In this unprecedented and uncertain time, we wanted to share updates on our work to keep families strong in the age of COVID-19. We recognize that the added stress of the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Colorado, the closure of schools and child care services and physically distancing from each other places children and families at greater risk for toxic stress and child maltreatment. 

We are living our mission now more than ever and we are doing everything we can to strengthen families, organization and communities to prevention child maltreatment. To continue to inspire support and connection for families, communities, and our field – we wanted to share with you some adaptations and opportunities through Illuminate to engage in a new and different way:

• The Colorado Partnership for Thriving Families (CPTF) and Illuminate Colorado are convening a conversation on Keeping Families Strong during COVID-19 on Tuesday, March 24th, at 3:00 pm. Join representatives from Illuminate Colorado, the Kempe Center, the Family Resource Center Association, state and local government agencies, and many more community-based nonprofits to share adaptations, responses, and needs to strengthen families during these unprecedented times. Join us HERE.
• To help keep Colorado families strong through this COVID-19 crisis, Illuminate Colorado has launched a new Facebook group for parents and caregivers this weekend and several online Circle of Parents Groups in English and Spanish will begin next week to create a space for people raising kids to vent, cry, and laugh, and joke, and find out how other parents are navigating this new world.
• Coming soon – we’ll be streaming yoga, mindfulness, and breathing videos for relaxation, stress relief, and entertainment – for parents and caregivers, children and teens, and professionals.  Stay tuned.

We know this time of uncertainty and change can feel scary and overwhelming. We hope you all stay calm, healthy, and well. We’re here for each other.