Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Parthenia Exclusive interview with At Home w/Victoria
Monday, October 24, 2011
Baking with Parthenia
Good morning everyone!
I've decided to share some of my favorite recipes that are made from scratch; yes I was taught by the best my Grandmothers and Mother. Today I am sharing the recipe for my Mother's 7-up cake that I cook around this time of year. Hope you enjoy and if you decided to make it please send us a picture of it.
Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 1hr 15 minutes
Total: 1hr 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients:
Amount ingredient preparation
1 1/2 cup butter softened
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups flour, all -purpose
2 tablespoons lemon extract
3/4 cups 7up
Powered sugar
Directions: Cream butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour, lemon extract, and 7up, mix together well. Pour into greased bundt or angel pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until done. Sprinkle with confectionery's sugar.
****We don't use exact measurements when baking from scratch but here is the basic recipe once you get the hang of it you can add or subtract as necessary. Enjoy!!!
I've decided to share some of my favorite recipes that are made from scratch; yes I was taught by the best my Grandmothers and Mother. Today I am sharing the recipe for my Mother's 7-up cake that I cook around this time of year. Hope you enjoy and if you decided to make it please send us a picture of it.
Cook: 1hr 15 minutes
Total: 1hr 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients:
Amount ingredient preparation
1 1/2 cup butter softened
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups flour, all -purpose
2 tablespoons lemon extract
3/4 cups 7up
Powered sugar
Directions: Cream butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour, lemon extract, and 7up, mix together well. Pour into greased bundt or angel pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until done. Sprinkle with confectionery's sugar.
****We don't use exact measurements when baking from scratch but here is the basic recipe once you get the hang of it you can add or subtract as necessary. Enjoy!!!
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Second Annual Black-tie Benefit Gala
Our Mistress of Ceremony for the evening was Miss Carrie Lambert, Vice President, Special Events, The Warford Foundation, and Actress with Wilhelmina PA (oh and Parthenia youngest daughter pictured below together).
Miss Ashley Moore (pictured below) a current third year nursing student enrolled at Bowie University BSN Program she was awarded $200 Founders Award for Outstanding Nursing Student separate from Project Impact Scholars award this award is given annually paid for by the Founder.
Mrs. Cheryl Dover, Chair (pictured below), as our guest speaker Nursing Department, Prince George's Community College she discussed the importance about our partnership, the two-year nursing program then introduced three of the ten applicants for our Project Impact Scholars Program Out of the 440 nursing students enrolled in PGCC Nursing Program over 75 of them are interested in applying before the deadline for application is November 15, 2011.
The evening ended with recording artist Ihsan Bilal (pictured below) words can not explain her voice you must experience it live to purchase her CD on iTunes.
Music provided by DJDnitty DJ / Host * M.Director 4 Lyme Lyte Ent. L.L.C. * WorldClass DJ's* Coast2CoastDJ's* Starlite Studios* NyChi Production he always supports us at every event. (pictured below)
We took a group photo with all participants that attended (see below).
We would like to thank all our sponsors, Glittarazzi; W.O.W Radio; Military Moulage; Spy Museum; Honesty Jewelry; Newseum; and Fort Belvoir Golf Club really couldn't have done this without you.
Save the date Saturday, October 13, 2012, 6pm to 10pm.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Being depressed disconnects the brain’s "hate circuit"
http://marcwhitehead.visibli.com/share/5VaTCs
Depression is the most common mental illness, but there's still a lot we don't know about how the condition affects the brain. But now, a new MRI study reveals that depression deactivates vital pieces of brain circuitry... including, surprisingly, the region that controls hatred.
Researchers at the UK's University of Warwick performed MRI scans on 39 depressed people and 37 control subjects who didn't have the condition. They were able to pinpoint several key differences in the brain circuitry between the two groups. Most of these centered on the uncoupling of connections between various parts of the brain. Normally, these connections form circuits that allow the different areas to work together to produce more complex mental processes. With the circuits uncoupled, the brain should have a harder time performing the related mental tasks.
That's why it's so strange that the so-called "hate circuit" - a circuit connecting the superior frontal gyrus, insula, and putamen that was shown in 2008 to be strongly associated with feelings of hatred - was often uncoupled in the depressed subjects. The researchers discovered this by showing the subjects pictures of people they hated. While the non-depressed people showed clear activity in this hate circuit, most of the depressed people showed no such response. In fact, the hate circuit was 92% more likely to be decoupled in the depressed subjects.
There were similarly high odds of deactivation for the risk and action circuit (92%) and the emotion and reward circuit (82%), but neither of those is really surprising in terms of the general behavior patterns of people dealing with depression, which is often associated with an unwillingness to take risks and difficulty feeling positive emotions. But since depression is known to be associated with self-loathing - which is very much a form of hatred - then how could that fit with the hate circuit being deactivated?
Researcher Jianfeng Feng has a theory:
"The results are clear but at first sight are puzzling as we know that depression is often characterized by intense self loathing and there is no obvious indication that depressives are less prone to hate others. One possibility is that the uncoupling of this hate circuit could be associated with impaired ability to control and learn from social or other situations which provoke feelings of hate towards self or others. This in turn could lead to an inability to deal appropriately with feelings of hate and an increased likelihood of both uncontrolled self-loathing and withdrawal from social interactions. It may be that this is a neurological indication that is more normal to have occasion to hate others rather than hate ourselves."
Via Molecular Psychiatry. Image by Viktoriya/Shutterstock.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Second Annual Black-tie Benefit Gala
The Warford Foundation will host its Second Annual Black-tie Benefit Gala on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 8p.m. to midnight at The Club at Andrews, on Andrews Air Force Base, Clinton, Maryland. This benefit gala will provide funding for financial assistance as needed to our recent fallen soldier’s military widow families and single mothers. Proceeds will go towards Project Impact Scholars Program established to assist with the foundation’s efforts to help military widows and single mothers with $250 per semester for books as they pursue a 2yr associates degree in nursing at Prince George's Community College. Our host for the evening is Miss Carrie Lambert, Vice President, Special Events, TWF; newly signed actress to Wilhelmina PA; and youngest daughter of Parthenia Warford, founder TWF. We will be honoring a very special young lady Miss Ashley Moore with Parthenia Warford special award. Tickets for the evening including live music, silent auction, seated dinner, champagne toast, and door prizes, is $75 per person and $150 couple. The music will be provided by our sponsor DJ Dnitty of In Tha Lyme Lyte, LLC / Sound Production. More details coming soon.
Dress: Black-tie (men) / gowns (women)
About The Warford Foundation
Our mission is to expand the opportunities of single mother and military widow families by increasing self sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement. We intend to reach out to the military widows that lost their loved ones due to the current war; as well as other single mothers.
Our vision is to help military widows-who are often forgotten about after the funerals and other military rituals-as well other single mothers who also are in need of financial assistance to obtain a 2year degree in nursing. The proceeds from various charity events will go directly toward Project Impact Scholars Program established to assist with our efforts to help military widows and single mothers. Our founder, Parthenia as a 20yr retired U.S. Army soldier, is familiar with the plight of the military spouse. The impact of having a spouse serving their country fighting this Nation's was one day and being told the next day that you are now a widow with kids and no skills can be devastating. She saw this all around her during her 20 year career as an active duty and while serving as a single parent herself.
The Warford Foundation Project Impact Scholars Program will benefit from all the proceeds of the black-tie benefit gala; the monies will assist us with being able to award more single mother and military widow enrolled in the 2yr nursing program at Prince George's Community College, Nursing Department $250 for books per semester as they actively pursue their degree.
Project Impact Scholars Program
The Warford Foundation has a mission to expand the opportunities of single mother and military widow families by increasing self sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement.
Eligibility requirements:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited L.P.N. or R.N. nursing program.
- Proof of single parent status (birth certificate, school records, etc).
- Annual income less than $40,000 (previous year's tax return and current paycheck stub).
- Maintain a 3.0 grade point average or higher.
- Participation in The Warford Foundation community services activities (1 per semester of award).
- Become an Ambassador of The Warford Foundation actively encouraging other single mothers and military widows interested in nursing to apply to Project Impact Scholars Program.
The Warford Foundation recently partnered with Prince George’s Community College, Nursing Department to provide eligible single mother and/or military widow awardees with $250.00 per semester assistance with purchasing books beginning Spring 2012. Prince George's Community College's Nursing Program is one of the largest of the 14 associate degree programs in Maryland. The program was approved by the State Board of Nursing in 1969 and accredited by the National League of Nursing in 1976. The LPN to ADN Transition Program began the summer of 1995. The LPN Program began the fall of 1996 and is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
BREAKING NEWS!!!!
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD: Our Charity Golf Tournament scheduled for Saturday, October 15, 2011 is postponed until a later date; however we our Second Annual Black-tie Benefit Gala will take place on Saturday, October 15, 2011 from 8pm to midnight at The Club at Andrews, Andrews Air Force Base, Camp Springs, Maryland.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
PRESS RELEASE: Second Annual Charity Golf Tournament and Cocktail Party
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2011
Clinton, Maryland: Charity Golf tournament Saturday, October 15, 2011, The Warford Foundation (TWF) is having our Second Annual Charity Golf Tournament and Cocktail Party on Andrews AFB, Clinton, Maryland from 2:00pm to 7:00pm (golf) 8:00pm to 11:00pm (cocktail party). There are 18 holes of golf and it will be scramble format; in a scramble, each player tees off on each hole.
Our mission is to expand the opportunities of single mother and military widow families by increasing self sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement. We intend to reach out to the military widows that lost their loved ones due to the current war; as well as other single mothers.
Our vision is to help military widows-who are often forgotten about after the funerals and other military rituals-as well other single mothers who also are in need of financial assistance to obtain a 2year degree in nursing. The proceeds from various charity events will go directly toward Project Impact Scholars Program established to assist with our efforts to help military widows and single mothers.
The Warford Foundation partnered with Prince George’s Community College, Nursing Department to provide eligible single mother and/or military widow awardees with $250.00 per semester assistance with purchasing books beginning Spring of 2012. Prince George's Community College's Nursing Program is one of the largest of the 14 associate degree programs in Maryland. The program was approved by the State Board of Nursing in 1969 and accredited by the National League of Nursing in 1976. The LPN to ADN Transition Program began the summer of 1995. The LPN Program began the fall of 1996 and is approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing.
Project Impact Scholars Program
Eligibility requirements: 1) Currently enrolled in an accredited L.P.N. or R.N. nursing program; 2) Proof of single parent status (birth certificate, school records, etc); 3) Annual income less than $40,000 (previous year's tax return and current paycheck stub); 4) Maintain a 3.0 grade point average or higher 5) Participation in The Warford Foundation community services activities (1 per semester of award); 6) Become an Ambassador of TWF actively encouraging other single mothers and military widows interested in nursing to apply to Project Impact Scholars Program. Applications are being accepted now until November 15, 2011 for interested single mothers/military widows; for more info about the program contact Ms. Parthenia Warford, CEO/ Founder, info@thewarfordfoundation.org
TWF Publicist can be reached at twfpublicist@thewarforddfoundation.org or (301) 292-6034.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Suicide in America
Suicide is a major public health concern. Around 30,000 people die by suicide each year in the United States. More people die by suicide each year than by homicide.
Suicide is tragic. But it is often preventable. Knowing the risk factors for suicide and who is at risk can help reduce the suicide rate.
Who is at risk for suicide?
Suicide does not discriminate. People of all genders, ages, and ethnicities are at risk for suicide. But people most at risk tend to share certain characteristics. The main risk factors for suicide are:
--Depression, other mental disorders, or substance abuse order
--A prior suicide attempt
--Family history of mental disorder or substance abuse
--Family history of suicide
--Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
--Having guns or other firearms in the home
--Incarceration, being in prison or jail
--Being exposed to others' suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or media figures
The risk for suicidal behavior also is associate with changes in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which is also associated with depression. Lower levels of serotonin have been found in the brains of people with a history of suicide attempts.
Many people have some of these risk factors but do not attempt suicide. Suicide is not a normal response to stress. It is however, a sign of extreme distress, not a harmless bid for attention.
What about gender?
Men are more likely to die by suicide than women, but women are more likely to attempt suicide. Men are more likely to use deadlier methods, such as firearms or suffocation. Women are more likely than men to attempt suicide by poisoning.
What about children?
Children and young people are at risk for suicide. Year after year, suicide remains one of the top three leading causes of death for young people ages 15 to 24.
What about older adults?
Older adults are at risk for suicide, too. In fact, white males age 85 and older consistently have the highest suicide risk than any other age and ethnic group.
What about different ethnic groups?
Among ethnicities, American Indians and Alaska Natives tend to have the highest rate of suicides, followed by non-Hispanic Whites. Hispanics tend to have the lowest rate of suicides, while African Americans tend to have the second lowest rate.
How can suicide be prevented?
Effective suicide prevention is based on sound research. Programs that work take in account people's risk factors and promote interventions that are appropriate to specific groups of people. For example, research has shown that mental and substance abuse disorders are risk factors for suicide. Therefore, many programs focus on treating these disorders in addition to addressing suicide risk specifically.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," can effectively reduce suicide risk. One type is called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can help people learn new ways of dealing with stressful experiences by training them to consider alternative actions when thoughts of suicide arise.
Another type of psychotherapy called dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has been shown to reduce the rate of suicide among people with borderline personality disorder, a serious mental illness characterized by unstable moods, relationships, self-image, and behavior. A therapist trained in DBT helps a person recognize when his or her feelings or actions are disruptive or unhealthy, and teaches the skills needed to deal better with upsetting situations.
Some medications may also help. For example, the anti-psychotic medication clozapine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for suicide prevention in people with schizophrenia. Other promising medications and psychosocial treatments for suicidal people are being tested.
Still other research has found that many older adults and women who die by suicide saw their primary care providers in the year before death. Training doctors to recognize signs that a person may be considering suicide may help prevent even more suicides.
What should I do if someone I know is considering suicide?
If you know someone who is considering suicide, do not leave him or her alone. Try to get your loved one to seek immediate help from his or her doctor or the nearest hospital emergency room, or call 911. Remove any access he or she may have to firearms or other potential tools for suicide, including medications.
If you are in crisis
Call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential.
National Institute of Mental Health
Scientific Writing, Press Dissemination Branch
6001 Executive Boulevard
Room 8184, MSC 9663
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-9663
Phone: (301) 443-4513 or 1-866-615-NIMH (6464) toll-free
Email: nimhinfo@nih.gov
Website: www.nimh.nih.gov
Suicide is tragic. But it is often preventable. Knowing the risk factors for suicide and who is at risk can help reduce the suicide rate.
Who is at risk for suicide?
Suicide does not discriminate. People of all genders, ages, and ethnicities are at risk for suicide. But people most at risk tend to share certain characteristics. The main risk factors for suicide are:
--Depression, other mental disorders, or substance abuse order
--A prior suicide attempt
--Family history of mental disorder or substance abuse
--Family history of suicide
--Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
--Having guns or other firearms in the home
--Incarceration, being in prison or jail
--Being exposed to others' suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or media figures
The risk for suicidal behavior also is associate with changes in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which is also associated with depression. Lower levels of serotonin have been found in the brains of people with a history of suicide attempts.
Many people have some of these risk factors but do not attempt suicide. Suicide is not a normal response to stress. It is however, a sign of extreme distress, not a harmless bid for attention.
What about gender?
Men are more likely to die by suicide than women, but women are more likely to attempt suicide. Men are more likely to use deadlier methods, such as firearms or suffocation. Women are more likely than men to attempt suicide by poisoning.
What about children?
Children and young people are at risk for suicide. Year after year, suicide remains one of the top three leading causes of death for young people ages 15 to 24.
What about older adults?
Older adults are at risk for suicide, too. In fact, white males age 85 and older consistently have the highest suicide risk than any other age and ethnic group.
What about different ethnic groups?
Among ethnicities, American Indians and Alaska Natives tend to have the highest rate of suicides, followed by non-Hispanic Whites. Hispanics tend to have the lowest rate of suicides, while African Americans tend to have the second lowest rate.
How can suicide be prevented?
Effective suicide prevention is based on sound research. Programs that work take in account people's risk factors and promote interventions that are appropriate to specific groups of people. For example, research has shown that mental and substance abuse disorders are risk factors for suicide. Therefore, many programs focus on treating these disorders in addition to addressing suicide risk specifically.
Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," can effectively reduce suicide risk. One type is called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT can help people learn new ways of dealing with stressful experiences by training them to consider alternative actions when thoughts of suicide arise.
Another type of psychotherapy called dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has been shown to reduce the rate of suicide among people with borderline personality disorder, a serious mental illness characterized by unstable moods, relationships, self-image, and behavior. A therapist trained in DBT helps a person recognize when his or her feelings or actions are disruptive or unhealthy, and teaches the skills needed to deal better with upsetting situations.
Some medications may also help. For example, the anti-psychotic medication clozapine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for suicide prevention in people with schizophrenia. Other promising medications and psychosocial treatments for suicidal people are being tested.
Still other research has found that many older adults and women who die by suicide saw their primary care providers in the year before death. Training doctors to recognize signs that a person may be considering suicide may help prevent even more suicides.
What should I do if someone I know is considering suicide?
If you know someone who is considering suicide, do not leave him or her alone. Try to get your loved one to seek immediate help from his or her doctor or the nearest hospital emergency room, or call 911. Remove any access he or she may have to firearms or other potential tools for suicide, including medications.
If you are in crisis
Call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The service is available to anyone. All calls are confidential.
National Institute of Mental Health
Scientific Writing, Press Dissemination Branch
6001 Executive Boulevard
Room 8184, MSC 9663
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-9663
Phone: (301) 443-4513 or 1-866-615-NIMH (6464) toll-free
Email: nimhinfo@nih.gov
Website: www.nimh.nih.gov
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Back to School Supply Drive
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2011
Clinton, Maryland: Back to School Supply Drive proceeds will enable The Warford Foundation to provide school supplies to the children of the single mothers and military widows attending Prince George’s Community College. Therefore, in an effort to meet our goals, we are hosting a back to school supply drive on Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 2:00 – 5:00pm. The event will take place at the Largo Community Center on the campus of Prince George’s Community College, Largo, Maryland. The supply drive will include live music from recording artist within the Washington, DC metro area, live broadcast from local radio stations, games, and 50/50 raffle. Guest list includes several celebrities; professional athletes so don’t miss out. Cost of attendance is $10 or a donation of back to school supplies for children K-12. All proceeds will go to the single mothers and military widows attending Prince George’s Community College.
The foundation has partnered with the Nursing Department of Prince George’s Community College to award at least two (2) financial assistance awards for $250.00 per semester for books beginning Spring 2012 school year to qualified single mother and/or military widow.
The Warford Foundation has a mission to expand the opportunities of single mother families by increasing self sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement. We intend to reach out to the single mothers and military widows that lost their loved ones due to the current war. Our founder, as a retired U.S. Army soldier, is familiar with the plight of the military spouse. She understands that the impact of having a spouse serving their country fighting this Nation's war one day and being told the next day that you are now a widow with kids and no skills can be devastating.
Our vision is to help these single mothers-who are often forgotten about after the funerals and other military rituals-as well as other single mothers who also are in need of financial assistance to obtain an associate's degree to become a registered nurse.
Qualifying criteria for Project IMPACT SCHOLARS:
• Single mothers / military widows qualify for the program
• Qualifying candidates will possess at minimum a high school diploma or GED
• Qualifying candidates must possess a 3.0 GPA or higher (if recently graduated)
• Qualifying candidates will have a household income of no more than $40,000 (criteria for Washington, DC area/future service areas may increase or decrease the qualifying figure)
• All participants must do community service hours to stay in the program; community service consists of volunteering in foundation events.
Applications are being accepted now until November 15, 2011 for interested single mothers/military widows. http://thewarfordfoundation.org/Projects.html
For more information contact Ms. Parthenia Warford, CEO/Founder, The Warford Foundation, info@thewarfordfoundation.org twitter: @thewarford Office: (301) 292-6034
July 20, 2011
Clinton, Maryland: Back to School Supply Drive proceeds will enable The Warford Foundation to provide school supplies to the children of the single mothers and military widows attending Prince George’s Community College. Therefore, in an effort to meet our goals, we are hosting a back to school supply drive on Saturday, August 6, 2011 from 2:00 – 5:00pm. The event will take place at the Largo Community Center on the campus of Prince George’s Community College, Largo, Maryland. The supply drive will include live music from recording artist within the Washington, DC metro area, live broadcast from local radio stations, games, and 50/50 raffle. Guest list includes several celebrities; professional athletes so don’t miss out. Cost of attendance is $10 or a donation of back to school supplies for children K-12. All proceeds will go to the single mothers and military widows attending Prince George’s Community College.
The foundation has partnered with the Nursing Department of Prince George’s Community College to award at least two (2) financial assistance awards for $250.00 per semester for books beginning Spring 2012 school year to qualified single mother and/or military widow.
The Warford Foundation has a mission to expand the opportunities of single mother families by increasing self sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement. We intend to reach out to the single mothers and military widows that lost their loved ones due to the current war. Our founder, as a retired U.S. Army soldier, is familiar with the plight of the military spouse. She understands that the impact of having a spouse serving their country fighting this Nation's war one day and being told the next day that you are now a widow with kids and no skills can be devastating.
Our vision is to help these single mothers-who are often forgotten about after the funerals and other military rituals-as well as other single mothers who also are in need of financial assistance to obtain an associate's degree to become a registered nurse.
Qualifying criteria for Project IMPACT SCHOLARS:
• Single mothers / military widows qualify for the program
• Qualifying candidates will possess at minimum a high school diploma or GED
• Qualifying candidates must possess a 3.0 GPA or higher (if recently graduated)
• Qualifying candidates will have a household income of no more than $40,000 (criteria for Washington, DC area/future service areas may increase or decrease the qualifying figure)
• All participants must do community service hours to stay in the program; community service consists of volunteering in foundation events.
Applications are being accepted now until November 15, 2011 for interested single mothers/military widows. http://thewarfordfoundation.org/Projects.html
For more information contact Ms. Parthenia Warford, CEO/Founder, The Warford Foundation, info@thewarfordfoundation.org twitter: @thewarford Office: (301) 292-6034
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Robin Craig Discusses Military Suicides, July 12, 2011
Robin Craig is a three-time Emmy Award-Winning TV Producer. She writes the Today's Widow segment for the Houston Chronicle and host Robin Craig LIVE on the Mingle Media TV Network. This segment she talks with Kim Ruocco from TAPS regarding her Marine husband's death by suicide. She also talks with Therapist, Ruth Schriebman, about what to look for and what to do if you have concern about someone's mental state.
Thanks to those who watched Robin Craig LIVE last night. If you missed it, here's a link to watch the video here. There two special guests that shared their insight into suicide, especially in the military, and the effects on the families involved. I hope everyone will watch this show so we can help our military heroes, both past and present, in the best way possible.
Permission given by Ms. Robin Craig to share this via The Warford Foundation Blog. Together we plan to share resources to assist our military widows and others to understand the grief that widows experience and how to help them.
Thanks to those who watched Robin Craig LIVE last night. If you missed it, here's a link to watch the video here. There two special guests that shared their insight into suicide, especially in the military, and the effects on the families involved. I hope everyone will watch this show so we can help our military heroes, both past and present, in the best way possible.
Permission given by Ms. Robin Craig to share this via The Warford Foundation Blog. Together we plan to share resources to assist our military widows and others to understand the grief that widows experience and how to help them.
Saturday, July 9, 2011
The Warford Foundation Project Impact Scholars
The Warford Foundation Project Impact Scholars Program provides financial support to military widows and single mothers currently enrolled in two-year Licensed Practical Nurse (L.P.N.) or Registered Nurse (R.N.) nursing programs located in the Washington metropolitan area, in particular Prince George’s County and Prince George’s Community College. Program support goal includes assistance for books, child-care services, transportation, or any other adjunct necessary financial support to assist military widows and single mothers obtain an associate’s degree in nursing. Currently, the program provides funding for books. For consideration, program applicants must meet eligibility requirements, complete the application process, and participate in at least one community service project, per semester, to receive funding. Project Impact Scholars Program does not include tuition payment(s) or tuition support.
The Warford Foundation, established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit registered in the State of Maryland, founded by Parthenia Warford, a 20-year disabled Army veteran, to assist military widows and single mothers expand the opportunities by increasing self-sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement. The Warford Foundation’s intent is to reach out to the military widows that lost their loved ones due to the current war, as well as other single mothers with financial assistance in their pursuit of successfully completing a community college two year nursing program. Our hope is that it will help them to contribute to society in an area of critical need nursing, while also increasing their sense of purpose and ability to become more self-sufficient.
If you are anyone you know that may be interested in applying to our Project Impact Scholars Program deadline for submission is May 15 and November 15. We are currently accepting applications from current nursing students enrolled in Prince George's Community College's two year nursing program for Spring 2012.
For additional information email info@thewarfordfoundation.org put Project Impact Scholars in the subject line.
The Warford Foundation, established in 2009, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit registered in the State of Maryland, founded by Parthenia Warford, a 20-year disabled Army veteran, to assist military widows and single mothers expand the opportunities by increasing self-sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement. The Warford Foundation’s intent is to reach out to the military widows that lost their loved ones due to the current war, as well as other single mothers with financial assistance in their pursuit of successfully completing a community college two year nursing program. Our hope is that it will help them to contribute to society in an area of critical need nursing, while also increasing their sense of purpose and ability to become more self-sufficient.
If you are anyone you know that may be interested in applying to our Project Impact Scholars Program deadline for submission is May 15 and November 15. We are currently accepting applications from current nursing students enrolled in Prince George's Community College's two year nursing program for Spring 2012.
For additional information email info@thewarfordfoundation.org put Project Impact Scholars in the subject line.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
There are no Victims in My Life
THERE ARE NO VICTIMS IN MY LIFE
I am now willing to forgive myself . . .
for believing that I have the power to create victims.
We have all done something that has caused someone pain or discomfort. Often, we are aware of the consequences of our actions. Then there are those times when we don't have a clue about what we've done until someone brings it to our attention. When they do, we feel bad. We believe that we must forever be indebted to the people who have been the victims of our thoughtlessness, negligence or abuse.
You cannot see people as victims of something you have done. If you do, they will allow you to continue to feel bad. You cannot see people as victims of who you were or who you are. If you do, you are declaring yourself to be more powerful than you have a right to be in anyone's life. Seeing someone as your victim says that you are somehow responsible for what people believe and do. Thinking this way or feeling this way is going to cause you a tremendous amount of grief unnecessarily!
Regardless of the impact your actions have on anyone, they are not your victim! Think of it this way: we are all dancers in the ballroom of life. Some of us are accomplished dancers. Some of us can't find the beat. When you ask someone to dance, they, not you, choose whether or not they will dance with you. If you step on their toes, ask for forgiveness. Don't buy them a new pair of shoes! If the experience leaves them with the impression that life is not worth dancing, ask for forgiveness. Do not spend the rest of your life trying to force them to dance again! You have no victims! Ask for forgiveness. Makes amends if you can. Then, waltz away.
Until today, you may have believed that you would be forever indebted to others. Just for today, acknowledge those times you have been thoughtless, negligent or abusive to others. Forgive yourself. Ask for forgiveness and then continue to dance.
Today I am devoted to forgiving my errors and to acknowledging that there are no victims in my life!
From Until Today!
by Iyanla Vanzant
Your Daily Stimu eMail dated June 26, 2011 written by Ms. Iyanla Vanzant
I am now willing to forgive myself . . .
for believing that I have the power to create victims.
We have all done something that has caused someone pain or discomfort. Often, we are aware of the consequences of our actions. Then there are those times when we don't have a clue about what we've done until someone brings it to our attention. When they do, we feel bad. We believe that we must forever be indebted to the people who have been the victims of our thoughtlessness, negligence or abuse.
You cannot see people as victims of something you have done. If you do, they will allow you to continue to feel bad. You cannot see people as victims of who you were or who you are. If you do, you are declaring yourself to be more powerful than you have a right to be in anyone's life. Seeing someone as your victim says that you are somehow responsible for what people believe and do. Thinking this way or feeling this way is going to cause you a tremendous amount of grief unnecessarily!
Regardless of the impact your actions have on anyone, they are not your victim! Think of it this way: we are all dancers in the ballroom of life. Some of us are accomplished dancers. Some of us can't find the beat. When you ask someone to dance, they, not you, choose whether or not they will dance with you. If you step on their toes, ask for forgiveness. Don't buy them a new pair of shoes! If the experience leaves them with the impression that life is not worth dancing, ask for forgiveness. Do not spend the rest of your life trying to force them to dance again! You have no victims! Ask for forgiveness. Makes amends if you can. Then, waltz away.
Until today, you may have believed that you would be forever indebted to others. Just for today, acknowledge those times you have been thoughtless, negligent or abusive to others. Forgive yourself. Ask for forgiveness and then continue to dance.
Today I am devoted to forgiving my errors and to acknowledging that there are no victims in my life!
From Until Today!
by Iyanla Vanzant
Your Daily Stimu eMail dated June 26, 2011 written by Ms. Iyanla Vanzant
Friday, June 24, 2011
Loving Myself by Iyanla Vanzant
I AM LOVING MYSELFSelf-hate is a form of mental slavery that results in poverty, ignorance and crime. ~Susan Taylor
When you don't feel good about yourself, it is hard to feel good about anything or anyone else. You see everything with a jaundiced eye. You miss the value and worth of every experience. You limit yourself because you don't feel good about who you are or what you do. You hold yourself back because you don't believe what you want is worthwhile. You put yourself in situations that are abusive or unproductive. You feel bad about yourself because of what you've done. Self-hate is a vicious cycle that leads to self-destruction. It fills the world with hate and people with despair. The only way to get out of the cycle of self-hate is to allow yourself to believe the world is waiting for who you are becoming. What the world must do is let every being know they are appreciated and welcomed simply for being who they are.
I Am loving myself for being a lovable being.
From Acts of Faith
by Iyanla Vanzant
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Military Widow Katie Hubbard's Love Story
James and I met at his civilian job (he was in the Army Reserves for the last 28 years of his career) at a jail. He was a supervisor on first shift, and I was a newly hired correctional specialist on second, but did all my overtime on first. The first time I met him, I was intrigued. What a good looking man! The first week I was there in training (the last part of March 2005), the supervisors were undergoing taser training. He got teased and sounded just like Chewbacca. It cracked me up and became an easy way to tease him.
We started talking when I did my overtime as I was usually a rover (not assigned to a module and therefore had direct communication with the supervisors) and we got along quite well. That July he asked me to come over to watch a movie on my days off. I agreed but we weren’t able to exchange numbers until the next week due to an incident that came up right then. So on July 26, 2005 I came over to his house to watch a movie and hang out. I knew then there was something between us. We started talking everyday after that and were together. Though we couldn’t be open about our relationship at the time.
Through our talks, I learned a lot about him. He was raised in Georgia, where he attended an all black school before integration happened. He was then drafted at the age of 20 in September 1972. He signed his enlistment papers Oct. 24 of that year and stayed on Active Duty until Sept. of 1980 when he switched over to the Army Reserves. Feb. 2003 he was called up as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom 1 with the 450th Movement Control Battalion out of Manhattan, KS. He was based out of Talil, Iraq, though traveled throughout the country. He came home March 2004 and his blood work was crazy! They told him to see his civilian provider and so he did and was sent to a blood specialist.
The specialist monitored his blood work, but never really said much to him. During this time issues of post traumatic stress disorder arose and he was VERY angry. He was able to control it a bit as time went on, but the issues were still there. He was monitored for a few months then let go with no further information given. When we met in 2005, he was doing better, but certain things were triggers for him. He was still very physically fit, especially for a man in his mid 50s and was able to keep up with this young 20’s girl! As our relationship grew, his ability to run was getting harder and harder and he struggled with it. We chalked it up to his age (he was 53 when we first met) and didn’t think much about it.
In Feb 12, 2007 we went and got legally married, and 7 weeks later on April 7 had our wedding. He was set to deploy with the 139th Medical Group out of Independence, MO to Kosovo as part of Task Force Med Falcon XIV, KFOR9 that summer. He started trainings and deployed late summer. He was in Kosovo until July 2008. During this time he mentioned how “humping those hills” over there was taking his breath away. When he got home, we figured his fatigue was due to age, the time and altitude changes, and didn’t think much of it. We were newly weds, he was healthy (never taking a pill), and we had plans. He went to the VA hospital that Sept. to begin post deployment check-up.
After a few appointments they did blood work. A couple days later we were called and told he needed to come back that the test results were odd and wanted to repeat them. When those results came back they called panicked saying that he needed to come in right then and may be hospitalized! We were confused! He being who he was said he’d come in a few days later. When we did they had us see a hematologist who stated that his counts were low and they wanted to schedule a bone marrow biopsy. The doctor said he thought it was most likely a parasite, but a slim chance for cancer, but if it was it wasn’t the bad kind (is there such a thing as a good cancer?). They wanted to do the biopsy the next weekend, but he had a military thing with the Brigade’s General and said they’d have to wait until he got back.
So on the anniversary of 36 years of service he had his biopsy. We were told we’d hear back in 3 weeks the results. So on Nov. 14, 2008 we were called into the room and the doctor said he had Leukemia, but they weren’t sure if it were Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia or Bi-lineagal Acute Mylogenous Leukemia. We were in shock! He had no family history of any cancers! The doctor said that they were seeing an increase in the number of soldiers coming back from Iraq with Leukemia's and other cancers and that based on his history (the funky blood work, where he was based, his age, and the type of cancer) that he got his cancer from his tour in Iraq!
Our world was rocked to the core! How could this be?!?! So we fought to use his civilian insurance because the VA they wanted us to use was unacceptable! The doctor wouldn’t answer questions, he told me not to ask things, and the place was just not good. They only gave a 60% survival rate too. So we got to MD Anderson in Houston, TX and met with the doctor in Feb. 2009. She gave him a 90-95% survival rate! We were hopeful that this was the path we were meant to be and that we could really start our lives together. We started treatment the next week. When we started treatment he had 85% leukemia blasts in his blood. After cycle 2, he was down to 0.6%!! In cycle 4 the doctor said that after cycle 5 we would do another biopsy and if his levels were 0.00% then no transplant would be needed, anything higher and he would. They also changed his antibiotic that cycle. When we saw the doctor on May 19, I expressed my concern with his severe diarrhea and the doctor said take more Imodium and see you in a few weeks. We came home like we did after every cycle.
On the 21st I went to see my dad and James stayed home as he was exhausted as normal. I came home that afternoon and James asked me to hurry home as he had an accident and needed help. I helped clean him up, got him some applesauce to eat and some water to drink and brought it to him. He fell over on the bed and just wasn’t right. I called 9-1-1 and they arrived shortly after. While waiting for them, I took his hand, told him I loved him and not to leave me. That I couldn’t live without him. EMS arrived and I explained the situation and told them he wanted to live!!! As soon as they kicked me out of our room, he stopped breathing and they began working on him. I was looking for his med list and just going crazy.. Having my heart beat out of my chest, breaking with every beat. One of the workers came downstairs to go to the ambulance to get something and I stated “He’s not breathing is he?” and the guy said no. I knew he was gone. They brought him downstairs and out to the ambulance and they left for the hospital, leaving me to follow in my own vehicle!
I got to the hospital and was prevented from going into the ER. The doctor came and asked me a few questions while I registered him. A few minutes later he came and told me he was gone. He tried asking more things and all I kept saying was could I be with him. I went into the room and sat there with my handsome husband. My world crashing all around and my future was black. As I sat there with him waiting for my family and having to call his grown sons to let them know the horrible news, our life flashed in front of me. At 6:10pm on May 21, 2009 my husband was pronounced dead. The following days the arrangements were made, the house cleaned, and the funeral planned. He left behind his sons, Ja'Vaughn and Ashton, and grandson Keegan after serving 36 years, 6 months, and 27 days in the military with no breaks in service.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Our Featured Artist - Ms Alison Carney
Ms. Alison Carney performed at our First Annual Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday, May 8, 2011 at The Front Page in Arlington, Virginia. She invited her Mother and Grandmother to the brunch; Alison was raised by a wonderful single mother who loves and supports her. Look for more of Alison she is performing at our Second Annual Project Impact Scholars Benefit Gala, Saturday, October 15, 2011.
About Alison
Alison Carney is a jack of all trades. A singer, songwriter, fashion designer, and an educator, Alison uses everything she does creatively to continuously foster her artistic growth. She is an experienced vocalist whose natural born ability to create sound, is a gift to us all. Born and raised in Washington DC, her sound transcends any categorization of how music is defined. Her live performance can be described as pleasantly energetic and astonishingly chill. With a firm understanding of how sound effects emotion, the structure around her songwriting is structureless. Thus, she presents herself to all in natural form, the result is honest music.
Classically trained, and formerly the front woman of an R&B/Soul Band, Alison has released an EP and has written and performed on two studio albums in addition to touring in Asia & around the country.. She continues to hone her craft by providing support vocals for such notable artists as Sy Smith, Kokayi, YahZarah, Wayna, Choklate, V.Rch, and J. Hayden, many of which are Grammy Nominated. An annual performer for The DC Dilla Tribute & Can A Sister Rock a Mic (CASRAM) Alison has had the opportunity to share the stage with Pete Rock, Talib Kweli, and even Ma Yancey herself in celebration of the life of James "J Dilla" Yancey. Collaborations and stage performances with other artists and producers range far and wide, some of which include: Tabi Bonney, Dwele, XO, Slum Village, Raheem Devaughn, Kyonte, Jay Mills, Phife/Tribe Called Quest, Mr. Turner, J.Laine, DJ RoddyRod, Judah, and TFox.
Chosen by the Washington City Paper as the "Best New R&B Singer of 2010," Alison uses music, art, education, and fashion as her muses. Fronting the musical experience alisonWonderland new project coming out in Summer 2011 Which Alison says "This new project is a journey into a more electronic fantasy world" (Alison Carney + Spinser Tracy + Jon Laine) proves, her creativity speaks volumes, her and her lifestyle exudes endless opportunity.
For more about Ms. Alison Carney please click http://mim.io/123f01
About Alison
Alison Carney is a jack of all trades. A singer, songwriter, fashion designer, and an educator, Alison uses everything she does creatively to continuously foster her artistic growth. She is an experienced vocalist whose natural born ability to create sound, is a gift to us all. Born and raised in Washington DC, her sound transcends any categorization of how music is defined. Her live performance can be described as pleasantly energetic and astonishingly chill. With a firm understanding of how sound effects emotion, the structure around her songwriting is structureless. Thus, she presents herself to all in natural form, the result is honest music.
Classically trained, and formerly the front woman of an R&B/Soul Band, Alison has released an EP and has written and performed on two studio albums in addition to touring in Asia & around the country.. She continues to hone her craft by providing support vocals for such notable artists as Sy Smith, Kokayi, YahZarah, Wayna, Choklate, V.Rch, and J. Hayden, many of which are Grammy Nominated. An annual performer for The DC Dilla Tribute & Can A Sister Rock a Mic (CASRAM) Alison has had the opportunity to share the stage with Pete Rock, Talib Kweli, and even Ma Yancey herself in celebration of the life of James "J Dilla" Yancey. Collaborations and stage performances with other artists and producers range far and wide, some of which include: Tabi Bonney, Dwele, XO, Slum Village, Raheem Devaughn, Kyonte, Jay Mills, Phife/Tribe Called Quest, Mr. Turner, J.Laine, DJ RoddyRod, Judah, and TFox.
Chosen by the Washington City Paper as the "Best New R&B Singer of 2010," Alison uses music, art, education, and fashion as her muses. Fronting the musical experience alisonWonderland new project coming out in Summer 2011 Which Alison says "This new project is a journey into a more electronic fantasy world" (Alison Carney + Spinser Tracy + Jon Laine) proves, her creativity speaks volumes, her and her lifestyle exudes endless opportunity.
For more about Ms. Alison Carney please click http://mim.io/123f01
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
National Nurses Week 2011
A Brief History
National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6 and ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday. These permanent dates enhance planning and position National Nurses Week as an established recognition event. As of 1998, May 8 was designated as National Student Nurses Day, to be celebrated annually. And as of 2003, National School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday within National Nurses Week (May 6-12) each year.
The nursing profession has been supported and promoted by the American Nurses Association (ANA) since 1896. Each of ANA’s state and territorial nurses associations promotes the nursing profession at the state and regional levels. Each conducts celebrations on these dates to recognize the contributions that nurses and nursing make to the community.
The ANA supports and encourages National Nurses Week recognition programs through the state and district nurses associations, other specialty nursing organizations, educational facilities, and independent health care companies and institutions.
Milestones
1953
Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare sent a proposal to President Eisenhower to proclaim a “Nurse Day” in October of the following year. The proclamation was never made.
1954
National Nurse Week was observed from October 11 - 16. The year of the observance marked the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. Representative Frances P. Bolton sponsored the bill for a nurse week. Apparently, a bill for a National Nurse Week was introduced in the 1955 Congress, but no action was taken. Congress discontinued its practice of joint resolutions for national weeks of various kinds.
1972
Again a resolution was presented by the House of Representatives for the President to proclaim “National Registered Nurse Day.” It did not occur.
1974
In January of that year, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) proclaimed that May 12 would be “International Nurse Day.” (May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale.) Since 1965, the ICN has celebrated “International Nurse Day.”
1974
In February of that year, a week was designated by the White House as National Nurse Week, and President Nixon issued a proclamation.
1978
New Jersey Governor Brendon Byrne declared May 6 as “Nurses Day .” Edward Scanlan of Red Bank, N.J., took up the cause to perpetuate the recognition of nurses in his state. Mr. Scanlan had this date listed in Chase’s Calendar of Annual Events. He promoted the celebration on his own.
1981
ANA, along with various nursing organizations, rallied to support a resolution initiated by nurses in New Mexico, through their Congressman, Manuel Lujan, to have May 6, 1982, established as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”
1982
In February, the ANA Board of Directors formally acknowledged May 6, 1982, as “National Nurses Day.” The action affirmed a joint resolution of the United States Congress designating May 6 as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”
1982
President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “National
Recognition Day for Nurses” to be May 6, 1982.
1990
The ANA Board of Directors expanded the recognition of nurses to a week-long celebration, declaring May 6 - 12, 1991, as National Nurses Week.
1993
The ANA Board of Directors designated May 6 - 12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week in 1994 and in all subsequent years.
1996
The ANA initiated “National RN Recognition Day” on May 6, 1996, to honor the nation’s indispensable registered nurses for their tireless commitment 365 days a year. The ANA encourages its state and territorial nurses associations and other organizations to acknowledge May 6, 1996, as “National RN Recognition Day.”
1997
The ANA Board of Directors, at the request of the National Student Nurses Association, designated May 8 as National Student Nurses Day.
Source: © 2011 By American Nurses Association. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.
National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6 and ends on May 12, Florence Nightingale’s birthday. These permanent dates enhance planning and position National Nurses Week as an established recognition event. As of 1998, May 8 was designated as National Student Nurses Day, to be celebrated annually. And as of 2003, National School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday within National Nurses Week (May 6-12) each year.
The nursing profession has been supported and promoted by the American Nurses Association (ANA) since 1896. Each of ANA’s state and territorial nurses associations promotes the nursing profession at the state and regional levels. Each conducts celebrations on these dates to recognize the contributions that nurses and nursing make to the community.
The ANA supports and encourages National Nurses Week recognition programs through the state and district nurses associations, other specialty nursing organizations, educational facilities, and independent health care companies and institutions.
Milestones
1953
Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare sent a proposal to President Eisenhower to proclaim a “Nurse Day” in October of the following year. The proclamation was never made.
1954
National Nurse Week was observed from October 11 - 16. The year of the observance marked the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. Representative Frances P. Bolton sponsored the bill for a nurse week. Apparently, a bill for a National Nurse Week was introduced in the 1955 Congress, but no action was taken. Congress discontinued its practice of joint resolutions for national weeks of various kinds.
1972
Again a resolution was presented by the House of Representatives for the President to proclaim “National Registered Nurse Day.” It did not occur.
1974
In January of that year, the International Council of Nurses (ICN) proclaimed that May 12 would be “International Nurse Day.” (May 12 is the birthday of Florence Nightingale.) Since 1965, the ICN has celebrated “International Nurse Day.”
1974
In February of that year, a week was designated by the White House as National Nurse Week, and President Nixon issued a proclamation.
1978
New Jersey Governor Brendon Byrne declared May 6 as “Nurses Day .” Edward Scanlan of Red Bank, N.J., took up the cause to perpetuate the recognition of nurses in his state. Mr. Scanlan had this date listed in Chase’s Calendar of Annual Events. He promoted the celebration on his own.
1981
ANA, along with various nursing organizations, rallied to support a resolution initiated by nurses in New Mexico, through their Congressman, Manuel Lujan, to have May 6, 1982, established as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”
1982
In February, the ANA Board of Directors formally acknowledged May 6, 1982, as “National Nurses Day.” The action affirmed a joint resolution of the United States Congress designating May 6 as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”
1982
President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “National
Recognition Day for Nurses” to be May 6, 1982.
1990
The ANA Board of Directors expanded the recognition of nurses to a week-long celebration, declaring May 6 - 12, 1991, as National Nurses Week.
1993
The ANA Board of Directors designated May 6 - 12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week in 1994 and in all subsequent years.
1996
The ANA initiated “National RN Recognition Day” on May 6, 1996, to honor the nation’s indispensable registered nurses for their tireless commitment 365 days a year. The ANA encourages its state and territorial nurses associations and other organizations to acknowledge May 6, 1996, as “National RN Recognition Day.”
1997
The ANA Board of Directors, at the request of the National Student Nurses Association, designated May 8 as National Student Nurses Day.
Source: © 2011 By American Nurses Association. Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.
Heath Reform: Shaping the Field of Nursing
Healthcare reform measures enacted last year grant 32 million people greater access to the healthcare system, and registered nurses are on the front lines as millions more patients seek care.
“We know that many of these individuals will need access to primary care providers, and we have a shortage,” said Cheryl Peterson, director of nursing practice and policy for the American Nurses Association. “In order to fill that gap, we’re likely to look to nurse practitioners and mid-wives to serve in a primary care capacity. Opportunities for nurses in those advanced practice areas are going to grow dramatically.”
There are about 2.6 million registered nurses currently employed, making nurses the single largest segment of the healthcare workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nursing is projected to be the top field in terms of growth through 2018, with more than 500,000 new nursing positions. As the population ages and more people have access to healthcare, demand for nurses is expected to rise.
“We’re opening the door by removing barriers such as access to health insurance for people who have been uninsured or underinsured,” said Jeanne Matthews, interim chair of the School of Nursing and Health Studies at Georgetown University Medical Center. “This requires significant increases in nurses at both an advanced practice level and basic level who are able to take care of that population.”
Waves of retirement make the threat of a nursing shortage real. Between 2004 and 2008, more than 400,000 nurses received their licenses, but the nursing workforce grew by only about 150,000.
In an effort to address the anticipated demand for care, the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA) funds educational and career development opportunities and offers scholarships to nurses and students. These measures include grants for nurses pursuing advanced degrees in geriatric care; workforce diversity grants; and grants for schools and hospitals to develop primary care training programs.
In addition, the ACA expands the Nursing Education Loan Repayment and Scholarship Program, which repays student loans for nurses who go on to serve at least two years as faculty members at nursing schools.
“We’re dealing with a nurse faculty shortage,” Matthews said. “If we want to be able to increase the pool of nurses, we have to have qualified faculty in place to handle the demand for nursing education.”
The ACA provides financial support for nurse-managed health centers where advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) provide comprehensive primary care and wellness services regardless of a patient’s income or insurance status. The law also establishes loan repayment programs for nurses who serve for at least three years in areas underserved by healthcare professionals.
Susan Reinhard, senior vice president of the AARP Public Policy Institute and chief strategist for the Center to Champion Nursing in America, explained that healthcare reform offers more coverage but also new priorities for patient care. “We need a workforce prepared for changes in thinking about chronic care, primary care, and care coordination,” she said. “It’s not just the number of nurses; it’s their skill sets.”
There are also provisions in the law to educate and prepare nurses for taking care of people outside of the hospital as well as measures to lower the frequency of re-admittance to hospitals within a short period of time. “This is new for nurses—and for all healthcare professionals—in many ways,” Reinhard said. “But healthcare reform, the ACA, and in general new thinking about healthcare delivery is driving change very significantly at a real, direct care level. It’s a big change.”
This special advertising section was provided by Haley Edelman, in conjunction with The Washington Post Custom Content department. The production of this supplement did not involve The Washington Post news or editorial staff.
“We know that many of these individuals will need access to primary care providers, and we have a shortage,” said Cheryl Peterson, director of nursing practice and policy for the American Nurses Association. “In order to fill that gap, we’re likely to look to nurse practitioners and mid-wives to serve in a primary care capacity. Opportunities for nurses in those advanced practice areas are going to grow dramatically.”
There are about 2.6 million registered nurses currently employed, making nurses the single largest segment of the healthcare workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, registered nursing is projected to be the top field in terms of growth through 2018, with more than 500,000 new nursing positions. As the population ages and more people have access to healthcare, demand for nurses is expected to rise.
“We’re opening the door by removing barriers such as access to health insurance for people who have been uninsured or underinsured,” said Jeanne Matthews, interim chair of the School of Nursing and Health Studies at Georgetown University Medical Center. “This requires significant increases in nurses at both an advanced practice level and basic level who are able to take care of that population.”
Waves of retirement make the threat of a nursing shortage real. Between 2004 and 2008, more than 400,000 nurses received their licenses, but the nursing workforce grew by only about 150,000.
In an effort to address the anticipated demand for care, the 2010 Affordable Care Act (ACA) funds educational and career development opportunities and offers scholarships to nurses and students. These measures include grants for nurses pursuing advanced degrees in geriatric care; workforce diversity grants; and grants for schools and hospitals to develop primary care training programs.
In addition, the ACA expands the Nursing Education Loan Repayment and Scholarship Program, which repays student loans for nurses who go on to serve at least two years as faculty members at nursing schools.
“We’re dealing with a nurse faculty shortage,” Matthews said. “If we want to be able to increase the pool of nurses, we have to have qualified faculty in place to handle the demand for nursing education.”
The ACA provides financial support for nurse-managed health centers where advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) provide comprehensive primary care and wellness services regardless of a patient’s income or insurance status. The law also establishes loan repayment programs for nurses who serve for at least three years in areas underserved by healthcare professionals.
Susan Reinhard, senior vice president of the AARP Public Policy Institute and chief strategist for the Center to Champion Nursing in America, explained that healthcare reform offers more coverage but also new priorities for patient care. “We need a workforce prepared for changes in thinking about chronic care, primary care, and care coordination,” she said. “It’s not just the number of nurses; it’s their skill sets.”
There are also provisions in the law to educate and prepare nurses for taking care of people outside of the hospital as well as measures to lower the frequency of re-admittance to hospitals within a short period of time. “This is new for nurses—and for all healthcare professionals—in many ways,” Reinhard said. “But healthcare reform, the ACA, and in general new thinking about healthcare delivery is driving change very significantly at a real, direct care level. It’s a big change.”
This special advertising section was provided by Haley Edelman, in conjunction with The Washington Post Custom Content department. The production of this supplement did not involve The Washington Post news or editorial staff.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Open Letter from Amy Koch, TWF Mother of the Year Honoree
Amy Koch, Military Widow
When I was in junior high, I hung out a lot with more the younger crowd, my sister’s age kids. There was this one boy, Steve, who was quite the wise guy…sarcastic and on the verge of mean to most people…the bad boy. And of course I had an instant attraction. It wasn’t until I was about 22 years old when we started dating. The beginning of our relationship was anything but stable. We fought, we broke up, we made up, and we fought again. After almost a year we broke up for what I thought was for good. But fate didn’t keep us apart for long. Two months later, we were back together. In those two months we were apart, Steve had enlisted in the Army. The first week of March 2006, he left for basic training in Georgia. By the end of that same March, I finally got to speak to him on the phone, and this is when I broke the news to him that we were going to have a baby…due in November. At first he didn’t know how to feel about this surprise news, considering the girl he was with in the two months we were separated, was also pregnant (but didn’t know if Steve was the father or not yet). Steve was in Georgia and North Carolina (82nd Airborne) for the whole pregnancy. It was Thanksgiving weekend that I planned to be induced. Steve got permission to come home for the birth of our daughter. Zoe was born on black Friday 2006 with her Daddy there. He couldn’t stay long though and was gone and back in NC by Sunday morning. I was living with my in-laws at the time…they still liked me at this point…long story. Steve came back home the following weekend, probably not with permission. And he spent the week in Jersey with me and Zoe. Christmas weekend Steve and I were married at my town’s courthouse. After the week was done, Zoe and I went back to NC with him and spent the week down there and he drove us back to Jersey and spent his last weekend with us before we dropped him off at the airport for what would be the last time we saw him before he deployed January 19, 2007. I wrote a letter a day telling Steve how Zoe was doing and how big she was getting…sending him pictures of her every milestone and moments in between. We hardly got to talk on the phone, which made the days and nights endless. It was early afternoon May 26, 2006 when I hadn’t heard from him in a few days, making me super nervous. I was in my room with Zoe when I heard the door open and my nephew yell “Uncle Steve’s here!!!!” He completely surprised me! As we both turned the corner and our eyes met, it was like falling in love all over again. I’ll never forget that moment. He was home for about two weeks, Zoe was about 7 months. He got to give her bottles and feed her baby cereal and baby food. It meant the world to the both of us to see him with his daughter. The way his eyes lit up around her, or even just talking about her, were priceless. Zoe was the best thing to ever happen to us. June 11 we drove him to the airport…his leave was over. I was a hysterical mess when this little Spanish woman came over to me (Steve was holding Zoe) and said, “Don’t worry mama, he has to come back, he’s got two beautiful young ladies to come home to.” Steve told Zoe, “You be a good girl for mommy, and I’ll be back soon.” After lots of hugs and kisses, and a walk that felt like a lifetime, he was gone. That was the last time I’d ever see the love of my life alive. It was May 3 at around 9pm when my father in law called me. He said “hey what are u doing?” I replied, “Nothing really, just got Zoe in bed.” He asked if I could come outside real quick. I said ok, confused, with a million ideas going through my head. I thought “this could be really good, Steve could be surprising me again (being he was due home in April, and it was March), oooor it could be really bad. With my heart nearly pounding out of my chest, I walked outside only to see my father in law crying and two men in dress uniform standing on my porch. My heart sunk lower than low and I broke down as they started reciting their “It’s with our deepest sympathy we regret to inform you……yadda yadda yadda” Words that will forever be imprinted in my brain for life. I remember them saying “vbed…vehicle born explosive device” and I civilian clarified it as a “car bomb” and they said “yes.” I refused to believe them, yet I knew I had to. I ran inside and told my mom and she was in disbelief as well. I told her I was going to my in-laws’ house. She asked if I was bringing Zoe. I remember telling her that I couldn’t bear to look at Zoe (she looked JUST like Steve and it hurt). After being at my in-laws’ house for about 20 minutes, I called my mom and asked her to bring Zoe over, I realized that I needed Zoe there, and so did everyone else. It was days before I slept. It’s amazing how fast your life can go from close to perfect, to destroyed in seconds. Steve changed my life forever. He made me stronger, wiser and he gave me the most important person in my life, my daughter. I will spend the rest of my life making sure that Zoe knows what a hero her daddy is, who he was, and how much he loved us. I will honor him and his name for as long as I live. I’m strong, I’m independent and I’m proud. My name is Amy Koch, and I’m a military widow and mother of a gold star daughter.
TWF Mother of the Year Awardee Danielle Jennings
Please come out to our First Annual Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday, May 8, 2011 from 3pm to 6pm at The Front Page Arlington (Ballston Common Mall) as we honor Danielle Jennings as Mother of the Year.
Danielle Jennings is a passionate community advocate specializing in youth mentorship and policy analysis.
As a former foster youth Ms. Jennings formed Blessed Haven Inc in 2009; a nonprofit organization for youth transitioning out of the foster care system in the DC metro area.
During her time in the foster system she actively served as a member of the MD Foster Youth Leadership Board. While attending Marymount University she discovered her passion for politics and the legislative field. At MU she served, not only as President of College Democrats for 2 years but was invited by the Democrat National Convention to speak and gather votes in Florida for the controversial Bush-Gore election of 2000.
After serving as the youngest intern on record for the U.S. Supreme Court she has actively worked with the United States Department of Justice, Secretary of the Air Force and the United States Navy as one of the youngest senior policy analysts.
As Blessed Haven, Inc.’s Executive Director she actively mentors youth not only in the DC metropolitan area but also through various partnerships across the U.S. Blessed Haven’s programs include Physical, Emotional and Financial Wellness. They also provide a Career and Educational Counseling Program. The newest initiative is a Cultural Immersion and Community Accountability program. This allows our area's foster youth vast access to the immense culture of the DC metropolitan area (via powerful community partnerships) and encourage hands-on community support of foster youth. Ultimately, this leads to a mutual respect between the community and our foster youth and other troubled youth, thus improving the rate for success and lowering negative outcomes.
As a single mother and a former child abuse victim her heart lies with the youth in these demographics and she works tirelessly around the clock to show that “foster” truly does mean family and these forgotten youth truly have a “family” in her.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Warford Foundation First Annual Mother's Day Brunch
Please join The Warford Foundation (TWF) as we honor two a very special Mothers Amy Koch, and Danielle Jennings at our First Annual Mother's Day Brunch, Sunday, May 8, 2011; there will be a live performance by Alison Carney (www.alisoncarney.com). Proceeds will benefit TWF Project Impact Scholars Program that assists single mothers and military widows become self-sufficient through scholastic growth as they pursue an associate's degree in Nursing career field that currently has a critical shortage. TWF is a 501c3 non-profit organization currently partnered with Prince George's Community College's School of Nursing to assist the candidates within Prince George's County Maryland.
Project Impact Scholars eligibility requirements:
1. Currently enrolled in an accredited L.P.N. or R.N. nursing program.
2. Proof of single parent status (birth certificate, school records, etc).
3. Annual income less than $40,000 (previous year's tax return and current paycheck stub).
4. Maintain a 3.0 grade point average or higher.
5. Participation in The Warford Foundation community services (1 per semester of award).
Application process:
1. Submit online application
2. Submit a 250-350 words essay. How will achieving your nursing education impact your life and your child/children?
3. Telephone interview with a foundation member after receipt of necessary documentation.
Application deadline:
November 15 for spring semester award
May 15 for fall semester award
Mother's Day Brunch menu includes:
Belgian waffles with whipped butter, warm maple syrup, strawberry topping and whipped cream
Carving Station Steamship Roast Beef
Sliced Fresh Seasonal Fruit
Caesar Salad
Scrambled Eggs
Bacon and Sausage
Hashed Brown Potatoes
Bagels and Cream Cheese
All you care to eat for general admission $39.99. We look forward to seeing you there!!! Point of contact for this event is twfpublicist@thewarfordfoundation.org.
The Warford Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit and all donations are tax deductible to the extent of the IRS requirements.
If you are unable to attend but would like to make a tax deductible donation please click this link http://thewarfordfoundation.org/index.html thank you in advance for any assistance you maybe able to render.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Financial Planning Tip from Mrs. Pauline Rosenstein
Financial Planning Tip
Track your expenditures for a month. Write down everything you spend your money on: that latte, grocery store purchases (note the impulse items), hair and nail appointments, massages, prescriptions, dining out, etc. Note what is a necessary expense and what is discretionary. Note what is impulsive. This can be a real eye-opener. Would you be better off making fewer impulsive expenditures and putting more into your emergency or retirement fund? What can you cut out without feeling deprived? How much more money would you have if you stopped some of your impulse spending? I’m not advocating austerity; I’m just advocating awareness.
Redstone Financial Advisors, LLC specialize in the following services:
Asset Management
College Planning - 529 Plans
Estate Planning
Retirement Planning
Wealth Accumulation Strategies
Annuities
IRAs, 401(k)s, SEPs
Mutual Funds, Stocks, Bonds
Insurance
Contact Mrs. Rosenstein for additional assistance on any of these programs at:
Pauline Rosenstein
President
Redstone Financial Advisors, LLC
3416 Washington Dr.
Falls Church, Va. 22041
703-931-4910
www.redstonefinancialadvisors.com
Track your expenditures for a month. Write down everything you spend your money on: that latte, grocery store purchases (note the impulse items), hair and nail appointments, massages, prescriptions, dining out, etc. Note what is a necessary expense and what is discretionary. Note what is impulsive. This can be a real eye-opener. Would you be better off making fewer impulsive expenditures and putting more into your emergency or retirement fund? What can you cut out without feeling deprived? How much more money would you have if you stopped some of your impulse spending? I’m not advocating austerity; I’m just advocating awareness.
Redstone Financial Advisors, LLC specialize in the following services:
Asset Management
College Planning - 529 Plans
Estate Planning
Retirement Planning
Wealth Accumulation Strategies
Annuities
IRAs, 401(k)s, SEPs
Mutual Funds, Stocks, Bonds
Insurance
Contact Mrs. Rosenstein for additional assistance on any of these programs at:
Pauline Rosenstein
President
Redstone Financial Advisors, LLC
3416 Washington Dr.
Falls Church, Va. 22041
703-931-4910
www.redstonefinancialadvisors.com
Friday, March 4, 2011
The Warford Foundation - "Top Social Entrepreneur in Philanthropy"
The Warford Foundation was named this weeks "Top Social Enrepreneur in Philanthropy" by Mr. Michael Chatman. We are very humbled and honored for this special recognition. If you are not familiar with Michael here is a short bio from his website (www.michaelchatman.com)
Michael Chatman was voted America’s Maverick Philanthropist and one of the nation’s leading authorities on new philanthropy, Michael Chatman heads the nation’s largest network of mission-related philanthropists giving up to $50,000 annually, The Association of Maverick Philanthropists, reaches a philanthropic community that’s collectively making the biggest social impact in the United States and overseas.
His annual philanthropy summits featuring America’s premiere thought leaders, engages thousands of attendees each year. An accomplished professional speaker, Michael Chatman has personally spoken to more than 75,000 next generation philanthropists from families with household net worth of $1 million to $10 million – and more than 25,000 mission-related philanthropists from families with household net worth of $10 million to $100 million.
Check out his weekly radio show on giving Click Here to Listen Live Thursday's at 11:30am (est)
Michael Chatman was voted America’s Maverick Philanthropist and one of the nation’s leading authorities on new philanthropy, Michael Chatman heads the nation’s largest network of mission-related philanthropists giving up to $50,000 annually, The Association of Maverick Philanthropists, reaches a philanthropic community that’s collectively making the biggest social impact in the United States and overseas.
His annual philanthropy summits featuring America’s premiere thought leaders, engages thousands of attendees each year. An accomplished professional speaker, Michael Chatman has personally spoken to more than 75,000 next generation philanthropists from families with household net worth of $1 million to $10 million – and more than 25,000 mission-related philanthropists from families with household net worth of $10 million to $100 million.
Check out his weekly radio show on giving Click Here to Listen Live Thursday's at 11:30am (est)
Sunday, February 27, 2011
The Military Support Organization Assessment Project of The Warford Foundation
The Warford Foundation is a young charity specializing in providing financial assistance to military widows and single mothers who are striving for successful completion of an associates degree to become a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN). Although it was initially suggested to place this charity under a different category, I believe that by being listed with charities that support military families, the Warford Foundation will receive the most exposure with a more ideal audience.
The eligibility requirements for this financial assistance program are (copied directly from the website):
1. Currently enrolled in an accredited L.P.N. or R.N. nursing program.
2. Proof of single parent status (birth certificate, school records, etc).
3. Annual income less than $40,000 (previous year’s tax return and current paycheck stub).
4. Maintain a 3.0 grade point average or higher.
5. Participation in The Warford Foundation community services activities (1 per semester of award).
"There is a critical shortage of nurses and in 2 years single mother and military widow can become self sufficient…" ~ Parthenia Warford, CEO/Founder
Something I enjoyed learning about this foundation is the great use of social media to connect with more people. I have linked a couple of social networking websites below, but the social outreach doesn’t stop with those and I highly encourage every reader to also check out the Warford Foundation blog at http://www.thewarfordfoundation.blogspot.com
If this opportunity is exactly what you’re looking for and you qualify based on the eligibility requirements above, the next step is to complete the online application. The online application consists of collecting personal and academic information, after completion of which you will need to submit a short essay covering how completing nursing education will impact your life and your child/children. You will also need to conduct a telephone interview with a member of the foundation. As a side note, the application deadlines are November 15 for spring semester awards and May 15 for fall semester awards.
If you are interested in volunteering with the Warford Foundation, complete the brief online form letting them know how you want to volunteer. If you would like to donate to help a single mother or military widow complete an associates degree toward becoming a successful RN or LPN, please visit http://goo.gl/lGbIS (shortened by Google URL Shortener).
Overall, the Warford Foundation seems to be a great charity that’s doing wonderful things to help make dreams come true for single mothers and military widows, and I look forward to seeing it grow.
The Military Support Organization Assessment Project
The eligibility requirements for this financial assistance program are (copied directly from the website):
1. Currently enrolled in an accredited L.P.N. or R.N. nursing program.
2. Proof of single parent status (birth certificate, school records, etc).
3. Annual income less than $40,000 (previous year’s tax return and current paycheck stub).
4. Maintain a 3.0 grade point average or higher.
5. Participation in The Warford Foundation community services activities (1 per semester of award).
"There is a critical shortage of nurses and in 2 years single mother and military widow can become self sufficient…" ~ Parthenia Warford, CEO/Founder
Something I enjoyed learning about this foundation is the great use of social media to connect with more people. I have linked a couple of social networking websites below, but the social outreach doesn’t stop with those and I highly encourage every reader to also check out the Warford Foundation blog at http://www.thewarfordfoundation.blogspot.com
If this opportunity is exactly what you’re looking for and you qualify based on the eligibility requirements above, the next step is to complete the online application. The online application consists of collecting personal and academic information, after completion of which you will need to submit a short essay covering how completing nursing education will impact your life and your child/children. You will also need to conduct a telephone interview with a member of the foundation. As a side note, the application deadlines are November 15 for spring semester awards and May 15 for fall semester awards.
If you are interested in volunteering with the Warford Foundation, complete the brief online form letting them know how you want to volunteer. If you would like to donate to help a single mother or military widow complete an associates degree toward becoming a successful RN or LPN, please visit http://goo.gl/lGbIS (shortened by Google URL Shortener).
Overall, the Warford Foundation seems to be a great charity that’s doing wonderful things to help make dreams come true for single mothers and military widows, and I look forward to seeing it grow.
The Military Support Organization Assessment Project
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Save the Date…Tuesday, February 8, 2011~The Warford Foundation 1-on-1 Blog Talk Radio Interview Live
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| The Warford Foundation Founder, Parthenia Warford Richardson 1-on-1 Interview with Tachelle Daniels Tuesday, February 8, 2011 12:00 pm PST |
There’s no better way to tell a story
then being one of the characters in the story
then being one of the characters in the story
If you have a passion in "Giving Back"
We want to hear from you!
We want to hear from you!
Join Us Tuesday, February 8, 2011 12:00 pm PST. If you want to call in live and speak with the host, be sure to dial (646)378-0423. You will be placed into the caller queue where you will still be able to hear the show while you are on hold. So Call In Ask Questions, Volunteer and Support us by expanding our vision to single mothers & military widows in providing HOPE that living the “American Dream” is possible.
The Warford Foundation
info@thewarfordfoundation.org
Office: 301.292.6034
Office Hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
info@thewarfordfoundation.org
Office: 301.292.6034
Office Hours: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
PRESS/MEDIA INQUIRIES
Kimberly Clark
818.355.7951
Monday, January 24, 2011
In the News...The Warford Foundation Nominated for Shorty Award
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| Please Cast Your Vote Now... |
In the News...
The Warford Foundation was nominated for a Shorty Award.
A Shorty Award Honors the best Producers of Short & Real Time Content. If you are on Twitter please vote for The Warford Foundation @thewarford for a Shorty Award in #Charity
Ex: I nominate @thewarford for a Shorty Award in #charity because...
We appreciate your support in recognizing our continued efforts to be a voice to expand the opportunities of single mothers and military widow families by increasing self sufficiency through scholastic growth and achievement.
How the Shorty Awards Work:
The Shorty Awards are a worldwide effort to engage hundreds of thousands of Twitter users to identify the best people and organizations on Twitter.
Voting:
To vote, send a tweet like this: I nominate @TwitterUser for a Shorty Award in #category because... (add reason here).
A tweet that does not give a reason for the nomination will not be counted.
The nomination must be relevant to the category.
Vote for as many different people as you want, in as many categories as you want, as often as you want.
Only one person and one category per tweet.
Voting for the same person in the same category more than once just replaces the text of your original vote; it does not count as an additional vote.
You can vote in any of the Official Categories or make up a category of your own. If a new category becomes popular, it might be turned into an Official Category with an award presented at the ceremony in March.
Twitters are welcome to campaign and encourage their friends to vote for The Warford Foundation.
Voters must be active Twitter users prior to the start of the competition. Votes originating from new Twitter accounts or accounts used mainly for Shorty Awards voting will automatically be disqualified and will not count toward the rankings.
If you change your Twitter user name, any votes you received under your old user name won't carry over.
Nominations run through January 31, 2011.