| The Virden Parent Place, a parent/teacher resource room was established in 1995. The Virden Parent Place is supported by grant funds and exists as a subcontractual agreement with the local school district.
Parent classes are offered and taught by Care-O-sel staff through Lincoln Land Community College. Three Parent Educators staff the program. Parent support groups and home visits are provided. The Virden Parent Place has a book and toy lending library with resources and videos for parents to check out. A "warm line" is provided for parents to call when they have questions or conerns about young children. Play days are offered for children up to 3 years old, with structured and unstructured activities. Attending children grow, develop and benefit from interaction with other children. A monthly newsletter lists Virden Parent Place activities, tips and information on raising young children. |
A Prevention Intervention program was established in 1998 at the Virden Parent Place to serve families in crisis. Security and support are given to parents so they can do their best in raising their children. Community resources are used to help with critical needs. The inclusionary preschool portion of the program was so successful that it grew and moved to the elementary school in 1996. It moved intact and continues to be coordinated by the Care-O-Sel. The school age program moved to it's own center and is presently working on accreditation as an independent site. The Care-O-sel employs twenty-two staff ranging from entry-level aides to bachelor mastered degreed coordinators, parent educators and directors. |