

Wednesdays 10am- noon: Blue Hill

Held at the Blue Hill Public Library, Parker Point Road, for babies and toddlers (under age 3) and parents. Call Parents Are Teachers, Too 667-5304, ext. 260 (Connie) FMI. FREE.

Wednesdays 9am-11am: Prospect Harbor

Held at the Prospect Harbor Church, for children birth to five and their parents. Please call Brenda Clough 667-2430 for more information.

Wednesdays 10:00am-11:30am: Hancock

Held at the Hancock Community Center, US Route One, Hancock, for babies, toddlers (under age 3) and parents. Call Parents Are Teachers, Too at 667-5304, ext. 231 (Nancy Sargent) for more information. FREE of charge.

Wednesdays 9:00am-10:00am Milbridge:

FREE weekly playgroup for Moms and children 0-3 at the Womens Resource Library in Milbridge. Weekly, follows school calendar. FMI call Bonnie at 255-0213 or Sunshine at WRL 546-7677.

Thursdays 10:00am-12noon: Bar Harbor

Held above Eden Nursery School, behind St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church on Main Street, for babies and toddlers (under age 3) and parents. Call Parents Are Teachers, Too at 667-5304, ext. 233 (Stephanie) for more information. FREE of charge.

Thursdays 10am-11:30am: Bucksport

Held at the Jewett School, for babies and toddlers (under age 3) and parents. Call Parents Are Teachers, Too at 667-5304, ext. 240 (Tammy Branca) for more information.

Thursdays 10-11am: Ellsworth

Held at the Downeast Family YMCA, State Street, Ellsworth for toddlers thru pre-kindergarten and their parents. FREE - Please call Robin Clarke at 667-3086 FMI.

Fridays 10:30am-noon: Ellsworth

Held at Special Children’s Friends, 78 Union Street, for toddlers and parents (brothers & sisters are welcome). Please call 667-2430 for more information.

Fridays 10am -11am: Northeast Harbor

Mom/Toddler yoga group at the Neighborhood House, FREE with donations to the Neighborhood House for use of space is appreciated. Call 288-5505 for info.

WEEKLY STORYTIMES

Mondays 10:00am

Northeast Harbor Library, call 276-3333 FMI.

Early Childhood: Sara Yasner - Regarding my upcoming Children’s Music CD release and performances, you can stay ‘caught up with me’ at http://www.myspace.com/sarasingalongs

Tuesdays 10:30am

Blue Hill Public Library, call 374-5515 FMI.

Tuesdays 10:30am

Ellsworth Public Library (Story & Craft ages 3-5), call 667-6363 FMI

Wednesdays 10:30am

Bass Harbor Memorial Library, call 244-3798 FMI

Wednesdays 10:00am

Bar Harbor Jessup Memorial Library, call 288-4245 FMI

Wednesdays 10:00am

Southwest Harbor Public Library, call 244-7065 FMI

Thursdays 10:30am

Ellsworth Public Library (ages 2-3), call 667-6363 FMI

Fridays 10:00am

Ellsworth Public Library (ages 0-24 months), call 667-6363 FMI

WEEKLY – FAMILY SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES

Bar Harbor

“10-week Intensive Outpatient Program” is designed to help men and women, age 18 or older, break the grip of drug and/or alcohol addiction for good. Masters-level clinicians facilitate open, honest group discussions and provide effective one-on-one counseling. They offer Suboxone drug replacement therapy, psychiatric evaluation and medication management, and on-site drug and alcohol testing.. Presented by the Mount Desert Island Behavioral Health Center. Call 288-8604 FMI.

Daily: 5:00pm-1:30am

Statewide 1-866-771-WARM (9276) Maine Warm Line – confidential non-crisis peer-to-peer support operated by Amistad. Telephone support services for non-crisis situations, including, but not limited to: support, social connection, sharing personal victories, overcoming fear, grief, or sadness, developing effective strategies for the future, assistance with referrals to community resources, talking to someone when feeling confused, lonely, or despondent. These services have been established as a recovery-based, peer-operated system of warm lines, available statewide and directed towards a target audience of adults who utilize mental health services.

Monday through Friday

www.mainelyparents.org Mainely Parents is a program of Day One. You can now download their newsletter directly from their website. In addition, their website hosts online forums and chat for parents looking for support.

Monday through Friday

www.mainefamilynetworks.com Supporting healthy growth & learning - Maine Family Networks are open to all parents or caregivers who living in the same town or city neighborhood, are raising children newborn to age 5. There are no meetings or membership fees.

Monday through Friday 9am-4pm

Statewide 1-866-298-0896; Bangor 941-2347 (ask for Jan Bisbee); or Portland 591-6287 (ask for Nancy Robinson) Families and Children Together (F.A.C.T.) has designed a new program “Key Conversations” for grandparents, aunts & uncles raising children of relatives. This is a free, individualized conversation between F.A.C.T. staff and relative caregivers focusing on substance abuse and its effects on children’s behavior. Topics include: addiction; prevention; parenting children affected by substance abuse; recovery & resiliency. When you finish your first conversation, you will receive a gift box of activities to do with your family. For each following conversation, your name will be entered in a drawing for larger prizes.

Monday through Friday 9am-4pm

Statewide Kinship Care – Family Connections assists grandparents, aunts and uncles who are stepping in to care for relatives’ children. Family Connections is co-sponsored by Adoptive & Foster Families of Maine and FACT (Families and Children Together) and has several support groups throughout the state. FMI call 941-2347 or 1-800-833-9786. Bangor meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, 6:30pm at the FACT office, 304 Hancock Street, Bangor.

Monday through Friday 9am-4pm

Statewide Parent Talk-line 1-800-249-5506 Mainely Parents. You can now download their newsletter directly from their website, www.mainelyparents.org and participate in online forums and chat for parents looking for support.

Monday through Friday

Programs offered through Penquis Dispute Resolution Center include: “Child and Family Mediation”; “Building Assets Resolving Conflicts”, “Victim/Offender mediation” and “Conflict Resolution” workshops among others. FMI, call 1-888-497-3500 or www.penquiscap.org. Programs are FREE.

Monday through Friday 9am-4pm

Statewide GEAR 1-800-264-9224

Monday through Friday 9am-4pm Hancock & Washington Counties

Maine Parent Federation, 1-877-963-2588, or www.mpf.org, or www.linkmaine.org

Monday through Friday 10:30-11:30am: Ellsworth

Open Door Recovery, 8 Old Mill Road, Ellsworth. FREE drop-in support for individuals concerned about substance abuse issues – call 667-3210 FMI.

Monday through Friday: Ellsworth

Fussy Baby Clinic offers information for families with infants and toddlers for getting through the rough spots in their days. This clinic is for families of children birth to 18 months. – call DTA Center for Learning & Growing at 667-3210 FMI.

Bar Harbor MDI Behavioral Health Center Groups. Groups are facilitated by trained staff at the Behavioral Health Center, Hancock Street, Bar Harbor. Call 288-8604 FMI or to schedule an intake.
Intensive Outpatient Program: Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays 8:30am-11:30am
Relapse Prevention Group: Tuesdays: 4:00pm-5:30pm
Wellness and Recovery Group: Wednesdays: 4:00pm-5:30pm

Mondays-Wednesdays-Fridays Machias 8:00am-3:30pm

State of Maine Veterans Counselor, Mr. Skip Carter, will be available at the town office building to assist area veterans and their dependents in applying for state and federal veterans’ benefits. FMI, he may be reached at 255-3306.

Mondays

Weekly Introductory Integrated Awareness® Class held at DTA Center for Learning & Growing. These classes will focus on topics and requests from the participants. Integrated Awareness® is a process of self healing through self discovery and uses movement, touch, and expanded perception to access information and explore choices. FMI, call 667-6783.5:00-6:30pm Ellsworth

Tuesdays:

Family First: Parents Are Teachers Too offers an infant and toddler playgroup at the EdGE building, open to the community. FMI and registration, call Ellen at 255-0212.Cherryfield 11:00am-12noon

NAMI Support group at Faith United Church in Columbia. Contact Joanne Marian at 483-6040. Harrington/Columbia 2:00pm

Survivors’ Support Group for women survivors of sexual assault / incest, offered by Downeast Sexual Assault Services. Call 667-5304 or 1-800-492-5550 FMI. Ellsworth 6:00-8:00pm

“Relaxed Parenting” To register, call 992-2445 or visit www.mindbodymaine.com  FMI. Bangor 7:00pm-8:30pm

NAMI Support group at Acadia Hospital. Contact Nancy Grimes 223-5686.Bangor 6:30pm

Wednesdays:

Asperger’s/Autism Parent Support Group, In-service Room, Blue Hill Memorial Hospital, 374-3473 or Kfjanes@yahoo.comBlue Hill 6:30pm

NAMI MDI Hospital Conference Room A., FMI 565-3822 or 483-6040.Bar Harbor 6:30pm

 “The Next Step Support Group” is a service provided for women affected by domestic violence. FMI, call 1-800-315-5579 or 667-4606 and to register. Ellsworth 5:30pm

“Single MOM’s Support Group” offered. Call 667-0400 FMI and to register. Ellsworth 6:00-7:30pm

“Single DADs Support Group” offered. Call 667-0400 FMI and to register. Ellsworth 6:00-7:30pm

Thursdays

NAR-ANON Family Group, Union Congregational Church, Ellsworth Falls. Ellsworth 6:00-7:30pm

PFLAG (Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) Winkumpaugh Rd., Ellsworth 667-5621 or 244-0079.Ellsworth 6:30pm

Survivors of Incest Anonymous, Unitarian Universalist Church, Ellsworth, 610-0390.Ellsworth 6:00pm

Open Door Family Program – 10 week outpatient program designed to offer support and education for those family members affected by someone they care about who is using drugs and/or alcohol. $15/meeting – insurance & sliding fee scale. FMI, call 667-3210 to register. Ellsworth 6:00-7:30pm

NAMI Bipolar support group at Acadia Hospital Osprey Room in Bangor. Contact Debbie Lawson, 745-8769 FMI. Bangor 6:30pm

Fridays

WERU 89.9: 6:30am “Tips for Mindful Parenting” with Nancy Hathaway – new weekly program. Archived programs and streaming online at www.WERU.org

Counseling Services—by appointment: Emily Lowell, LCSW, will be providing counseling services at Downeast Health Services Inc.’ Maine Coast Community Dental Clinic at 190 Beechland Road, Ellsworth. Call 479-4484 for appointment. MaineCare accepted. Her focus is supporting parents who are looking for help with their parenting because of their own or their child’s mental health issues. Ellsworth 8:00am-4:00pm

BI-WEEKLY– FAMILY SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES

Mondays (1st & 3rd) 6:00pm Machias

Bereavement Support Group, Down East Community Hospital, FMI 255-8467

Mondays (1st & 3rd) 6:30pm: Ellsworth

NAMI Support group for families with children, spouses, and/or siblings with major mental illness, held bi-weekly in the St. Joseph’s Church. Call Susan Noddin at 422-2011 FMI.

Mondays (2nd & 4th) 7pm-8:30pm: Bucksport

Parent Support for parents of children with emotional / behavioral special needs. In the event of a holiday, the meeting will be held the following Monday. Meetings are held at the Superintendent’s Office, Elm Street, Bucksport. Call Iris Cohen, 469-3499, for info.

Tuesdays 5:30-7:30pm Milbridge

Substance Abuse Family Support Group. Meetings are FREE, every other Tuesday. Call 546-7677 for the next date.

MONTHLY: Workshops for Parents who are Divorcing, Separating or Living Apart
Helping parents and guardians with problems related to separation and divorce such as: parenting through divorce, the effects on children, children and conflict, and helping children adjust to change.

Saturdays (alternate 3rd): Ellsworth

“For Kids’ Sake” Pre-registration is required $45.00/session. Call 942-9329 for info and registration form. For Kids Sake, PO Box 6252, Bangor, ME 04402-6252

Saturdays (2nd): Belfast 8:30am-12:30pm:

“Waldo County Kids First” Pre-registration is required $45.00/session. Call 338-2200 ext. 109 for info and registration form. Waldo County Kids First, 5 Stephenson Lane, Belfast, ME 04915

Saturdays (2nd) & (alternate 3rd): Bangor

“For Kids’ Sake” Pre-registration is required $45.00/session. Call 942-9329 for info and registration form. For Kids Sake, PO Box 6252, Bangor, ME 04402-6252

Saturdays (2nd): Washington County 8:30am-12:30pm:

“Kids First Washington County” workshops. Pre-registration is required. $45.00/session. Financial assistance may be available for people unable to pay the full fee of the program. You must call Glenn Avery at 255-3344 to register and FMI.

MONTHLY– Family Support Opportunities

Ellsworth: Maine Coast Women Care Breastfeeding Clinic presented monthly. All new mom’s and current moms-to-be are invited to join us for a relaxing educational clinic on breastfeeding. FMI, call 667-5650.

Maine Parent Federation Family Support meetings in Bangor, Calais, Jonesport/Beals, and Machias locations and dates vary. Please contact Jackie Stanley MPF Regional Coordinator monthly for update of these meetings or to be added to her list-serve for information on these meetings. 1-877-963-2588.

Ellsworth: The DTA Center for Learning and Growing offers a wide range of services, programs and monthly workshops. Especially For Families: Parents Go First™; Family Communication Program; Family Day. Please send questions to: dtaus@hotmail.com or call (207) 667-6783

Mondays

(1st Monday of month) 6:30pm-8:00pm
“NAMI Maine of Machias” affiliate group, Downeast Community Hospital, McBride Building. FMI, call Betty 497-5636. Machias

(1st Monday of month) 10:00am:
Ellsworth Downeast La Leche League, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Parish Hall, Ellsworth, Contact Carlene Parsons at 667-7245 FMI.

Tuesdays

(2nd Tuesday of month) Belfast 6:00-8:00pm
GEAR Regional Parent Support meeting in the Library at the Captain Albert Stevens School, Elementary Lane, Belfast. FMI, 223-9993 or email: cseekins1@verizon.net

(2nd Tuesday of month) Ellsworth 3-4:30pm
Eastern Agency on Aging Caregiver Support Group, Ellsworth Public Library – focus on Alzheimer’s and other dementias. FMI 667-7889.

(2nd Tuesday of month) 5-7pm: Bar Harbor
Child Safety Seat Fitting Station at the Bar Harbor Police Department, Firefly Lane. For more information, call Rick @ 288-3391.

(3rd Tuesday of month) 9am-1pm: Ellsworth
Child Safety Seat Fitting Station at Town Auto Sales, High Street, Ellsworth (go to the large green building in the back). Call Patti @ 288-3391 for more info.

Wednesdays

(2nd Wednesday of month) 9:30-11:00am:
Ellsworth Foster and Adoption Informational Meetings held at the Department of Human Services, 17 Eastward Lane, Ellsworth. Call 667-1600 to learn more about the business of becoming / being a foster parent.

(2nd Wednesday of month) 6:00pm:
Bar Harbor “Working Mama’s Breastfeeding Support Meeting”, Crooked Road, Bar Harbor, 288-5505 FMI.

(3rd Wednesday of month) 6:30pm:
Ellsworth Brain Injury Support Group held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Beechland Road, Ellsworth, ME. For more information, contact Dodie Sullivan at 667-8680 or email: dodie@midmaine.com.

(4th Wednesday of month) 6pm-8pm:
Ellsworth Maine Parent Federation monthly regional support meeting at Special Children’s Friends, 78 Union Street, Ellsworth. FMI, contact Jackie Stanley, 1-877-963-2588.

Thursdays

(1st Thursday of month) 6pm-8pm:
Bucksport Maine Parent Federation Family Support Meetings at Jewett Elementary School, Bucksport. FMI, contact Jackie Stanley, 1-877-963-2588.

(1st Thursday of month) 6:00pm-7:30pm:
Rockland Mid-Coast Children’s Services offers monthly meeting for parents of young children with special needs called “A Group for You” at 272 Park St., Rockland. FMI & to register, please call MCCS 594-8474.

(2nd Thursday) Ellsworth 9:30am-11:30am
State of Maine Veterans Counselor, Mr. Skip Carter, will be at the VFW Post 109 on Washington Junction Road to assist area veterans and their dependents in applying for state and federal veterans’ benefits. FMI, he may be reached at 255-3306 Mon-Weds-Fri 8am-3:30pm.

(3rd Thursday) 10-11am
“Baby Talk” with Cathy Jacobs, Parents Are Teacher Too on WERU-FM, 89.9. . Archived programs and streaming online at www.WERU.org

(last Thursday) Ellsworth 7-8pm
Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, Unitarian Church, Ellsworth. FMI, contact Helen Kazura 667-9460.

Fridays

(last Friday) Ellsworth 10:30am-12noon:
G.E.A.R. Parent Network presents a FREE parent support group for caregivers of children with emotional / behavioral needs and anyone who has questions about their child’s services, needs or behaviors. Facilitated by Parents for Parents at KidsPeace, 16 KidsPeace Way, Ellsworth. FMI and registration, call Rachael Tyler at 664-1272 or Cindy Seekins, 1-800-264-9224.

Continuing Education, Courses & Resources:

Hancock County Higher Education Center, Call 1-800-696-2540 or visit http://www.maine.edu/ellsworth.

University of Maine System on-site, online and ITV course listings. FMI, call 1-877-868-7000 or visit their website at www.learn.maine.edu.University of Maine at Augusta. FMI, call 1-877-UMA-1234 or visit their website at www.uma.maine.edu. University of Southern Maine on-site, online and ITV course listings. FMI, call 1-800-787-0468 or visit their website at www.usm.maine.edu/cce.

Ellsworth Adult Education FMI, call 667-6499 or visit their website at http://w5.downeast.net/eae.

Mt. Desert Island Adult Education: FMI, call 288-4703

H.O.M.E. Adult Basic Education: FMI, call 469-7961 or 469-2026

Sumner Adult Education: FMI, call 422-9100 or visit their website at www.sumneradulted.net.

Bucksport Adult and Community Education FMI, call 469-2129 or www.bucksportadulted.com

Continuing Education for the Human Services & Nonprofit Community – many one-day workshops are scheduled in the areas of: Nurturing Children and Teenagers; Supporting Mental Health; Grantsmanship and Development; Complementary Therapies and Working with Others. Visit www.usm.maine.edu/cce FMI.

Support Groups and Resources available on-line:

NEW: Online courses presented by AdCare. FMI, http://www.neias.org/SATAdcal.html
“Chemical Dependency & Post Traumatic Stress Disorder” begins 4.07.08 (4 weeks)
“Cognitive Behavioral Therapy” begins 6.02.08 (4 weeks)

www.myspace.com/namimaine here you will find items of interest to teens and young adults.

www.extension.org/parenting: There is a new, electronic resource with valuable stage-based information and answers to questions about parenting at “eXtension”. There are topical articles, and developmental information. This is a great resource for families and those who work with families. Enjoy!
Child Development information – monthly during your infant’s first year of life, annual information thereafter. For example: Month 1: You and Your Baby Are Learning Together; Use Care Safety Seats, Get Second Newborn Screening, What’s It Like to be One Month Old? Additional topics for months 2-12.
Articles: What is Just in Time Parenting?
Resources: Publications; Resource Links

Dr. Alan Greene is a clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford University and the founder of parenting Web site www.drgreene.com. His most recent book, “Raising Baby Green,” explores environmentally aware approaches to children’s health.

www.me.ngb.army.mil/family  is the link to the Maine Military Family Assistance Center- this is the hub for what’s going on for Maine service members and their families.

SAMHSA’s redesigned Resource Center to Address Discrimination and Stigma Associated with Mental Illness debuts online with a new library of more than 600 resources. The improved ADS Center Web site at www.stopstigma.samhsa.gov features information and advice to help individuals and organizations counter discrimination and stigma associated with mental illness.

www.getATstuff.com New Website for Selling & Buying Used Assistive Devices and Adaptive Equipment has been launched by the Maine CITE Program, the state’s Assistive Technology Program. This website will help families, people with disabilities, seniors and the public to buy and sell used assistive technology and adaptive equipment. The site is designed to get devices that are no longer being used into the hands of people who want them and could benefit from them. Items can be listed for sale or free. The site has many equipment categories for items related to vision, hearing, mobility, environmental adaptations, computers, recreation, sports, and adapted vans/vehicles. For more information contact the Maine Cite Coordinating Center at 207-623-3195 or www.mainecite.org

http://www.nichcy.org/training is a resource which provides PowerPoints and materials for training on IDEA. Using the five themes, Building the Legacy gives you 19 training modules on separate topics. The module that was just added is discipline. Materials for each module include: a PowerPoint presentation for use in training, detailed background text and explanation for trainers, handouts for participants, and supplemental resources for trainers.

http://www.walearning.com  is a website where you can download materials that include twenty home and community activities for adults and children birth to three that encourage early language and literacy development. They are appropriate for children with disabilities, as well as children who are developing typically. Each of the twenty activities includes an activity description, and hints for making the activity fun and developmentally appropriate. In addition to the activities, you can download an activity checklist that helps parents and caregivers notice their children’s skills, and also cue adults to examine and grow their own interactions with children. The materials are specifically designed to address the three key skills of 1) language development, 2) sounds and rhythms, and 3) general book and print awareness.

www.resilnet.uiuc.edu/library.html:  “Promoting Resilience in Children: What Parents Can Do” The ResilienceNet Virtual Library is a collection of full-text publications related to the resilience of children and families in the face of adversities. Most of the publications are maintained on ResilienceNet; a few of the titles listed may be links to publications on other Web sites. Publications are listed alphabetically by title.

www.SchwabLearning.org is a website for parents of kids with learning and attention difficulties. Recommended by the Maine Parent Federation, the website has a free weekly email newsletter, a chance to participate on message boards, ability to create a personalized page with saved links, and over 350 parent-friendly articles about learning difficulties and related topics.

Hospice of Hancock County also invites you to explore another web site which offers information related to death and dying in America. The Web site includes a 15-part series, “Finding Our Way: Living with Dying in America.” The articles are written by national leaders in the fields of medicine, sociology, theology and culture and explore issues facing seriously ill Americans, their families, caregivers and communities. The information can be accessed through www.findingourway.net.

www.whereinwaldo.org is a directory of services in Waldo County, an events calendar, forum board and a listing of volunteer service opportunities. More listings are being added each month.

http://www.stopitnow.com/parentalk PARENTtalk is a Stop It Now! publication by and for parents of children and teens with sexual behavior problems. PARENTtalk newsletters offer parents an opportunity to break the isolation surrounding this issue and offer support to each other through personal stories. The newsletters also offer updates from some of the leading professionals in the field. FMI, please call our toll-free helpline at 1-888-PREVENT (1-888-773-8368) to have a confidential conversation with our professionally trained staff. The helpline is available from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, eastern standard time.

The New York Presbyterian Hospital has established the Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center. The center has a database of professionals and facilities that provide treatment as well as a full library of resources, a website, and a help line. FMI, contact 1-888-694-2273 or www.bpdresourcecenter.org

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) Online Support Groups offers weekly online groups for people with depression or bipolar disorder, and separate groups for friends / family members and follow the general format of face-to-face support groups. www.dbsalliance.org/info/onlinesupport.html .

Teen Central located at www.teencentral.net connects you to other teens from around the country and throughout the world, and to a wealth of problem-solving resources just for you. Being a teen isn’t easy. Each day you face choices related to school, parents, dating, and fitting in. Growing up can often be complicated.

The Maine Boys Network is committed to promoting the health and successful development of all boys from pre-adolescence through young adulthood by supporting their success in academic settings. FMI, contact Layne Gregory at 774-9994 or boystomen@maine.rr.com or Bernie Herschberger at 725-3069 or bhershbe@bowdoin.edu or see website: www.boystomen.info for events.

On-Line Education, Courses & Resources:

Bucksport Adult and Community Education now offer access to On-Line courses. The following workshops are available $89/each: “Understanding Adolescents”; “Guiding Kids on the Internet”, “Assisting Aging Parents”. FMI, visit their website at www.ed2go.com/bace

www.inhalantabusetraining.org – select the Maine Parent Training. Inhalant Abuse: What You Should Know is an ADULTS-ONLY online training for parents and other caring adults. The training takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. All children are at risk for inhalant abuse…inhalants are often the first substance to be abused by youth. Inhalants, along with tobacco and alcohol, are one of the substances abused by younger children. Because, inhalants can cause death the first time they are tried, any experiment is dangerous.

“The Center for Parent Education” located at www.umext.maine.edu/parentcenter, is designed for parents, for all adults who care for or work with children, and for parenting educators. For parents, caregivers and all adults who work with children, the National Extension Parent Education Model outlines essential practices that help children of all ages grow and thrive. Each page is linked to publications and other resources that invite life-long learning.

www.ksu.edu/wwparent/courses/fireworks/index.htm: 
“FireWorks” Anger Management in Adult-Child Relationships is an online non-credit course that examines anger management with a special emphasis on adult-child relationships.
“Responsive Discipline: Effective Tools for Parents” is an informal personal study course that provides tools for guiding and nurturing children from early childhood through adolescence.

Webcast: Building the Legacy: IDEA 2004 Part B Final Regulations OSERS invites you to view a video to learn firsthand from leading U.S. Department of Education officials about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part B final regulations. The video has been archived for future reference at http://idea.ed.gov.

Born Learning is a public engagement campaign helping parents, caregivers and communities create early learning opportunities for young children. Designed to support you in your critical role as a child’s first teacher, FREE Born Learning educational materials are made available through the efforts of United Way, United Way Success By 6 and Civitas. Learn More at www.BornLearning.org

www.nmcc.edu Northern Maine Community College offers many non-credit interactive online courses. Each course is six weeks (24 hours) in length and cost $89-99 each. You may find the following to be of interest: “Solving Discipline Problems at Home”; Enhancing Language Development in Childhood”; Parenting: The First Five Years”; “Caring for Children”; “Understanding Adolescents”; “Assisting Aging Parents”; “Enhancing Language Development in Childhood”; Creating a Healthier Home”; “Conquer Your Stress”; “Keys to Effective Communication” among others.

New England Addiction Technology Transfer Center provides on-going distance education supported by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration), CSAT (Center for Substance Abuse and Treatment), CAAS (Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies) and Brown University. Each course is $40 and they are listed online at www.attc-ne.org/education.

www.partnersinpolicymaking.com/education is a 3-hour self-directed e-learning course to help parents with children with developmental disabilities better understand and maximize the benefits of special education services and inclusion for their children. There is a quiz at the end of each module and a final exam at the end. You will receive a free graduation gift for completing the course.

Child Welfare Training Institute Correspondence Course Offerings provide training for Foster Parents and Adoptive Parents. Contact Cindy Languet-Stinson, CWTI, 295 Water Street, Augusta, Maine, 04330, or call 1-866-354-0084 ext. 5225, or email Cindy.Languet-Stinson@maine.gov FMI and to register.

http://www.nrc-pad.org. A national resource center is now providing comprehensive information on "psychiatric advance directives," legal documents that people with mental illnesses can create to specify, in advance, their preferred course of treatment if they should experience a mental health crisis.

Do your driving skills need a tuneup? Test your driving IQ online to find out if it’s time for a refresher. Visit www.aarp.org/drive  to take the quiz, check out other safe driving resources and find an AARP Driver Safety Course near you. You can also call toll free 1-888-227-7669.

http://pathwayscourses.samhsa.gov/courses.htm CSAP’s Prevention Pathways: Online Courses

“The ABCs of Bullying – Addressing, Blocking and Curbing School Aggression” – this course, for professionals, examines the causes and effects of bullying, prevention techniques and programs, screening, treatment options, and legal/ethical issues surrounding bullying. The information is relevant to educators, health and mental health practitioners, parents, and anyone else who works with children. CEUs available.

“Holding the Lifeline – A Guide to Suicide Prevention”. The modules are designed to promote awareness of the link between substance abuse and suicide as well as other risk factors. The course includes information about tools and other resources to identify suicidal behaviors and to provide early intervention and prevention. This course is NOT designed as a treatment manual or as a substitute for professional help in individual cases. However the modules are designed to alert healthcare professionals, teachers, physicians, religious leaders and other gatekeepers to the latest research and strategies for effective responses.

“Silence Hurts: Alcohol Abuse and Violence Against Women” (for Professionals): This Web-based course is for professionals. Social workers, physicians, nurses, counselors, and health educators can learn detailed information about alcohol abuse and several forms of violence against women. The course describes these "hidden problems" and identifies risk factors, screening and assessment tools, prevention and intervention strategies, tools for clients, and legal issues. CEUs available.

“It Won’t Happen to Me: Alcohol Abuse & Violence Against Women” (for those who are concerned about the issue) This web-based course is for anyone concerned about substance abuse-related violence directed at women. Women, of all ages, suffer from alcohol abuse, domestic violence/sexual assault or both. Any woman may find herself, a family member, or friend facing these issues and want to know more information. They may wonder what to do, and how to prevent it from happening again. This Web-based course is for anyone concerned about substance abuse-related violence directed at women. It is for people interested in preventing and stopping violence against women. This course discusses substance abuse, violence against women, the connection between the two, signs and symptoms, myths, how to see if a problem exists, as well as prevention, treatment and legal options.

“At Any Age, It Does Matter: Substance Abuse and Older Adults” (for Professionals) This Web-based course is for professionals. Physicians, nurses, social workers, counselors, and health educators can learn detailed information on the problems of alcohol use and medication misuse among older adults. The course focuses on risk factors, screening tools, prevention and treatment, legal issues, and ethical concerns. CEUs available.

“Alcohol, Medication and Older Adults For Those Who Care About or Care for an Older Adult” Growing older can be difficult - retirement, children moving away, health problems, loss of spouse or friends. This Web-based course is for people interested in preventing and reducing problems related to older adults' misuse of alcohol and medications. This course discusses the problems of alcohol and medication misuse in older adults, signs and symptoms, and how to talk to older adults, as well as prevention, intervention, and treatment.

“Out of the Shadows: Uncovering Substance Use and Elder Abuse (for Professionals)” This Web-based course is for health and mental health professionals, social workers, health educators, and aging service providers who can learn about elder abuse, substance abuse as a risk factor, screening tools, intervention options and prevention strategies to curb the problem. CEUs available.

HOTLINES: (24 hour HOTLINEs) 1-800-452-1999 To report Child Abuse or Neglect in Maine (24 hour HOTLINE) 1-800-228-2470 Downeast Sexual Assault Services (Hancock & Washington Counties) 1-800-315-5579 The Next Step Domestic Violence project (Hancock & Washington Counties) !-888-568-1112 Phone Help Mental Health (Hancock & Washington Counties)

www.fosterclub.com/grownups Foster Club Training Library offers on-line training for free. Registered users will be able to keep track of CEUs earned and will receive a downloadable certificate for each course that is completed, and may print a transcript of all courses taken. There are 11 courses, ranging from 1-3 credit hours. www.fosterparents.com offers 55 on-line courses, ranging from 1-5 credit hours. Course fees range from $4 to $6, payable by credit or debit card through a secured server.

www.closetohomecampaign.org The site features important information on opiate abuse and addiction, including a Fact Sheet for Teens and Parents and flyers that can be printed and posted in schools, organizations or workplaces. Additionally, you will find links to credible websites and additional information to help you learn more about the negative consequences of opiate abuse and how opiate addiction is affecting our state. The Close to Home Campaign was created by the Acadia Hospital and its many campaign partners to help educate people about the dangers of opiate abuse. We believe education and access to help is crucial to the long-term health of Maine’s citizens.

Girls Online E-Mentoring Program for science and engineering that focuses on girls in middle school and high school. You can access information on this site at www.uic.edu/orgs/gem-set/index.htm.

AdCare Educational Institute of Maine, through the New England Institute of Addiction Studies, is a virtual community for substance abuse training. FMI, see their training calendar at www.neias.org

On-line Training for Foster Parents: www.adoptionlearningpartners.org  offers 8 courses, many free of charge, although there is a fee to users who require a Certificate of Completion for training purposes.

NetSmartz411 is an online resource that will be managed by experts at National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and located on the Internet at www.NetSmartz411.org. Using NetSmartz411.org, anyone can directly access experts at NCMEC who will begin responding to their questions within one business day. Individuals can also search the extensive online safety knowledge base to learn more about issues related to Internet safety and online security. The NetSmartz Workshop is an interactive, educational safety resource to teach kids and teens how to stay safer on the Internet. NetSmartz combines the newest technologies available and the most current information to create high-impact educational activities that are well received by even the most tech-savvy kids.

F R E E SELF-STUDY OPPORTUNITIES at the HANCOCK COUNTY CHILDREN’S COUNCIL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

The Hancock County Children’s Council offers the following self-study parenting education in our Family Resource Center. Call to make an appointment to view the following materials:

• “Achieve! Success for Young Fathers” (4 video series)
• “Building Blocks for Successful Parenting”; “Touchpoints” (3 video series)
• “1-2-3 Magic” (2 video series); “Parenting for Prevention” (6 video series)
• “Parenting with Dignity” (9 video series) Drew Bledsoe Foundation
• “Active Parenting of Teens” (6 video series); “Common Sense Parenting” (2 video series)
• “Boys Town videos for parents” (11 video series)
• Parenting Wisely and Directions for DADS CD & DVD trainings