Fairfield, CA - The Parent Cafe at Sheldon Academy is making waves as a powerful platform that fosters community, support, and personal growth among parents. This initiative, spearheaded by Holly Collins, Coordinator, Parent, and Family Engagement, and supported by Community Outreach Liaisons and the Children’s Network of Solano County, has proven to be a safe haven where parents come together to share experiences, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections.
Inspired by the mission of Be Strong Families, the Parent Cafe provides a physically and emotionally secure space for parents to engage in open conversations on topics that resonate with their daily lives. Discussions range from the challenges and victories of raising a family to navigating landscapes of inequality, enhancing well-being, and supporting the recovery process of loved ones. Through self-reflection and peer-to-peer learning, participants explore their strengths, learn about Protective Factors, and develop strategies to strengthen their families based on their own wisdom and experiences.
All Parent Cafes are conducted bilingually, offering an inclusive space for Spanish-speaking parents. Zoila Perez-Sanchez, Child Abuse Coordinator with Children's Network of Solano County, plays a crucial role in ensuring that Sheldon Academy's Parent Cafes are accessible to the entire community.
Marisol Martin, a parent at Sheldon Academy, expressed the positive impact of the Parent Cafe, stating, "The Parent Cafe has brought new friendships. We see each other dropping off and picking up our children, but now we know each other's story!"
Principal Lewis, moved by the first Parent Cafe held on October 20th, shared, "When Holly brought up the Parent Cafe, I was 100% in and wanted to bring it to Sheldon Academy right away! We had our first Parent Cafe this year, and it was extremely emotional. Parents were vulnerable and shared their experiences. Through listening to one another, they learned that they are not alone!"
The next Parent Cafe is scheduled for December 15th at 8:15 AM, and the school hopes to see an even greater turnout.