Values

Man, this has been a tough one to write. This is the third or maybe fourth major revision. I 'm really not sure, I lost track a few hours ago. I do now that way more has been deleted than written in an attempt to get these thoughts that have been swirling around my head for a while now - out with a modicum of coherence and sensitivity.

Sometimes, as much as we may want to have a protected space for our kiddos - current events and viewpoints find their way into our community dialogue, and we have to find a way to talk about them respectfully.

To be clear, we will not ignore disrespect, hyperbole involving inequity and exclusion of people from diverse backgrounds, and general blatant disregard for others. However, I do try to meet mean-spiritedness with kindness and gentleness - no matter how frustrated or disappointed I feel.

At DRC, we manage all of this through conversations. When I invite kids to talk, most, when asked why they like DRC, will say they appreciate feeling safe and welcome. We then discuss the concept of inclusion, why it is imperative that everyone feels secure and comfortable being their authentic selves at DRC, and how they can help achieve that. I make it plain that respect and kindness are non-negotiable here, and I hope they can carry those ideals with them into the broader world.

Outside these individual and group conversations and our day-to-day activities, I model acceptance and curiosity by embracing and highlighting things like Black History (see below), LGBTQ+ and disability rights, and my openness to learn more about all levels of diversity.

Because I have firm belief that lived experiences can help people stand up for the values that should be universal.

DRC News

It was a weird week with one winter storm after another. We had two snow days that bracketed our regular Wednesday off. Monday and Friday were filled with tons of cooking, art, and outdoor adventures.

PS - We are still looking for X-C ski boots sizes 5-8 adult.

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Pop-Ups
The Pop-ups Peeps had fun at the Nicandri Nature Center on Wednesday. They, too, had to cancel on Thursday because of snowy conditions.

Notice that this coming week's meet-ups are shifted a bit again because of scheduling conflicts:
Thursday - 2/13 - 1 -4:15 - Massena Public Library
Friday - 2/14 - 1-4 - Norwood Public Library.

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Fundraiser
The DRC fundraising raffle is going through March 17th. You could win $100 worth of NYS scratch Lotto tickets. (Must be 18 to participate.)

All of the proceeds help us keep our promise to accept any child who needs our help no matter their family's financial situation.

Purchase your tickets from any DRC family or online by following this link:
https://omella.com/qsptc

Black History
To celebrate Black History Month, DRC will be honoring the voices of just a few of the inspiring black woman throughout our history on our social media. Below are the first four.

 DRC Swag
Find these two latest designs in the DRC Printify shop.