Parent Engagement Network

Taller de malestar valiente
2024-10-10 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Denver) | Lafayette YMCA, 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, CO, 80026, United States
¿Cómo podemos tener conversaciones honestas sobre temas que nos silencian a la mayoría de nosotros o en los que sólo unas pocas personas dominan? ¿Cómo creamos y sostenemos una comunidad inclusiva donde las personas tengan un sentido de pertenencia?
Haga clic en el título para obtener más información.

Courageous Discomfort Workshop
2024-10-10 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Denver) | Lafayette YMCA, 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, CO, 80026, United States
How can we have honest conversations about topics that silence most of us or in which only a few people dominate? How do we create and sustain an inclusive community where people feel a sense of belonging?
Click the title to learn more.

Levantando nuestra aldea
2024-09-24 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Denver) | Boulder JCC, 6007 Oreg Avenue, Boulder, CO, 80303, United States
Todo padre sueña con una comunidad donde sus hijos se sientan seguros y conectados y donde realmente pertenezcan. PEN ha lanzado Human Kindness Initiative (Iniciativa de Bondad Humana) para hacer realidad ese sueño.
Haga clic en el título para obtener más información.

Raising Our Village
2024-09-24 17:30 - 20:30 (America/Denver) | Boulder JCC, 6007 Oreg Avenue, Boulder, CO, 80303, United States
As young people navigate a constantly changing educational environment, we know one thing is certain: Supportive relationships and social skills are critical to their emotional well-being.
Click the title to learn more.

Mission (IM)Possible Virtual Fundraising Gala
2020-09-12 17:45 - 19:00 (America/Denver)
Get your spy on while supporting the Parent Engagement Network’s 5th Annual (Online) Fundraiser!
YOUR MISSION SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IT:
New intel suggests that unique threats to the well-being of youth and families are already penetrating homes, leaving us with days to take action. It is critical we act soon to increase the likelihood that these families can survive and thrive during these challenging and uncertain times. Your mission should you choose to accept it is to attend our online fundraiser on September 12th from 5:45 – 700pm MST.
Your contribution will go directly toward building resilient families and reducing the impact of stress & anxiety, substance use/misuse, and technology on youth and families. PEN Senior Field Operations Agents are busy developing online products and programs that provide the trusted information, support and resources we have delivered for almost 20 years.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR MISSION (IM)POSSIBLE GALA
Join our auctioneer, Libby Pollack, as she leads us through:
5:45 – 6:00: Happy Hour and Music
6:00 – 6:15: Toast & Opening Remarks
6:15 – 6:45: Learn About the PEN Difference, Inspiring Videos, Live/Silent Auction, Paddle Raise , & Games
6:45 – 7:00: Closing Remarks and Thank You’s
What you can expect:

Clear procedures for joining us on Zoom
Ongoing updates on available auction items
Prizes and surprises throughout the event
Opportunities to dress up (Don’t be afraid to choose styles from one of the Mission Impossible movies!), have fun and be in community with like minded people
Joy in giving to a cause that has led the way in preparing parents and reducing risky behaviors that impact the health and well-being of youth and families

NOW IS THE TIME to lead the way through the fear, uncertainty and constantly changing environment. Register today! An email will be sent with more information and a Zoom link as we get closer to the event. This message will self-destruct in 30 seconds.
Thank you for supporting parents in raising children who become healthy, happy, confident, and successful adults.

Centaurus Parent Education Series- How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Teen
2020-03-11 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
PEN Presents:
Centaurus Parent Education Series

How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Teen
Wednesday March 11th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant
Centaurus High School, 10300 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 24th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24231 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Tired of trying to convince, persuade or cajole your teens into changing their behavior? Try a new approach! Interpersonal communication consultant Karen Alonge will teach us a few communication skills from Mtivational Interviewing – a collaborative conversation style that helps enhance motivation and commitment to change. You’ll come away with several strategies for facilitating productive conversation with your teens about creating positive changes in their own lives. You’ll also learn how to minimize your likelihood of triggering resistance and defensiveness.
“Quite often, when we respectfully invite people to articulate their own reasons and plans for making a change, they will talk themselves into changing.” – Karen Alonge

More about Karen:
I’ve been providing interpersonal communication and parenting consultations to private clients since 2001. I’ve trained and coached thousands of practitioners of Motivational Interviewing (an evidence-based communication model that helps enhance people’s motivation to change) since 2006, including volunteers, staff, and management in education, social service agencies, nonprofits, corrections, counseling, law, and health care.
For fun I hike in the breathtakingly beautiful Rocky Mountains, read voraciously, fall down internet search rabbit holes, write books (yes, that is FUN!), and blog. Volunteering is very rewarding for me, so among other things I facilitate weekly classes for incarcerated parents, participate in Restorative Justice community circles, and teach communication skills to volunteers in various community service organizations. I also allot several appointments in my schedule each week for pro bono clients.
Visit Karen’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Developing Resiliency | Thursday October 24th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
Brain Development | Tuesday November 19th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
Value Driven Decision Making | Thursday February 13th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
Download the Centaurus Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centaurus High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series- Building Resiliency and Creativity
2020-03-04 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
PEN Presents:
Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series

Building Resiliency & Creativity
Wednesday March 4th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Jenny Hecht, LCSW, Karuna Healing
Centennial Middle School, 2205 Norwood Ave, Boulder
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event.
Teachers use course code 24227 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
We are not born with an inherent understanding of how to manage stress. This is something we learn from watching those around us manage their own stress and through this observation, develop our own tendencies. These tendencies are patterned responses to stress and anxiety and are far more changeable than we often realize. Stress management and distress tolerance are challenging for many of us, not just for young people. In this presentation, we will discuss how stress affects our brains and bodies and how to begin speaking more openly about these challenges in a way that will create space for young people to feel safe joining in that conversation. We will also talk about effective strategies to downshift our nervous systems and to manage stress and anxiety through engagement, rather than distraction, as well as the difference between settling down and settling in.

More about Jenny:
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Yoga Teacher with 20 years of experience working with middle school and high school-aged youth and adults in a variety of settings. My practice is grounded in strengthening the distress tolerance skills of those whom I work with through mindfulness practice and supportive examination of the thought patterns that are limiting each individual’s potential. While I am trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, my approach is eclectic and client-centered, focusing on the goals of each individual and working with them in partnership as we journey towards that goal. I strongly believe in empowering my clients to discover their own wise mind and to strengthen their connection to that inner voice.
Though I have experience with and a desire to work with anyone who feels they could benefit from this type of support, I also have a passion for supporting the specific social-emotional needs of gifted individuals, particularly the existential dilemma so many face beginning at a very young age.
In addition to my clinical work, I am the regional trainer for Sources of Strength, a comprehensive wellness and resiliency program. Sources of Strength seeks to provide the highest quality evidence-based prevention for suicide, violence, bullying and substance abuse by training, supporting, and empowering both peer leaders and caring adults to impact their world through the power of connection, hope, help and strength. I am also a proud member of the Board of Colie’s Closet, a non-profit peer education organization whose mission is to educate students in Boulder Valley School District about depression and suicide with the goal of decreasing youth suicide.
Read more by Visiting Jenny’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Communication, Connection, & Setting Healthy Boundaries | Wednesday November 6th 6:30-8:00pm | Centennial Middle School | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant | Click here for more info
Establishing Healthy Relationships | Wednesday February 5th 6:30-8:00pm | Casey Middle School | Presenter: Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN) | Click here for more info
Download the Centennial-Casey Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centennial and Casey Middle Schools for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centaurus Parent Education Series- Value Driven Decision Making
2020-02-13 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
PEN Presents:
Centaurus Parent Education Series

Value Driven Decision Making
Thursday February 13th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC
Centaurus High School, 10300 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 24th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24230 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Your values matter. In this talk you will learn about what values are, how they influence your teen (they are more important than you may realize), and how to talk about and demonstrate them in your day-to-day interactions. The goal of this talk is to inspire you to define and connect with your own values and better embody them in your daily encounters with your children (and anyone else in your life). Clarifying values will help you more wisely pick your battles with your teen, and support you in laying a solid foundation for a successful and satisfying adulthood for your child.

More about Ryan:
As a Counselor, Therapeutic Mentor, Life Coach, and Educator in Boulder CO, Ryan helps people discover a truer self and create deeper relationships. Ryan innovated a group at a local non-profit organization dealing with gaming and technology issues. Since then, he has helped schools, treatment programs, and community organizations better understand and deal with the challenges of the internet addiction and how to use screens more mindfully. 2955 Valmont Rd, Suite 130 | Boulder, CO 80301 | (303)501-9572 | Visit Ryan’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Developing Resiliency | Thursday October 24th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
Brain Development | Tuesday November 19th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
How to Have Meaningful Conservations with Your Teen | Wednesday March 11th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant | Click here for more info
Download the Centaurus Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centaurus High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series- Nurturing Healthy Relationships
2020-02-05 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
PEN Presents:
Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series

Nurturing Healthy Relationships
Wednesday February 5th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN)
Casey Middle School, 1301 High Street, Boulder
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event.
Teachers use course code 24226 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Wanting to get more comfortable talking to your kids about dating? Wanting to protect them from getting into an unhealthy relationship? Join SPAN and MESA’s Prevention Educators to learn what is being presented at your kid’s school, resources for if things are going wrong, and how to better empower your kids to develop healthy relationships.

More about Abbie:
Abbie Fagerwick, the Youth Violence Prevention Educator at Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN), grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota and earned her degree in Education at Winona State University. As a licensed teacher, Abbie has taught and worked with youth of all ages, from preschool to high school students. Abbie is passionate about developing social-emotional skills with a social justice lens.
Visits SPAN’s website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Communication, Connection, & Setting Healthy Boundaries | Wednesday November 6th 6:30-8:00pm | Centennial Middle School | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant | Click here for more info
Building Resiliency and Creativity | Wednesday March 4th 6:30-8:00pm | Centennial Middle School | Presenter: Jenny Hecht, LCSW, Karuna Healing | Click here for more info
Download the Centennial-Casey Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centennial and Casey Middle Schools for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Monarch Parent Education Series- Nurturing Healthy Relationships
2020-01-09 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
PEN Presents:
Monarch Parent Education Series

Nurturing Healthy Relationships
Thursday January 9th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenters: Sarah Dobson (MESA) & Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN)
Monarch High School, 329 Campus Drive, Louisville
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 10th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24222 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Wanting to get more comfortable talking to your kids about dating? Wanting to protect them from getting into an unhealthy relationship? Join SPAN and MESA’s Prevention Educators to learn what is being presented at your kid’s school, resources for if things are going wrong, and how to better empower your kids to develop healthy relationships.

More about Sarah & Abbie:
Sarah Dobson, the Prevention Coordinator at Moving to End Sexual Assault (MESA), grew up in Baltimore, Maryland and earned her M.A. in Gender and Peacebuilding from the UN mandated University for Peace. For the past 10 years, Sarah has worked with youth as a peace educator and gender justice advocate.
Visit MESA’s website
Abbie Fagerwick, the Youth Violence Prevention Educator at Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN), grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota and earned her degree in Education at Winona State University. As a licensed teacher, Abbie has taught and worked with youth of all ages, from preschool to high school students. Abbie is passionate about developing social-emotional skills with a social justice lens.
Visits SPAN’s website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Youth | Thursday October 10th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communications Consultant | Click here for more info
Stress Management | Thursday November 14th 7:00-8:30pm | Presenter: Dr. Elizabeth Olson | Click here for more info
Life After High School | Thursday March 12th 6:30-8:00pm | Panel of Presenters | Click here for more info
Download the Monarch Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Monarch High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centaurus Parent Education Series- Brain Development
2019-11-19 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
PEN Presents:
Centaurus Parent Education Series

Brain Development
Tuesday November 19th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC
Centaurus High School, 10300 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 24th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24229 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Understanding the basics of brain development and how it influences adolescent behavior not only makes you sound smarter to your friends , but also helps you to have a more compassionate, wise and anchored perspective in working with your adolescents behavior. In this talk you will trade ignorance for understanding and learn relational tools to better respond to your child’s often baffling choices. You will also come away with a deeper appreciation of the importance of healthy brain development and how the adolescent brain is perfectly suited to their stage of life.

More about Ryan:
As a Counselor, Therapeutic Mentor, Life Coach, and Educator in Boulder CO, Ryan helps people discover a truer self and create deeper relationships. Ryan innovated a group at a local non-profit organization dealing with gaming and technology issues. Since then, he has helped schools, treatment programs, and community organizations better understand and deal with the challenges of the internet addiction and how to use screens more mindfully. 2955 Valmont Rd, Suite 130 | Boulder, CO 80301 | (303)501-9572 | Visit Ryan’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Developing Resiliency | Thursday October 24th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
Value Driven Decision Making | Thursday February 13th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
How to Have Meaningful Conservations with Your Teen | Wednesday March 11th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant | Click here for more info
Download the Centaurus Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centaurus High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Monarch Parent Education Series- Understanding and Reducing the Impact of Stress
2019-11-14 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Denver)
PEN Presents:
Monarch Parent Education Series

Understanding and Reducing the Impact of Stress
Thursday November 14th | 7:00-8:30pm
Presenter: Dr. Elizabeth Olson
Monarch High School, 329 Campus Drive, Louisville
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 10th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24221 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:

How we experience and cope with stress can change the ways that it impacts our bodies, minds and emotions. Taking active steps to reduce stress can help us balance our emotional reactions. With an active approach, we can work toward creating a positive view of stress and we can cultivate more constructive, beneficial coping strategies. In this workshop, we will review the physiological stress reaction to understand how stress might impact the body and the brain. We will also explore ways to regulate our emotional reactivity and address specific strategies to reduce stress such as exercise, mindfulness/meditation practices, and other distress tolerance skills. Cultivating a positive mindset towards stress reduces its damaging impacts and encourages us to be more proactive toward behavioral changes that help us to feel more balanced and attuned in the moment.

More about Elizabeth:
Dr. Elizabeth Olson is the owner of the Collective for Psychological Wellness and supervises CPW’s team-based treatment program. Dr. Olson has a private practice in Boulder, Colorado. Dr. Olson has been treatment leader and clinical director at transitional living and residential treatment center settings for many years. She has created a program at CPW that integrates her clinical approach with community based support through mentoring, coaching, and DBT skills training. Dr. Olson values the importance of combining psychological treatment with physical exercise, mindfulness practices, and overall healthy living. She has extensive experience working with clients who have affect regulatory disorders and failure to launch issues. CPW’s goals are to provide high quality, effective psychological treatment, DBT services with a developmental focus, education for parents and training for psychotherapists.
Visit Elizabeth’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Youth | Thursday October 10th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communications Consultant | Click here for more info
Healthy Relationships | Thursday January 9th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenters: Sarah Dobson (MHP) & Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN) | Click here for more info
Life After High School | Thursday March 12th 6:30-8:00pm | Panel of Presenters | Click here for more info
Download the Monarch Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Monarch High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series- Communication, Connection, & Setting Healthy Boundaries
2019-11-06 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
PEN Presents:
Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series

Communication, Connection, & Setting Healthy Boundaries
Wednesday November 6th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant
Centennial Middle School, 2205 Norwood Ave, Boulder
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event.
Teachers use course code 24225 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Tired of trying to convince, persuade or cajole your teens into changing their behavior? Try a new approach! Interpersonal communication consultant Karen Alonge will teach us a few communication skills from Motivational Interviewing – a collaborative conversation style that helps enhance motivation and commitment to change. You’ll come away with several strategies for facilitating productive conversation with your teens about creating positive changes in their own lives. You’ll also learn how to minimize your likelihood of triggering resistance and defensiveness.
“Quite often, when we respectfully invite people to articulate their own reasons and plans for making a change, they will talk themselves into changing.” – Karen Alonge

More about Karen:
I’ve been providing interpersonal communication and parenting consultations to private clients since 2001. I’ve trained and coached thousands of practitioners of Motivational Interviewing (an evidence-based communication model that helps enhance people’s motivation to change) since 2006, including volunteers, staff, and management in education, social service agencies, nonprofits, corrections, counseling, law, and health care.
For fun I hike in the breathtakingly beautiful Rocky Mountains, read voraciously, fall down internet search rabbit holes, write books (yes, that is FUN!), and blog. Volunteering is very rewarding for me, so among other things I facilitate weekly classes for incarcerated parents, participate in Restorative Justice community circles, and teach communication skills to volunteers in various community service organizations. I also allot several appointments in my schedule each week for pro bono clients.
Visit Karen’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Establishing Healthy Relationships | Wednesday February 5th 6:30-8:00pm | Casey Middle School | Presenter: Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN) | Click here for more info
Building Resiliency and Creativity | Wednesday March 4th 6:30-8:00pm | Centennial Middle School | Presenter: Jenny Hecht, LCSW, Karuna Healing | Click here for more info
Download the Centennial-Casey Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centennial and Casey Middle Schools for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centaurus Parent Education Series- Developing Resiliency
2019-10-24 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
PEN Presents:
Centaurus Parent Education Series

Developing Resiliency
Thursday October 24th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC
Centaurus High School, 10300 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 24th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24228 for CEU credits
Scholarship tickets available upon request. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.

More about Presentation Topic:
Resiliency is one of the most important principles in adolescent development. Do you want your child to be the kind of person that is able to handle stress, make sense of the problem, and figure out a solution? In this talk you will learn more about cultivating this mental state, and how your relationship to your child (and yourself) can be a major influencer. Also, you will learn about resiliency robbers and how to work with the behaviors and choices that undermine it.

More about Ryan:
As a Counselor, Therapeutic Mentor, Life Coach, and Educator in Boulder CO, Ryan helps people discover a truer self and create deeper relationships. Ryan innovated a group at a local non-profit organization dealing with gaming and technology issues. Since then, he has helped schools, treatment programs, and community organizations better understand and deal with the challenges of the internet addiction and how to use screens more mindfully. 2955 Valmont Rd, Suite 130 | Boulder, CO 80301 | (303)501-9572 | Visit Ryan’s Website

Other Upcoming Presentations in the Series include:
Brain Development | Tuesday November 19th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
Value Driven Decision Making | Thursday February 13th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Ryan Dawson, MA, LPC | Click here for more info
How to Have Meaningful Conservations with Your Teen | Wednesday March 11th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant | Click here for more info
Download the Centaurus Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centaurus High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Monarch Parent Education Series- How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Youth
2019-10-10 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Denver)
PEN Presents:
Monarch Parent Education Series

How to Have Meaningful Conversations with Your Youth
Thursday October 10th | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant
Monarch High School, 329 Campus Drive, Louisville
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 10th and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Scholarship Tickets are Available. Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information
Interpretación disponible contacto Blanca Urena.
Teachers use course code 24220 for CEU credits

More about Presentation Topic:
Tired of trying to convince, persuade or cajole your teens into changing their behavior? Try a new approach! Interpersonal communication consultant Karen Alonge will teach us a few communication skills from Motivational Interviewing – a collaborative conversation style that helps enhance motivation and commitment to change. You’ll come away with several strategies for facilitating productive conversation with your teens about creating positive changes in their own lives. You’ll also learn how to minimize your likelihood of triggering resistance and defensiveness.
“Quite often, when we respectfully invite people to articulate their own reasons and plans for making a change, they will talk themselves into changing.” – Karen Alonge

More about Karen:
I’ve been providing interpersonal communication and parenting consultations to private clients since 2001. I’ve trained and coached thousands of practitioners of Motivational Interviewing (an evidence-based communication model that helps enhance people’s motivation to change) since 2006, including volunteers, staff, and management in education, social service agencies, nonprofits, corrections, counseling, law, and health care.
For fun I hike in the breathtakingly beautiful Rocky Mountains, read voraciously, fall down internet search rabbit holes, write books (yes, that is FUN!), and blog. Volunteering is very rewarding for me, so among other things I facilitate weekly classes for incarcerated parents, participate in Restorative Justice community circles, and teach communication skills to volunteers in various community service organizations. I also allot several appointments in my schedule each week for pro bono clients.
Visit Karen’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Stress Management | Thursday November 14th 7:00-8:30pm | Presenter: Dr. Elizabeth Olson| Click here for more info
Healthy Relationships | Thursday January 9th 6:30-8:00pm | Presenters: Sarah Dobson (MHP) & Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN) | Click here for more info
Life After High School | Thursday March 12th 6:30-8:00pm | Panel of Presenters | Click here for more info
Download the Monarch Series Calendar
Calendario Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Monarch High School for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series- Executive Functioning
2019-10-02 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
PEN Presents:
Centennial/Casey Parent Education Series

Developing Executive Functioning Skills

Wednesday October 2nd | 6:30-8:00pm
Presenter: Brandon Slade, Founder- Stride Learning
Casey Middle School, 1301 High St, Boulder
All Events Open to the Public
SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER
Cost: $10/event. Register for entire series by October 2nd and receive all 4 presentations for $35!
Teachers use course code 24224 for CEU credits

More about Presentation Topic:
When students struggle with executive functioning, time management, organization, and planning these are skills that don’t occur naturally; they’re learned. Without these skills, students are more likely to have missing assignments, turn work in late, and procrastinate on long term papers and projects; they might seem unmotivated and constantly frustrated about school.
Students with ADHD are often victims of misconception with people perceiving their lack of focus as laziness or disinterest. Teaching the executive function skills these students lack helps them to succeed not just academically but in all areas of their lives. Through repetition, routine, self-advocacy, and staying active, students with ADHD can thrive, even in an education system not built with them in mind.

More about Brandon:
Brandon Slade taught special education for 12 years before he founded Stride Learning (previously Mentoring Through Movement) in 2015. He filled a gap that he experienced as a student with ADHD: movement-based learning and a community to hold students accountable while coming from a place of relatability. Based on this personal experience, he created an environment and teaching model to help students with executive challenges succeed in school. Since 2015, Stride Learning has been dedicated to assisting students who struggle with executive functioning in the classroom.
Visit Brandon’s Website

Other Presentations in the Series include:
Communication, Connection, & Setting Healthy Boundaries | Wednesday November 6th 6:30-8:00pm | Centennial Middle School | Presenter: Karen Alonge, Interpersonal Communication Consultant | Click here for more info
Establishing Healthy Relationships | Wednesday February 5th 6:30-8:00pm | Casey Middle School | Presenter: Abbie Fagerwick (SPAN) | Click here for more info
Building Resiliency and Creativity | Wednesday March 4th 6:30-8:00pm | Centennial Middle School | Presenter: Jenny Hecht, LCSW, Karuna Healing | Click here for more info
Download the Centennial-Casey Series Calendar
Calendario en Español

PEN extends a big thank you to our presenters!
Thank you to Centennial and Casey Middle Schools for hosting and sponsoring the series!
Scholarship tickets available upon request.
Interpretation available. Contact Blanca Urena.
Contact Taylor Schmidt for more information.

Dr. Kristen Race- Balance Your Brain So You Can Balance Your Life
2019-09-24 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
Join Us for Dr. Kristen Race’s Presentation:
Balance Your Brain So You Can Balance Your Life

Tuesday September 24th | 6:30-8:00pm
Centaurus High School | 10300 W South Boulder Rd, Lafayette
SCROLL DOWN TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Early Bird Pricing Ends Soon!!
A nationally acclaimed speaker, Kristen Race, Ph.D. is the founder of Mindful Life and the author of the bestselling Mindful Parenting. Dr. Race works with businesses, hospitals, schools and parent groups around the world and has trained over 40,000 leaders in her mindfulness methods worldwide.
Dr. Race’s work has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, CNN, and Real Simple Magazine. Her clients include The Coca-Cola Company, Spanx, Match.com, Wells Fargo, and more. She is a TEDx and keynote speaker.
In this presentation learn skills to easily integrate a mindfulness practice into your daily life, help train your brain so you no longer feel overwhelmed when the going gets tough and help you kids do the same, and more!
Learn More About Dr. Race
Download Flyer

PEN is excited to have Dr. Race speak to our community!
We hope to see you there!
Thank you to Centaurus High School for hosting this event!
Please consider making a donation to PEN to keep these events coming to our community!
Donate to PEN
Scholarship tickets are available upon request. Contact Paula Nelson.
Teachers use Course Number 17912 to register for CEU credits. Make sure to sign in at the event to receive credit.

PEN Volunteer Orientation and Training
2019-08-25 13:00 - 16:00 UTC
REGISTER below
WHAT: 2019-20 PEN Volunteer Orientation and Training – mandatory for those who wish to participate with PEN this year.
WHEN: Sunday, August 25 | 1:00 – 4:00 pm
WHERE: Zia Consulting | 5525 Central Ave, Suite 200
WHO: New and returning PEN PALs and anyone interested in learning more about our organization or being part of the support team for PEN educational events this year.
WHY: Learn about PEN and what the upcoming year will look like. Determine your role and understand your responsibilities. Receive training and materials to support you in hosting events in your school and calendars for the parent series being hosted at elementary, middle/K-8, and high schools.
COST: Free, but RSVP required (below), bring a light snack for yourself or to share.

PEN’S 17th Annual Celebration Luncheon
2019-05-13 00:00 - 23:59 UTC
Please Join Us in Celebrating a Great Year of Supporting Parents in Raising Healthy, Happy Kids

Monday May 13th | 11:00am – 1:00pm
FATE Brewing Company | 1600 38th St, Boulder
Keynote by Dr. Patti Ashley – Do The Right Thing
Purchase tickets below
In the 1990s as a teaching assistant in a University Preschool, Dr. Patti Ashley was taught to connect with children in times of conflict by getting down on their level and softly saying “do the right thing.” This allowed each child a minute to stop and think about the situation before taking action. In today’s modern world full of distractions, social media, confusion, mixed messages, loss and uncertainties; discerning exactly what is the right thing can be difficult. Even for adults. Dr. Patti will share how her four “C Shovels:” connection, compassion, courage and curiosity can help you slow down and do the right thing in any challenging situation or life stressor.

Patti Ashley, Ph.D., L.P.C., is a psychotherapist, author, and international workshop presenter. In her signature system of Authenticity Architecture, Dr. Ashley helps you identify the habits and patterns that prevent you from living your best life and write a new story more aligned with your heart’s true desires. In addition to in-person and on-line individual sessions, Patti facilitates individual and group, transformational retreats in the United States and Europe. She has over thirty-five years of experience in the fields of education and psychology, including developing continuing education courses for physicians, hospital wellness programs, and universities; and counseling individuals, couples and families in mental health agencies, psychiatric hospitals, and private practice settings. Dr. Ashley completed a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Psychology from the Union Institute and University in 2002. She is the author of: Living in the Shadow of the Too-Good Mother Archetype (Wyatt-MacKenzie, 2014) and Letters to Freedom, a memoir of grief and relationship (Wyatt-MacKenzie, 2019.) Her third book: Shame Informed Therapy, a workbook for clinicians, is coming out in the fall of 2019 (PESI Publishing.)

Watch this video about Dr. Ashley
During the 2018-19 school year, PEN has provided dozens of educational programs around important topics like drugs/alcohol, stress/anxiety, technology, and building resilient families!
At our luncheon, we will provide and overview and honor those who made this a great year!
Whether you are a parent, teacher, administrator, community member or PEN volunteer, we appreciate all that you do to create a safe and thriving community!
PEN luncheon flyer 2019 (5)

PEN's Annual Fundraising Gala: Casino Royale
2019-04-27 17:30 - 23:00 UTC
Click HERE to get your tickets NOW!
Tickets: $125 | Single Seat, $1000 | Table of 10
Single VIP, $175
Individuals at tables can upgrade their ticket to VIP!
5:30 PM – VIP Entrance and Special Program
6:00 PM – Hors D’oeuvres | Cocktails | Auction/Raffle | Casino Tables
7:30 PM – Dinner | Program | Live Auction
9:00 PM – Casino Tables & Dancing

Natural Highs at Centennial Middle School
2019-04-25 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
Healthy Alternatives to Drugs and Alcohol
A FREE Interactive Conversation with Parents & Teens
RSVPs are appreciated so that we can plan for you. Suggested Donation of $5/person (register below)
Thursday, April 25 | 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Centennial Middle School | 2205 Norwood Ave | Boulder
A Panel of Natural Highs Youth Participants and Avani G. Dilger, LPC, CACIII
Learn more about:

Brain chemistry basics about sobriety, drug & alcohol use and recovery
How to support your teen with healthy alternatives
Local resources
You are welcome to bring your questions to the discussion

Parents & Teens are Encouraged to attend together
INTERPRETATION PROVIDED
CHILDCARE is available – contact Paula Nelson paula.nelson@penbv.org
Questions – Contact Avani avani@naropa.edu or 303-859-5778
DOWNLOADABLE FLYER
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER
Donations to PEN are always appreciated to help defray costs of bringing you free events and assisting with scholarships for other parents.
DONATE NOW

Raising a Resilient Student in Today's World
2019-04-17 00:00 - 23:59 UTC
RAISING A RESILIENT STUDENT IN TODAY’S WORLD
Boulder High School | 1604 Arapahoe
April 17 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
RSVP Below
Middle and High School parents and students are invited to attend.
Guest Speakers:
Alex Bush and Maria Bales advocates raising awareness about the stigma of depression and focusing on the reality that it is ok not to be ok.
A panel of experts will cover the following topics:

Depression, Stress, Anxiety
Brain Health
Mindfulness
Peer Pressure and Kindness
Exercise and Nutrition

Local Panelists include:

Jenny Hecht, LCSW with Karuna Healing
Avani Dilger, MEd, MA, LPC,CACII of Natural Highs – Healthy Alternatives to Drugs & Alcohol
Sara Weatherly, LCSW with Mental Health Partners of Boulder County
Rona Wilensky, Director of Mindfulness Practices of PassageWorks Institute
Mary Kay Irving, LCSW Boulder Center for Health and Nutrition
Natalie Whiteford, PhD, Summit Behavioral Sleep Medicine
HOPE Coalition of Boulder County and Colie’s Closet

Sponsored by Sources of Strength
BHS Panel Flyer 4.17.19

Preparing Your Students Financially for College
2019-04-04 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
THIS IS A FREE EVENT. SUGGESTED DONATION OF $5/PERSON. PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO RSVP!!
April 4, 2019 | 6:30 – 8:00 pm | Centaurus High School – 10300 South Boulder Road, Lafayette

Receive personal money management tips most parents and students don’t know.
Fact: 73% of College Freshmen claimed they were ill-prepared to handle their personal finances. Don’t let your student(s) become part of this statistic.

Learn the common financial mistakes most parents make when they send their student off to college
Learn the common financial pitfalls most college freshman make and how to turn those into successes
Get the advice from a recent college graduate student on how he managed his money during college

It is not what you do for your children, but what you teach them to do for themselves that will make them successful human beings. ~ Ann Landers ~
BROUGHT TO YOU BY PREMIER MEMBERS CREDIT UNION

Snacks Provided!

Speak Now
2019-04-03 17:30 - 19:30 UTC
Now is a Good Time to Talk About Vaping!
Wednesday, April 3rd | 5:30 – 7:30 PM
Nederland Middle-Senior High School Library
An evening of information about vaping and ho to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol, with MaryErin Mueller, MSW, LSW, (Behavioral Health Advocate) and Kari Green, MSN, RN, (School Nurse).
Open to all parents, and ideal for those with kids ages 9-17. Light dinner and childcare provided.
RSVP – Kari Green kari.green@bvsd.org 720.561.4908
DOWNLOADABLE FLYER

Raising Resilient Girls
2019-03-19 18:30 UTC
Raising Resilient Girls
Tuesday, March 19 | 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Louisville Middle School
Game On! Sports 4 Girls, in partnership with the Parent Engagement Network (PEN), invite you to join Girls Leadership’s Colorado Senior Educator, Kim O’Malley as she guides parents and teachers in how to help girls (and boys) practice assertive self-expression, emotional intelligence, and healthy relationships, preparing them for a life of personal and societal leadership.
In this acclaimed 1-hour talk (followed by a 30 minute Q&A), we cover the development of girl dynamics beginning in preschool through high school. We will also discuss how an active lifestyle, including involvement in sports and taking advantage of the great outdoors, can help foster invaluable confidence and healthy growth for girls – from taking risks and embracing mistakes to expressing feelings and forging ahead with their own defined sense of adventure. Join us for a fun, educational and inspiring evening!
This event is for adults only.
*We want to make sure that all parents are able to access this invaluable presentation. If you are unable to pay the presentation fee, please contact Maria at maria@gameonsports4girls.com or 720-893-2386 to discuss.
REGISTER HERE

"Natural Highs" at Friends Middle School
2019-03-14 18:30 - 20:00 UTC
Healthy Alternatives to Drugs and Alcohol
An interactive Conversation with Parents & Teens
Thursday, March 14 | 6:30 – 8:00 pm
Friends School | 3800 Kalmia | Boulder
A Panel of Natural Highs Youth Participants and Avani G. Dilger, LPC, CACIII
Learn more about:

Brain chemistry basics about sobriety, drug & alcohol use and recovery
How to support your teen with healthy alternatives
Local resources
You are welcome to bring your questions to the discussion

Parents & Teens are Encouraged to attend together
RSVPs appreciated. Shelby Pawlina at spawlina@friendsschoolboulder.org
Questions – Contact Avani avani@naropa.edu or 303-859-5778
DOWNLOADABLE FLYER
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER
Donations to PEN are always appreciated to help defray costs of bringing you free events and assisting with scholarships for other parents.
DONATE NOW

Parenting Adolescents Series: Register for Brain Development
2019-03-12 00:00 - 23:59 UTC
Parent Engagement Network Presents the “Parenting Adolescents Series”
March 12, 2019: Brain Development
Casey Middle School
1301 High St. Boulder CO 80304
6:30 – 8:00 pm
~~ Scroll Down to Register ~~
Cost: $10
Scholarship tickets available
Sessions are open to all parents of adolescents! Each session will be delivered in both English and Spanish simultaneously. You will be asked to select your language preference when you register.
Thank You to Our Presenters, Ryan Dawson & Raul Galindo, and to Casey Middle School for Hosting and Sponsoring the Series!

Internet and Technology and Our Kids
2019-03-07 18:30 - 20:30 UTC
Why Parenting and Schooling Matter in a Hyper-Connected World
*A FREE COMMUNITY EVENT*
Donations Always Welcome to defray costs of bringing you free events.
Childcare Provided
~~ SCROLL DOWN TO REGISTER ~~
Recommended for Adults Only
Thursday, March 7, 2019 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm | Centennial Middle School, Boulder

– Strategies for Technology in Education
– The Influence of Screens on the Developing Brain
– Inappropriate Content and Stranger Danger
– Digital Citizenship and Proactive Monitoring
– Parental Education, Choice, and Consent on Data Sharing/Privacy
– Targeted Online Advertising

Hear the latest and engage in discussion with a panel of specialists:
Joe Toscano – Author, Automating Humanity
Tracy Markle, MA, LPC – Founder and Co-director, Digital Media Treatment & Education Center, Collegiate Coaching Services
Dr. Brett Kennedy, Psy.D. – Co-Director & Licensed Psychologist, Digital Media Treatment & Education Center
Tim Johnson – Former Boulder DA, Cyber Safety
Jason Breed – President, Digital Future Initiatives
Andrew Moore – BVSD, Chief Information Officer
Thank you to Centennial Middle School for hosting this event and for the volunteers at Centennial, Crest View Elementary, and Casey Middle School for their assistance in bringing this event to our community.
Donations to PEN are always welcome to help defray costs of bringing you free events and to provide scholarships for other parents.
DONATE NOW
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER

Speak Now at Fairview
2019-03-07 18:00 - 19:30 UTC
Now is a Good Time to Talk to Your Kids about Drugs and Alcohol
March 7 | 6:00 pm
Fairview High School
Join us for the evidence-based program on how to talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol.
Contact: Debbie Brinley debbie.brinley@penbv.org
