Forestdale and For One in New York recently held a warm and successful reception featuring program participants from the joint initiative, Culture For One. Hosted in the home of Linn Tanzman, the program’s founder and director, the Culture For One event served to raise awareness about the cultural needs of children in foster care at Forestdale.

Culture For One participants with For One In New York DIrector Linn Tanzman and Forestdale Executive Director Anstiss Agnew.

The attendees, supporters from Queens and Manhattan, learned how the program inspires and motivates the participants. During the reception, Culture For One event attendees shared their personal experiences of how the initiative gave them the chance to experience artistic performance opportunities of which they couldn’t have imagined without the program.

Attending these cultural events opened the gates for the participants to be exposed and influenced by artistic expression. Manuella Yushovayeva, a Culture For One participant, told the audience of more than 40 guests about her experience in the program.  

Executive Director Anstiss Agnew with Manuella as she speaks about Culture For One.

“Through Culture For One program, I had the chance to learn a new way of self expression through dance after attending the Alvin Alley dance show,” said Manuella. “I look forward to attending other events, and I highly recommend it to other children at Forestdale.”

The first-ever participant of the program was Kadidjia Adula. She shared the importance of the program with the group. 

“Culture For One not only provides children in foster care with chance to temporarily forget about their struggles,” said Kadidjia, “but it also gives them a chance to engage in the many possibilities that are available. Culture is history; it gives one a diversity of perceptive, love for fellow mankind and gives tremendous life lessons.”

Culture For One began with one child, today it offers many children the opportunity to learn, observe and interact with the artistic ventures our city offers. It inspires and teaches them self-expression and the many ways you can influence others through art. The event not only raised awareness, it allowed the attendees to have a personal experience with the children in the program.

Visit Forestdale’s program Initiatives to learn more about how to contribute to cultural programs at Forestdale.

Forestdale is a Queens-based organization that connects young people and families to their communities. We provide innovative programs to serve children and youth in foster care and to support families in crisis. Along with our nationally recognized Fathering Initiative, we target three areas: safe and stable home life; educational excellence and nontraditional career development; and health and sexuality education.

Job Summary:

Forestdale currently seeks a HomeFinderCase Worker responsible for identifying and implementing strategiesaimed at engaging multi-level stakeholders in identifying and recruitingprospective and former foster and adoptive parents. The HomeFinder actively undertakes collaborative efforts to identify and engageappropriately qualified foster parents.

The ideal candidate will be compassionate, energetic, self-directed and goal-focused with their approach to work.

Responsibilities include:

• Designs and Institutes creative strategies for identifying prospective foster parents
• Utilizes public relations, media contacts and community resources to aide in recruitment activities
• Participates in the thorough screening and investigation of prospective foster families, utilizing the NYS Central Register
• Completes home studies as part of screening activities
• Complies with requirements of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services in opening, recertifying and/or reapproving foster/adoptive homes
• Participates in interagency collaborations with NYSAS for photo listing updates and correspondence in certification activities
• Assists the Trainer in the development and implementation of ongoing foster/adoptive parent training; and as required in the documentation of foster/adoptive parent training hours
• Maintenance of foster parents records in CONNECTIONS
• Responsible for ensuring compliance with all agency policies, procedures and governmental regulations, including but not limited to HIPAA
• Other duties as required by supervisor

The HomeFinderCase Planner will report to the HomeFinder Supervisor.

Candidates must possess the following:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or a related subject from an accredited college or university
• Minimum of three years of post-graduate experience in the field of child welfare, with one year of experience in foster care and adoption
• Organizational, verbal and written communication skills;
• Skill in identifying and building a network of multi-level communityrelationships
• Ability to accommodate a flexible work schedule, including eveningsand weekends
• Ability to travel in and around the metropolitan New York City region

Forestdale Inc offers a comprehensive benefit plan that includes medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, generous vacation time, 401K , matching and pension plans.

TO APPLY: Resumes should be sent to vserrot@forestdaleinc.org; include the job title “HOME-FD” in the subject of your E-mail or apply online at Zoho Jobs.

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Equal Opportunity Employer

 Established in 1854, Forestdale is an innovative, forward thinking Queens-based organization located in Forest Hills on a lush three acre campus. Our goal is to ensure that all children have the fundamental assets they need to thrive:  a safe and stable home life; meaningful life and career goals; communication and life skills; and health and sexuality education.

Forestdale currently seeks a Youth Program Coordinator.

Primary responsibilities include:

•       Planning, organizing, conducting or supervising a range of activities designed to build capacity and competencies in youth and children involved in the child welfare system

•       Counseling and engaging youth in discussions and activities

•       Assessing interests and needs of individual youth and creating responsive activity plans

•       Accompanying youth to cultural events in the community

•       Coordinating and chaperoning groups of youth on college tours

•       Facilitating workshops, youth council or other forums

The Youth Program Coordinatorwill report directly to the Director of Educational Excellence and Workforce Development.

Ideal candidatespossess the following:

•       Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university

•       3+ years of experience developing and delivering recreational programs for youth

•       Experience facilitating youth workshops and/or trainings

•       Experience and training in Youth Development principles and practices and in delivering services within a Youth Development framework

•       Good judgment

•       Ability to work independently

Forestdale Inc provides a competitive salary and outstanding benefits – including 4 weeks Vacation, Health/Dental/Life/Disability insurance, Pension Plan and Tax-Deferred Medical/Dependent/Commuter Plans

 TO APPLY: Please forward a cover letter and resume with salary requirements to vserrot@forestdaleinc.org; include the job title “REC-FD” in the subject of your E-mail.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Established in 1854, Forestdale is an innovative, forward thinking Queens-based organization located in Forest Hills on a lush three acre campus. Our goal is to ensure that all children have the fundamental assets they need to thrive:  a safe and stable home life; meaningful life and career goals; communication and life skills; and health and sexuality education.

Forestdale is currently embarking on a transformation to adapt evidence-based models agency wide and is looking for a dynamic, self-starter who thinks out of the box to lead this effort. The Director of Evidence-Based Models will report to the Executive Director and work with all staff. 

Our programs/initiatives are as follows:

Foster Care

Fathering Initiative

Pregnant and Parenting Teens

Preventive

Educational Excellence Initiative

Health Literacy Initiative

Culture for One

Responsibilities

• Implement a plan for integrating evidence-based intervention and practice models into the agency’s various programs
• Identify the opportunities for evidence-based or informed interventions
• Coordinate and facilitate all aspects of implementation with staff and outside stakeholders    

Ideal candidates possess the following

• Master’s degree from an accredited university in behavioral sciences or related field
• Three years experience delivering direct services to children, youth and families using an evidence-based or informed modality
• Experience implementing, directing or working in one or more of the following evidence-based models: Multidimensional Treatment Foster Care (MTFC), Functional Family Therapy (FFT) and Multisystemic Therapy (MST).  In addition, experience with other evidence based interventions or practice models (such as Solution-Based Casework or Family Connections)
• Commitment to the transformation process
• Skills and competencies including, but not limited to, oral and written communication, program evaluation, analytic and research methods, and project management

Forestdale provides a competitive salary and outstanding benefits – including 4 weeks Vacation, Health/Dental/Life/Disability insurance, Pension Plan and Tax-Deferred Medical/Dependent/Commuter Plans

TO APPLY: Please forward a cover letter and resume with salary requirements to vserrot@forestdaleinc.org; include the job title “EBM-FD” in the subject of your E-mail.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Forestdale, established in 1854, is a multi-service nonprofit with deep community roots committed to nurturing lasting community partnerships. Our mission is to protect, nurture and strengthen families with children by supporting every family member in meeting life’s challenges.

Forestdale currently seeks a Development Associate responsible for the following:

Grant Writing and Proposals
- Primary responsibility will be to research all legislative and foundation grant opportunities and provide the initial draft of grant proposals on behalf of Forestdale.
- Work with Executive Director, Director of Community Development and administrative staff to obtain quotes, incorporate financial information and other needed statistics and proofread to insure accuracy and positive impact of all grant proposals.
- Maintain and update Calendar for Grant Descriptions and Due Dates.

Media Outreach
- Develop story ideas to pitch to reporters and editors; write press releases and assist Forestdale’s public relations consultants in identifying and supporting reporters who want to write on Forestdale-related stories.
- May also be asked to draft letters to the editor or other editorials for the Executive Director and work on other scripted materials for media initiatives.

Website Coordination
- Participate on internal task force to develop a new web presence for the Forestdale website for www.forestdaleinc.org.
- Serve as point of contact for proofreading and updating web content on a regular basis for the web site.
- Assist Executive Director, Director of Community Development and Department Heads in implementing and disseminating information via the web site.

Corporate Partnership Programs
- Assist Director of Community Development in research and identification of appropriate corporate partners.
- Prepare corporate presentation materials and maintain and upgrade corporate sponsorship data.
- Complete the online proposal portion of any corporate sponsorship opportunity.

Development Database/Customer Relations Management (CRM)
- Participate in developing and maintaining a CRM database for Forestdale

Event Planning and Coordination
- Assist the Director of Community Development in coordinating and managing any fundraising or community outreach events on behalf of Forestdale.

Ideal candidates possess the following:
- Bachelor’s degree required from an accredited university. Advanced degree or continuing professional education preferred.
- At least two years’ work experience in the field of development or journalism, or general administrative experience with an emphasis on writing and editing.
- Some experience in web based applications, review and implementation of web content.
- PC literacy in Word, Excel and PPT.
- Management and administrative skills, possessing attention to details and follow-through, with special emphasis on editing and proofreading.
- Ability to work independently and be self-directed; possess discretion and good judgment; willingness to interface with program departments, as requested.
- Desire and motivation to stay updated on current knowledge and trends in development.
- Understanding of and commitment to furthering the mission and vision of Forestdale.

How to apply

Resumes and cover letters should be sent to vserrot@forestdaleinc.org; include the job title “Development Associate-FD” in the subject of your E-mail.

If selected for an interview, applicants will be asked to provide a writing sample.

Equal Opportunity Employer

This is a unique and exciting opportunity for a development professional with experience in fundraising and public relations to develop a strong department in a dynamic organization. The Director is supported by a staff of three development associates who write grants, maintain the website and build innovative social media platforms.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and implement a comprehensive and multi-faceted development effort
• Work in close cooperation with the Executive Director and the Board of Directors to generate new and increased support from public and private entities and individuals donors
• Oversee all Forestdale Social Media, including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn
• Supervision of Development Associates

The Director of Development will report to the Executive Director and work with all staff.

Ideal candidates must possess the following:

• BA/BS degree from an accredited university
• Experience in fundraising, including annual program planning/management, successful solicitation of institutions and individuals, and work with boards of directors/trustees, major donors, and volunteers
• Superior writing and verbal skills, including public presentations
• Self-motivation
• Skills including, but not limited to fundraising, program planning and ongoing management; board committee management; prospect research; in-person cultivation and solicitation; donor stewardship; extensive writing (grants, reports, direct mail appeals, and related products); communications (including publications and web content); database management; and staff supervision

Forestdale provides a competitive salary and outstanding benefits – including 4 weeks Vacation, Health/Dental/Life/Disability insurance, Pension Plan and Tax-Deferred Medical/Dependent/Commuter Plans

TO APPLY: Resumes and cover letters should be sent to vserrot@forestdaleinc.org; include the job title “DEV-COP” in the subject of your E-mail.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purchase tickets here!

Forestdale youth, staff and Culture For One chaperones delighted in a recent outing to the Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour by Cirque du Soleil. As described by Forestdale youth – it was “Awesome!”.

With four Forestdale youth in attendance for this special event, the chaperones took great pleasure in seeing the smiles spread across their faces throughout the performance.

The show combines Michael Jackson’s dance style and music with stunning visuals. The message throughout the show teaches the children about his message of “love, peace and unity.”

Forestdale youth amazed by the performance.

Forestdale youth at Madison Square Garden.

Forestdale youth leans forward for a better view.

From the show’s Web site: 

 ”A riveting fusion of visuals, dance, music and fantasy that immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world and literally turns his signature moves upside down, Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour unfolds Michael Jackson’s artistry before the eyes of the audience. Aimed at lifelong fans as well as those experiencing Michael’s creative genius for the first time, the show captures the essence, soul and inspiration of the King of Pop, celebrating a legacy that continues to transcend generations.

THE IMMORTAL World Tour takes place in a fantastical realm where we discover Michael’s inspirational Giving Tree – the wellspring of his creativity. The secrets of Michael’s inner world are unlocked – his love of music and dance, fairy tale and magic, and the fragile beauty of nature.

The underpinnings of THE IMMORTAL World Tour are Michael Jackson’s powerful, inspirational music and lyrics – the driving force behind the show—brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless intensity. Through unforgettable performances Michael Jackson THE IMMORTAL World Tour underscores Michael’s global messages of love, peace and unity.”

Forestdale, Inc. recently celebrated the first ‘Stepping Up’ ceremony of 2012. The ceremony brings together families, staff and community supporters to witness the renewed commitment of men who have completed the Fathering Initiative program. Special guest speakers included Council Member Jared Rice (D-3, New Rochelle) and Cathleen Williams, Esq., author of Single Mother The New Father, and CEO and Executive Producer of the cable talk show “I’m Just Saying.”

Ms. Williams spoke to the families about the importance of fathers as role models for their children. She described the types of situations in which fathers and mothers need to work together, like discipline and emotional bonding with the children.

Ms. Williams generously donated copies of her book for the graduating fathers.     

Council Member Rice addressed the importance of male role models in the lives of children. He recalled that his father set high educational standards and encouraged his children to stay on track to achieve their goals.

“We are proud of this group of fathers and how they have grown to understand their role in the lives of their children,” said Scott Leach, Fathering Initiative Program Director. “Ms. Williams and Council Member Rice really summed up the 12 weeks of classes by letting these men know that fathers do matter.”

The ceremony serves to recognize the commitment by the fathers to their families.  The Fathering Initiative is a 12-week job training and parenting course that prepares low-income, noncustodial fathers to reclaim a role in their children’s lives every year. It is the only free fathering program in Queens.

Forestdale's graduating class of March 2012.

Forestdale's Fathering Staff

“The fathers in Forestdale’s program are one of the keys to breaking the intergenerational cycle of broken homes in our communities,” said Anstiss Agnew, Forestdale’s Executive Director. “We are facing an epidemic of fatherless homes in our country. In New York City, 54 percent of Black children and 43 percent of Latino children are growing up in homes without a father present.”

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialists.

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialist.

 

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialist.

 

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialist.

 

 

 

 

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialist.

 

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialist.

 

Council Member Rice, Cathleen Williams, Esq., Forestdale's Executive Director Anstiss Agnew, Fathering Graduate and Forestdale Fathering Specialist.

Forestdale counts on the support of many volunteers to deliver quality services to children and families. One of our key community partners is St. John’s University, which sends volunteers to Forestdale as part of an undergraduate service learning program. Earlier this year, Forestdale launched a specialized volunteer program for Visit Hosts, who facilitate supervised visitation between foster children and their birth parents.

Heather Leiser and Sal Raniolo, both seniors majoring in psychology, began volunteering with the program in early February. Heather currently works with four families on a regular basis. She makes sure to play with the kids, making them feel comfortable being around her.

Heather feels that she’s been very lucky that the birth parents are proactive in engaging their children during the visits. Sal has had a similar experience with the families.

“I don’t want them to feel like I’m just sitting there taking notes about them,” said Heather.

“The families are very loving and interactive,” said Sal. “They want to be with their kids.”

He finds it easy to interact with the families, and thinks they accept him so easily because he does not come across as an authority figure. They read books together, color or play basketball on Forestdale’s basketball court when the weather is nice.

Forestdale Youth Love Shooting Hoops on Our Court!

As part of their ten-week service, the volunteers attend an orientation and commit to serving two or three days a week as Visit Hosts. Forestdale assigns the hosts to the same families so they can build trust and familiarity with children.

Both students had little knowledge about the foster care system when they began their work at Forestdale, and were apprehensive about the unfamiliar environment in which they would be working. Heather admits to being very nervous about the barriers she might encounter. They both quickly moved past their worries and have since gained a greater understanding for the experiences that each of Forestdale’s clients go through.

Heather plans to attend a physician’s assistant program after obtaining her undergraduate degree from St. John’s. She hopes that her experiences at Forestdale will help her bring a more holistic approach to her future career in medicine. Sal’s goal is to become a social worker or possibly continue on to medical school.

According to Rachel Tzimorotas, Forestdale’s Director of Foster Care, the staff loves the hosts’ help.

“We are so fortunate to have the St. John’s University students with us here at Forestdale. Their enthusiasm and dedication is outstanding” said Tzimorotas.

 “Everyone – the case planners, staff and families – have been so nice and helpful throughout our entire experience here at Forestdale,” said Sal. Both students are enthusiastic to continue their work at Forestdale after their course ends this spring.

If you are interested in becoming a Visit Host at Forestdale, please contact Rachel Tzimorotas at rtzimorotas@forestdaleinc.org or at 718-263-0740 x309.