Yesterday Sandy Cox from the Housing Authority of the City of Anacortes came in to talk with our residents about the programs being offered such as public housing, Bayview Apartments and the Wilson Hotel.  She brought applications and explained the application process and residential acceptance policy.  It was very helpful to our clients (and to me) and we asked many questions.  It is my goal to have our Tuesday morning meetings be relaxing and most importantly a time for educating and supporting our residents.  Purposeful.  Sandy was a delight and offered to return whenever we ask.  It will be my goal to schedule more such "life skills" gatherings with our residents. 

We began meeting with our residents as a community to talk together and provide the opportunity for residents to have a voice in planning life skills classes and trainings.  Examples of life skills groups are financial skills (check books, checking and savings accounts, budgeting, paying bills), tutoring, parenting, employment or housing seminars, etc.  This is also an informal time to answer any center questions they might have about:  chores that are required for each adult resident, the units, fire drills, policies, etc.  Meeting regularly as a community is also another way to support our residents so that they have a successful stay with us and an easier transition to more permanent housing.  I am looking forward to working with our clients and getting to know them better so we can implement some activities or events that will be fun and purposeful. *We invite you to share your skills in teaching a life skills class to our residents by: 

1. Calling Karen at the AFC (293-2993 ext 112) to present an idea for a class.
2. Filling out an employment/volunteer application.
3. Completing a Background Check.

I love the new website and think Zay is amazing in his many areas of expertise…especially technology.  Thanks to Zay for creating this space where we can keep in touch with our friends and community.  I hope to blog regularly and keep everyone informed of all of the many things happening here at the AFC!  Until next time...