Quarterly Newsletter

The leaves are changing, the temperature is dropping, the days are shorter. Fall has arrived!

As I was preparing to write a new greeting for this newsletter, I looked back at the previous one and noted that all the thoughts were still relevant, so I am keeping this one short and reflective.

I didn’t have a lot of positive role models when I was growing up, but I had one: my grandfather. My grandfather was 80 years old and still driving seniors around to medical appointments and grocery shopping, because ‘these old people need help’. He was a model for what I hope to be true in my own life: always looking to see how he could contribute with whatever he had to give. At his celebration of life, I shared this quote by John Wesley that described how he lived his life:

“Do all the good you can,

By all the means you can,

In all the ways you can,

In all the places you can,

To all the people you can,

As long as ever you can.”

I challenge us all to be more like my Grandpa Bob. Get involved in solutions: Donate food. Donate Diapers. Donate time. Learn about the resources in our community and help others access the services and supports they need. Use your gifts and talents to help others. This Fall Newsletter highlights wonderful things that are happening in Southern Oregon and how you can become more involved. Enjoy!

With Gratitude,

René Brandon, Director

Southern Oregon Early Learning Hub

Prior to the pandemic, SOELS hosted quarterly Partner Resource Information Sessions and they were very popular with our community partners. Given the impacts of state and federal budget reductions, knowledge of existing resources and how families can access them is more important than ever, so we are bringing the information sessions back!

To make them as useful as possible, we are asking our community partners to complete our feedback form, identifying the topics you would like to know more about. We are also asking our partners if they would be willing to present at one of the sessions when we highlight their area of expertise. Please share this link broadly with your networks so we can capture as much input as possible. We will kick-off the first Information Session in early 2026!

Please sign up and share your feedback here!

Calling all community partners!

211info is a community-based nonprofit organization that has been in existence since 2004. It works to help connect individuals and families with the local resources they need. In the last 12 months, 211info has had 10,000 contacts from people in Jackson and Josephine Counties.

During that period, the top two needs that were MET in both Jackson and Josephine counties over the past year from September 2024 to September 2025 were rent payment assistance and electric bill pay assistance. The top three needs that went UNMET in both counties were rent payment assistance, homeless motel vouchers and gas money.

If your organization offers community resources, especially for any of those unmet needs, please join in partnering with 211info. The organization is only as strong and diverse as its partners! The more organizations participating, the more likely a need is to be met.

To partner with 211info, please email outreach@211info.org or reach out to a coordinator from the list of contacts here https://www.211info.org/give-help/partner-with-us/

Seasonal/Holiday Assistance Needed

Do you have services to share with those in need this winter or holiday season? In 2024, 211info received 4,798 requests for holiday- related assistance. The top five needs were:

• Holiday gifts and toys
• Thanksgiving baskets
• Christmas baskets
• Thanksgiving meals
• Christmas meals

Of those requests received 557 went unfulfilled, either because programs were full or because no services were available in the caller’s area. Please help 211info to bridge the gap by informing them of any local resources not currently listed in their database either by emailing support@211info.org, or by filling out this form.

Need Assistance Navigating 211info?

If you or someone you know could use 211info.org assistance but needs help getting started. Please contact Courtney Naguib by email courtney_naguib@soesd.k12.or.us or by calling or texting 541-621-3933.

In addition to participating in Partner Information Sessions and joining the 211info platform, we are encouraging partners to also participate in the Connect Oregon network.

Connect Oregon is a coordinated care network of health and social service organizations. Partners in the network are connected through Unite Us’ shared technology platform, which enables them to send and receive electronic referrals, address people’s social needs, and improve health across communities.

The Unite Us platform is free to community-based organizations, non-profits, health providers contracted with a CCO, and most local service providers. Click here to learn more about the network and how to join, or contact Momone.Maley@uniteus.com.

We want to ensure that our community is aware of the resources and supports that exist locally, and work to identify gaps as well. Joining these networks expands our ability to refer clients to local services and know that they will receive a follow up and additional information.

As many of you are aware, the federal government has been shutdown for 22 days as we are writing this newsletter (10/22). While we know the shutdown has already affected many Oregonians, we wanted to highlight the potential delay in SNAP benefits if the federal government does not open by Oct 31.

Here is what we know right now:

• If the shutdown continues into November, SNAP benefits will not be issued in Oregon until federal funding resumes.
• This will impact more than 750,000 Oregonians who receive SNAP benefits monthly, and up to 42 million individuals across the nation. (*OPB Article)
• When federal funding resumes, ODHS will work to issue food benefits. However, because many states use the same Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) vendor for electronic food dollars, there will be a national queue for processing and Oregon’s files may need to be sent in groups to avoid delays.

Here is what we can do:

• Stay up to date through the ODHS website and social media pages.
• Continue to share accurate and up to date information and resources for families who may be impacted.
• Consider donating food or volunteering at one of Southern Oregon's many food banks, pantries, or other food service programs (View a list of the Food-related services pulled from the ODHS Resource Guide below).
• Consider reaching out to our State Representative and Senators to voice your concerns on the impact to families in Southern Oregon.

The new Preschool Promise school year is well underway! Families needing publicly funded preschool can still visit Southern Oregon Early Learning Hub’s website to learn more about Preschool Promise opportunities in Jackson and Josephine County. Lotteries will be ongoing to fill slots as they are available. Currently, we have openings in Ruch, Wolf Creek, and Williams. We are also working to fill Preschool Promise spots at The Ivy School's new Grants Pass location. Please reach out to Southern Oregon Early Learning Services for more information!

Email enrollment@soesd.k12.or.us or call (541) 776-8590, ext. 1145.

Para asistencia en español, llame (541) 776-8590, extensión 1190.

With generous funding from Providence Foundation, Josephine County System of Care, and Jefferson Regional Health Alliance, we have launched the Pyramid Model Implementation Coaching Project! The goal of the project is to provide support to early learning programs by focusing on enhancing supportive environments and nurturing teaching strategies to reduce challenging behaviors experienced in the classrooms. We have onboarded six coaches who are now providing coaching support to nine early learning programs with a total of 18 classrooms across Jackson and Josephine counties. Coaches will be working with teachers on assessing the strengths and needs in their classroom environments, setting goals, and measuring reductions in challenging behaviors.

This month, one of our coaches, Rebecca Tree, is sharing her perspective on the importance of coaching in early learning environments.

The Rewards and Challenges of Working with Young Children and Families

Engaging with young children and their families in the field of early childhood education is deeply fulfilling and brings a profound sense of purpose. The opportunity to contribute to a child's development and to support families through their early learning journeys is incredibly rewarding. However, this work also comes with unique challenges. The emotional demands can sometimes be overwhelming and exhausting, as educators strive to meet the diverse needs of children and families. There are instances when the weight of these responsibilities can be difficult to bear. I am reminded of a story my own mentor once shared: she would sometimes sit in her car, overcome with emotion and weep for a child or a parent, only to return the next day with renewed determination. Her resilience and commitment were a source of inspiration for many. For those who knew her, her name was Bev Bos. Over the years attending her conferences has provided me with a wealth of inspiration and practical guidance, filling my notebooks with invaluable ideas.

The Importance of Mentorship and Finding Inspiration

Reflecting on the current landscape of early learning, I often wonder where the mentors have gone and how educators can now find inspiration and support in their work. There are moments when I have felt a strong desire to give back to the next generation of teachers, to offer the same encouragement and wisdom that I once received. My experiences teaching at Southern Oregon University, working alongside practicum students, and leading workshops have been sources of great satisfaction. Yet, I have sensed that something was missing—the opportunity to connect with and support programs and educators beyond my immediate group. The value of mentorship and the search for inspiration continue to be central themes in my journey as an educator.

Facing Today's Realities in Early Childhood Education

It is widely recognized that many children entering preschool today face circumstances that are challenging and often not meant for someone so young. Despite these difficulties, educators remain committed to fostering the growth and well-being of every child, striving to provide the best support possible during these crucial formative years. Nevertheless, it feels as though these challenges have become even more pronounced in today's world, making the work of early childhood educators more demanding than ever.

Support Through the Pyramid Model Framework

Fortunately, a valuable opportunity has emerged through the Southern Oregon Early Learning Hub, which utilizes the Pyramid Model—a framework designed to enhance understanding and responsiveness to challenging behaviors in young children. This tiered approach supports teachers, families, and intervention services in promoting healthy social-emotional development. The Pyramid Model encourages educators to thoughtfully examine the layers of their work and consider new possibilities that might otherwise be overlooked in the midst of a busy day. It offers a path toward empowerment, helping educators move beyond just surviving in their roles. The process requires time and patience; there is no quick fix. However, with the support of dedicated mentors and coaches, along with a system that provides effective strategies, educators can progress beyond mere survival. I am truly grateful to be part of this supportive process.

By Rebecca Tree, M.Ed.

Additionally, we wanted to highlight one of the programs receiving Pyramid Model supports, Blackberry Academy! They were featured in a recent OPB article, shown below!

Blue Heron Park in Phoenix has playgrounds, a pollinator garden and access to Bear Creek.

Now, an area among the trees has become a classroom for preschoolers. Oregon recently began licensing outdoor, nature-based child care programs, one of only a few states to do so.

Yessie Joy Verbena recently opened the first one, called Blackberry Academy. She said spending time outside is how childhood is supposed to be. “I always joke with families, if there aren’t any walls, they can’t bounce off of them,” she said. “If you’re outside, outside voice! It’s OK, go for it, yell, scream, jump, climb the tree, be yourself. Explore the full range of who you are as a tiny little person. And it’s wonderful.”

Verbena said outdoor play is important for kids’ development, allowing them freedom, creativity and relaxation. As someone with a difficult childhood, she wants to help other children from underprivileged backgrounds. “Time spent outside is so good for us in every aspect: physically, emotionally, spiritually,” she said. “It’s just got these healing powers.”

Verbena said these programs previously operated in Oregon under a different status with stricter requirements. The license allows her more freedom and funding options, making the preschool more accessible.

For instance, families can now use a subsidy program called the Employment Related Day Care program to pay for outdoor, nature-based preschool. At Blackberry Academy, kids spend their days playing, exploring and learning about local wildlife. “We’ve got a resident beaver. We have river otters, North American pine martens, bald eagles fly overhead,” Verbena said. “It’s right here in the middle of town and yet teeming with wildlife.”

The city has an informal agreement with Verbena to operate in the park. She previously operated day camps and also offers a toddler program with caregiver participation.

Blackberry Academy has room for 14 kids and operates from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Families can sign up for two or four days a week. There are two spots left for children to sign up.

The Family Connection (TFC) is Southern Oregon’s designated parenting hub, serving Jackson and Josephine counties with free, evidence-based parenting education and support. We offer a wide range of workshops, classes, and events designed to strengthen families with children ages 0–18. Whether you're a professional seeking trusted, accessible resources for the families you serve, or a parent looking for tools, community, and support, TFC is here to help. We collaborate with local agencies to ensure every family has access to high-quality, inclusive, and empowering parenting support.

Learn more on their website, connect with them on Facebook, and check out the Fall 2025 Calendar below!

The Oregon Parent Education Collaborative (OPEC), is a statewide parenting education network for families, parenting education professionals like the Family Connection, and community partners. You can explore additional resources on their website.

OPEC also shares a blog, with research-based, practical tips about parenting children of all ages! In September they shared an article on The Power of Picture Books, along with resources to help you find high quality children's books! Check out the blog and articles on early childhood, parenting teens, resources for culturally and identity specific needs, and more!

From an award-winning filmmaking team, MAKE A CIRCLE follows a group of child care providers who are determined to change how society values the education of its youngest citizens. With a mix of humor, outrage, and passion, MAKE A CIRCLE captures the unfolding stories of Patricia, a leader of a new union for child care providers, as she fights on behalf of a largely immigrant workforce; Charlotte, another union member who tirelessly lifts up the low-income families in her care; and Anne, the director of a large preschool, who finds novel ways to value and support her teachers when jobs at Starbucks are offering higher pay. Within their stories are interludes that offer a cinematic glimpse into the unique, imaginative world of the young children in their care.

The film culminates as thousands of child care union members march on their state capitol demanding better working conditions, just as their contract is set to expire. Weaving together the magic they create in the classroom, the struggles they endure at home, and their unwavering activism for their profession, MAKE A CIRCLE is a moving portrait of life as an early childhood educator and a promising blueprint for fixing our broken child care system

MAKE A CIRCLE is now available to stream on the PBS Website and PBS Youtube and airing on local broadcasts throughout the Fall. Visit the website to learn more, and to watch the documentary!

The third round of the Child Care Infrastructure Funds (CCIF) opened on Wednesday, September 17th, 2025, at 12:00pm! This round will consist of $20 million in grant funding for infrastructure projects that further the wellbeing of children and families in Oregon. Applications for Round 3 must be submitted by 4:59pm on Tuesday, December 16th, 2025. Updated grant materials for Round 3 can be found on Business Oregon’s website here: Business Oregon : Child Care Infrastructure Program : Child Care Infrastructure Program : State of Oregon

There are many upcoming technical assistance webinars to support prospective applicants with their Round 3 applications. Each webinar focuses on a different aspect of the application process and is offered in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, and Chinese. To register for these informational webinars, visit Department of Early Learning and Care : Child Care Infrastructure Fund : Programs : State of Oregon

If you have questions or need technical assistance completing the Child Care Infrastructure Program application, please contact one of the technical assistance providers below:

First Children’s Finance
Website: www.fcforegon.org/
Email: InfoOregon@FirstChildrensFinance.org

Northwest Native Chamber
Website: www.nwnc.org/ccif/
Email: ccifsupport@nwnc.org

View the full press release here, and apply here! The application portal will close on or about December 16, 2025, with an expected award notification date of February 17, 2026.

The Growing Together Center continues to provide free, inclusive programs for families with young children! Our team prioritizes finding new ways to engage with families and our community. Drop by for some of our wonderful programming!!

Community Partners are welcome to invite their families to meet them at the center for meetings or intake appointments. We have a private office that can be reserved. Partners are also encouraged to accompany their families to attend one of the program offerings. It can feel intimidating to some families to walk through a new door for the first time, and a friendly partner joining them might help! The focus of the center is to build community, help families make social connections, and provide high quality programming that builds social and emotional skills in young children.

We have seen a significant increase in the demand for diapers. Regularly changed diapers are a necessity for the health of children and are also very expensive for families with young children.

We welcome any community support, financial donations, and diaper donations so we can continue to provide this service. No donation is too small.

Donations can be dropped off at our SOELS Medford office through December 23rd between 8am - 4pm at 918 Chevy Way, or at the Growing Together Center between 10am - 2pm Monday-Friday at 310 SW H Street in Grants Pass.