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PATH-O-GRAM
A free service provided by PATH
February 9, 2015
www.pathcrisis.org
PATH’s Community Resource Seminars – 2014-2015. We want to answer your questions about our local
system of social services -- register today for our ½ day (4 hour) training! The cost is $35/individual, plus $25
(optional and special seminar rate) for the McLean/DeWitt/Livingston County PATH Directory or $20 for the
McLean County only Directory. Both go hand-in-hand with the seminar content. Our next half-day seminar is
and Thursday, March 19th.
Seminars run from 8:30 am-12:30 pm. To register, contact Amanda at 834-0580 or download the registration
brochure from our web site www.pathcrisis.org, you can find the form under Community Resources.
Illinois Prairie Community Foundation Announces Grant Opportunities in Four Categories
IPCF is accepting applications for four types of grants between January 21, 2015, and February 23, 2015 (at
11:59 pm). Applicants must represent a 501(c)3 organization or one that operates under fiscal management of
a 501(c)3, a branch of local, county, state or federal government, a nonprofit school/college/university, or a
religious organization as recognized by the IRS. Programs must be available to residents of McLean, DeWitt,
Livingston or Logan Counties but need not operate in all four counties. (One exception is the Shulman Grants
which must be available to residents of McLean County.) If you have received previous grants from IPCF, you
must be current on Final Reports.
For each specific program application, you may choose only one grant type (General, Arts and Culture, YEP or
Shulman). However, you may apply in multiple grant categories if the applications are for distinctly different
programs and fit the criteria for that particular type of grant.
IPCF General Grants are open to programs and projects that focus on education, environment, health and
wellness or youth.
Mirza/IPCF Arts and Culture Grants are open to programs and projects that focus on performing, visual, or
literary arts and/or art education/enrichment.
Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP) Grants are conducted by Illinois Prairie Community Foundation’s
YEP group consisting of 24 area high school youth. Projects must be youth focused or significantly impact
youth; adults and youth alike are encouraged to submit an application.
Sol Shulman Jewish Life and Education Grants are open to educational programs and materials for
residents of McLean County that focus on Jewish-themed arts, music, and theater or Jewish cultural
enrichment. Examples include books for libraries, lectures, school curriculum or the like.
More information and applications for all four grant types are available at http://www.ilprairiecf.org/ipcf-grantrounds/ We encourage you to forward this information to any of your contacts who might find it of interest.
Please direct questions to Kathi Davis, Associate Program Director and Grants Coordinator, at (309) 662-4477
or kdavis@ilprairiecf.org.
The 2015 Parent Expo will be held on Saturday, February 21 from 9:15-2:30 pm at Sugar Creek Elementary
School, 200 N. Towanda Avenue in Normal. This year’s expo is chock full of interesting and informative
workshops for parents/caregivers, professionals, or anyone who works with parents and children. Topics
include: bullying and parenting for success, child development and music, how your engine runs (addressing
sensory needs), infant massage, yoga, money matters, emergency preparedness, etc. There will also be lots
of great vendors on hand with products, information, and giveaways, all with parents in mind. Lunch is
provided. Child care is also provided for children ages 2 and up with RSVP. To register for child care, please
contact Jennifer Rients at (309)834-5266 or jrients@childrenshomeandaid.org. Hope to see you there!
TALENTED AND EXPERIENCED GRADUATE STUDENTS AVAILABLE – Illinois State University’s
Stevenson Center for Community & Economic Development now has Peace Corps Fellows and Applied
Community & Economic Development Fellows ready to serve with local, regional, or national organizations
starting in summer 2015. In exchange for a stipend, these students work 35 hours per week for 11 months to
assist organizations with their programs and services. To learn more about hosting a Stevenson Center Fellow,
please contact James Porter at 438-5945 or james.porter@ilstu.edu or visit stevensoncenter.org/host/.
United Way of McLean County is hosting free IRS-certified income tax preparation (VITA) workshops
throughout the community from January 28 through April 13 at several sites around the community.
Workshops are hosted at Mid Central Community Action (1301 W. Washington, Blm) from 5-7:45 on
Wednesdays, Heartland Community College (1500 W. Raab Rd, WDC – Room 3601) from 2-6 p.m. on
Wednesdays and Fridays (as well as 2-6 on Mondays during February), Mount Moriah Christian Church (510
E. Washington, Blm) from 5-7:45 on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Normal Activity Center (1110 Douglas St,
Normal) on Fridays from 9:30-2:00 by appointment only, and Bloomington Housing Authority (104 E. Wood St.,
Blm) on Mondays from 5-7:45 p.m. and Saturdays from 9-11:45 a.m.. For more information on schedules and
locations, please visit www.uwaymc.org/vita/.
MCCA is offering a special Money Matters Financial Education Class, Managing Your Money & Understanding
Credit, on Tuesday, February 10 from 5:30-7:00 in coordination with Heartland Bank. The workshop will cover
several topics, including:
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Importance of a realistic spending plan
Steps in developing a spending plan
Setting financial goals and making a spending plan to meet your goals
Trimming expenses and making money management easier
Using strategies to increase savings
Understanding your credit rating
Credit reporting
Common credit problems
Repairing credit problems
Establishing credit
Registration is required for this workshop and space is limited. If you are interested in attending, please
contact Kelley at kelleys@mccainc.org or 309-834-9244 to RSVP.
From the Bloomington Housing Authority:
AFFORDABLE HOUSING IS AVAILABLE NOW through the Bloomington Housing Authority. One-bedroom
and efficiency apartments are currently available at Wood Hill Towers, which offers convenient affordable
housing for older adults and people with disabilities. Rent is never more than 30% of adjusted household
income. Social services, video surveillance, on-site Peace Meal, affordable cable TV, and many other
amenities are offered. A model apartment is open every Wednesday between 2:00 and 4:00 PM. Applications
are available in the Housing Authority office at 104 E. Wood Street in Bloomington.
Waiting lists for FAMILY PUBLIC HOUSING in Bloomington are currently shorter than usual. The Housing
Authority encourages families in need of affordable housing to apply for public housing. The family housing
sites are Evergreen Place (36 units), Wood Hill Family Apartments (50 units), Holton Homes (64 units), and
Sunnyside Court (100 units). Waiting lists for three, four, and five-bedroom apartments are especially short.
Rent in public housing is never more than 30% of household income. Pets are permitted at some sites.
Applications available in the Housing Authority office at 104 E. Wood Street in Bloomington.
For more information on public housing in Bloomington (Wood Hill Towers or family housing), please visit
www.bloomingtonha.com or contact Jeremy Hayes at the Housing Authority of the City of Bloomington,
jeremyh@bloomingtonha.com, 309-829-3360, ext. 214.
Understanding Ethics and Professional Behaviors
Tuesday, May 12, 2015, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm at Children’s Home + Aid office in Bloomington, IL
Presenter: Dr. Peggy North Jones
This training will discuss ethics and how it impacts work with children and families. It meets the IDFPR three
hour ethics requirement.
For additional information, please contact Karan Kowal at kkowal@childrenshomeandaid.org.
University of Illinois Extension is partnering with OSF- Center for Healthy Lifestyles to bring you Pizza
Pizzazz! The program will be held at the Center for Healthy Lifestyles located at OSF St. Joseph Hospital,
2200 E. Washington St., Bloomington on February 12 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Jenna Smith, Nutrition & Wellness
Educator, will teach you how to create a dynamite pizza crust and a variety of sauces and toppers. You will get
to take home a packet of recipes and sample her classic tomato sauce pizza, basil pesto pizza, and sweet
potato, kale and caramelized onion pizza. There is a $20 fee for this class. To register, visit
www.osfstjoseph.org/calendar or call toll-free 1-888-627-5673.
University of Illinois Extension is partnering with Heartland Community College for the Food Service
Sanitation Manager’s Certification Course. This course meets the eight-hour coursework and examination
required by the State of Illinois for the Food Service Sanitation Manager’s Certification. It will be held February
25 from 9:00 am-3:00 pm and February 27 from 9:00 am-2:00 pm in the Workforce Development Center Room
1402 at Heartland Community College. You must attend both days to sit for the examination. There is a fee of
$124 per person for materials and the test. To register, call Heartland at 309-268-8160 or online at
http://www.heartland.edu/communityEd/ .
From OSF Healthcare: Go Red for Women: Breakfast in Red
This year’s program will focus on the effects of stress on your heart health. All attendees will receive a free,
heart-healthy breakfast, a giveaway, and valuable information on how to reduce your stress for a healthier and
happier heart.
DATE:
LOCATION:
AGENDA:
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
DoubleTree by Hilton, Bloomington
7:30-8 am
Registration and Breakfast
8-9:30 am
Program with Dr. Anjali Bhagra, Mayo Clinic
To register online, please visit www.osfstjoseph.org, or call (309) 661-5151. The event is free, but an RSVP is
required.
The Central Illinois Volunteer Association (CIVA) will be hosting a half-day professional development
workshop on Friday, February 13 and invite all non-profit professionals to attend! The workshop will feature two
dynamic presentations:
“Finding Strength in Ourselves and Others” - Lindsay Hale, Executive Director of Thirty-One Gifts, specializes
in building confidence and leadership in teams and will share some useful strategies to bring back to your
organization.
“The Stuck Stage…and How to Get Unstuck” - Steve Thomas, professional speaker, is an expert on identifying
the “ruts” that every person and organization goes through, and will provide proven approaches that will keep
you moving forward.
The workshop will be held at the YWCA (1201 N. Hershey Ave. in Bloomington) from 8:30 am – noon. There is
a $10 fee (cash or check) for non-CIVA members. Please RSVP to Annie at amweave@ilstu.edu by Feb. 2.
For more information, please visit the CIVA website – www.civainfo.org.
Mid Central Community Action, Inc. (1301 W. Washington in Bloomington) will be hosting free financial
education workshops on Monday, February 9 (Personal Budgeting) and Monday, February 16 (Cost of Credit
Cards and Personal Loans) from 5:30-7:00 pm Registration is required for these workshops. If you are
interested in either or both of the workshops, please RSVP by contacting Kelley S at (309) 834-9244 or
kelleys@mccainc.org.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) is a program designed to help low and moderate-income taxpayers
($35,000 if single with no children or $55,000 if single with children or married) complete their Federal and
Illinois tax returns and file them electronically at NO COST to them.
VITA volunteers do have previous knowledge or experience with preparing tax returns. VITA services are
offered through the Bloomington-Normal VITA Foundation and Mt. Moriah Christian Church
DAY: Tuesday & Thursdays
5:00 – 7:45pm
LOCATION: Heartland Community College, 1500 W. Raab Rd, Normal IL , Workforce Development Center,
Room 3601
DAY: Wednesdays
5:00 – 7:45pm
LOCATION: Mid Central Community Action. 1301 W. Washington St, Bloomington, IL
DAY: Fridays
9:30am – 2:00pm (By appointment only: call 309-888-9099)
LOCATION: Normal Activity Center, 1110 Douglas St, Normal, IL
DAY: Mondays
5:00 – 7:45pm & Saturdays 9:00 – 11:45am
LOCATION: Bloomington Housing Authority, 104 E. Wood St, Bloomington, IL
DAY: Mondays
2:00 – 6:00pm (February Only)
Wednesdays
2:00 – 6:00pm & Fridays 2:00 – 6:00pm
LOCATION: Mount Moriah Christian Church, 510 E. Washington St, Bloomington, IL
Please bring:
Tax information such as W-2, 1099, etc
Social Security cards (or ITINs) for all persons on the return
Government issued picture ID
Copy of your 2013 Federal Tax Return
FREE tax sites open January 28 – April 13
Children’s Home + Aid Crisis Nursery currently has funding available for rent and utility assistance.
The funds are available for Crisis Nursery Clients (caregivers with children under the age of 6) who have
received either an eviction notice or a utility shut-off notice. If you are working with a family who is not currently
a client of the Crisis Nursery, please encourage them to contact the Crisis Nursery to complete the intake
paperwork and access the Nursery as we are only able to assist families who are Crisis Nursery families. In
order to access the funds, families will need to provide a current disconnect or eviction notice and verification
of income. Please contact the Crisis Nursery at 309.835.5260 or Jeannie Higdon at 309.834.5258 to begin the
referral process.
ONE BILLION RISING - THIS FRIDAY! - Leave your work, leave your school, interrupt the day, rise for
revolution, dance, drum, and demand an end to the violence! Join us on Friday, February 13 from 12-1 p.m. at
Heartland Community College, Community Commons Building, room 1406, for Zumba, drumming, Yoga,
community resources, raffle items, refreshments, and more.
The community agencies sponsoring this year’s event are Children’s Home + Aid, McLean County DVMDT,
Mid Central Community Action, The Om Tribe, and YWCA McLean County. To learn more about One Billion
Rising for Justice, please visit www.facebook.com/TwinCitiesOneBillionRising or YWCA McLean One Billion
Rising.
Upcoming Workshops sponsored by Agape Counseling - The cost of each workshop is $25.00. Please call
309-663-2229 to register for workshops. You may choose to attend any or all of the workshops. Children are
not permitted. Space is limited! All workshops held at the Bloomington location, Agape Counseling, 211 N.
Veteran’s Parkway, Bloomington, Illinois.
February 22, 2015, 2 pm-4 pm, Presenter: Wilma McLaughlin, LCPC
Your Child and Divorce: For parents who are divorced, divorcing or considering divorce, this workshop will
provide you with strategies on how to navigate and help your child to make the necessary adjustments. Among
topics will be ‘How does your child’s age impact their adjustment to divorce’, When is the ‘best’ time to divorce,
and the ‘worst’, ‘What to consider in developing a parenting plan’, ‘Moving on’ with your child in mind’,
‘Separating your needs from your child’s’.
March 8, 2015, 2 pm-4 pm, Presenter: Lisa Neuweg, LCPC
Mindful Parenting: Learn how to expand awareness of your own emotions in order to create a more peaceful
home. You can fulfill your children’s needs and deepen your connection to your children. You will also learn
how to discipline mindfully and create a loving approach to setting boundaries.
April 12, 2015, 2 pm-4 pm, Presenter: Michelle Rolley, MS,LCPC
Emotion Coaching: In this workshop parents will learn the very important skill of increasing your child’s
emotional intelligence. Based on the research of psychologist John Gottman, you will learn a 5 step emotion
coaching process to teaching your child how to master their emotions. We will also review the types of
parenting and which type you may lean towards. By incorporating this material into your daily routine, you will
be better equipped to help your child develop positive relationships.
May 17, 2015, 2 pm-4 pm, Presenter: Hallie Harmon, LCPC
Introduction to TBRI: TBRI is a holistic approach to parent children who have experienced difficult situations.
TBRI is a trauma-informed intervention that is specifically designed for children who have come from “hard
places” of maltreatment, abuse, neglect, violence, or medical trauma, but you’ll see that the principals of
EMDR apply to all children. At this workshop you will learn the basics of TBRI’s three principals: connecting,
empowering, and correcting. Parents can form a better attachment with their children while still addressing
behavioral issues and how to incorporate TBRI into your daily routines.
June 7. 2015, 2 pm-4 pm, Presenter: Alex Brucker, LCPC
Creating Successful Blended Families: This workshop is for couples, re-married, step-parents, and single
parents. You will learn to better equip yourself to meet the challenges facing blended families in today’s world.
You will begin to recognize the needs of every family member, and how to effectively work together to have
those needs met.
June 14. 2015, 2 pm-4 pm, Presenter: Dawn Dannenbring-Carlson, LCPC
Practical Help For Childhood Problems: Being a parent is a joy but it is also hard work. All parents need a
little help now and then. Based on Dr. Todd Cartmell’s book, The Parent Lifesaver. In this workshop you will
learn how to develop a down-to-earth parenting plan that will help you raise calm and confident kids.
ATTENTION ALL ORGANIZATIONS - Are you hosting any Read Across McLean County events for Dr.
Seuss’ birthday? Go to ReadAcrossMcLeanCounty.org for examples of last year. Contact Noel at United Way
Lucero at nlucero@uwaymc.org or 309.828.7383 to have your event promoted on our website.
Heartland Community College offers free GED and ESL classes! Call 268-8180.
GED: Do you know someone who needs a GED? Let HCC help. Studies will include reading, writing, social
studies, science, and math. HCC can also prepare students for the U.S and Illinois Constitution exams, if
necessary. Enroll now and begin classes by March 16th.
ESL: Do you know someone who needs to improve in their ability to speak English. We can help with that too.
Students will improve in their ability to speak, listen, read, and write English. Enroll now and begin classes
by March 2nd.
GED and ESL classes are FREE and help learners move to the next level of the ladder to success. If
interested in more information, or to schedule a date for testing and orientation, please contact 268-8180.
From the Bloomington Public Library:
Now-Sunday, March 1 - Bottle Challenge Submissions Accepted
Illinois State University’s Center for Mathematics, Science, and Technology will host its annual and free Family
Science Day in April. One of the activities at this year’s Family Science Day is the Bottle Challenge. During the
Bottle Challenge, participants are encouraged to put their plastic beverage bottles to good use by creating
something new with them.
Both Bloomington and Normal Public libraries will accept submissions for the Bottle Challenge from Sunday,
February 1-Sunday, March 1. Entry forms will also be available at the libraries. Prizes will be awarded. Visit
bit.ly/173SsEk for more information.
Mondays & Thursdays from February 2-April 13 - Tax Assistance
Volunteers from AARP Tax-Aide will provide assistance in filing taxes from 9:15am-1pm on Mondays and
Thursdays from February 2-April 13. No return will be started after 12:15pm.
Those seeking assistance should bring their W-2, social security card, social security statements and tax forms
to the Community Room. A social security card or statement is required for anyone whose name appears on
the tax return. There are no age nor income restrictions to receive aid. Help is provided first-come-first-served.
Thursday, February 12 - Computer Basics
For the very beginner, in this 10am class we’ll learn about the mouse and keyboard, opening and closing
programs, and navigating the computer’s operating system. Meet in the Quiet Reading Room. This program is
being offered once in February and once in March. Please register for the date/time that works best for you.
Registration is required and opens Monday, January 19, at 10am by phone at (309) 828-6093, in person at the
Library, or online at BloomingtonLibrary.org. Registration will close when 10 people have registered. If more
people wish to register, a waiting list will be started.
Saturday, February 14 - Monthly Donation Day
Library volunteers accept donations of gently used books, audio books, DVDs, CDs, and BluRays on the
second Saturday of each month from 10am-3pm. Those wishing to donate are asked to either bring the
materials to the Community Room or to pull into the Library’s main parking lot, take an immediate left, and
drive under the overhang. There, a group of volunteers will help unload the materials from the donor’s vehicle.
Items will be sold with proceeds benefitting Library programs.
Monday, February 16 (no school today) - Wild About Mo Willems Party
Are your kids crazy for Knuffle Bunny, Pigeon, Gerald & Piggie, and all the rest? If so, come celebrate your
favorite characters and their creator at our Wild About Mo Willems Party! We’ll have a story time at 10am
followed by crafts and activities in the Children’s Department from 10:30am-12pm. This program is for kids of
all ages with a parent or caregiver.
Monday, February 16 (no school today) - No-School DIY for Teens: Locker Magnets
During this month’s No-School DIY program, teens will make personalized bubble magnets for their lockers.
Meet from 2-3pm in the Community Room.
Wednesday, February 18 - Filling out the FAFSA for College Financial Aid
Representatives from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission will be available from 5-7:30pm in the
Community Room to walk students and their parents through filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid
for college financial aid. Parents, college students, and high school seniors are encouraged to attend.
Attendees should arrive with the following information:
 Social Security Numbers for both parents and student
 2014 tax return (If 2014 taxes aren’t yet completed, bring in last year’s tax return so estimates can be
made. Numbers will need to be updated when taxes are filed).
 Driver’s License Number: (if student has one)
 Alien Registration Number: (if not a US citizen)
Thursday, February 26 - Essentials of Business: Essentials of Funding Your Small Business
In this 6:30pm Community Room workshop we will examine the full range of funding sources – both traditional
and non-traditional. We will provide the pros and cons of each form including bank, credit union, secured and
non-secured, and even such new means as “Crowd Funding” on the Internet.
This series is sponsored by SCORE and the Bloomington Public Library.
SAVE THE DATE! 2nd Annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration- February 28th and March 2nd, 2015
This weekend of fun and celebration is FREE for children of all ages and their parents. The first day of festivity
will be held on Saturday, February 28th from 11am to 1pm at Bloomington Public Library, 205 E Olive St,
Bloomington. There will be storytelling, face painting, Seuss crafts, and book giveaways! Cat in the Hat will
also be available to take pictures! On March 2nd, United Way and its volunteers will join the children at the
public schools for more storytelling. Barnes and Noble at 1701 E Empire St, Bloomington will also host a
celebration of Dr. Seuss’ Birthday on March 2nd at 7pm. This event includes storytelling and Cat in the Hat! For
pictures of last year, visit www.ReadAcrossMcLeanCounty.org. Site will begin to be updated on February 11th.
GIRLS BE U TAKING APPLICATIONS - YWCA McLean County is currently taking applications for the
upcoming session of Girls Be U, an empowerment program for teen girls. Girls Be U is designed for current
high school girls. The program allows girls to explore their own uniqueness and positive qualities through an
open and creative curriculum, offered in a safe and healthy environment.
Dates and Time: Wednesdays, February 18-April 22, from 4-6 pm
Location: YWCA McLean County, 1201 N. Hershey Road, Bloomington. Transportation will be available for
participants if needed.
Cost: $20 per girl (scholarships are available)
More information and applications are available at www.ywcamclean.org. Applications will be accepted until
the class is full. If you have questions, or need additional information, please contact Nelicia Butler at (309)
662-0461, ext. 295, via email at nbutler@ywcamclean.org.
CIRCLE OF WOMEN - YWCA's Circle of Women is a women-only, philanthropic luncheon—an exciting
opportunity to celebrate the power of women in the Bloomington-Normal community.
Date: Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Time: 11:30 am - 1 pm
Location: Bloomington-Normal Marriott Hotel and Conference Center
How to Attend - Tables or "Circles" are brought together (you can bring women in your network, or you'll be
paired with women at a table) and learn more about YWCA McLean County and to provide financial support for
its many services. All dollars stay local to support programs such as Child Care, the Stepping Stones sexual
assault program, and Adult Services.
Register, sign up for a Circle, or donate here.
The Community Innovation Fair Commitee is accepting applications for residents & community members to
submit their ideas for future business ventures or neighborhood improvement for participation in the
Community Innovation Fair this April! Submissions should focus on neighborhood improvement projects,
community engagement activities, youth activities, social innovation & small business entrepreneurship. The
Innovation Fair is a unique opportunity for residents and non-profit organizations to present their ideas in the
format of a booth street fair in the Friendship Park area. Of the selected submissions, the top 10 resident
applications will receive a $100 prize to develop their booth prior to the fair. Participants will have the
opportunity to showcase their ideas to fair attendees during the street fair area for the chance to win startup
funds to make that idea a reality! Community members will vote on their favorite ideas and resident first and
second place winners will receive start-up funds. Visit www.mccainc.org for more information.
Employment Opportunities:
Children’s Home + Aid Employment Opportunities:
Early Childhood Teacher (one full-time position and one part-time position open) - Join our team of
passionate educators who are committed to making a difference in the lives of the children and families we
serve. As an early childhood Teacher, you will assist the Lead Teacher to manage the classroom, conduct
age-appropriate activities, provide individualized care to children, assist in assessing the development of
children, and communicate with parents.
Qualifications:
 Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field is required
Please send an e-mail with “Teacher” in the subject line and attach cover letter and resume to:
careersmidcentral@childrenshomeandaid.org
Supervisor – Foster Care (Champaign) -Supervise a growing team of dedicated professionals in Champaign!
The Supervisor – Foster Care oversees foster care services and licensing of foster homes in Champaign and
Vermillion counties and reports to the Director of Family Centered Services.
Qualifications:
 Masters Degree in Social Work or other human service field required
 Minimum of 5 years child welfare experience required, 2 years supervisory experience preferred
 Child Welfare Employee Licensure required
 DCFS , 402 and CCA licensed preferred
 Valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation required
Please send an e-mail with “Supervisor – FCS” in the subject line and attach cover letter and resume to:
careersmidcentral@childrenshomeandaid.org
For details on these positions as well as a complete list of current career opportunities at Children’s Home +
Aid, please visit our website at http://www.childrenshomeandaid.org. Compensation includes paid time off, as
well as medical, dental, vision and life insurance and a 401(k) Employee savings plan. Children’s Home + Aid
is an equal opportunity employer: minority/female/disability/veteran.
Job Coach- MARCFIRST
Marcfirst currently has two full-time positions available for supported employment job coaches. Supported
Employment on-site job coaches assist individuals with developmental disabilities in maintaining community
employment through work site coaching, transportation and scheduling, and overseeing and assisting in
employment tasks. This position is benefit eligible with flexible hours including days, evenings, and weekends.
High school diploma or general education degree (GED) and one to three months related experience and/or
training. Valid Illinois Driver’s License with driving record in good standing and current proof of automobile
insurance is required. For more information call (309) 451-8888 ext: 221. Applications can be found at
www.marcfirst.org.
Direct Support Professional—MARCFIRST
Marcfirst is seeking motivated and caring individuals to work with developmentally and physically disabled
adults in residential settings in the Bloomington-Normal area. Direct Support Professionals assist in providing
opportunities and assistance in areas of work, recreation, and community inclusion. Full time and part time
positions available. Hours vary including days, evenings, overnights, and weekends. Qualifications include:
High School Diploma or GED, good written and verbal communication skills, valid Illinois Driver's License, and
good standing driving record. Must pass background check. Employment application can be found at
www.marcfirst.org For more information contact amberjohnson@marcfirst.org or (309) 451-8888 ext 221.
Boys & Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal is hiring part-time positions for our new BJHS site!
Part-Time Academic Coordinator - Primary function: Responsible for integrating the standards of academic
achievement set by Springfield Public Schools, in the areas of reading, math, and science and monitors the
tutoring component at a designated 21st Community Learning Center site. This position is responsible to the
21st Community Learning Center Site Coordinator.
For full position and application details, please visit www.bgcb-n.org
Part-Time Activity Specialist - Primary function: Generation of ideas for program development in the areas
of recreation, art, life skills, sports, technology, etc. (Programs that will assist academic and social success).
Major aspects of planning, setup, and implementation of program activities, including identifying necessary
supplies, space, and roles of other activity specialists. Discuss ideas with the Site Director, who will in turn
contact the 21st Century Project Director to get approval and to contact agencies who can assist in facilitating
these programs.
For full position and application details, please visit www.bgcb-n.org
THE BABY FOLD is currently hiring master’s-level Therapists, 3rd shift Residential Treatment Specialists, and
Technology Support Specialists. Our application is now online! Go to www.TheBabyFold.org or 108 E. Willow
Street in Normal for more information.
Student Nurse Externship - This externship is a paid position ($13.44 hour) for the summer 2015 intended to
provide hands on experience in public health nursing. The student nurse extern performs tasks under the direct
supervision of the Supervisor of the Immunization Program. Learning from a team of Immunization Nurses, the
extern will assist in providing clinic services to individuals and families primarily in the pediatric immunization
clinic. The student will be encouraged to participate in online learning activities, a special project, and will be
assisted by interpreters as needed.
A letter of recommendation from a nursing instructor and an application must both be turned in to the Health
Department by Friday, March 6, 2015.
Apply online at http://bit.ly/1BGk4c4. An interview will be required during the selection process. An official
college transcript is required upon hire.
Duration: Summer 2015
Contact: Trish Cleary RN, Supervisor of Immunization Clinic
Phone: (309) 888-5490
Email: patricia.cleary@mcleancountyil.gov
Fundraising Opportunities:
You are invited to the Second Annual Stock the Cellar, February 13, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. at the Castle Theatre
in Bloomington!
We’ll kick off the wine cellar-inspired event with free appetizers, silent auction bidding, and door prizes, then
take the crowd back in time as local '80s band RetroFit hits the stage at 7:30. Along with the admission price,
anyone wanting to participate in the Stock the Cellar drawing should bring their favorite bottle of wine, no less
than $10 in value, or their favorite 6-pack of craft beer to be added to the assortment. At the end of the night,
one name will be drawn for the wine and one for the beer, and those lucky winners will go home with the
respective "cellar." The more people that participate in the drawing, the larger the prize will be!
Be sure to invite your friends, because the more wine or beer brought to the event, the more the winner will
take home! Advance tickets are $20/ticket or $15/ticket if you buy 2 or more at a time, prices WILL INCREASE
to $25 at the door! Get your tickets now stockthecellar2015.eventbrite.com, at both Center for Youth and
Family Solutions offices in Bloomington, or through the CYFS communications office in Peoria.
For additional information, you may also call our Bloomington office at (309) 829-6307 or visit
stockthecellar2015.eventbrite.com.
Volunteer Opportunities:
“Walk In Bike Out” is looking for help…
Well it's time to gear up the bike fix up machine to get ready for this years' WIBO event. First work date is
Tuesday February 17th from 6:00 to 8:00PM. This year we will be hold the bike giveaway event on Saturday,
April 25th. The location will be the same as last year, the Lincoln Parking Garage in downtown Bloomington.
More about that as we get closer to the date.
In December I got 30 bikes from the Normal Police Dept so we now have about 50 bikes at the Lincoln Parking
Garage site ready to be worked on. On Feb 24th we will get bikes from the Bloomington Police Dept lock up. I
am told there are about 40 bikes in that area. We will also be getting bikes from ISU grounds dept and more
from Normal Police too.
Once again our bike work area at the Lincoln Parking Deck next to the Law and Justice Center in downtown
Bloomington. This area is accessed on the south end of the first floor of the parking deck. This is a heated
space with bathroom; the space is also locked to keep the bikes and tools secure. This is the same place we
did the work last 3 years and will also be the site of the bike giveaway on Saturday April 25th.
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Don't forget: The Town of Normal and BikeBloNo are once again sponsoring a bike-themed film at the
Normal Theater. Come out to meet with bike buddies and new folks too - people who are ready to
learn more about bike possibilities in our community.
Date & Time: February 21st at 1:00. The movie this year is "Pee-wee's Big Adventure", the classic
story of Pee-wee Herman's journey to retrieve his stolen bike. Lots of memorable scenes from this
favorite film. Who could forget Pee-wee dancing to Tequila at the biker bar?
We should have at least 125 bikes to work on in preparation for the April 25th "WalkIn-BikeOut" bike
giveaway.
As you can imagine there is lots to do in the next 3 months but it is possible. Many of the bikes need
only minor adjustments and repair. Bring tools for the bike work and other things that you may need.
We have more new parts this year (cables, reflectors, shifters, handle grips & brake pads) and tubes for
the bikes. We have 4 bike stands to share also.
Feel free to share this information with others - we want to expand the circle of folks working on this
project. Some of the tasks are technical but there are also less technical tasks; such as cleaning the
bikes to make them look almost as good as new. This is a time to hone our skills and share knowledge
with each other.
NOTE: We also have folks doing some very needed preparation to improve the logistics of the system
for the giveaway event in April.
Work schedule for Feb, March and April:
The first bike work day is Tuesday February 17th, 6:00 to 8:00PM.
 Tuesday 2/17, 2/24, 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7, 4/14, 4/21
6:00pm to 8:00pm
 Wednesday 2/18, 2/25, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25, 4/8, 4/15, 4/22
6:00pm to 8:00pm
 Thursday 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23
6:00pm to 8:00pm
 Saturday 2/21(work until noon due to movie), 2/28, 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/22, 3/29, 4/11, 4/11, 4/18
9:00am to 1:00pm
Come when your schedule allows. This is a learner friendly project to benefit the whole community.
UNITED WAY SEEKING VOLUNTEER STORYTELLERS! - March 2nd, 2015
United Way is hosting Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Celebration at District 87 and Unit 5 schools on March 2nd.
Storytellers are wanted to help read to students throughout the day. For pictures and examples of last year,
visit www.ReadAcrossMcLeanCounty.org. Site will begin to be updated February 11th.
Home Sweet Home needs volunteers to help with their 2nd Annual Run for Hope 10K and 5K race. This
event takes place on Sunday, March 29th at the Home Sweet Home Warehouse, 1700 W. Washington
between the hours of 7:30 am and 2:30 pm. We need volunteers to man water stations, help with traffic
control, register runners, flaggers, etc.
Please contact Linda Smith at lsmith@hshministries.org or apply on line at www.hshministries.org and select
Run for Hope Volunteer on the application form located under the Get Involved section.
STAR Adult Literacy Program Offers Training on Saturday February 21, 2015 for New Volunteer
Literacy Tutors
The STAR Adult Literacy Program is in need of volunteers to tutor adults who are learning to read, working to
improve math skills or who are learning English as a second language. Daytime and evening tutors are
needed. You do not need to speak a foreign language or have a teaching degree to become a volunteer.
Tutors are expected to volunteer for one or two sessions a week. Sessions generally run for 1- 2 hours.
Tutors work with individuals or with small groups of students. All tutoring takes place in public locations.
STAR Literacy provides support and materials for all tutors.
STAR Adult Literacy will hold its next tutor training sessions beginning Saturday, February 21, 2015 from 9:00
am – 4:00 pm at the McLean County Health Department Building, Room 323 at 200 West Front Street in
Bloomington. For additional information on becoming a volunteer or to register for the volunteer training
session, call 834-9222, or e-mail rlandryroe17@gmail.com.
YWCA GIRLS BE U SEEKING VOLUNTEERS/INTERNS
The YWCA’s Girls Be U program is looking for volunteers/interns to help empower teen girls in the community.
Duties may include transportation, community outreach, recruitment, group activities, curriculum planning, and
other areas as needed. Your expertise and interest will be taken into consideration. Hours are flexible, however
assistance is especially needed on Wednesday evenings during the program (February 18-April 22) and 3-4
hours per week is desired. Please contact Nelicia Butler for more information at nbutler@ywcamclean.org or
call (309) 662-0461, ext. 263.
Qualifications
-Background checks (if transporting or left alone with participants)
-Proof of valid driver’s license and insurance (if transporting participants)
-At least 21 yrs or older
-Positive Role Model
-Volunteer Application
The next Path-O-Gram will go out on Monday, February 23rd. Please have pieces submitted
electronically by Friday, February 20th.
If you would like to subscribe or unsubscribe from the Path-O-Gram please e-mail cbeck@pathcrisis.org.
All information is printed as it is received (cut and pasted), if you have any questions about a specific listing please contact the
appropriate agency. If you would like to submit an item for publication please send a paragraph or two about your announcement
electronically to cbeck@pathcrisis.org. Fliers and graphics cannot be included but we can include a link to your website.
The Path-O-Gram is sent out every other week. Current and previous issues, as well as “Special Editions” and more can be found on
our website: www.pathcrisis.org, under community resources.