Hello From Post Falls!

July 2024

Hello from Post Falls!

Thats right, we have branched out and are opening a youth home in Idaho! This expansion has been in the works for some time, but now we have a house and are hiring our staff team! This home will be serving the youth of Idaho in need of a safe and stable environment. We will be opening this summer!

Adapting

This field is in constant flux. We recognize the need to adapt and remain flexible as change is everywhere. One recent shift we have noticed in this work is the level of needs present in the residents who come into our care.

Many kids within the State’s care have not only behavior struggles but also developemental disabilities of varying degrees. While this is not new, the frequency has increased, and requires a broader skillset from our staff. it is important that we know how to come alongside those with cognitive, neurological and physical limitations.

We opened our first developmental disability program just over a year ago, and can see how timely that was. The things we have learned there have crossed over into the majority of our programs, and our staff are being crosstrained to effectively communicate and care for kids with disabilities who desperately need advocates. This can look a bit different than our programs did in past years. The concept of ‘rehabilitation’ takes on a different tone, and a determination to provide stabillity and safety to every kid with every level of need becomes the goal.

We have recently started an weekly publication for our staff that is meant to uplift them and bring strength to them as they continue to serve in the midst of many challenging situations. we recognize the need for a sense of purpose and hope in our work, where we are often forced to carry grief and pain, disappointment and uncertainty. The stories we are part of, the lives our residents have lived so far, are often heavy and sorrowful. It takes great tenacity to step into chaos and remain calm. These people are incredible and inspirational!

We have included our first publication below:

Why are we called ‘The Source’? The Source was named after a concept. Whatever we have was sourced from somewhere. My car comes from Japan, my sandals were made in Germany, my phone is Korean. There is a source, an origination for everything. What it is? Can I acknowledge that everything I am, and everything I have is not a product of myself? Working in this field, we need strength, wisdom, resilience, adaptability and tenacity. Where does all of this come from? If I am the source of these qualities I require, than I am in a sad state. I am frequently faced with problems far beyond my ability to solve. If I am not the source of the solutions, then what is? The truth is, I feel pretty smart and capable sometimes- but at other times, I am completely helpless. I greatly dislike feeling helpless, but my perspective is narrow, my experience limited. I MUST find my strength and resilience from a source outside of myself if I want to make a difference.

The Source of all that we need is our Creator. He put us here. He knows us. He wired us with the talents we have. We are dependent upon Him because He is the only One Who has what it takes to bring beauty out of ashes. He gives us strength where we feel fear. He is so miraculously powerful that He has even used some of my mistakes for good!

“ Your love will be the compass of my heart.”

This organization was named The Source because our founders experienced a transformation when they encountered the Love of God. God is the Source of the Hope, Love and Restoration we are working to bring into the lives of our residents! It’s not only availability to them, it available to all of us! Are we tapping into the true Source? Are we allowing ourselves to recieve His insight for making decisions? Are we asking for His Strength and Peace where we are trying to be brave? When life gets heavy and I am feeling weak, where else can strength come from? Our Father who loves perfectly, He is our Source. Jesus’ love and forgiveness has given us complete access to our Source. Ask for, and receive what you need. -N Morden

“Hear me, Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy... a small dose of encouragment You, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. Turn to me and have mercy on me; show your strength in behalf of your servant..”
Psalm 86: 1, 15

Executive Corner with Jules V.

WAC Revisions and Updates

We are currently collaborating with the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) to revise and update the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) applicable to group care in Washington. This month, we are wrapping up this extensive project. Our efforts have involved participating in thirteen 2-hour sessions with twelve different stakeholder groups across Washington State. Additionally, we took part in 53 breakout sessions to narrow down best practices, aiming to establish better guidelines for all group care providers. This project is scheduled to conclude at the end of July 2024.

The next steps, once this work is completed, will involve DCYF finalizing the proposed changes. Once they are ready, DCYF will post the new WACs for public comment, inviting feedback from all community members. Following the public comment period, the updated WACs will be implemented, setting the stage for improved group care standards across the state.

Update on Sacred Heart Hospital

We have important news regarding Sacred Heart Hospital. The in-patient youth psychiatric care center, commonly referred to as PCCA, will be closing down. This closure means we will no longer have access to in-patient mental health services through Providence here in Spokane. Providence has indicated that they will shift their focus to out-patient care for local youth and adolescents. The unit is set to officially close on September 7, 2024.

DCYF Came to Visit!

We were honored to have Cara Scott from DCYF visit our QRTP BRS homes recently. During her visit, Cara provided the following feedback:

"This program specialist had no concerns during her observations of The Source. The staff all seemed very supportive and focused on supporting youth well-being and needs in their programs. The homes were set up to provide a welcoming but safe environment for the youth residing there."

Well done, Source Team! Your dedication and hard work in caring for our children every day have not gone unnoticed. The state recognizes the outstanding efforts and commitment you put into our programs. We have established a strong reputation as a partner DCYF loves to collaborate with in providing opportunities for the youth we serve.

Thank you to everyone for your continued effort and dedication. Together, we are making a significant impact on the lives of the children and families we support.

Stay tuned for more updates in our next issue of The Executive Corner.

Prayer Points

We have a group of new managers stepping into our programs:
Milton
Carlyn
Sophia
Lydia
Madison
Pray for them as they adjust and adapt to their new roles.

Pray for stability within programs and for our residents

Pray for wisdom and clarity for our Executive team and board of trustees.

Pray for the Post falls house team as it is forming.