On Saturday, Sept. 20th at 1pm, join us at Barnes & Noble in Wellington for a Q&A and book signing with Dave Aronberg, co-author of “Fighting the Florida Shuffle.” Free to attend, but recommended that you arrive early.
About the Book: “An unflinching view into the dark side of an industry meant to be the hope of those caught in the grip of addiction…” – Dr. Jay Kuchera, MD, FASAM
“It is imperative to fight corruption in the drug treatment industry to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation that too often turns into human trafficking. Every community needs to heed Palm Beach County’s experience in upholding justice and eradicating this evil.” – Laura Cusack, Chair, Human Trafficking Coalition of the Palm Beaches
About the Author:
Dave Aronberg served as State Attorney for Palm Beach County from 2012 to 2024, overseeing 115 prosecutors and 180 staff. A former Florida Senator, Assistant Attorney General, and White House Fellow, he led efforts to combat opioid abuse, creating a Sober Homes Task Force that made over 120 arrests and inspired new laws and national reforms. Aronberg’s efforts also convinced Google to restrict advertisements and improve screening for addiction treatment. The crackdown in rogue sober homes and corrupted drug treatment centers contributed to a dramatic decrease in opioid-caused deaths in Palm Beach County. He previously worked to investigate Holocaust-era insurance claims and helped fight international money laundering at the U.S. Treasury. As Florida’s “Drug Czar,” he cracked down on pill mills, reducing oxycodone deaths. A Harvard-educated attorney, Aronberg also teaches trial skills and regularly appears as a legal analyst.
WHAT: Tiki Thursdays is Driftwood’s weekly celebration of tropical cocktails and playful island vibes, featuring rotating tiki creations by head mixologist Matt Swig, Polynesian-inspired bites from Chef Jimmy Everett, vibrant music, and a lineup of guest bartenders bringing fresh flavors to the bar.
Tiki Thursdays continues its run of tropical flair and guest talent this fall with two exciting one-night-only pop-ups.
Thursday, September 18:Gabby Tirillo of Boynton Beach’s Second Rodeo takes over the bar. With six years of experience, including formative time at Sweetwater,Gabby is known for her passion for agave spirits and her chef-inspired approach to cocktails. Her creations are always flavorful, approachable, and just a little unexpected.
Thursday, October 16: Myles Robinson, the creative mind behind Standish Cocktails, steps behind the bar. With more than 20 years in the industry, Myles is celebrated for his fun, approachable style of cocktail education and his unique concept of “spirited foods,” recipes that use spirits to elevate home cooking. Expect tiki cocktails with a culinary edge and a dash of storytelling.
Ready to outpace those holiday cookies and pies that will soon arrive on your table? Now’s the perfect moment to lace up, head outside, and turn those extra calories into adventures! Across the USA, more than 2,000 rails-to-trails projects wind for over 23,000 scenic miles—plenty of room for you to roll, pedal, stroll, or sprint into shape. And when winter sprinkles its magic, just swap sneakers for snowshoes or cross-country skis and keep the fun rolling. From coast to coast, these five fabulous trails are just waiting for you—so grab your gear and go play outside!
Bizz Johnson Rail Trail, California
Beginning at the 1927 train station in Susanville, situated 208 miles northeast of San Francisco, the Bizz Johnson Trail traces the historic Fernley and Lassen Railroad line. The railroad was constructed in 1914 to facilitate the transportation of logs and milled lumber to and from the Westwood Mill. The unpaved trail spans 30 miles through forests of fir and pine, culminating in Westwood. There, a 25-foot-tall statue of Paul Bunyan stands near the trailhead. Along its course, the trail crosses the Susan River 12 times via bridges and trestles and passes through two tunnels. The Bizz Johnson Trail accommodates hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Additionally, camping is permitted along the Susan River, and the area offers fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout.
Katy Trail, Missouri
Extending 240 miles from St. Charles to Clinton, Missouri’s Katy Trail is a significant corridor along the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. The trail features a surface of crushed limestone. It offers a gentle, scenic route beneath impressive river bluffs and through tranquil farmland as well as small communities. Spanning a substantial portion of the state, it is suitable for cycling, hiking, and running. Horseback riding is permitted on the 35-mile segment between Sedalia and Clinton. There are 26 trailheads, each equipped with interpretive panels that provide information about Native American heritage and early settlement history, including references to Daniel Boone.
Craving an adventure close to the city buzz? Just a quick 45-minute escape from Chicago lands you on the Northern Fox River Valley Trail, a gem stretching over 40 miles through 11 vibrant communities. This scenic route traces the winding Fox River and rides alongside the historic echoes of old railroad lines. As you traverse six charming bridges, you’ll glide from nature preserves into storybook towns—each with its own personality. When snowflakes start to fall, swap your wheels for snow tires, snowshoes, or cross-country skis and let the winter wonderland pull you onward.
To dive right in, start your journey at The Depot (319 N. River St., East Dundee, IL 60118)—a welcoming gateway to the trail. Prefer a downtown vibe? Park along the Riverside Drive Promenade in Elgin, then choose your direction: head north toward East Dundee and Carpentersville, or venture south to uncover the beauty of South Elgin. Every mile promises a fresh view and a new reason to keep moving.
Ghost Town Trail, Pennsylvania
Founded in 1991 along the right-of-way of the former Ebensburg and Black Lick Railroad in western Pennsylvania, the Ghost Town Trail extends 36 miles from Black Lick in Indiana County to Ebensburg in Cambria County. The trail is named after several ghost towns that were abandoned during the early 20th century due to the decline of the regional coal mining industry. Historical markers located throughout the route provide insight into the compelling history of the Black Lick Valley. Notably, the Eliza Furnace in Vintondale, which operated from 1846 to 1849, serves as a distinctive artifact of the valley’s early industrial period. Recognized as one of Pennsylvania’s best-preserved iron furnaces, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The trail is accessible year-round for activities such as cycling, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
Great Allegheny Passage, Pennsylvania to Maryland
Craving an epic adventure? The Great Allegheny Passage promises just that. What began as a modest bike trail in the Laurel Highlands has evolved into an international destination, attracting cyclists and hikers from around the world. This legendary route stretches 150 scenic miles. It whisks you from Pittsburgh, through the rolling highlands, and all the way to Cumberland, Maryland.
Along the journey, you’ll discover vibrant towns and hidden gems. Look for “Little Boston” at mile 128, where a welcoming trailhead and community ballpark invite you to take a break. Venture just north and you’ll stumble upon Dead Man’s Hollow. This natural reserve overflows with miles of lush woodland trails perfect for hikers seeking tranquility or mystery.
If you’re the type who always wants to go just a little farther, you’re in luck. The Great Allegheny Passage connects seamlessly with the C&O Canal towpath in Cumberland. The connection unlocks an epic 334.5-mile journey right into the heart of Washington D.C. Every pedal and every stride along the way tells a story—one you’ll be eager to remember and retell. If you go the full distance, you will earn those pending holiday treats!
THE EDUCATION FOUNDATION DELIVERED 30,543 FREE BACKPACKS WITH SUPPLIES TO STUDENTS
Backpack Initiative Part of Red Apple Supplies, the Foundation’s Signature Program
(Lake Worth, Fla.) – More than 30,000 Palm Beach County students started the school year with brand new free backpacks filled with school supplies, thanks to the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. The Foundation and its community partners delivered the stuffed bags during back-to-school events across 48 Title 1 elementary schools, grades K – 5.
The Education Foundation of Palm Beach Countyserves as a nexus between public schools, the private sector and the community.The Foundation awards grants and scholarships and operates over 100 programs thatclose achievement gaps in learning, prepare students for post-secondary success and create positive, measurable change for over 100,000 students.
“When we started the backpack initiative seven years ago, we handed out 2,500 bags,” said James Gavrilos, President and CEO of the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County. “This year our goal was 30,000 and we filled 30,543! It’s a sad statistic that nearly 40,000 children in Palm Beach County live below the poverty level and will return to school without basic supplies like pencils, backpacks and glue sticks. A backpack filled with supplies is one of the simplest solutions to inequity in the classroom. But it’s more than that. It provides hope, motivation and opportunity for a child.”
The backpack initiative is part of the Foundation’s signature program, Red Apple Supplies, a free resource store for teachers from the highest-need schools in the School District of Palm Beach County to stock their classrooms with school supplies. Since opening in 2016, Red Apple Supplies has distributed over $8 million in school supplies. By the end of the 2024-2025 school year, the program included 96 schools with an eventual goal of serving all 183 schools in the District.
The program is vital to Palm Beach County as teachers typically spend anywhere from $500 – $800 annually out-of-pocket for supplies students can’t afford.
“We want to thank all our partners and volunteers who helped fill the backpacks and deliver them to thousands of happy children,” said Teresa West, Chief Engagement Officer for the Education Foundation. “Surpassing our goal was only possible because of the community’s support. This initiative is about more than just handing out school supplies — it’s about showing students that they are seen, supported and valued. Watching a child’s face light up when they receive a new backpack is a powerful reminder of why we do this work. It’s a small gesture that can have a lifelong impact.”
Sponsors that supported the initiative included Amazon, Bentek, B&I Contractors, Carrier, CORE Construction, Gehring Group, Gold Coast Federal Credit Union, Good Greek Moving and Storage, Gunster, Jezerinac Group, NCCI, Office Depot, Proctor Construction, U.S. Sugar, Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office, Polen Capital, Pratt & Whitney, Seacoast Bank, Universal Engineering Sciences, United Franchise Group, Ventus Charitable Foundation, Wharton-Smith, Guardian Fleet Services, Comcast, NAI/ Merin Hunter Codman, Goldman Sachs, Wycliffe Charities Foundation, The GEO Groupand The Weitz Company.
Transcript courtesy of Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office
First published at The Well of PBC – July/August 2025
The opioid epidemic continues to cast a long shadow, but recent efforts in Palm Beach County and across Florida are showing promising signs of progress. A recent task force meeting highlighted significant decreases in opioid overdose deaths and emergency medical service responses, alongside ambitious plans for expanding treatment access and improving recovery support systems.
A Glimmer of Hope: Declining Overdose Rates
Palm Beach County is experiencing a notable downturn in opioid overdose fatalities. Between January 1st and July 9th, 2025, the county reported 57 total opioid overdose deaths, a stark contrast to 156 during the same period in 2024. This represents a 63% decline, a testament to intensified intervention strategies. Even when accounting for pending toxicology reports, the county anticipates a substantial 49% decrease from the previous year.
Similarly, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue data indicates a 25% decline in transports for suspected overdoses in the first six months of 2025 compared to last year. This positive trend is even more pronounced when looking back to 2017, the peak of the crisis, when there were 1,798 calls for suspected overdoses. Today, the number is 77% lower, signifying a remarkable shift in the local landscape of the opioid crisis.
Expanding the Reach of Recovery: FAR and Oxford House
Organizations like the Florida Association of Recovery Residences (FAR) and Oxford House are crucial pillars in the recovery infrastructure. FAR, which certifies recovery residences across the state, now boasts 272 providers and 9,741 beds statewide. Palm Beach County leads the way with 106 providers and 3,675 beds, making it the largest county in terms of certified recovery units. FAR is actively working to expand its presence on Florida’s west coast, aiming to reach 10,000 beds statewide in the coming months. The certification process has also been streamlined, with providers now able to achieve certification in 30 to 60 days if all legislative requirements are met.
Oxford House, a network of self-run, self-supported recovery homes, continues to grow, with 265 houses across Florida and 2,375 beds. These homes are vital, particularly for their low-barrier access to recovery, and notably, nearly 75% of Oxford Houses in Florida have at least one member utilizing medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This highlights a growing acceptance and integration of evidence-based practices within recovery housing. Oxford House is also expanding its outreach to rural communities and establishing subcommittees to better serve veterans, bilingual individuals, and parents with children.
The Core Network: A Coordinated System of Care
A major statewide initiative, the Community Opioid Recovery (CORE) Network, is expanding rapidly, aiming for statewide implementation in all 67 counties by fiscal year 2025-2026. The CORE Network is a coordinated system designed to connect individuals in crisis to comprehensive treatment and recovery support. It emphasizes a “no wrong door” approach, ensuring access through multiple pathways:
Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Paramedics can initiate MAT on-site and provide warm handoffs to long-term treatment.
Law Enforcement: Officers, often first responders in crisis situations, are being trained in crisis intervention to offer compassionate care and connect individuals to CORE resources.
Emergency Rooms and Hospitals: These facilities are encouraged to initiate MAT immediately and facilitate seamless transitions to ongoing care.
Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs) and Peers: Individuals with lived experience play a crucial role in building trust and guiding others through their recovery journey.
The CORE Network prioritizes low-barrier access to treatment, recognizing that not everyone requires inpatient care. The focus is on rapid stabilization and connecting individuals to long-term resources, including mental health services, housing assistance, and food support.
Incentivizing Progress and Addressing Challenges
To encourage continued progress, Florida is introducing performance-based incentives for CORE Networks. Counties demonstrating the highest population-adjusted percentage decrease in opioid-caused deaths can earn an additional $300,000. Furthermore, the top 10 performing CORE Networks will receive an extra $200,000. This innovative approach aims to reward effective strategies and foster competition among counties to improve outcomes.
Despite the positive trends, challenges remain. In 2023, Palm Beach County saw a 2.5% increase in opioid-caused deaths, indicating that the fight is far from over. There’s also a recognized need for continued education among medical professionals, particularly emergency physicians and hospitalists, to ensure consistent and appropriate MAT prescription. The integration of MAT into correctional institutions, as exemplified by the robust program in the Palm Beach County jail, is another crucial area for expansion.
Modernizing Zoning Laws for Recovery Residences
A significant legislative undertaking is underway to rewrite Florida Statute Chapter 419, which governs community residences. The current statute, considered archaic and in violation of federal Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) laws, has created hurdles for establishing much-needed recovery housing. The proposed rewrite aims to:
Repeal discriminatory provisions: Eliminating arbitrary spacing requirements and definitions that unfairly target people with disabilities, including those with substance use disorder.
Establish a uniform statewide standard: Providing clarity and consistency for zoning regulations across municipalities and counties, preventing costly lawsuits for local governments.
Categorize residences by function, not size: Differentiating between “family community residences” (long-term, resembling a family unit) and “transitional community residences” (shorter-term, higher turnover), allowing for more appropriate zoning.
Make FAR certification mandatory for permitted use: This critical measure would effectively weed out “scam artists” operating unregulated sober homes and ensure quality care.
Address recovery communities: Providing clear guidelines for larger recovery facilities, ensuring appropriate spacing and licensing.
This legislative effort is a complex but vital step towards creating a more supportive and legally compliant environment for recovery residences, ultimately aiding in the broader fight against the opioid epidemic. The aim is to balance community integration with the operational needs of recovery programs, fostering an environment where individuals can truly heal and thrive.
The ongoing dedication of task force members, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and recovery advocates in Palm Beach County and throughout Florida offers a beacon of hope. While the opioid crisis remains a formidable challenge, the coordinated efforts and innovative strategies discussed at the recent meeting suggest a future where recovery is more accessible and sustainable for all.
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – The scariest season of the year is coming up in one month and Fright Nights, the largest haunted house event in West Palm Beach, is looking to terrify those who dare to attend. The 23rd annual event will take place on October 9,11,12,16,17,18, 23, 24, 25, 31 and November 1 at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Fairgrounds Road. Event hours are Thursdays from 6-11 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m. to midnight. In addition to four haunted houses, which open at 7 p.m., there will also be carnival rides, live music, food and entertainment.
A Behind the Scenes tour is planned for October 8 to give the public an opportunity to get a glimpse of the four haunts before the event opens. The tours start at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., and 8 p.m. Limited tickets are available with a maximum of 40 people per hour. The tour lasts 45 minutes and costs $39 per person. Guests also can meet and have their picture taken with the featured characters and ask questions. Each tour purchase will receive a free promotional ticket for opening night on October 9, which includes one admission and one haunted house.
Fright Nights’ four haunted houses will be decorated with the following themes: “The Autumn Terror Returns,” “Nuclear beats: frenzy in the fallout” and “Watery Grave.” For a full description, visit https://www.southfloridafair.com/p/fright-nights/haunts. The theme of the fourth house, currently being called “Project X,” will remain “top secret” until three days before the event opens, when details will be revealed.
When guests aren’t screaming their way through the haunted houses, they are subjected to two scare zones. One is themed “Scary Christmas,” where the holidays are no longer merry because the village of Hollow Pines has fallen under a sinister curse.
The second scare zone is themed “Coven of the Scorned.” In the shadow of the Salem witch trials, four elemental witches were betrayed by the very villagers they once protected. Accused of sorcery and sentenced to death, the public will experience their vowing vengeance on the descendants of those who condemned them.
Online tickets are $48.50, valid any one day of Fright Nights. Sales start Friday, Oct. 9 through Nov. 1. Gate tickets are $46 and are valid any one day of Fright Nights. Each ticket includes admission and 40 Fright Credits. These credits can be used on haunted houses (10 credits per house) or Midway rides (4-5 credits per ride). RIP tickets, which grant VIP access, cost $15 on Thursdays and $20 on Fridays and Saturdays. Kids under 5 are free, although parental discretion is advised for young children. Parking is $10.
Group rates are available for $35 per person. Contact the event box office at boxoffice@southfloridafair.com or 561-790-5225 for more information.
Introduced last year, the Dead Ringers Club is designed as an experience like none other, designed to plunge its guests into the depths of fear. This exclusive pass grants admission to all four haunts, entry to the RIP Lounge and a fast pass to bypass the lines. As a token of their bravery, they’ll receive a haunting souvenir cup, a custom lanyard and survival token. Each ticket is $150 per person, limited to only 100 souls per night.
Hi everyone. It’s been a while, huh? I hope you all are doing well, and enjoying the fall season. A lot has happened in the last few months when I wrote an article, but to keep it short: I’ve been swamped with college and college life. But it feels good to be back.
Anyways, enough about me. Onto what I’m here to talk about today.
Haunted places in Florida. I’m a huge history buff as many people know, and it’s so fascinating hearing about all of these old stories which happened so long ago. So let’s get into it. Here are just a few haunted places in and around South Florida.
The first one I’ll be mentioning is near and dear to my heart, since I’m a big theatre fanatic. It’s the Lake Worth Playhouse. This playhouse has been for over a hundred years-since 1924! Originally named the Oakley theatre, the structure was built by Lucien and Clarence Oakley who came to Florida in the early twenties. The theatre first opened on November 3rd, 1924 at a shocking cost of $150,000 (before you ask, yes I did the math..that would be almost 3 million today. Wowzers.) The theatre ran for about four years. September of 1928, a hurricane came through and destroyed much of the theatre. Lucien and Clarence were able to repair it, and then by early 1929, the theatre reopened.
However, consider the timing here. This was about 9 months before the Wall Street stock market crash, which would lead to The Great Depression. This depression would be one of the worst economic crashes in history. Many people lost all of their money because of the banks, and the Oakley brothers lost ownership of the theatre. It’s said both of them committed suicide in the theatre. Many investigators have reported seeing apparitions as well as heard footsteps in the theatre. Could they still be in the building to this day?
Next up is another famous museum. Yes, we’re talking about Whitehall, aka the Henry Morrison Flagler museum. Flagler built the mansion for his wife, Mary Lily Kenan. They would move in 1902, and would travel to Palm Beach via a railcar (sometimes I wish we still had those, they’re so neat). The mansion was praised and revered by many, and still puts people in awe today. Flagler died in 1913 at 83, and Mary Lily would die 4 years later. Many say they still reside in the mansion, as unexplainable things often occur, such as pottery breaking and a cleaning lady claiming that someone slapped her on the butt, according to www.ghostsofpalmbeach.com.
One final place, and then I promise we’re done. The Gulfstream Hotel on Lake Worth Beach. This hotel was built in the mid 20s, but now remains closed and under renovation. The hotel has been closed and reopened multiple times, and has survived the Great Depression, World War II, and the 90s (just kidding, the 90s weren’t that bad). Not a lot of information about the hotel has hit the public sphere when it comes to ghosts in the hotel. But there have been rumors of a ghost of a six year old girl haunting the building. I wonder what happened? I guess we’ll never know.
Anyway, that’s all I have for you today. I hope you have a great September. And enjoy the spookiness! Boo.
Since 1967, International Literacy Day has been a day for those all around the globe to recognize and celebrate the importance of literacy in individuals and societies. This day is also meant to address the obstacles that prevent people from developing literacy skills and contributing to their societies. Despite its popularity in academic settings, it is not just a day when only teachers and students can celebrate. It is meant to be inclusive to everyone from any country, race, background, and culture to uplift and empower.
International Literacy Day (September 8) can be traced back to the World Conference of Ministers of Education held in Tehran, Iran, where leaders worldwide came together to combat illiteracy and promote its education for all as a fundamental human right. It was September 8th that was declared as the official literacy day by UNESCO, or the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. Every year, UNESCO has a theme to celebrate, and this year, the theme is “Promoting literacy in the digital era.” This year’s global conference will be held at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France.
In this current age, technology has completely changed our societies. It has changed how we learn and work, both positively and negatively. It has allowed people to access reading and writing to understand and create communities where they can engage with others safely and appropriately. However, the rise of technology also presents issues like misinformation and cybercrime. This presents the opportunity to reflect on what literacy means and how it can be managed in this age of technology to be safer, especially for those who are vulnerable.
There are several ways to celebrate this day, at home and locally in your area! – You can visit your local library! Sign up for a library card and pick out books to read. You can explore the different types of books and expand your horizons beyond the fiction section! Libraries also often hold special events and reading programs for kids. – Participate in a challenge! These challenges range from book swapping to dressing up as your favorite character. You can also have the whole family participate in a literacy scavenger hunt to instill positive outlooks on learning how to read and write in the younger and older generations. – You can also volunteer in programs that tutor students in reading and writing lessons! Check out your local and online programs that offer these learning opportunities and get involved. These programs provide learning styles personalized for every student to improve their reading and writing comprehension and skills. These programs are open to all ages, regardless of one’s literacy levels.
There’s no switch that flips kids from “at risk” to “protected.” No single policy, no one-time donation, no one-size-fits-all fix. Advocacy is not about sweeping gestures—it’s about showing up, over and over, in small, human ways that stack into something larger. If you care about vulnerable children—those in unstable homes, underserved schools, or invisible to policy—there are powerful things you can do. Right where you are. The question is not can you help, but where you’ll begin.
Start With What You Can Offer
Advocacy doesn’t always begin in a courtroom or on Capitol Hill. Often, it begins with you—deciding to become a steady presence in a child’s life. Many community leaders emphasize the impact ofstepping into mentoring roles to build trust and open doors that systems can’t. Vulnerable kids don’t just need programs; they need people. By volunteering time as a tutor, mentor, or trusted adult, you become part of the web that catches kids before they fall through. What seems small to you may be life-changing to a child who’s never had someone show up just because they care.
Learn What Shapes Behavior
To advocate well, you need to understand what’s beneath the surface. Formal study in child development, trauma psychology, or behavioral systems can sharpen how you act. Flexible options like online programs are built for caregivers, career-pivoters, and folks already doing the work. These degrees don’t just inform—they reframe. You begin to see how choices echo through systems. If this sounds like your next step,learn more here.
Prevention Starts With Connection
Supporting vulnerable children means supporting the people raising them—especially before things break. Across the country, voluntary in-home programs are being used to help families access resources without stigma. One example comes from efforts to engage families before crises through services that offer support without judgment or red tape. That could mean joining networks that help parents access housing, childcare, or respite services before they’re in survival mode. Prevention meets people upstream—when the problems are real, but not yet irreversible. You can change a child’s trajectory by showing up early.
Strengthen What Already Exists
Advocacy isn’t just about stepping in—it’s about stepping back and looking at the systems we’ve normalized. One emerging path is collective food access initiatives like thoseco‑creating food support locally, where clinics, pantries, and parents work together to restore dignity. How does your town treat hunger? Who decides what counts as “safe” space? Whether it’s a back-to-school clothing drive or a community fridge, your presence matters. You become part of the structure that says: no child in this ZIP code gets left behind.
Show Up Where It’s Hard
Some of the most effective advocacy happens inside the very systems we criticize. Organizations have long emphasizedpartnering to uphold justice by training community members to walk with children through complex legal situations. These aren’t just lawyers or social workers. They’re volunteers who ensure a child’s needs and experiences aren’t erased by court schedules or bureaucracy. Whether it’s a custody dispute or a foster care hearing, your steady presence can shift the outcome. Real advocacy often looks like patience in uncomfortable places.
Address the Whole Child
It’s not just about paperwork—it’s about presence. Programs that address hunger, stability, and routine are vital in keeping kids grounded. Some communities have started standardizing after‑school nourishment to ensure kids don’t go from cafeteria to chaos. That includes snacks, emotional safety, and a place to land between school and home. These programs thrive when everyday people organize, donate, or simply show up. You don’t need to reinvent anything—just join what already works and help it grow.
Multiply Your Voice
When policies change, it’s often because people wouldn’t shut up. Many wins for vulnerable children—whether in foster policy, education funding, or healthcare—have come from campaigns channeling collective voices for policy. Signing petitions matters. So does calling your rep. Submitting public comments. Attending local hearings. Real policy doesn’t move unless regular people push it—consistently and loudly. If you’ve ever felt like “they” should do something, you might be “they.”
Advocacy isn’t a campaign. It’s a commitment. Not every day will feel powerful, and not every effort will land. But every child you make room for in your day, every caregiver you support, every meal you help serve or system you choose to question—that all adds up. The truth is, vulnerable children aren’t waiting for saviors. They’re waiting for neighbors. And those neighbors? They look a lot like you.
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