CASA, Dearing House partner on training

CASA of Kay and Noble Counties and the Dearing House Child Advocacy Center have partnered together to provide training to Kay County residents to solve problems for children and families.

“Asking the Right Questions” will be presented by Maggi Hutchason, Executive Director of the Dearing House, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23. It will be held in the former sanctuary at Eastern Heights Christian Church at 5100 Lake Road.

The training is open to the public and CASA encourages community members to attend.

“This training was originally designed for Multidisciplinary Child Protection Teams, but has been modified to benefit anyone in a position to gather information for reporting or decision-making in the course of their work as a board or committee member, social services professional, a CASA volunteer, foster parent working in conjunction with families and DHS, etc.,” Hutchason said.

The training focuses on researched techniques for creating a culture where opinions are valued and inquiry is welcomed. Attendees will learn how this open communication leads to more effective problem solving for children and families.

The presentation will cover biases and assumptions, how our brains can filter out essential information and how using questions, specifically Appreciative Inquiry, can lead to more effective teamwork.

“We extended an invitation to Maggi to give the presentation because of her incredible work with the Dearing House and passion for helping the hurting children in our community.” said Sharon Mocabee-Sisco, CASA Program Director.

A light meal will be provided and an RSVP to CASA of Kay and Noble Counties by Monday, Feb. 20 is required.

To RSVP, call Sharon Mocabee-Sisco or Jennifer Vaughan at Northern Oklahoma Youth Services’ CASA program, 762-8341.