Starting a blog for CLC

A new challenge presented itself this past Friday when Ginger Decoteau, Executive Director for the Community Learning Council (CLC) asked if I could help start a blog for our web site.  Those who know me well know that it is pretty impossible for me to say no. So here it is Sunday afternoon and I am thinking about what to start with.  All I could think of  -- tell a little about the CLC and how I am involved with this 501c3 nonprofit organization.

I first met Ginger, in 2015, when I was looking to relocate my therapy practice to Oklahoma City. I was introduced to Ginger and the CLC because they had office space available to therapists who worked with children and families. By this time, the CLC was well established and had worked with educators and therapists for 15 years. I acquired space in the office and had the opportunity to have a better understanding of the work they were doing. As a therapist and educator, it is important to have a space where my clients feel safe and are respected. It was a good fit! Throughout the coming year I would have several opportunities to talk with the ED about the work of the CLC.

Throughout the coming year I would have several opportunities to talk with the ED about the work of the CLC.  Here's what I learned: Ginger started the CLC in 2001, and at that time the mission focused on providing work-related education to victims of domestic violence. In 2004, the Board of Directors decided to expand their services to include counseling for adult victims and children who had witnessed this crime. This work continued for 12 more years. This was important work and I wanted to be part of it. I decided to volunteer, donate money and help with fundraising efforts. Ginger invited me to join the board before the year was out.

In 2016, the work we were doing at the CLC became more education-centered.. We refocused our mission and broadened our reach. The CLC goals reflect this adjustment.
Mission: Inspiring success through education.
Vision: Contributing to communities where education is valued and people are encouraged to succeed.

At the CLC, our goal is to provide education that inspires success in people. Our team of educators and behavioral health practitioners work together to design training solutions that promote and develop change. We believe that when parents and children; students and teachers; counselors and clients; employers and employees are well-informed and encouraged they are better prepared to realize their goals and achieve success!

The Board Members have embraced this change and continue to provide the leadership needed to make this a viable nonprofit.  In coming blogs we will be introducing members of the board, featuring each individual and their years of service.  In the meantime feel free to visit our web site to learn more about our organization and how you too can support the work. www.clcokc.org

Rebecca Conner, M.Ed., LPC
Board Member and Treasurer of the CLC