Written By: Jennifer Rose O’Shay a.k.a J.R.O’Shay, MAED. As a young girl, I spent many days exercising the depths of my imagination. With a ton of energy and spirit, I would engage in plays that took me on adventures across the world. This was my escape from reality. My name is Jennifer O’Shay. I am an Early Head Start Teacher at Starfish Family Services. I have my master’s degree in early childhood education and School Leadership in the 21st Century. I have dedicated most of the past 17 years to building my career in Early Childhood Education. I am also a multi-media artist and work in photography, writing, illustrating (with a variety of materials), crochet, face painting, and… whatever I want to try. My background is full of a lot of childhood trauma and negativity. Many of my family members were plagued with mental health illness and addiction. When I was around 3 years of age, my father became a victim of the drug pandemic taking over society during the early 80s. In an … [Read more...]
A Visit to our Nation’s Capital
by: Noreen Dinwieddie and Jenifer Jonika In the brisk winter week of January 22-26, Noreen Dinwieddie, HS/Grants Administration Director and Jennifer Jonika, Executive Director embarked on a significant journey to the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington D.C., representing the Michigan Head Start Association (MHSA) at the NHSA Leadership Institute. Noreen, an elected Director on the MHSA and a member of the Governmental Affairs Committee, and Jennifer, dedicated to advocating for the cause, were part of a group that sought to address critical issues facing Head Start programs across the country. The primary objective of their visit was to meet with Senators and elected Congress Representatives, presenting the concerns of the Head Start community and advocating for continued support. Although Senators Stabenow, Peters, and Congresswoman Rashida Talib were not available, their Executive Assistants graciously welcomed the delegation. They assured Noreen, Jennifer, and their … [Read more...]
Emmauel Israel Hired as Center Leader at the Hiveley Early Childhood Education Center
Emmanuel Israel was recently hired as Center Leader at our Hiveley Early Childhood Education Center. With close to 10 years of experience in early childhood education, and male/father engagement, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. Emmanuel Israel, BSc (Psych), IECMH-E received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Bellevue University and is attending Eastern Michigan University to obtain a Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education. Also, he has earned the MI-AIMH Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® as an Early Childhood Family Associate! He is the FIRST African American Professional to earn this new Endorsement and the FIRST male professional to earn this Endorsement! His Starfish journey began in 2014 as a parent and was hired in 2015 as a Father Engagement Specialist. Since, he’s held positions as Disability Assistant, Family Service Guide, Teacher, Education Coach and now Center Leader. Prior to coming to Starfish Family … [Read more...]
Starfish calls for support of Telehealth
The Detroit News - Op-Ed published, August 27, 2023 Author: Marisa Nicely - Chief Program Officer at Starfish Family Services In recent years, Michigan, like much of the country, has grappled with the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the most pressing challenges is the strain on our state's public mental health system, which was already stretched thin before the pandemic hit. As we navigate the post-pandemic world, the emergence of telehealth has provided a vital support system for countless Michiganians. Telehealth has bridged gaps in care, allowing mental health professionals to connect with those in need. Recent data shows that its effectiveness is undeniable. Especially for residents in rural areas and those facing transportation challenges. It also stands as a testament to our capacity for innovation. And it has ensured that critical services remain accessible to those who need them most. However, the state sees things differently. … [Read more...]
Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day
The Week of May 7, 2023: Starfish Family Services joins with other providers and families across the nation to lift up Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day & Month! Good mental health is an essential part of the health development of any child. Today, 1 in 5 children struggle with mental health or a learning disorder. At Starfish we support children and families to heal – as well as – build skills and resilience to focus on overall wellness. Building a strong foundation of self-fare and positive coping skills help children, youth, and families stive for mental, emotional, and physical health. Early discovery, diagnosis, and appropriate services for children, youth, and their families make a lasting difference in the health outcomes for everyone. Starfish provides in-person, home-based, and telehealth options with trained mental health professionals. To connect to our Behavioral Health Team directly --- call 800-355-5433. Additional learning resources: … [Read more...]
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