On Thursday, April 4, 2013 Ranch Ehrlo’s programs south hosted a family workshop, which took place at the agency’s independently accredited Schaller School, located at its Pilot Butte campus. The theme of the workshop was “Change”- how we think of it, how we all struggle with it, and how we can attempt to engage in change for the better. In total, seven families (25 people) attended the workshop.

Christal Gerrand, one of five organizers and a caseworker at Ranch Ehrlo, explained that there had been discussion about holding a workshop like this for quite some time.

“We spent the last month brainstorming and putting this one-day workshop together and it turned out well. I can’t believe how many parents made the commitment to show up, especially during the week,” said Gerrand.

Families were invited to attend the workshop to engage them in working family relationships; to gain support and network with other parents/families; to receive information about Ranch Ehrlo’s programming; to learn information about various behavioural issues that their child may be struggling with and some interventions that may assist them; and to spend some time with their child participating in fun activities.

“Our clinical treatment program at Ranch Ehrlo focuses on the family as well as the individual. It is our hope and goal for our clients, that their families will take part in treatment and heal together,” explained Vice-President of Clinical Services, Linda Meyer. “We believe that returning to healthy family systems increases the chance of success for our clients.”

Some of the programs south youth care leaders, caseworkers, family treatment program staff, and the program manager of Paper Crane Community Arts Centre were on hand to assist with presentations and activities. These activities were designed to facilitate family bonding and teamwork.

“This family workshop is a tremendous example of the power of collegial collaboration,” said Meyer.

Caseworker and one of the organizers, Sasha Bielenka shared that she thought that one of the most valuable aspects of this workshop was the chance for caregivers to come together and realize that they are not alone, that other parents have similar challenges.

“They shared resources among themselves. When one asked a question, everybody wanted to hear the answer, as it applied to their lives as well,” said Bielenka. “It was very rewarding to see the families creating art, playing, and smiling together.”

Caseworker and co-organizer, Stephanie Taylor, added, “The needs of caregivers prior to a youth’s discharge should be taken seriously and our support of them is essential to building that bridge. A collaborative family workshop is one way to enhance what we are already doing with youth and their caregivers.”

Fellow organizer and Caseworker, Paula Franko, who has worked at Ranch Ehrlo for 30 years, shared Bielenka’s sentiment saying, “It was such a good feeling throughout the day.  I felt honoured to be a part of such a wonderful experience where families shared, took risks and supported each other.  I received many gifts on this day for which I am grateful.”

To find out what some of the family members, who participated in the workshop thought, read below:

Calvin – “Nothing changes if nothing changes. That’s how it is with our family. We’ve got to change. We got to try to change our thoughts and values. This workshop helps us to get closer. I feel real comfortable in your program and being here.”

Andrea – “I found the workshop useful. I would like to see more workshops focusing on parenting – how to parent, discipline, consequences, and handling difficult situations.”

Bonnie – “I came to learn more about ADHD, OCD, and ODD – all the D’s! I also came to be around other parents who have kids at the Ranch, because I always feel like I’m alone. It is also nice to get out of the house and come spend time with my son. I’d love to attend more workshops.”

Justice – “This workshop helped me to learn more about my family. It also is helping me to be - but not to be who I am.”

Candace – “I came here to spend time with my son and get to know the other people who are involved with him. Today was a day where I got to spend time with all my kids and learn new things. I also wanted to learn about the programs he is involved in and find out what he does at the Ranch and how much involvement I can have in helping him get to where he wants to be. I have been happy with the information I have found out; it is good to know.”