FY16

ANNUAL REPORT

Annual Report FY16 1 WHO WE ARE

Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps is a leader in child welfare and juvenile justice, operating a number of programs and services for at-risk youth and families. Our work includes community based initiatives, residential treatment and juvenile justice programs, and we partner with national organizations and state agencies to use proven methods and develop new ways to advance practices in the care of those most vulnerable. We help individuals and families overcome difficult challenges and situations by providing the tools and skills they need to heal, grow, and thrive. Everything we do is based on the belief that every child deserves the chance for a brighter tomorrow.

2 RFK Children’s Action Corps AT A GLANCE OUR MISSION Founded: June 25, 1969 Fiercely committed to Robert F. Kennedy’s legacy of unwavering responsibility to the poor and Type of organization: Private, nonprofit, nonpartisan disadvantaged, RFK Children’s Action Corps advocates 501(c)(3), Licensed Child Welfare Agency, Approved for children and embraces all social, cultural and Private Schools, Foster Care and Adoption ethnic backgrounds in order to build healthier families, Structure: Volunteer Board of Directors, operational more responsible citizens, safer communities and a management by CEO more just society for us all.

Annual budget: $18.5 million We believe...

Employees: 380 ŸŸ in the legacy of Robert F. Kennedy – that society has a responsibility to the poor and disadvantaged, Geography: Six communities across Massachusetts and nationwide ŸŸ in respecting the dignity and individuality of every human being, Children and families served: 800+ annually ŸŸ that all children have the right to grow up in a safe OUR WORK and nurturing environment, ŸŸ that every person has the right to reach his or her full Our programs are focused on helping children and potential. adolescents deal with past trauma, develop self-esteem and become contributing members of society. We also We carry out our mission and values with: provide support services for families and preventative Purpose: We believe every child has the right to pro­grams for youth living in areas with high rates of reach his or her full potential. We embrace and violence and crime. We collaborate with numerous honor our relationships with the children, families and agencies to keep children out of trouble, in school and communities with whom we work. on a path of healing, and we work within the child Hope: We foster hope within our children, families and welfare and juvenile justice systems to promote and communities and believe we are all capable of positive enhance system reform. and lasting change. Our innovative programs fall into five categories: Leadership: We have an obligation to lead. ŸŸ Community-Based Services Childhood is fleeting. We must act now to make a ŸŸ Educational Services difference for our youth, families and communities to ensure a better tomorrow for everyone. ŸŸ Adoption Services Community: For children and families to become ŸŸ Residential Treatment Services healthy and resilient, communities must welcome and ŸŸ Juvenile Justice Services sustain them. We support communities, so in turn the communities can better nurture their most vulnerable citizens.

Courage: Our children, families and communities inspire us with their courage in times of enormous hardship and misfortune. We follow their example as we fight for quality care, adequate funding and system change.

Annual Report FY16 3 OUR SUCCESS

“Since coming to RFK, I’m more calm and focused, and I’m doing better in school. I finally have hope.”

4 RFK Children’s Action Corps FY16 HIGHLIGHTS Keeping the family connected is a key factor in the commitment to treating each and every youth in success of a child. We helped reunite 200 boys and custody as our own, the award was presented at the girls with their families where the environment was 20th anniversary celebration and awards gala in safe and healthy. Indianapolis.

We created 18 forever families for 26 infants and Continuing our active participation as members of children through our Bright Futures Adoption Center, the Child Welfare League of America, staff joined the ensuring loving and stable homes. planning committee for CWLA’s national conference in Washington D.C. Leigh Gallivan Mahoney, Director Students across the agency took action with more of National Education and Program Development, than 4,965 hours of community service, giving back presented on “Effective Transition Services for Youth to the community and learning the importance of social with Special Needs in the Child Welfare System.” responsibility. In 2016, we acquired the High Risk Youth Network Reversing the path to juvenile crime, our Detention (HRYN). Previously hosted by the Black Ministerial Diversion Advocacy Program (DDAP) served 113 Alliance, HRYN is a resource for organizations and clients and at least 95 percent of youth referred to providers serving high-risk youth in Boston. The overall DDAP returned to court for all scheduled court dates. mission of the Network has remained unchanged and Education is the pathway to the future. We helped we will continue to share best practices among our more than 312 students achieve their educational community of providers and our community at large. goals, including: earning a high school diploma or In support of our efforts to offer more programs to girls GED equivalency, participating in college courses, in Western Massachusetts, we were awarded a grant passing MCAS (Massachusetts Comprehensive for $88,000 from the hope & grace fund, a project Assessment System) requirements or successfully of New Venture Fund in partnership with the global completing a school year. women’s skincare brand philosophy, inc. Each year, To support our belief that every child should have the hope & grace fund awards multiple financial grants art in their lives, 92 children experienced more than to local organizations working to empower women five theater performances, and 61 youth participated through the promotion of mental health and wellbeing, in workshops focused on therapeutic expression, and the prevention and treatment of related issues. including writing, music, art, acting and dancing. Children of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse An incentive-based program that uses minibikes as a (COASA) continued to be a significant resource for motivational tool, NYPUM (National Youth Project presentation, intervention, and support groups for Using Minibikes) provided 157 of our students with communities throughout Massachusetts, serving the opportunity to develop self-esteem, values for nearly 1,000 children and adults. Last summer daily living, and a sense of teamwork. marked the second year of Camp COASA, a week- Our South Hadley Girls Treatment Program was a long program for children living with the stress of recipient of the 2015 Performance-based Standards alcohol or other substance use disorders within the home or family. Learning Institute (PbS) Barbara Allen-Hagen Award. Recognizing agencies whose work exemplifies PbS’

Annual Report FY16 5 LETTER FROM THE CEO

DEAR FRIENDS, All children deserve a childhood. Because of you and The expansion of our your generous investment in our mission, we have efforts, along with the transformed the lives of thousands of youth and their strength of our staff, families nationwide. Board, and leadership, all position us to Our wide range of services: therapeutic, education, continue to improve adoption, substance abuse, system improvement, and the work we do and advocacy all have the same goal: we help children secure the future of the and strengthen families. agency. As always, In FY16, we helped more children in more places. We this could not happen expanded our stakeholder network, strengthened our without the help of community connections, and surpassed our fundraising supporters and long- goals. In launching New Expectations: The Campaign standing donors who believe in our organization, for RFK Children’s Action Corps and working toward our work, and most importantly, that those we serve our $6 million comprehensive campaign goal, we deserve the opportunity for a better tomorrow. believe we can continue to have a significant impact Despite the obstacles and unimaginable circumstances on how we serve our youth in the future. they face, our children show incredible resiliency. For these reasons and more, we celebrate the past We have proven that with proper treatment, year. But, in looking at the present state of child programming, and time, they can heal, grow and welfare and juvenile justice, we must re-evaluate what become contributing members of society. In turn, our we ask of our funders, partners, and supporters – and communities are safer and stronger. ourselves – moving forward. As we share the following stories of hope, courage, For the past several decades, the Massachusetts child and triumph in the face of adversity, we are grateful to welfare system has been significantly under-resourced; all those who made them possible and who continue to an under investment in our most vulnerable youth. help us write our next chapters. This has resulted in a crisis in our child welfare system, from the availability of quality services to the stability of workforce. So, we are calling for a full review of child welfare in Massachusetts, without assigning blame to Edward P. Kelley the committed state staff who labor in this incredibly Chief Executive Officer difficult environment. We look forward to partnering with committed government leaders to rebuild a well-coordinated, well-resourced system – one that is capable of meeting the needs of children and families, attracting professionals to assure the stable, quality delivery of critical services, and ultimately gaining better outcomes for all.

We are leveraging our nearly 50-year history of directly helping severely traumatized children and IN MEMORIAM families in Massachusetts, along with our more recent We fondly remember work in systemic improvement. Today, we are uniquely Edward J. “Ned” Loughran, positioned to impact both the care and the delivery of long-time Board member, services that children receive. Through our continued supporter, and champion initiatives and partnerships at both the local and for children. national levels, we aim to work together to improve outcomes and enhance system performance.

6 RFK Children’s Action Corps AGENCY LEADERSHIP

STAFF LEADERSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS Stephan Morikawa Robert P. Gittens American Honda Motor Cambridge Family & Edward P. Kelley (serving through June 30, 2016) Co., Inc. Children’s Service Chief Executive Officer Keith P. Carroll, Chair Helyn Wynyard Oatis Brian Hancock Alan J. Klein Mintz Levin Cohn Ferris The Improper Bostonian Robins’ Nest Inc. President Glovsky and Popeo PC Penny Outlaw Patricia Hillman Terence J. Shanley Catherine Brady, Vice-Chair Consultant Retired Senior Vice President of Boston Scientific Human Resources Stephen H. Peck George H. Hutt, III James E. Geraghty, Brown & Brown of EY Matthew Small Vice-Chair Massachusetts Senior Vice President of Morgan Stanley Alice Jelin Isenberg Timothy H. Sullivan Operations Philip W. Johnston Paul Woods, Treasurer Fairstead Capital Letitia L. Howland State Street Corporation Philip W. Johnston Associates Dr. Kim L. Thornton Vice President of Patricia Kennedy Cindy Schlessinger, Clerk Boston, IVF, The Waltham Organizational Capacity Patricia Kennedy Epsilon Associates Center Cecilia M. Roddy Communications Julee R. Bolg, RN Phyllis A. Wallace Vice President of Kathe McDonough Boston Children’s Hospital Retired (Formerly, Nonprofit Development and External Retired Affairs Samuel E. Bottum Leadership Alliance) Paul McDonough Snap-on Incorporated Michael Watson Alden S. Wells Retired Vice President of Financial John J. Boyle, III National 4-H Council Marian J. McGovern Management Cushman & Wakefield Linda M. Williams Retired Colonel of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kimberly E. Zouzoua Michael F. Connolly Massachusetts State Police Vice President of Business Rubin and Rudman, LLP Massachusetts John W. McKean Development Mitchell Cook Former RFK Children’s Action Jane Baker Lexus of Northborough ADVISORY COUNCIL Corps Executive Director Director of Foundations and Amy Crate (serving through June 30, 2016) H. Betsy Munzer Corporate Relations Lawrence Friedman Vincent P. McCarthy, Peter Nessen Karen B. Cheyney New England School of Law Advisory Council Founding Nessen Associates, Ltd. Director of Bright Futures Member The Honorable Leslie E. Adoption Center Partner (Ret.), Wilmer Cutler Michael C. Obel-Omia Harris Pickering Hale and Dorr, LLP Linda Corey Retired Anthony S. Owens Director of Training Susan Allen Boston Municipal Court – Nicole Hendricks The John Drew Company Dorchester Division Emily Daniels Holyoke Community College Director of Juvenile Justice Donald Anastasia Dennis Pedra Senator Adam G. Hinds Services Eagle Investment Planning Pei Wei Asian Diner Massachusetts State Senate Mary Driscoll Jim D. Blue, II Christopher J. Perry The Honorable Ina R. Director of Administration Marsh and McLennan Attorney Howard-Hogan Agency LLC Leigh G. Mahoney Cambridge District Court Gonzalo Puigbo Director of National James T. Brett People’s United Bank Education and Program Marc J. Jones The New England Council Don Rodman Development US Securities Exchange Commission Donald E. Carey Rodman Ride for Kids Valerie L. Paen Former RFK Children’s Action Mary Ann Ryan Director of Education for Congressman Joseph P. Corps Executive Director Retired Massachusetts; Principal of Kennedy, III RFK Lancaster School U.S. House of Representatives Elizabeth Coolidge Gregory T. Schmutte, PhD American International Ellen S. Solomita Matt Kennedy Linzee Coolidge Kennedy Merchant Partners College Director of Development and Darrell W. Crate External Affairs Paul V. LaCava Easterly Capital, LLC Charles Shaughnessy Quinsigamond Community Actor John A. Tuell Michael Croke College Executive Director, RFK Deloitte and Touche, LLP Michael J. Summersgill National Resource Center for Lyman Legters Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale Lawrence S. DiCara Juvenile Justice Casey Family Programs and Dorr, LLP Nixon Peabody, LLP Adrienne E. Williams Edward J. Loughran* Robert H. Summersgill W. Albert Ellis Director of Community-Based Council of Juvenile Retired OHC Development, LLC Services Correctional Administrators Susan Wornick Brian L.P. Fallon Ellen McGovern Retired (formerly WCVB-TV5) O’Connor Capital Partners Clinton Savings Bank *Deceased

Annual Report FY16 7 KIARA & IAN’S STORIES

DETENTION DIVERSION ADVOCACY PROGRAM TWO TEENS REVERSE THEIR PATHS AND LEARN TO (DDAP) LIVE TO THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL

8 RFK Children’s Action Corps KIARA’S STORY IAN’S STORY Kiara was 16 when she was charged with assault and battery Ian was 17 and facing charges for possession of drugs, with a dangerous weapon. The Dorchester Juvenile Court a dangerous weapon, and operating a vehicle without referred her to the Detention Diversion Advocacy Program a license. His probation officer in the Holyoke Juvenile (DDAP) at Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps as an Court referred him to DDAP. Ian was a smart kid, but alternative to court-ordered detention. Kiara was a recent was rebelling after moving in with his mother. His father victim of sexual assault. Following this trauma, she began and brother moved to Florida and he wanted to stay in having trouble at home, in school and in the community. Massachusetts to finish his last year of high school.

“I was in the wrong crowd,” said Kiara. “I missed some “It wasn’t easy. I had been living with my dad and brother school after the assault. I was emotionally stressed.” my whole life,” said Ian. “I didn’t really have a relationship with my mom. We weren’t very close. We didn’t really talk Jennifer Calderon, DDAP youth advocate, quickly recognized much... I was stressed and started going to school high.” the challenging situation facing Kiara. “Her charges had to do with her not knowing how to deal with trauma. She didn’t After several conversations with the adults in Ian’s life, Rosa feel comfortable talking to her parents. Her acting out was a Santiago, program coordinator for DDAP, discovered the way to get attention,” explained Jennifer. severity of his substance abuse problem.

She was bullied about the assault at school. Despite the “I made the referral to substance abuse detox. My goal need for counseling, Kiara was reluctant, refusing to talk to was to stabilize him and help him succeed,” said Rosa. anyone about what had happened. “Ian took accountability and realized the error of his ways. He was really receptive.” In time, she formed a strong connection with her youth advocate. Ian was reluctant to take the help, but looking back speaks positively of the substance abuse program. “It completely “Jennifer knew how to listen and be patient,” said Kiara’s changed my view. I was able to talk to older, smarter mother, Ayesha. “She was understanding and calm.” people; people who had gone through a similar situation. I Kiara began to embrace the pro-social and educational knew if they could do it, I could too. They gave me positive activities available through DDAP. Trips to museums insight.” and government buildings helped her develop positive Ian completed the program and was discharged on his relationships with peers and adults. 18th birthday – just in time to graduate from high school. Once Kiara opened up about the bullying at school, “I was happy to get there and get my diploma. My dad, Jennifer helped with the transition to a new school. That brother and uncle were there. I was excited. It was a good change in her environment was critical to getting Kiara on feeling,” Ian said proudly. the right path. Rosa took additional action to help get Ian on track. She ‘We’re in the schools. We help inside the home. We’re worked with him and his former boss to get his job back. really dedicated to what we do,” said Jennifer. She made a referral for in-home therapy so that Ian and his mom could develop a better relationship. “DDAP helped me a lot. It helped me get back on track,” said Kiara. “The young adults who enter this program really “Me and my mom are getting along a lot better. We get a lot out of this. They learn to pick and choose life’s communicate more,” said Ian. “Rosa helped me a lot.” battles. It helps you become mature. Jennifer was a great As part of his court conditions, Ian had a curfew. He mentor. She communicated with me a lot.” wanted something positive to do with his time so he Equipped with a support system and a plan, Kiara grew enrolled in summer classes at Holyoke Community College stronger. – just a month after receiving his high school diploma.

“I really appreciate all the work Jennifer has done,” said “He’s a great kid,” said Rosa. “I’m really proud of him.” Ayesha. “It was hard, but there’s been lots of change and In December, Ian was released from DDAP. He is continuing improvement. Kiara has more confidence now and she’s classes at HCC and plans to transfer to a four-year college. happier. She’s more focused and more involved with our family.” “I got my motivation straight,” said Ian. “I just want to keep myself on the straight path – to strive harder and do the In June, Kiara’s court cases were closed. She is now 17 and best that I can.” doing well as a senior in high school. She helps out with her family’s hair salon business and also does volunteer work in her community. Kiara is on track to earn her high school diploma and looks forward to pursuing a college degree.

Annual Report FY16 9 ERNESTO’S STORY

YOUNG MAN OVERCOMES CHALLENGES THROUGH HARD WORK AND DEDICATION Ernesto was 17 years old when he began serving time at an adult prison. Faced with ROBERT F. multiple charges ranging from distribution to armed robbery, he was considered a KENNEDY high-profile offender. After serving six months, he was offered a plea deal. It included a transfer to Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps’ Kennedy School – a secure SCHOOL treatment center for boys.

10 RFK Children’s Action Corps Ernesto was born and lived most of his youth in want my family to see me incarcerated. Or to see them Northern California. At 15, he decided to live with his going through security to visit. I wanted to grow as mother who had moved to Massachusetts. It wasn’t the much as possible independently.” safest of neighborhoods, and that’s when his life started “Ernesto made a lot of progress in his time with us. going downhill. His participation was very positive,” Emily explained, When asked about those teenage years, Ernesto said, though she holds optimism for all the kids. “All of the “I think I was with the wrong crowd. I didn’t care about young men, with a little bit of guidance, they will hurting people.” succeed in this world.”

Thankfully, the Kennedy School is all about In March 2015, Ernesto transitioned from the Kennedy rehabilitation. “We want to develop productive School to a less restrictive step-down program. He citizens,” explained director of juvenile justice services, completed that program and returned to his mother’s Emily Daniels. “They are not there to do time.” home that May.

For Ernesto, it took some time to build trust in the Education is important to Ernesto and his family. He program and suppress his violent behavior. Emily was went through the GED program at the Kennedy School the second program director during his 26 months at and obtained his high school equivalency credential the Kennedy School. Most residents are there for about one week after he left. “I passed with flying colors,” he a year, so his situation was unique. said proudly.

Emily recalled when she first arrived. “There were only Recognizing his environment would be challenging, four boys. They were all manipulative,” she said. “That Ernesto decided to move to San Francisco and live quickly changed around when they realized I wasn’t with his father and younger siblings once he turned 21. leaving. We had meetings daily. Rules and routine “I need to show my younger siblings they can succeed. were implemented. That was what we needed to do.” I need to be a big brother,” he said. “ I had to make a decision on who I was going to become. I thought, Over time, Emily made an impact. The boys learned ‘This is my last chance.’ When I came home, I was accountability. They participated in daily school, focused on doing something good.” individual and group counseling, and structured activities designed to promote responsibility and self- Today, Ernesto is working at a t-shirt shop owned by his reliance. family. Starting college was a major feat. Schools were apprehensive about accepting a high-profile offender. “She helped me grow,” said Ernesto. “It meant a lot to He had to go through a special program to prove know she was concerned about my well-being.” he had changed his life around. In August 2016, he Ernesto started working with the program. He took enrolled at San Francisco State University. initiative in making the school a better place, from “Our work doesn’t finish,” said Emily. “I’m helping him painting to mopping floors and cleaning rooms. find scholarships. I’m so proud of him.” “I started to advocate against the fighting that I was the “I tell myself, ‘You’re dedicated. You’re doing catalyst for,” said Ernesto. “It helped click with others. everything.’ I think the Kennedy School helped me As a peer, I could reach them better. I wasn’t above recognize that I had those qualities,” said Ernesto. or beneath them. I was able to tell them, ‘We’ll pull “Ultimately, what I want is stability. I genuinely believe through. We can stick this out.’ People were receptive. that every person that’s been through prison or the They called me a leader. I didn’t want any of us to end juvenile system has an ability to succeed. It’s more up back there.” about having the ability to recognize it.” He genuinely cared about the other residents, and the Ernesto remains committed to bettering himself and staff grew to rely on his leadership. His perspective building a successful future. “I want to get into and experience was invaluable. teaching,” he said. “I want to lead effectively and He also had lots of support from his family, but support my community.” sometimes distanced himself. “There would be times where I would regress,” Ernesto recalled. “I didn’t

Annual Report FY16 11 ASHA’S STORY

YOUNG WOMAN FLOURISHES IN SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT A CHALLENGING CHILDHOOD Asha was a frail one-year-old when she was adopted from India by moms Lindsay EXPERIMENT and Barbara in Massachusetts. Suffering from a serious heart defect, her medical trauma was severe. She underwent multiple heart surgeries as an infant and had a WITH TRAVEL stroke after one. Miraculously, she recovered well physically. But it was difficult to SCHOOL (EWT) determine her mental setbacks until she was older.

12 RFK Children’s Action Corps As Asha grew, her learning disabilities became I never thought she could devote so much attention to evident. Diagnosed as bipolar with primary something that is so hard for her.” depression, she struggled to fit in a traditional educational setting. “She was extremely isolated and TRANSITIONING AND LEADING depressed, and prone to rages,” recalled Barbara. “There were periods were she would refuse to leave Last fall, Asha entered the Transition Program within the house. At school, she would throw things or start the EWT School. She gained work experience at the screaming and yelling in the middle of class.” Community Survival Center, Holyoke Rows, Kate’s Kitchen and Meals on Wheels. She also helped create At the end of fourth grade, Asha refused to go to the school’s Dressed to the Nines boutique – which school for six months. She had little control over her distributes clothing free of charge to youth in need. emotions. By sixth grade, Barbara described Asha as “grossly suicidal.” She had three psychiatric “We started our own retail ‘store’. We did everything hospitalizations for suicide attempts. to prepare the storefront,” Asha explained. “We bring in different shipments of clothing that are donated by It was clear she needed more support, but there were Dignity U Wear. We learned how to sort clothes, do few intense therapeutic programs in the area. She inventory and paint. It was a great experience.” attended a specialized private school for three years that focused on short-term rehabilitation. With a resume filled with work experience through the Transition Program, Asha was able to get a job at an art supply store where she continued to build her FINDING AN EDUCATIONAL COMMUNITY experience in a retail environment. At 15, Asha began searching for the next educational Asha has also become a leader in the EWT community. step with her mothers. They were seeking a small, “She is known for being a peer mentor,” said personalized community, focused on building Rebel. “She has helped new students become more independence. In September 2012, they found the comfortable at the school and works particularly well Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Actions Corps’ Experiment with students with anxiety who respond to her kind, low with Travel School (EWT). key, supportive style.” “Initially, Asha mostly asserted her right to refuse. She “It’s a lot of fun helping get people out of their shells. usually said ‘no’ to any opportunity to participate,” I used to be kind of shy,” said Asha. “It’s a learning said Rebel McKinley, program director at the EWT experience for me too. You have to find different ways School. “Today, Asha is the most transformed student to open up to people.” I can think of. A big piece of her growth has been getting rid of the negativity and learning her own interests. She’s come into her own as an independent A PROMISING FUTURE young woman.” Now 20, Asha will be graduating from EWT in June “Very slowly, Asha began to see herself in a 2017. community,” said Barbara. “Even after a really hard “This will be a difficult goodbye for the staff and day, Asha could identify something positive. There was students, but we are so proud of the tremendous gains an enormous change in her vocabulary and sense of Asha has made,” said Rebel. “Part of our final year is possibility.” getting her confident and ready to go.”

Asha began taking on academic challenges with “It’s been an amazing five years,” Asha said about her fervor. She became goal-oriented. She earned her time at the EWT School. “It’s helped me shape who I certificate of attainment and looks forward to earning am now. I’ve grown up a lot. Becoming a young adult her high school diploma. She has passed two of has opened so many doors for the world. I know what the three MCAS tests in English and science and is it means to have a good education, to advocate and working on her third in math. to work hard.”

“School has been very hard for me,” said Asha. “I’m confident that there is a place for her in adulthood. “When I came to EWT, they showed me how to study. That she will be a contributing member of the I did 40 pages of math a week. I never thought I community with a career,” said Barbara. “We’re taking would be able to do that.” the lead from Asha. It’s very clear that she’s ready.”

“I never thought that she would develop persistence Asha looks forward to securing a retail job and taking in tackling academics that are hard. She spent the college classes. She has developed many passions – summer studying and producing math every day in from photography to cooking and baking. You can find school,” said Barbara. “Her teacher has convinced her some of her photos throughout this report. that she can pass [the MCAS]. She’s failed four times.

Annual Report FY16 13 HIGHER QUALITY

MIA’S STORY IMAGE?

FAMILY PAYS IT FORWARD, OPENING THEIR HEARTS AND HOME TO YOUNG GIRL A PATH TO ADOPTION Mia was only three years old when she was first removed from her biological mother’s home due to abuse and neglect. She lived with her grandmother for some time, but the situation wasn’t any better. Eventually, protective services got involved and Mia was placed in a foster home. BRIGHT Years later, in what seems like another world, Michelle and Byron Godfrey began considering adoption. They already had two biological children. Taylor, their oldest, FUTURES had graduated college and they were seeking a younger child to raise alongside ADOPTION their six-year-old daughter, Jordan. “We felt like we had more love to give,” said Michelle. “We had room in our house CENTER and our hearts.”

14 RFK Children’s Action Corps For the Godfreys, life is all about giving back. BUILDING A SUCCESSFUL FAMILY They both have careers in public services focused Mia came to live with the Godfreys one week after that on helping youth and families. “We come from real initial visit, allowing her to start the new school year humble beginnings – the both of us,” explained on time. Karen continued to work with the family and Michelle. “We were lucky to escape the traumas of provide support. childhood.” “We talked on the phone and emailed regularly. We An African American couple, they wanted to give back did monthly visits to check in on things,” said Karen. by adopting a child of color. “There are things we understand from a cultural perspective. It helps to have The parents were creative with how they handled the people who look like you in your life,” said Michelle. new family dynamics. “We made a choice to put “All kids need a home. Any kid in the system needs a the girls in the same room together,” said Michelle. mother and father.” “They weren’t born sisters, but they had to develop a relationship. They quickly grew attached and started In 2015, officially ready to make their desire to behaving very much like sisters – 80 percent of the time expand their family a reality, the Godfreys embarked loving each other; 20 percent blaming and arguing.” on Massachusetts Approaches to Partnership in Parenting (MAPP) training at RFK Children’s Action Mia’s trauma was deep. It was challenging to Corps’ Bright Futures Adoption Center. Facilitated by communicate her feelings. The abuse and neglect program director Karen Cheyney, the intense training has taken a toll on her short life and outbursts were took place twice a week for five weeks. common. Mia was not able to handle a typical timeout so Michelle came up with a creative solution. she “Karen gave us all the information. She left the door called “calm down jars” made with mason jars, lots open to ask every question imaginable,” said Byron. of glitter, water and glue. Both Mia and Jordan felt “Our workers have no more than five family cases soothed after shaking the jars and slowly watching the at a time,” said Karen. “That’s a huge difference in glitter fall. accessibility. We are very responsive and families are That September, the girls started school together. Mia matched very quickly.” is a mere six months younger than Jordan, but her In June 2015, the Godfreys started talking to Karen a emotional and social skills were far less developed. lot about a certain little girl that could be their perfect The parents decided to hold Mia back to repeat first match. Mia was now six years old and continuing grade. Now they are in separate grades with no to live in foster care. That August, the time had come competition and both are excelling. for her to meet what could be her forever family. The plan was to start slow and meet together for an hour at a park, but it evolved into spending a whole day BRIGHT FUTURE A REALITY together. “Our daughter, Mia, has come so far. Her growth in a On their first encounter, Mia and Jordan quickly hit year is insane – especially her emotional growth,” said it off at the park. It was a hot summer day and the Michelle. “She can identify so many feelings. She loves parents soon realized that they couldn’t keep the girls school. Her demeanor is so different. She’s a happy outside all day. kid. It’s been amazing to watch all that stuff happen. She had so many hidden strengths.” “We went to our house to cool down. The dog, Simba, helped ease everyone. Mia loved him right away,” Michelle and Byron look forward to finalizing their recalled Michelle. “We have a treehouse, a trampoline adoption of Mia in the coming months. and a small above-ground pool. Mia came out the “We want her to keep learning and growing strong,” bathroom and saw our yard. Her eyes lit up.” said Byron. “We want to provide her with every The two girls ran into the yard and played. They all opportunity to find her niche.” enjoyed a dinner together and Mia returned to the “I see Mia becoming a really strong, confident, able foster home that night. young woman without any crutches – with a really great heart,” said Michelle. “It’s really important to us that our kids are good people.”

Annual Report FY16 15 COMCAST CARES ABOUT KIDS LOCAL CHURCH PROVIDES HOPE In April, over 100 volunteers joined us for Comcast Over the past year, members of Hope Church of West Cares Day at our Cape Cod program. Volunteers Yarmouth have gone above and beyond in helping spent the day painting, cleaning and landscaping. In transform the interior of our Cape Cod program into a support of Comcast employee participation, we were more welcoming and calming space for the boys and also awarded a grant for more than $2,000. We are girls living there. In addition to making updates to the grateful for the support of Comcast. Their efforts make common area and securing donations of furniture, paint our kids feel at home and ensure they have a clean, and supplies, they also built a special space where our comfortable place to live. residents are able to create unique works of art.

YOUTH GIVE BACK Last summer, staff and residents at our Cape Cod program were honored to volunteer with several local organizations. They kicked off the season by volunteering at the Fifth Annual Yarmouth Summer Celebration, sponsored by the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce. Youth assisted with set up for both the ice cream social and the beach party BBQ and were able to enjoy the fun themselves once their work was done. In August, they had the privilege of helping at the EXPERIMENTAL AIRCRAFT ASSOCIATION 32nd National Night Out Against Crime, hosted by HELPS KIDS REACH NEW HEIGHTS the Yarmouth Police Department. Over the last year, youth at our Cape Cod program Our kids helped out on Veterans Appreciation Day, were provided unique experiences courtesy of the working with Veterans Voice Radio and MassVets Experimental Aircraft Association’s Ultralight Chapter Music Fest at Battleship Cove in Fall River. They talked 62 in Plymouth, Massachusetts. They first attended with veterans and explored the exhibits – including the the annual Fly-In last August, viewing several ultralight USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. on which Robert F. Kennedy and light sport aircrafts onsite. The following month, served while in the Navy. Through the Masonic they had the opportunity to participate in a flight Military Assistance Program, they also volunteered at lesson at Plymouth Airport, where they were able Veterans Field Day. Veterans and their families enjoyed to learn about aircrafts, the science of flight, and a cookout, activities and music. actually take the controls while in the air! This June, the We cannot say enough about all that these youth participated in the EAA UL Chapter 62 Young organizations do for the community and we are Eagles Rally, where they took flight in a Cessna and thankful that our kids have the opportunity to learn the were once again able to help fly an aircraft. It was a importance of giving back first-hand. memorable experience and each kid was awarded a certificate of completion for the event.

16 RFK Children’s Action Corps COMMUNITY SUPPORTERSCOMMUNITY

ABOUT CAPE COD ADOLESCENT TREATMENT CENTER Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps’ Cape Cod Adolescent Treatment Center is located in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts. Our services include crisis intervention, individual/family therapy and respite to youth ages 12-17 from the Cape and Islands. Youth are referred by the local area Department of Children and Families and are typically in the program for 45 days. They work through a range of issues including substance abuse, truancy, domestic violence and aggression. We provide a safe, encouraging environment in which youth have the opportunity to overcome challenging circumstances. Support and stabilization services are also offered to youth and families as they transition from the program back into the community. IN ACTION

Annual Report FY16 17 RFK NATIONAL RESOURCE CENTER FOR JUVENILE JUSTICE

Since 2013, the RFK National Resource Center juvenile probation department. The JPRA was well- has supported state and local jurisdictions. We are received and set the stage for a successful Second making strides in improving outcomes for youth and Annual JPRA in July of 2016. families involved in the juvenile justice and child welfare systems. Our array of technical assistance services, publication resources, and national symposia DUAL STATUS YOUTH REFORM is expanding. We are reaching representatives Our Dual Status Youth (DSY) Reform initiatives improve throughout the country, as far away as Alaska and the outcomes for children and families who have been Territory of Guam. Our focus remains on dual status touched by both the child welfare and juvenile justice youth (children who have been touched by both the systems. This year, we worked in four competitively child welfare and juvenile justice systems) and their selected sites: Anchorage, Alaska; El Dorado County, families, probation system reform, and information California; Fulton County, Georgia; and, Marion sharing projects. Requests for our services and County, Indiana. This was part of our Dual Status resources are nearly outpacing our current capacity, Youth Technical Assistance Initiative. Building off of a desirable dilemma. We are delighted to maintain the success of this initiative, six new sites will receive ongoing partnerships and to develop new partnerships training on implementing Dual Status Youth Reform. with esteemed youth serving organizations, further Serving Commercially Sexually Exploited Children in enhancing our standing in the field. Our work continues San Diego County, California to be influenced by the expertise of our Dual Status The RFK National Resource Center formed a Youth and Probation System Reform Practice Networks. partnership with the National Center for Youth Law These networks are composed of local leaders who (NCYL). Together, we support San Diego County’s have championed reform within their jurisdictions. efforts to better serve Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC). We assist with navigating data YEAR OF INAUGURAL EVENTS collection and evaluation challenges. We also identify Inaugural Symposia resource needs and suggest enhancements to the county’s existing CSEC protocol. In April 2016, the RFK National Resource Center hosted its inaugural Dual Status Youth and Probation System Reform Symposia. Nearly 500 participants PROBATION SYSTEM REFORM from throughout the country gathered in Boston. They Our service and support to juvenile probation learned about reform efforts and innovative practices departments continues to extend and garner interest that have been implemented in jurisdictions across throughout the county. We continued to conduct the nation. Attendees applauded these events with Probation System Reviews in three Illinois counties and enthusiasm, especially for the tangible applicability of in the Territory of Guam. We also began Probation the content. We acknowledge the members of our Dual System Reviews in two Idaho counties. Status Youth and Probation System Review Practice Networks for supporting the development, planning Our partnership with the CSG Justice Center and APPA and success of these events. expanded in FY16, thanks to support of a new grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Probation Reform Academy (JPRA) Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). The RFK National Resource Center led the first ever The grant, Smart on Juvenile Justice: Community Juvenile Probation Reform Academy (JPRA). We hosted Supervision Training and Technical Assistance in partnership with the American Probation and Parole Program, supports the provision of technical assistance Association (APPA) and Council of State Governments and comprehensive training. It serves five states (CSG) Justice Center. Through a competitive (Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, application process, 33 professionals from across the New York) and the Territory of Guam. Our goal is to country participated. They learned effective methods implement evidence-based reform strategies, reduce to reduce recidivism, improve outcomes for juveniles, recidivism, and improve outcomes for youth on and how to conduct a comprehensive review of their probation.

18 RFK Children’s Action Corps INFORMATION AND DATA SHARING REFORM NATIONAL & FEDERAL ACTIVITIES Sharing data and information can challenge Last year, we shared that Associate Executive Director collaborative efforts. The RFK National Resource Center Jessica Heldman participated in a Congressional provides on-the-ground support — nationally and in Staff Briefing. She served on a panel of experts on our home state of Massachusetts. We have developed dual status youth. As a result, senior staff at the RFK tools and resources to help jurisdictions tackle this National Resource Center began conversations with vexing issue. staff from Senator Gary Peters’ (D – Michigan) office. He wanted to author a bill to help states identify In 2016, we released a new online course, and respond to the needs of dual status youth. We Information Sharing in Youth and Family Serving were honored to support Senator Peters and his staff Systems. This course is designed for attorneys and in developing the specific language included in the juvenile court judges. It utilizes video presentations from Childhood Outcomes Need New Efficient Community expert faculty and practitioners, interactive scenarios, Teams (CONNECT) Act. Elements from the CONNECT practice games and assessments. It also provides Act were also incorporated into the Every Student continuing legal education (CLE) credit. Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015. ESSA recognizes the importance of the Department of Education’s leadership in efforts on behalf of dual status youth.

Dual Status Youth Technical Probation System Review Dual Status Youth Technical Dual Status Youth Technical Assistance Initiative Assistance Initiative Assistance Initiative ŸŸ Twin Falls County, ID ŸŸ El Dorado County, CA ŸŸ Jefferson County, ID ŸŸ Beltrami County, MN ŸŸ Outagamie County, WI ŸŸ Santa Clara County, CA ŸŸ Ramsey County, MN ŸŸ White Earth Indian Nation, MN Dual Status Youth Reform

ŸŸ San Diego, CA – Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) Project Dual Status Youth Technical Assistance Initiative

ŸŸ Essex County, MA ŸŸ Suffolk County, MA ŸŸ Hampden County, MA

Information and Data Sharing Reform

Probation System Review ŸŸ Massachusetts (statewide)

ŸŸ DuPage County, IL Probation System Review ŸŸ Ogle County, IL ŸŸ Suffolk County, MA* ŸŸ 2nd Judicial Circuit, IL

Dual Status Youth Technical Dual Status Youth Technical Assistance Initiative Assistance Initiative ŸŸ Marion County, IN ŸŸ Fulton County, GA ŸŸ Newton County, GA

Probation System Review

ŸŸ Georgia (Statewide)*

Dual Status Youth Technical Assistance Initiative *Served in partnership with the Council of State Governments (CSG) Probation System Review ŸŸ State of Alaska – Division Justice Center and American Probation and Parole Association (APPA), of Juvenile Justice ŸŸ Guam (Territory-wide)* through the support of the Smart on Juvenile Justice: Community Supervision Training and Technical Assistance Program grant.

Annual Report FY16 19 NATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS

(MERCY) Act of 2015.” The MERCY Act would help NATIONAL YOUTH PROJECT USING protect children from the harmful consequences of MINIBIKES (NYPUM) solitary confinement in both federal and state juvenile facilities. The Collaborative brought young people NYPUM is a national network of youth service impacted by the juvenile justice system to Washington, agencies dedicated to developing youth through a very D.C. to speak with Senator Booker’s staff before unique goal-oriented mentoring program. Generously the introduction of this bill. They shared the serious supported by American Honda Motor Co., Inc., 34 consequences that solitary confinement had on their programs in almost 20 states use NYPUM-trained lives while in and upon re-entry from the system. adults to teach kids how to safely and legally ride trail These experiences traumatized them emotionally and bikes in preparation for sharing in some great outdoor physically. They were prevented access to education riding experiences. and other needed supports and services while NYPUM originally focused on at-risk youth but has confined. expanded its program to reach youth of military As part of its ongoing focus on education, the service members, young women and girls, and Native Collaborative educated bipartisan Congressional American youth. Among the initiatives accomplished offices to secure provisions to improve access to this year, NYPUM launched an exclusive program for education and re-entry supports for justice system- young women called Shifting Forward. Created by RFK involved youth. The bill reauthorizing the K-12 Children’s Action Corps’ adventure-based counseling education law, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), coordinator and a senior clinician, it is dedicated to was enacted into law in December 2015 with such the collaborative discovery and study of self-esteem provisions. in girls. NYPUM is also building a campaign to open multiple NYPUM programs in the state of California Since passage of this important education and civil through a partnership with California State Parks and rights law, the Collaborative has worked with its public safety agencies. partners and allies to ensure robust implementation of these provisions. We developed a fact sheet explaining provisions of the new law and provided ROBERT F. KENNEDY JUVENILE JUSTICE public testimony and submission to the Department of Education. Two sets of ESSA implementation comments COLLABORATIVE were co-developed and gathered dozens of supporters who signed on to the submissions. Additionally, the Robert F. Kennedy Juvenile Justice Collaborative, Collaborative hosted a webinar to help explain the a project of RFK Human Rights and RFK Children’s changes in ESSA and to field questions from the Action Corps, seeks to improve re-entry supports and justice and education communities. The Collaborative success for justice-involved youth. The Collaborative continues to work with the Department of Education advocates for more effective federal youth re-entry and its community partners to ensure that ESSA policies and partners with young people, national and protections for justice system-involved youth are fully community stakeholders, and policy makers to do this implemented. work. Through the Collaborative, we increase national attention on the challenges facing young people as To continue our work promoting youth voice, needs, they return to the community from the justice system. and experiences, the Collaborative co-hosted a Over the past year, the Collaborative has worked session with Congressman Lacy Clay (D-MO) at the with its partners and youth leaders to improve re-entry Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual outcomes for justice system-involved youth, specifically Legislative Conference in September 2015. The around the issues of access to education, healthcare, session – entitled “Halting the Criminalization of and other re-entry supports, as well as the over- Adolescence: Youth Perspectives and Best Practices to criminalization of youth. Improve Youth Health, Justice, and Education” – was inspirational. The Collaborative identified and worked Throughout the year, the Collaborative lent its voice to with several justice system-impacted youth from cities juvenile and criminal justice reform efforts, including touched by violence or uprisings to present on issues the introduction of a bill by Senator Cory Booker affecting their re-entry and life success. (D-NJ) called the “Maintaining Dignity and Eliminating Unnecessary Restrictive Confinement of Youths

20 RFK Children’s Action Corps As part of our outreach to new partners and Adverse Childhood Experiences Study (ACES) and best stakeholders concerned about youth re-entry and practices for gender and culturally-responsive program access to education, we accepted an invitation delivery were central topics. to moderate a panel on re-entry for justice system- Additionally, TNCF facilitated part of a research involved youth at the 2016 National Urban League project conducted by the Center for Gender and Conference. The Collaborative worked with the Justice, Georgetown Law Center on Poverty and Urban League to develop this panel and secured key Inequality, and Trauma Center at the Justice Resource speakers, including OJJDP Administrator Bob Listenbee; Institute. Our South Hadley Girls Treatment Program Alton Pitre, a senior at Morehouse College with whom participated in Voices: A Program of Self-Discovery the Collaborative works on advocacy in this area; and and Empowerment for Girls curriculum, with the added Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA), one of Congress’ component of trauma-informed yoga. The objective of leading experts on youth justice reform, who delivered the study was to compare outcomes of girls enrolled in opening remarks. the traditional course to those who also included yoga Finally, to advance another important youth re-entry into the programming. Upon surveying our residents, it goal – improved access to health care – the was found that incorporating yoga at the end of each Collaborative worked with Congressman Tony session was beneficial. It helped our girls reduce stress, Cardenas (D-CA), another key Congressional expert provided an emotional release, and brought them back on youth justice reform, to advise his office on how to to their baseline before they continued with the rest of improve access to Medicaid for youth re-entering the their day. community. This collaboration resulted in the bipartisan We continue to strive and develop initiatives and introduction of the “At-Risk Youth Medicaid Protection program models targeting the needs of girls and young Act,” a bill to improve access to Medicaid coverage women that will foster health and wellness through and health services for young people re-entering the positive youth development. community from the justice system. The Collaborative will work towards passage of this bill with Congressman Cardenas, his co-sponsor Congressman Griffith (R-VA), key stakeholders and supporters. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILDREN OF ALCOHOLICS (NACOA) THE NATIONAL CRITTENTON FOUNDATION Since 1995, our Children of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (COASA) program has been a local (TNCF) affiliate of the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (NACoA). The national nonprofit 501(c)(3) The National Crittenton Foundation has been the membership and affiliate organization works on behalf leading agency for girls and young women for over of children of alcohol and drug dependent parents. 130 years. RFK Children’s Action Corps joined the They believe that no child should grow up in isolation Crittenton family of agencies in 2012, where together and without support, and their mission is to eliminate we began our work to ensure that girls and young the adverse impact of alcohol and drug use on children women across the country have the support needed and families. to heal and thrive. While assessing the landscape and holding close its mission, TNCF has experienced One of our COASA program goals is to educate many successes and extended its presence within the communities about children of alcoholics and other communities it serves. substance users. We encourage people to come forward and learn more about the impact of this It now has a forum for peer learning and support disease on the family. Our program collaborates with for Eastern-based TNCF members in Massachusetts, other local organizations to bring support to children New York, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Greater and families, utilizing evidence-based materials Washington D.C. Organized by Crittenton Services developed by NACoA. Each year, we invite the Mayor of Greater Washington, the first meeting of this cross of Boston to proclaim the week of Valentine’s Day the training group was held in Metro D.C. in July 2015, Children of Alcoholics Week, bringing attention to this with workshops led by executives from Crittenton often overlooked population. Services, West Virginia. Gender-responsive, trauma- informed practices for professionals (ARC Model),

Annual Report FY16 21 FINANCIAL INFORMATION (JULY 1, 2015 – JUNE 30, 2016)

ASSETS Current assets Cash $527,618 REVENUE Other current assets 2,773,199 Total current assets 3,300,817 9% Department o Children and Families DCF 9% Other assets Department o outh Services DS Property and equipment 5,732,455 % 41.5 Cities, towns and Dept o Ed Long-term investments 2,119,966 18% Other assets 1,322,518 Contributions, gits and grants Total other assets 9,174,939 Other Investments, Misc. Total assets $12,475,756 22.5%

Department o Children and Families DCF LIABILITIES Department o outh Services DS Current liabilities $2,124,131 Cities, towns and Dept o Ed

Other liabilities (long term debt) 5,048,846 Contributions, gits and grants

Total liabilities 7,172,977 Other Investments, Misc.

TOTAL NET ASSETS $5,302,779

REVENUE AND EXPENSES EXPENSES Revenue $20,182,728 Department of Children and Families (DCF) 8,392,881 7% Program epenses Department of Youth Services (DYS) 4,548,933 11% Cities, towns and Department of Education 3,613,819 General and administration Contributions, gifts and grants 1,895,150 Other (investments, misc.) 1,731,945 Fundraising

Expenses* $19,738,405 % Program expenses 16,138,670 82 General and administration 2,245,766 Fundraising 1,353,969 Program epenses

FISCAL YEAR 2016 SURPLUS $444,323 General and administration

Fundraising

* $14 million or 71 percent of all expenses are for employee compensation and related items. A copy of the complete audited financial statements prepared by McGladrey is available upon request.

22 RFK Children’s Action Corps We are pleased to acknowledge those who made contributions to RFK Children’s Action Corps in FY2016. We have done our best to ensure the accuracy of this list. If you have changes, please let us know.

$100,000+ Helyn Wynyard Oatiss Phoenix Investment The Cape Cod Foundation Advisor, LLC Joan and Steve Belkins Parthenon-EY Citizens Bank-Healthcare & Putnam Investments Non Profit Group Beth and Linzee Coolidge/ Payden & Rygel Investment Dusky Foundations Management Raytheon Matching Gifts Citizens Energy for Education Program Susan and James E. Progin Foundation Fred Di Spirito Geraghty and Familys Marilyn and Don Rodmans Silver Creek Advisory Joanne and Kevin Partners, LLC John D. and Catherine T. Marilyn and Raymond Ecclesine/Queally MacArthur Foundation Ruddy State Street Corporation Family Foundation Jackie and Stephen Pecks Seasonal Food Brands State Street Global Florence Sawyer School Advisors Rodman Ride for Kids Anne and Gary Simon Elizabeth and Lawrence M. State Street Matching Gift Friedmans Douglas Simon Program David Hall $50,000 – $99,999 The Orchard Group Timothy H. Sullivans Nicole and Dale American Honda Motor The Sooner Foundation Company Telamon Insurance & Hendrickss State Street Foundation Brown & Brown of Financial Network Patricia M. Hillman Dawn and Paul Woods MA, LLC Laurie and Alden Wellss Lori and Michael Howland Amy and Darrell Crate $5,000 – $9,999 Worcester State University Jones Kelleher, LLP Frances Pew Hayes Family Acadian Asset $2,500 – $4,999 Kyocera Document Foundation Management, LLC Solutions Anonymouss Sharon and Marc J. Joness ACT Leasing Lowell Five Cent Savings Artistic Noise, New York Joseph E. and Rosemarie American Century Bank Avalon Bay Communities Corcoran Family Investments Ellen and Duncan Julee Bolg and Mitch Cook Charitable Foundation Aon Hewitt McFarland Daren Chentow and Cleve New Venture Fund Apollo Global Patti and Jim Messenger Killingsworth Management Kristin and Lou Montanti $25,000 – $49,999 Eversource Energy AXA Investment Managers Mary and Steve Morikawa Maureen and Dick Bolgers Inc. Cathy Fair Nancy Allison Perkins Mary and John J. Boyle, IIIs Bank of America Valri Fountain and Chris Foundation OUR DONORS Jane and Keith Carrolls Charitable Foundation Farias Neighborhood Health Plan Community Foundation of Beach Point Capital Christine Gilman and Tom Quincy Geneva Housing Western Massachusetts Management Andrews Corporation Melanie Domer and BNY Mellon Edmund Ingalls, Jr. Suzanne Ridge Samuel E. Bottums Boston Trust & Investment George Lee Rotary Club of Nashoba Beverly and Phil Johnstons Management Company Karen Lieberman-Daly and RSM US, LLP Robert F. Kennedy Human Ed Daly Catherine A. Bradys Carole Schlessinger Rights MTD Micro Molding Brophy & Phillips Co., Inc. Chris Schmitt Cecilia Roddy and Pete Carolyn Carlson Beatrice and Peter Nessen Vlacos Lorene and Terence J. Charles H. Hall Christi and Dennis Pedra Shanley Cindy Schlessinger and Jeff s Foundation, Bank of South Boston Community Ellowitzs Francine Sherman and America, N.A., Trustee Development Scott Tucker Kim L. Thorntons Foundation Inc. Eaton Vance Management Marion Sherman Yawkey Foundation II Candace Spencer Fidelity Investments Susan and Alan Solomont Kathleen Stonely $10,000 – $24,999 Fiera Capital Inc. Brenda Sullivan and Jeremy UMass Building Authority Beveridge Family First Quadrant Kindall Foundation Goldentree Asset United Way of Abby and Robert Massachusetts Bay and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Management Summersgill Merrimack Valley Massachusetts Halcyon Asset Walmart Supercenter University of Massachusetts Boston Public Health Management, LLC Michael Watson Boston Commission Harvest Volatility Stevey Wonderful and Linda Williams Brynwood Partners Letitia L. Howlands Lyman Legters Nancy Casper Iridian Asset Management $1,000 – $2,499 $500 – $999 Celebration for Kids Jennison Associates AFCEA Education Susan Allen and Neil Coldwell Banker Alan Krupp Foundation Middleton Residential Brokerage Lazard Asset Management Shari Leigh Agatstein Anonymous Monica and Michael Long Wharf Real Estate Ann Anastasia Ronna and Michael Connollys Partners, LLC Margaret and Donald Benjamin Gardiner Howland Shaw Loomis Sayles & Company Anastasia Foundation Margaret and Nicholas Susan and Peter Maguire Anonymous Brill Ginnie and Ed Kelleys Man Group Arbella Insurance Group Elizabeth and Ronald Liz and Alan Kleins MassHousing Barkan Companies Campbell LPM Charitable Foundation Neuberger Berman Beal Family Foundation Mary Carlin and Michael Mintz Levin Cohn Ferris New England Pension Because Jake Lived Costello Glovsky and Popeo PC Consultants Foundation Emma and Dan Carpenter Morgan Stanley Old Ironsides Energy, LLC Dolores and John J. Clinton Savings Bank Foundation Parametric Portfolio Boyle, Jr. Ellen and Michael Clisham Mutual of America Life JULY 1, 2015 – Associates, LLC Terence Bradshaw Insurance Design Temperature Sharon and Thomas Burke Control Inc. Photo credit: Asha JUNE 30, 2016

Annual Report FY16 23 DONOR PROFILE OUR DONORS Steve and Jackie Peck

Steve Peck first became acquainted with RFK Children’s Mike J. Donoghue $250 – $499 Val and Jerry Paen Action Corps nearly twenty years ago. After learning Mort Fearey A Hohmann & Co Inc. Pathways to Wellness LLC more, he came on as a Board member and quickly First Congregational Susan Baker and John Allison W. Phinney, III and realized the importance of the work that was being Church of Yarmouth MacDonald Joy Cline Phinney Peter Gates Prime Touch Services, Inc. done. In meeting the kids in our programs, he said, Tamara Butler Battaglino Martha and Todd Golub and Paul Battaglino Barbara Raab “It doesn’t take long to figure out. They come from the Elizabeth Grinnell Michael Bolger Barbara and Virgil Rios worst of circumstances, and no one else is going to Becky and John Haase Peter Brennan Riverside Tree & Landscape Co help.” Mark Hanscom Carden Conejo School Beverly and The Honorable Elizabeth Chandler and Jill The Robert Lloyd Corkin Leslie E. Harris, Ret. Charitable Foundation Having worked with numerous human services Seaman Stephen G. Hermsdorf Mary Rose and Michael Karen Rothenberg agencies over the years, Steve credits our staff and Alexandera Hobbs Cherrone Mary Ann and Tom Ryan the commitment leadership has in successfully carrying Brenda and James H. Hsu Donald J. Chiofaro Kathleen Saunders out the mission of giving young people the chance Tonia and George Hutt Citizens Charitable Sheskey Architects Alice Jelin Isenberg and Foundation Matching Gift Christine and Mark for a better life. “For them, it’s not just business, it’s a Phillip Isenberg Laura B. and Steven Earl Solakian passion,” said Steve. “It’s a special kind of person who The J. Philip Reimherr Trust Coleman Ellen Solomita wants to do this work.” Jen Katstra Jennifer Collier Virginia and David Laurie Katz Michael Davis Spencer Kate and Matt Kennedy Elizabeth Davis-Edwards Karen Spilka and Joel As his role with the Board has grown to include Chair Loitherstein Key Program Janice and Robert of the development committee, he has seen a definite Leslie and John Strachan Kris Larsen DeAngelo John Strachan shift in focus of the group. “They now recognize that Ilana and Doug Leighton Joseph Demeo Janet and Patrick Sweeney increased revenue raised by development is important Francis J. Licata Mary Driscoll Twin Focus Capital Partners Mark H. Lippolt Kathleen Dyer to the success of the agency,” said Steve. “They UBS Global Asset Edward J. Loughran* Robin and Alexander Ellis understand that part of their job is to be a voice and Management Robert Lytle Jack Fainberg David Vanslette provide fundraising opportunities.” Michael Mach Fence Installer Services Amit Vora Marcus, Errico, Emmer & Sally Fenton Laura and Kevin With last year’s launch of New Expectations: The Brooks, P.C. Shirley and John J. Finn, Jr. Wilczewski Campaign for RFK Children’s Action Corps, he now also Vincent P. McCarthy Foley Fiore Architecture Brad Wilford Marian McGovern Sarah Friedman works closely with the campaign steering committee to Adrienne Williams Jeff Ganz ensure that the agency reaches its financial goal and Michael McGovern John W. McKean George T. Wilkinson, Inc. $100 – $249 is well positioned for the future. He and his wife Jackie Judith McMorrow Jan Gleysteen Stephanie Adaramola made a significant multi-year gift to the campaign, Carol Jane Meharg Mary Harte Robert Adelberg knowing it will be used in the most effective way to Donald Mitchell Tara L. Henry and Allstar Waterproofing & Brendan M. Furey Building Restoration Inc. change lives. “I have 100% confidence that the money Betsy and John Munzer Mutual of America Linda Hill and Roger Kathleen and Mark Alperin will go as far as it can to help those who need it most,” Matching Gift Program Breitbart Bjorn Anderson he said. Jennifer Nassour Deb and Greg Hills Andreoli Insurance Julie and Michael Rand Kenneth Hirsh Agency Inc. Another reason they choose to support at this level is Rodman Insurance Agency George Hoey Ellen and William Apfel Lee Holland the impact that a substantial gift has on an agency Rotary Club of Paul Aquila Melrose, Inc. Doug Huber Allegra Aquino of our size. “For an organization like RFK Children’s Jessica Saalfield Richard Hughto Susan Aquino Action Corps, our gift makes a real difference,” said Sea-Dar Construction John Hancock Matching Peter Austin Steve. Beth and Stephen Sexeny Gifts Program Demi and Rob Ayres Hope and Martin Sherman Marjorie and George Joe Balestriere Kaplan In addition to his leadership role on the Board, Steve Irene Sherman Carliss Baldwin and James Kirby Randolph G. Hawthorne also participates on the Board Nominating and Katharine and Edwin E. Smith Law Office of Sally L. Marianne Bazazian Adams Governance Committee, Executive Committee, and Kathleen H. and John W. Maggie Begley Kathleen S. and Spencer Michael Benoit Embracing the Legacy and Fairway for Kids events Timothy J. Leahy Nancy and Kjartan Maria Benotti and Peter committees each year. “Steve is a true leader,” said David C. Lindahl Stefansson Kellerman LUK, Inc. Ed Kelley, CEO. “We are incredibly fortunate to have Swerling Milton Winnick Shirley and David Berg M.C.E. Dirtworks, Inc. someone like him who is not only a generous donor, Insurance Marta Bergamaschi and TCom Networks LLC Cydney and David Martel but is also a dynamic force in helping move the agency Alessandro Rollo Senate President Stan Greg Martin Scott Berry forward and serving as an example to others.” Rosenberg and Bryon Mary Anne and Robert Mark Berthiaume Rosenberg McCaffery Jeffrey Besselman and What might best describe Steve’s outlook on The TJX Companies Kathe and Paul David Goldes McDonough philanthropy is the oft-quoted proverb, ‘To those whom TLG Law Group, LLC Jonathan Bingham Gregory Miller Kathy Vlaco Shirley E. Bolden much is given, much is expected’. Amy Belkin Mofenson and W.T. Phelan & Company Dorinda and Andrew Jay Mofenson Insurance Agency Inc. Bonanno “I would hope that everyone who has had some good Wayne Montague Youth Advocacy Elaine and Luis Borgen fortune would want to give back,” he said. “And, who Foundation New York Life Foundation Michael Botthof else is more deserving than kids?”

24 RFK Children’s Action Corps OUR DONORS

Jeffrey Bradley Ann L. Dunphy Benjamin L. Hincks Merrill & McGeary Sandra Jane and John Berube Audrey Braley Maureen U. Ecclesine Adam G. Hinds Michelle and Jeffrey Parker Shelton, III BJ’s Wholesale Club Joseph Breitfelder Deborah and James Elaine Horowitz Mescall Thomas Shewalter Jay Black Alexis Bristol Edmunds Ina Howard-Hogan and Catherine and Christopher Thomas J. Shields Bob’s Discount Furniture Daniel Brown Jean Egan Christopher Hogan Milton Matt Siciliano Outreach Charitable Kate Brown Helen and Christian Eidt Kathryn Howland Robert Moore Josh Silva Foundation Mark Stephen Brown and Mary and John Eirich Eion Hu DeAnna L. Mori and Robert Robert Skloff Bose Kraig Kissinger Patricia Sullivan Elder Mary Lou and George H. J. Soluri Steven Smith Mary and John J. Boyle, III Mike Brown Monica Elefterion and Hutt, Jr. Robert Murray Molly and Alfred W. Leslie Breeze William Brown Mark Wagner Jonna Iacono Nardone Electrical Somers, Jr. Broadway in Boston Corporation John E. Bulman Isobel V. English and Claire G and Marc C. Jennifer Stecyk Paul Brown Stephen Nolan Kimberly and Thomas Francis D. Bailey Jones Mary Steinbauer Stephen H. Peck/Brown & Burgess F.G. Sullivan Drilling Brian A. Joyce William Norberg Deb Stevens Brown of MA, LLC Leslie and John Burns Ann Faldetta Justice Management Janne Nordvang Beth Stokes Busy Bee Jumpers Simon Bushell Farragher & Henebry Institute Barry O’Connell Margaret Stolfa Cape Cod Council of Camfield Tenant’s Derek Favreau Mark Kacprowicz David Offutt Jeff Scivcarovich Churches Association Inc. Linda Fazio Kaestle Boos Associates, John Overhiser Kathleen Swanson and Cardi’s Furniture Madeline Cammarata Richard Fitzgerald Inc. Anthony S. Owens Krystle Dunwell Heather and Christian Malcolm Campbell Lois Flaherty Edward S. Kazarian Eileen and Robert Palles T&K Asphalt Services, Inc. Carrillo Walter Campbell Deb Flanagan Susan Kendall Laurence Palmisano Jared Tardy Jane and Keith Carroll Bonny and Bob Caridad Holly and Franck Fleury Tate Keogan Roberta Palumbo Kenneth Tedford Elizabeth Cevetello Kathleen Caridad Marilyn A. and Errol E. Erinn R. King Jean and Stan Patey Jean Tempel Susan Chen Alison and John Carrier Flynn Jim Klapman Pebblehaven Company Kandance Torreano The Chiofaro Company Louis Casale Kathleen and Peter J. Barbara E. and Barry L. Laurie and Donald Peck Nancy and David Trerice Citizens Bank-Healthcare & Klein Non Profit Group Katherine Chaurette and Forbes Matt Peck Powell Trotti Donald J. Klein The Club By George Martin Thomson William Forbush Eric Pennington Doris Tucker Barbara and Ernie Foreman III Ben Clements Paulette Ford Velura F. Perry Nancy and John Urban Krubsack Colgate Palmolive Clements & Clements Virginia M. Fordham Pfizer Foundation Matching Carmen Valadao Hillary Krubsack Colonial Spirits Cohen Family Foundation Steven Formisani Gifts Program Yvonne Varano Vicki L. and Peter B. Krupp Corinthian Events Colonial Village Inc. Thomas J. Fosythe Carol Porter Phyllis Wallace Paul LaCava Ashley Costanzo John Colucci Michael Foutes Catherine Ann and Richard Liane Walta Timothy Laime Powers Costco Wholesale Sarah Concannon Deborah Frank and Rabbi Ken Walton Neil Kominsky Lucinda Lambert-Hutchinson Barbara and Dennis Prinos Irene Cote Nicole and Brian Connolly Stephanie Wasser Matt Freda and Eldon K. Mary Ann and Peter Prinos Amy and Darrell Crate John E. Connolly Hutchinson, Jr. Michael Weinberg Margaret Furey Jason Pupecki Charlotte Dempsey Stephen Connolly Linda Lanza Dan Weiss Caroline Gammill Sharon Purdy Department of Children Christine Constas and Andrea E. and Daniel A. Janet Wiig Sandra Gastelum and Seth Nancy Quest and Families Joseph Erickson Lasman Dick Williams Reynolds Robert D. Quinn Dignity U Wear Linda A. Corey Sasha Lauterbach Amanda Wilson Joanne Gaynor Erica Racek Melanie Domer and Roxanne Costello Jeanne Leonard and Colin Jane Winchell and Tim Gisela Germano-Riess Samuel E. Bottum Steven Cote Burke David Raszmann Mangini Donald Giberson and Donelan’s Supermarkets Pamela and Eric Stu Levenson Laurie and Robert Reed Mary K. and Christopher Frank Quest Mary Driscoll Cousineau Scott Levesque Paul Reeder F. Wolf David Gillespie Cheryl and Jim Duggan Ann Couture Diane Lewis and Lorna and Brian Riddell Donna and Tom Wood Michelle Gillespie Sherée Dunwell Fred Cowen Christopher J. Perry Francesca Rios A. Vernon Woodworth, III Gilman, McLaughlin & Gary Durand Hector Cruz Kevin Looney John Robinson Douglas Wynyard Hanrahan LLP The Edwards Family Ellen and John Cunningham Curtis Lopes, Jr. Jackie and Christopher Julia Wynyard and Nathan Ed Gilroy F & M Tool & Die Carolyn and Joseph Curtin Kristen and Mark Lukens Rock Riddell Robert P. Gittens Ann Faldetta Alan Curtis Scott Lutz Neil Rogers Pat and Raymond Wysocki Michael Glanz Grace, Steve, and Jake Bryan Dank Holly MacPherson Janet and Angelo Romano Michael Zimmerman Jean Gorning Fleming Amy Davies Matthias D. Maguire Diane Rosen and Michael William Zucker Louis Gorning Weintraub Susan Fly Samuel Davis Standish B. Marks Lois and Barry Goughan David F. Ryan IN-KIND DONORS Valri Fountain and Chris William Davis Cathy and Mike Marrero Farias Susan B. and Patrick Grant Suzy Santay The 66th ABG/Civil Lori Day Masterman’s, LLP Jan Frazier Jay Gregory Charles Santos Engineering Squadron DBA Sorensen Paving Nancy and Ted Mayo Carol Gallagher Mary C. Griffin Jonathan Saxton A Bella Mia Floral Design James Deegan John McCarthy Mary Garcia Stephen Griffin Laura Sceppa Sandra Acevedo and Jose Anna Marie DeMare Robert McCauley Torres Kristen and Mark Gaynor Judy Habib Debra and John Schaible Anne Detmer and Charles Elisabeth and Michael Acton Ace Hardware Sandi Gilardi Kenney Sharon Hallett Eric Schelinski McCord Carol Airey Global Fitness Center Penelope Dey Mark Hammer Gregory Schmutte Kathy and Paul Jason Allen Gruskowski Dental Erik Diekmann, Sr. Gale Hanley McCormack Ron Schwartz Margaret and Donald Associates Hannaford Helps Schools Jeff Seltzer Bill Dillon Ryan McDonnell Anastasia Hannaford Supermarket Rich Hardy Jean Serra and David Katherine DiMarino Susan and Kevin McGinty Cathy Anderson Hanover Insurance Group Zachary Harvey Connolly Bruce Donald Thomas McGinty Animal Adventures The Hanover Theatre for Carole and William R. Maria Serrentino Marc Dos Santos Maureen S. McGlame Assabet River Bicycles the Performing Arts Hauke, Jr. Brian Setian Karen Holzman Douglas Ellen McGovern Rachel Harris and Ken Connie Hayek Martha Beebe and Charles Douglas Paul McGuiggan Sara and Joe Shacter Aspeslagh Laurence Hayward Paula Berg Marsha Downey Sian and Philip McGurk Elizabeth J. and Neil P. Tara L. Henry and Brendan Susan Hayward Shanley Marta Bergamaschi and John Drummey Rebel McKinley Alessandro Rollo M Furey Noel Henry Andi and Douglas R. Shaw Karen Dunnett and J. Judy and Jack McLeod Eileen and Robert Bersey Patricia M. Hillman Colleen and Michael Jonathan Shaw Richard Murphy Laura and Tim Melton Home Depot Hession Bertucci’s

Annual Report FY16 25 OUR DONORS

Letitia L. Howland Janet Rosadini Amherst-Pelham Regional Career Point Emerson Hospital Hyannis Supporting Our Hubbards Paint Rota Portrait Design Schools Carney Hospital Enchanted Circle Theater Youth Task Force Idylwilde Farms Reta Rupich Animal Adventures Carson Center Community Enlace de Familias Improbable Players The International Grace Saccardo Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary Service Agency Evan B. Donaldson Independence House Norman Jaillet Kim and Josh Sanger Archdiocese of Boston, Casa Myrna Vazquez Inc. Adoption Institute Institute for Health and Julianne and Barry Johnston Brandon Schrenker Priests’ Recovery Program Catholic Charities Laboure Executive Office of Public Recovery (IHR) Katelynn’s Closet Jennifer and Donald W Artists for Humanity Center Safety and Security Intercity Weightlifting Jonathan Keep Schroeder Barnes Air National Guard Center for Human Experimental Aircraft Jack’s Pact Base Development (CHD) Association Heather Kelly Alan Scott Job Corps Barnstable High School Charlestown Health Center Falmouth Corner Cycle Mackenzie A. Koch Kathryn Scott Journey to Hope Barstow’s Longview Farm Charlestown Recovery Family Continuity Kotlarz & Associates Stephanie Serrentino Justice Resource Institute Baystate Behavioral Health House Family Focus Family Networks Cape La Summa Restaurant Jon Shamlian Baystate Medical Center Charlestown Substance Family Nurturing Center and Islands Gwen Landis Leigh Shanny Behavioral Health Network Abuse Coalition Family Planning, Hyannis Justice Resource Institute’s The Law Office of Jennifer Shaw’s Supermarkets Family Support and Chelsea ASAP Pathways to Permanency L. McNulty Sandra Jane and John The Family Resource Center Training Chicopee Memorial State Program The Learning Express Parker Shelton, III Farmington River Tubing Blessed Harvest Coaching Park Company Juvenile Probation Lexus of Northborough Anna Shpigel Bolton Police & Fire Chicopee Public Schools Father’s Uplift KAM Appliances Mark H. Lippolt The Sidopoulos Family Departments Chicopee Teen Center Field Farm Katelynn’s Closet Liz Little SmartBear Software Boston Centers for Youth Child & Family Services - Fitzpatrick Skating Rink Kiwanis Club of Sandwich The Local 225 BBQ Ellen Solomita and Families Lawrence and Fall River Flavors of Cook Farm Lake Park State DCR Corine Mackie Sharon Solomita Boston Medical Center Child Focus Facility Focus on Kids - HIV/AIDS Lane Maitland Laura and Chris Spears Boston Police Athletic Child Welfare League of and STD Awareness Lake Wyola State Park Mark Wahlberg Youth Danielle Spicer League (PAL) America Framingham State Lancaster Police & Fire Foundation State Street Corporation Boston Police Department Children’s Cove University Departments Market Basket Stoneham Theatre Boston Public Health Children’s Hospital, The Food Bank of Western Leominster Credit Union Mass Insight Stop & Shop - Acton, Commission Waltham Massachusetts, Inc. LGBT Coalition of Western Hudson Masterman’s LLP Boston Public Schools Children’s Friend Friendly House Shelter Massachusetts Straight Ahead Ministries Virginia and John Morse Boston Youth Fund Children’s League of Friends in Adoption Lowell General Hospital Symmes, Maini & McKee Massachusetts Mossman Family Boys & Girls Club, Cape Frugal Fashionista Lowell Spinners Dental, P.C. Associates Cod, Springfield, Citizens Bank Gandara Center Lower Pioneer Valley Maggie Mullarkey-Mayer Target Holyoke Citizens for Juvenile Justice Educational Collaborative Girl Scouts of Central and TJX Companies The Bridge of Central Julie and Dennis Murphy Clark Art Institute Western MA Ludlow Public Schools Trader Joe’s - Acton, Massachusetts Nashoba Valley Rotary Clinton Exchange Club Girl Scouts of Eastern MA LUK Club Hyannis Brightside for Families and Clinton Savings Bank Luminosity Children Girls Inc. Nasty Nonni’s Wine & Sarah and Paul Travis Codman Square Substance Girls Leadership Corps Martin Luther King Center Spirits Tyndall Design Brockton Hospital Abuse Coalition Gosnold Cape Cod Mass Audubon The Nature Connection David Wagner Brookview House Coldwell-Banker Residential Addictions Treatment Mass Mentoring Brownstone Water Park Sanjiv Nehra Walker Parking Consultants Brokers Programs Partnership Buffone Arena New England Patriots Walmart College of the Holy Cross Greater Boston Council on Massachusetts Commission Charitable Foundation Laurie and Bob Watson Bunker Hill Community Comcast Cares Alcoholism on the Status of Women College New England Pentecostal Alden Wells Community CARE Greenfield Public Schools Massachusetts Council of Church Calmer Choice Mary Jo and Bill White Community Foundation of Grove Hall Community Human Service Providers Cambridge College, New England Revolution Whole Foods Market - Western Massachusetts Center Massachusetts Adoption Charitable Foundation Center for Addiction Framingham, Hyannis The Community Music Greater Springfield Habitat Resource Exchange Counselor Training Peggy Newman Linda Willoughby School for Humanity Massachusetts Association Capabilities of Approved Private Newton Country Day Windows by Liz Community Servings Hampshire College School of the Sacred Cape & Island Gay & Schools (MAAPS) Emily and Shaun Winner Community Survival Center Harvest Farm Heart Straight Youth Alliance Cultural Center of Cape Massachusetts Department Women of St. Luke’s Parish (CIGSYA) Harwich Family Pantry North Shore Music Theatre Cod of Children and Families Workers Credit Union Cape Cod 5 Foundation Harwich Quilters Not Your Average Joe’s Curry College Massachusetts Department Susan Wornick Cape Cod Child HealthAlliance Hospital, of Mental Health Joseph E. O’Brien, DMD Daily Hampshire Gazette Elaine Wu Development Leominster Emily Oatis and Mike Massachusetts Department DAR State Forest Healthy Families Broussard Yarmouth Police Cape Cod Children’s of Youth Services David Ruggles Center for Department Museum Heritage Plantation Massachusetts Helyn Wynyard Oatis Early Florence History Rebecca Young-Jones Cape Cod Collaborative Holyoke Community Department of Elementary Parthenon-EY and Underground School College and Secondary Amy Paulin Railroad Studies COMMUNITY Cape Cod Community Holyoke Hummus Education Dennis-Yarmouth Regional Janet Pesaturo College Company Massachusetts CONNECTIONS High School The Pet Care Trust Cape Cod Foundation Holyoke Public Schools Organization for ABCD/Headstart Department of Early Planting The Seed Cape Cod Hospital Holyoke Rows Addiction Recovery Foundation Academic & Behavioral Education and Care (MOAR) Clinic Cape Cod Maritime Holyoke Youth Task Force Catherine Ann and Richard Dorchester House Massachusetts Museum Home Depot Powers Actor’s Shakespeare Project Dorchester Substance Rehabilitation Cape Cod National Adams-Cheshire Regional Abuse Coalition Advisory Hope Church Commission Daniella Prox Seashore School District Board HOPE Health Massachusetts Society for The Rail Trail Flatbread Co. Cape Cod Nurturing Adoption Professional Dunbar Community Center Hope House the Prevention of Cruelty Reflections Memory Lamps Fathers Association of Easthampton City Hall HopeHealth (formerly to Children Roche Bros Supermarkets Massachusetts Cape Cod Sportswear Easthampton Public Hospice & Palliative Care Massachusetts State Police Rodman for Kids Adoptions Together Cape Cod Technical High Schools of Cape Cod) Gang Unit Jenn Rogers School Agawam Public Schools Ecotarium Housing Assistance Mayflower Place Kathy Romeo Cape Cod Volunteers Corporation Cape Cod Allston Brighton Substance Edwards Middle School, The Mayor’s Health Line Annemarie and Tom Rosa Capron Park Zoo Abuse Coalition Charlestown Hyannis Recreation and Meals on Wheels Youth Center

26 RFK Children’s Action Corps OUR DONORS DONOR PROFILE Sam Bottum and Melanie Domer Sam Bottum had been hearing great things about RFK Merrill Comeau Providence Ministries/ UMASS Amherst Museum Children’s Action Corps for a number of years, having Mission Safe Kate’s Kitchen of Contemporary Art Morgan Full Service Providence Ministries/ UMASS Boston, Addition attended college and remaining good friends with fellow Community School Mother Mary’s Thrift Store Counselor Certification board member Lawrence Friedman. When opportunity Motor Sports International Pyramid Builders Training Program allowed him to join the Board, he was immediately Mystic Aquarium Quabbin Reservoir UMASS Medical impressed with the team and level of care provided. The Naismith Memorial Quaboag Regional School UMASS Psychiatry Basketball Hall of Fame District UMass Amherst: “RFK Children’s Action Corps is one of those rare NAMI: National Alliance Quinapoxet Model Aircraft The Stonewall Center organizations that truly delivers and continually seeks to on Mental Illness Club United Methodist Church of improve upon itself,” said Sam. “The staff on the front Nashoba Public Schools R.I.S.E. Holyoke, South Hadley, and Granby line with the kids everyday through the top leadership Nashoba Valley Chamber Real Pickles of Commerce Reed Academy United Way of Pioneer of the organization have enormous experience Valley National Association for Reflect and Strengthen and longevity, yet are still amazingly open to new Uniting Youth in Crisis Children of Alcoholics Rhody Surf approaches, big and small, that might better serve the Upham’s Corner Health (NACOA) Riverside Industries children.” Center The Nature Connection River Valley Counseling UTEC NEADS/Dogs for Deaf Center In support of their belief in both the current work Valley Opportunity and Disabled Americans Rocky Neck State Park and the future of the organization, Sam and his wife Veterans Education Project New England Farm Roxbury Youthworks, Inc. Melanie made a generous gift to New Expectations: Workers Council Veterans’ Voice Radio Safe Summer Street The Campaign for RFK Children’s Action Corps, with a New England Finishing Voices from Inside Basketball League large portion of it designated to the National Resource New England Food Saint Cecilia Parish Wachusett Mountain Foundation Summit Center.* Sandy Meadows Farm New England Prison Obedience School Wachusett Regional High Ministry – Pentecostal School “As a country, we’re failing too many of our children in Sapowsky Farm Church Wahconah Falls State Park too many ways,” said Sam. “It is exciting to see our RFK Scott Tower New England Society for Wayside Youth and Family National Resource Center for Juvenile Justice taking our Second Thoughts Abandoned Animals Support Network direct experience working with children and transferring (NESAA) Sirassa Musical Westborough Public it to states and localities across the Nation. At their New Hope Programs Smith College Schools New North Citizen Smith College Botanical Western MA Alcoholics own volition, these disparate systems from Seattle to Council Garden Anonymous Omaha to Atlanta have engaged with RFK Children’s Nexus Smith College Museum Westfield Public School Action Corps to understand and imbed best practices North Central Citizens of Art District for systems to take a more coordinated, child-centered Soarin’ Indoors Council Westfield State University approach to juvenile justice and child welfare. North End Waterfront Sociadad Latina WIC Health Center South Bay Mental Health Winchester Hospital “This means more kids grow up into healthier, happier, North Hadley Sugar Shack South Boston Recovery Wolf Hollow productive citizens. And, ultimately, we as a society Collaborative/Gavin North Shore Medical Woods Hole Foundation benefit and pay far less in the long term. It’s a wiser, Center/Salem Hospital Oceanographic Institution Northampton Public South Hadley Food Bank (WHOI) more humane, and, frankly, more effective approach - Schools South Hadley High School Worcester Public Schools and you can’t ask for a better return on your investment.” Northeast Family Institute South Hadley Police & Fire Worcester State University (NFI) Departments Sam’s dedication and enthusiasm have been vital in Y.O.U., Inc. Northeast Health South Holyoke Safe helping advance our efforts. “We’re extremely grateful Yarmouth Area Chamber of Neighborhood Initiative Nuestras Raices Commerce to have a board member like Sam who not only believes Spencer-East Brookfield Old Colony Y Yarmouth Police in what we do here in the Commonwealth, but is also Regional School District One Luv Dance Class Department a voice and advocate of our initiatives at the national Springdale Park Academy Yiddish Book Center Springfield College level,” said Ed Kelley, CEO. One Stop Fun YMCA, Cape Cod, Ostiguy High, Boston Springfield Public Schools Holyoke, Springfield, Sam played a critical role in informing our strategic Recovery High School St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Worcester planning process as well as our communications Out of Control Racing St. Luke’s Parish Young Achievers Science & planning. He and Melanie also sponsor Embracing Paradise Pizza St. Vincent’s Hospital Math Pilot School Parent/Professional Stanley Park Youth Advocacy the Legacy every year, inviting family and friends to Advocacy League (PPAL) Straight Ahead Ministries Foundation learn more and become involved with the agency. Parent Information Network Street Safe Youth Opportunity Boston Additionally, they’ve made sizeable in-kind donations to Partners Healthcare/MGH Sunshine Farm support agency events. Patriot Place Tailored for Success The Performance Project Tandem Bakery *Deceased Whether speaking to the direct care work in the programs Perkins School Taza Chocolate or the systems work being done across the country, one PFLAG: Parents, Families, Therapeutic Equestrian s Multi-year commitments thing he notes is that the focus is always on the children & Friends of Lesbians Center made to New and helping them be who they are - and all they can and Gays Third Sector New England Expectations: The Pioneer Valley Rowing Club be. “Their stories are heartbreaking, yet I continue to Tolland State Forest Planned Parenthood Campaign for RFK be amazed by how resilient these kids are,” Sam said. Transitions League of Massachusetts Children’s Action Corps “When someone can connect with and support them in a Tufts Cummings School of Planting the Seed Veterinary Medicine - positive, sustained way, they’re able to shine.” Foundation Paws for People Poet’s Seat UMASS Amherst Private Industry Council UMASS Amherst Fine Arts *To learn more about the work of the RFK National Project Connect Center Resource Center for Juvenile Justice, see pages 18-19.

Annual Report FY16 27 11 Beacon Street, Suite 820 Boston, MA 02108

Photo credit: Asha

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28 RFK Children’s Action Corps