Let's Talk Parent Cafe

 Cafés are physically and emotionally safe spaces where people talk and listen to each other on topics that matter to them, such as the challenges and victories of raising a family, navigating landscapes of inequality, enhancing well-being, or being involved in the recovery process of someone they love. Through individual deep self-reflection and peer-to-peer learning, participants explore their strengths, learn about the Protective Factors, and create strategies from their own wisdom and experiences to strengthen their families. Participants leave Cafés feeling inspired, energized, and excited to put into practice what they’ve learned. (https://www.bestrongfamilies.org)

 I spoke to Jasmine Patterson, a Strengthening Families Coordinator, and she had this to say:

“...the Parent Café is important because if the participants appropriately take in what is presented by hosts and shared by other participants, it could break generational curses in their own families and extend to their communities. The Parent Cafés mean a lot to me because in my own openness I get to release and/or connect with people I otherwise wouldn't have, and I get to take things home with me as well that I see fit for my family and wellbeing. It's a sense of connectiveness and brings awareness.”

 Parent Cafés are an integral part of what Tabor is about. They create a space for people of all backgrounds to come together to find others who understand them. It doesn’t matter who you are, where you came from, or what your background is, you will always find someone who understands you and can relate to you. Are you still unsure? Take it from me, a 25 year old woman without kids who attends many Parent Cafés. I have always felt welcomed and have always come away from these cafes with more knowledge and understanding that can be applied to my life and that can help strengthen the relationships that I have with family and friends.

 These cafes are truely open to all. So, next time we have an event and you have some free time, take a moment to remove your professional hat and sit down for a conversation with a great group of individuals. These events can be virtual as well as in person, so you’ll always have an opportunity to participate. Tabor hosts multiple Parent Cafés a year and has a few coming up this month. Check out the events section of this newsletter for more information.