Making Kids Count: Recent Episodes
Kentucky Youth Advocates
Welcome to the Making KIDS COUNT podcast brought to you by Kentucky Youth Advocates, where we sit down with policymakers, community leaders, and youth and discuss ideas to make Kentucky the best place to be young.
Guest host Shannon Moody is joined by Allison Adams, president and CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, Bruce Lesley, president of First Focus on Children, and Alicia Whatley, Senior Policy & Advocacy Director at Kentucky Youth Advocates. The advocates discuss the “Make America Healthy Again” movement – nationally and in Kentucky – and the impact on child health and well-being. Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Dr. Marty Pollio, former superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and incoming president of Ivy Tech Community College, to discuss the state of K-12 education, reflections from his time at JCPS, and opportunities for all community members to continue supporting kids in school settings.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Larry Craig, Executive Committee member of the Kosair for Kids Board of Directors and owner of Craig & Landreth Cars; Dr. Jerry Rabalais, member of the Kosair for Kids Advisory Council and Emeritus Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Louisville; and Dr. Shannon Moody, Chief Policy & Strategy Officer at Kentucky Youth Advocates and lead of the Kosair for Kids Face It Movement.They discuss the state of state on child maltreatment and fatalities, a continued focus on going upstream in prevention efforts, and Face It's efforts to encourage everyone to play a role in ending child abuse in the Commonwealth. Get involved with the Kosair for Kids Face It Movement at faceitabuse.org.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Guest host Alicia Whatley is joined by three Kentucky young people: Phoenix Berry, a member of KYA’s 2025 Housing Policy Ambassadors cohort from Lexington; Kiera Dunk, 10th grade student and child abuse prevention advocate from Oldham County; and, Griffin Nemeth, the Youth Advisory Board Coordinator for the #iCANendthetrend program at the University of Kentucky. They discuss their advocacy journeys and share their tips for other young people wanting to make an impact in their community or at the state level. Find KYA's full KYGA25 session recap blog and details on the April 29th Blueprint webinar at kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Guest host Cortney Downs is joined by state Representative Nick Wilson, Amanda Hall of Dream.org, and Sarah Durand of KYFREE for a discussion on House Bill 291, known as the Family Preservation and Accountability Act. They dive into the impact of parental incarceration on children, communities, and the state economy. HB 291 is a Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priority bill that would require the courts to consider alternative sentencing options -- such as vocational training, mental health services, or outpatient substance use treatment -- for those who have committed a non-violent offense and are the primary caregiver to a dependent child; it is currently awaiting action by the Kentucky Senate.Find more information on HB 291 and how to take action on our bill tracker at https://kyyouth.org/bill-tracker/.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks and Alicia Whatley are joined by state Senator Jimmy Higdon and Delanie Crump, a high school freshman from Boyd County, for a discussion on the state of youth vaping in Kentucky. They also discuss the impact Senate Bill 100 could have on holding retailers accountable for selling nicotine and tobacco products to youth under age 21 and ultimately curbing youth vaping in the Commonwealth. SB 100 is a Blueprint for Kentucky's Children priority bill focused on enforcing the Tobacco-21 law and is currently awaiting action by the Kentucky House of Representatives.Find more information on SB 100 and how to take action at kyyouth.org/bill-tracker/.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by members of Kentucky Youth Advocates' policy team - Shannon Moody, Alicia Whatley, and Cortney Downs - to share updates on Blueprint for Kentucky's Children 2025 policy priorities and insights on the Frankfort landscape and the impact on kids' issues. Find details on each of the bills discussed at kyyouth.org/bill-tracker/.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Kentucky's Attorney General Russell Coleman to discuss his office's role in convening diverse stakeholders on issues impacting kids and families, as well as ongoing efforts around the Opioid Settlement Fund, protecting kids online, and a substance use prevention campaign targeting youth.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Kelly Pullen, Executive Director of the Aetna Better Health® of Kentucky's Supporting Kentucky Youth (SKY) program. We hear more about the long term impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the role Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) has in mitigating adversity. Terry and Kelly also reflect on the SKY program's ACEs prevention and intervention efforts and how all Kentuckians can play a role in preventing adversity and promoting resilience building among children. Aetna Better Health of Kentucky is the signature sponsor of the 2024 Kentucky KIDS COUNT Data Book and the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks shares reflections on the first week of the 2025 Kentucky General Assembly, updates on Blueprint for Kentucky's Children policy priorities, and a call to action for advocates to speak up for kids throughout the short state legislative session. Find advocacy information and resources at kyyouth.org/blueprintKY. Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by state Auditor of Public Accounts Allison Ball to discuss her roles as state Treasurer and Auditor. They also dive into the office of the Auditor's recent efforts that will impact some of Kentucky's most vulnerable kids: the successful transition of the Office of the Ombudsman, the ongoing assessment of Senate Bill 151 to support kinship families, and the ongoing investigation into incidents of children in foster care sleeping in DCBS offices.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks shares an overview of the 2024 Kentucky KIDS COUNT Data Book and the trends in the latest child well-being data. The 2024 Data Book and new online, interactive County Data Dashboard feature the latest data on 16 measures of economic security, education, health, and family and community. Additionally, the essay of this year's edition dives into the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and progress on mitigating those impacts through Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs). View the Data Book and accompanying resources at kyyouth.org/kentucky-kids-count/.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by state Senator Lindsey Tichenor to discuss the proponent perspective of Amendment 2, the state ballot initiative to amend the Kentucky constitution to allow the Kentucky General Assembly to create legislation that allows public dollars to be spent to support nonpublic or private K-12 education. Be an informed voter on November 5th -- check out Kentucky Youth Advocates’ Electoral Advocacy Toolkit to ensure Kentucky kids count this election day at kyyouth.org. Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Maddie Shepard, President of the Jefferson County Teachers Association, to discuss the opponent perspective of Amendment 2, the state ballot initiative to amend the Kentucky constitution to allow the Kentucky General Assembly to create legislation that allows public dollars to be spent to support nonpublic or private K-12 education. Be an informed voter on November 5th -- check out Kentucky Youth Advocates’ Electoral Advocacy Toolkit to ensure Kentucky kids count this election day at kyyouth.org.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Jonathan Shell, Kentucky's Commissioner of Agriculture, to discuss the Department of Agriculture's initiatives related to hunger, nutrition, and workforce, as well as the role we can all play in advocacy and volunteerism.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman to continue Kentucky Youth Advocates’ look at the 2024 national KIDS COUNT® Data Book and Kentucky students’ educational outcomes.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Alicia Whatley, KYA's Senior Policy & Advocacy Director, is joined by Dr. Brit Anderson, pediatrician and vice president of the Kentucky Chapter of the American Academy for Pediatrics, Bruce Crouch, who has served as a school resource officer in Taylor County and helps lead the Taylor County Youth Coalition, and Ashlea Christiansen, Kentucky government relations director for the American Heart Association. They look at the state of youth vaping, prevention and intervention practices, and advocacy needed to enact policies that focus on preventing and ending vaping use among Kentucky kids and teens. Find Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program information here.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Dr. Elizabeth Dinkins, dean of the School of Education at Bellarmine University, and Dr. Jim Flynn, Executive Director of the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents, to continue Kentucky Youth Advocates' look at the 2024 national KIDS COUNT® Data Book and Kentucky students' educational outcomes. Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by state Senator Max Wise and Representative James Tipton to continue Kentucky Youth Advocates' look at the 2024 national KIDS COUNT® Data Book and Kentucky students' educational outcomes.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
As part of Kentucky Youth Advocates' segment with WEKU's Eastern Standard Radio, Terry Brooks was recently joined by Dr. Tony Zipple, Bounce co-chair, and Kelly Pullen, executive director of Aetna Better Health of Kentucky's SKY Program, to discuss youth mental health and highlight the partnership between CVS Health and the Bounce Coalition. They break down findings from a recent CVS Health-Morning Consult mental health survey, discuss the state of youth mental health in Kentucky, and offer tips for families navigating challenges. Learn more about the Bounce Coalition and request a training at bouncecoalition.org.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks reflects on key takeaways from the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2024 KIDS COUNT® Data Book. The 50-state report provides state level data and rankings, analyzing how kids are faring in post-pandemic America. With a focus on challenges facing children’s educational outcomes, the data show Kentucky must do more to prepare children to learn so they are ready to earn when they reach adulthood.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Cori Gadansky, executive director of Community Coordinated Child Care, Charles Aull, executive director of the Center for Policy & Research at the KY Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Sarah Vanover, Policy & Research Director and lead on child care at KYA. They look at the wins and missed opportunities for child care during the 2024 General Assembly, the impacts on centers and families that need to be monitored, and what federal and state advocacy is needed going forward for early childhood education and care.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Shane Noem, a Republican lobbyist from Northern Kentucky with Roebling Solutions and a Kentucky Youth Advocates board member, and Abby Piper, Founder & Managing Partner of the government and public relations firm Piper Smith based in Lexington. Terry shares KYA's recap of "fumbles" for kids by the 2024 General Assembly and facilitates a debrief of the legislative session with our guests. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children and track the progress of bills that are good for kids at kyyouth.org/blueprintKY.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks is joined by Barry Dunn, President & CEO of Kosair for Kids, and Shannon Moody, KYA's Chief Policy & Strategy Officer, for a look at the Face It Movement's efforts over the last decade. As part of a call to action for Child Abuse Prevention Month, they discuss the state of child maltreatment in the Commonwealth, the growth and impact of Face It, and how everyone can play a role in prevention. Learn more about the Kosair for Kids Face It Movement at faceitabuse.org. If you suspect abuse, call the Child Protection Hotline at 1-877-KYSAFE1.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks and Kentucky Youth Advocates' policy team discuss the status of the 2024 state budget proposal as the General Assembly begins conference committee negotiations, and offer advocates calls to action to ensure kids and families are prioritized in the final biennial budget. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children and track the progress of bills that are good for kids at kyyouth.org/blueprintKY.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks speaks with Senator Max Wise, Chair of the Senate Economic Development, Tourism, & Labor Committee, to discuss the General Assembly's school safety efforts since 2019 and components of Senate Bill 2 of 2024.Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children and track the progress of bills that are good for kids at kyyouth.org/blueprintKY.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
As part of Children's Advocacy Week 2024, Terry Brooks speaks with leaders of the Education Committees -- Representative James Tipton and Senator Jimmy Higdon. They discuss the state of K-12 education and school choice, teacher workforce, student mental health, and more. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children and track the progress of bills that are good for kids at https://kyyouth.org/blueprintky/
As part of Children's Advocacy Week 2024, Shannon Moody speaks with the chairs of the Families and Children Committees -- first with Senator Danny Carroll and then with Representative Samara Heavrin. They discuss a variety of topics discussed within their committees, from child care and early childhood education to foster care and kinship care to paid family leave. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children and track the progress of bills that are good for kids at kyyouth.org/blueprintKY.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks offers predictions of the 2024 General Assembly, reflections on the legislative session so far, and a look ahead to Children's Advocacy Week. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky's Children and track the progress of bills that are good for kids at https://kyyouth.org/blueprintky/
Terry Brooks is joined by Bill Goodman, executive director of Kentucky Humanities, for a conversation with Cara Fitzpatrick, author of “The Death of Public School: How Conservatives Won the War Over Education in America." They discuss Fitzpatrick's book, the national landscape of school choice, and what it means for Kentucky.
Terry Brooks discusses the 2023 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book, including the latest data on 16 measures of child well-being and an analysis of the "kid workforce" -- the committed adults that support and impact the well-being of Kentucky’s children and youth. View the County Data Book, our press release, county profiles, and more at https://kyyouth.org/kentucky-kids-count/.The 2023 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book was made possible with support from the Annie E. Casey Foundation and KIDS COUNT sponsors, including Aetna® Better Health of Kentucky, Kosair for Kids®, Charter Communications, and Mountain Comprehensive Care Center.
Terry Brooks sits down with Governor Andy Beshear to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as education, child welfare, juvenile justice, and much more. Tune in to hear the candidate’s ideas for helping make Kentucky the best place to be young.An invitation for an appearance on the Making Kids Count Podcast has also been extended to Gubernatorial Candidate Daniel Cameron.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks sits down with Russell Coleman, former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky, to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as Adverse Childhood Experiences, the impact of parental incarceration on kids, improvements to the youth justice system, and much more. Tune in to hear the candidate’s ideas for the role of the Attorney General's office in making Kentucky the best place to young.Listen to our podcast episode featuring Kentucky Attorney General Candidate Pam Stevenson.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks sits down with Colonel Pam Stevenson, state Representative of District 43, to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as Adverse Childhood Experiences, the impact of parental incarceration on kids, improvements to the youth justice system, and much more. Tune in to hear the candidate’s ideas for the role of the Attorney General's office in making Kentucky the best place to young.Listen to our podcast episode featuring Kentucky Attorney General Candidate Russell Coleman.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week, Shannon Moody sits down with Barry Allen, President & Treasurer of the Gheens Foundation, and Kristin Walker Collins, the Chief Operating Officer of the Foundation for Appalachian Kentucky, to discuss the importance of community listening and best practices in implementing. Alicia Whatley then shares takeaways from Sowing Resilience: A Bloom Kentucky Listening Tour, including what communities shared as challenges in housing, mental health, substance use, and more.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks discusses data trends featured in the latest national KIDS COUNT Data Book from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, including challenges facing child and family well-being and the child care sector. Sarah Vanover, Policy and Research Director at Kentucky Youth Advocates, moderates a panel of child care advocates: State Senator Danny Carroll, Ashley Brandt with Metro United Way, and Kathy Donelan of Aunt Kathy's Child Care & Preschool, Inc. in Northern Kentucky.View our press release and the Kentucky State Data Profile Sheet at kyyouth.org.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week, Terry Brooks and the Kentucky Youth Advocates' policy team take a detailed look at the 2023 Kentucky General Assembly, Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children wins and missed opportunities, and what it means for kids and their families. Learn more about the 2023 Blueprint priority bills and other bills that are good for kids at kyyouth.org/bill-tracker/.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks sits down with Morgan McGarvey, Kentucky Senate Minority Floor Leader and Congressman-Elect for Kentucky's 3rd District, to discuss the landscape and his priorities for children and families as he leaves Frankfort and heads to Washington, DC.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Terry Brooks provides a landscape of the 2023 General Assembly, an update on the Blueprint for Kentucky's Children, and ways for advocates to speak up for kids leading up to the first day of session on January 3, 2023.Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks discusses the 2022 Kentucky General Assembly and impacts on kids and their families with Senators Julie Raque Adams and Whitney Westerfield and Representative Killian Timoney. Learn more about Blueprint for Kentucky's Children priority wins and missed opportunities in 2022 at kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting this virtual forum. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Kentucky Youth Advocates took a detailed look at the 2022 Kentucky General Assembly, Blueprint for Kentucky's Children wins and missed opportunities, and what it means for kids and their families. Learn more about priority bills, how to take action, and view the Bill Tracker at kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Kentucky Youth Advocates takes a deep dive into the 2022 Kentucky General Assembly so far, including the progress of bills related to kids and themes emerging from the legislative session. Thank you to our panelists, including Shannon Smith from the American Heart Association, Rachel Bingham and Mavis Williamson from the Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts, Mandy Simpson from Metro United Way. and Cortney Downs with Kentucky Youth Advocates.
Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children 2022 policy agenda, stay updated on the progress of bills that are good for kids on the Bill Tracker, and look up who represents you in Frankfort at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks sits down with partners across the political spectrum to discuss the current budget proposals, along with how kids and families could be affected by the new state budget. Thank you to our panelists, including Jason Bailey with the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy; Jim Waters with the Bluegrass Institute; and Ashli Watts with the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.
Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky's Children state budget priorities at kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we launch the 2022 Blueprint for Kentucky's Children state policy and budget priorities. The priorities address health, child welfare, education, families' economic security, and more. We also heard from Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers and House Minority Floor Leader Joni Jenkins as we look ahead to the 2022 legislative session.
Learn more about the 2022 Blueprint priorities at kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the latest data on child well-being featured in this year's edition of the Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book. The 2021 book focuses on advancing racial equity across the Commonwealth and features a number of data disaggregated by race. We were also joined by State Representatives Samara Heavrin and Nima Kulkarni for a panel discussion on using this data to drive change.
Check out the data book, press release, and detailed data for every Kentucky county at kyyouth.org/kentucky-kids-count.
The 2021 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book was made possible with support from the Annie E. Casey Foundation and a number of KIDS COUNT sponsors, including Passport Health Plan by Molina Healthcare, Kosair Charities, and Charter Communications.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
The 2021 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book examines data disaggregated by race/ethnicity, the impacts of systemic racial injustice on children and families, and solutions to advance racial equity so that every child can thrive. The 31st edition of this publication also features the latest data on 17 measures of child well-being, showing whether outcomes for children across the Commonwealth have improved, worsened, or stayed the same over a five-year period.
At the virtual press conference, Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates, is joined by state legislators, community partners, and youth including: Ryan Sadler, president, Passport Health Plan by Molina Healthcare; State Senator Gerald Neal; State Representative Killian Timoney; Karina Barillas, executive director, La Casita Center; Anita Rodriguez, high school junior; Eltuan Dawson, Peer Network Member, True Up; Dale Robinson, co-founder, Wanda Joyce Robinson Foundation; and, Shamitha Kuppala, high school senior.
View the data book, press release, and detailed data for every Kentucky county at https://kyyouth.org/kentucky-kids-count/
The 2021 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book was made possible with support from the Annie E. Casey Foundation and a number of KIDS COUNT sponsors, including Passport Health Plan by Molina Healthcare, Kosair Charities, and Charter Communications.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the state of tobacco use among youth throughout Kentucky, as well as data, policy, and state budget opportunities to prevent and mitigate nicotine and tobacco use --including the new Nix the Next campaign. Thank you to our panelists: Hannah Abdon, high school senior from Boone County; Allison Adams of the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky; Betsy Clemons of the Hazard/Perry County Chamber of Commerce; and, Shannon Smith of American Heart Association.
Learn more about Nix the Next, a campaign to prevent the next generation from ever becoming addicted to nicotine, at nixthenext.org. Text NixTheNext to 46839 to take action.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the early childhood ecosystem available to serve Kentucky kids and their families, along with what is needed for a strong workforce. Thank you to our panelists, including Lauren Hogan, Managing Director of Policy and Professional Advancement at National Association for the Education of Young Children; Kevin Fields, President/Chief Executive Officer at Louisville Central Community Centers, Inc; Jennifer Washburn, Executive Director at iKids Childhood Enrichment Center; and Brenda Hagan, Project Specialist at Kentucky Governor's Office of Early Childhood.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss policies and programs to best support parents of babies. As part of the Kosair Charities Face It Movement's TEN-4 week, panelists discuss healthy development, opportunities for family engagement, and how community members can show up for families with young children. Thank you to Keith Inman of Kosair Charities for sharing remarks and to our panelists, Elena Diehl from GrowBabyGrow and Erica Wade from The Center ODC.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we continue the discussion on the challenges, opportunities, and future of the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services workforce. DCBS Commissioner Marta Miranda-Straub and members of DCBS leadership have a conversation with community stakeholders, including Kathy Adams, Director of Public Policy for Children’s Alliance; Tiffany Hall, COO at Volunteers of America Mid-States; Rick Wurth, CEO of Children’s Home of Northern Kentucky; and, Melissa Goins of the state Office of FRYSC.
This is part two of a two-part series with DCBS. Listen to part one in the September 16, 2021 Making Kids Count episode.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the challenges, opportunities, and future of the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services with Commissioner Marta Miranda-Straub. We also heard remarks from Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander and DCBS Deputy Commissioner Lesa Dennis.
This is part one of a two-part series with DCBS. Tune in for part two on Wednesday, September 22 at 10:00 AM ET.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates, shares a call-to-action on priorities for kids during the 2021 special session. Look up your state Senator and Representative contact information and read our full statement about the special session at kyyouth.org.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss routine immunizations and the COVID-19 vaccination for Kentucky kids. Thank you to our panelists: Allison Adams, Vice President for Policy at the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky; Dr. Michael Kuduk, Vice President of the Kentucky Medical Association and pediatrician with UK Healthcare; and Kelly Pullen, Executive Director of the Aetna Better Health of Kentucky Supporting Kentucky Youth (SKY) Program.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month -- learn more and find resources at kyyouth.org. The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky will be hosting their 2021 Howard L. Bost Memorial Virtual Health Policy Forum on Tuesday, September 21st on Kentucky vaccine policy including myths, messengers, and messages -- register at healthy-ky.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we continue the discussion about the Bloom Kentucky initiative and addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adverse Childhood Environments. State Representatives Kim Moser and Nima Kulkarni join the forum to share their insights on policy and state budget priorities in the 2022 General Assembly that could prevent and mitigate childhood trauma.
Learn more about Bloom Kentucky at BloomKentucky.org, and in our previous Making Kids Count podcast episode from August 12, 2021.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the impact of the pair of ACEs: Adverse Childhood Experiences and Adverse Childhood Environments. We discuss the various types of adverse experiences/environments, how to move upstream in preventing ACEs, and Bloom Kentucky, a new statewide initiative to advocate for policy changes that will address ACEs. Thank you to our panelists: Ben Chandler, President and CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky; Jo Cruz, an Independent Consultant and trainer with the Bounce Coalition; and, Cortney Emberson, with St. Joseph Children's Home.
Learn more about Bloom Kentucky at BloomKentucky.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the upcoming school year as our commonwealth continues to navigate a pandemic, socioemotional needs, and different learning needs with education leaders from across the state. Thank you to our panelists: Penny Christian, immediate Past President of the 16th District PTA and Vice President of Leadership Outreach for the Kentucky PTA; Dr. Jim Flynn, Executive Director of the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents; and Brent McKim, President of the Jefferson County Teachers Association.
This is part two of our education series -- listen to the part one episode featuring Lt. Governor Coleman and KDE Commissioner Glass, which aired July 29th.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the future of public education and workforce in Kentucky with Jacqueline Coleman, Lt. Governor and secretary of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, and Dr. Jason Glass, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Education.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss how we can best support youth who are LGBTQ+, especially as many of them are at risk of facing certain challenges, including homelessness, trafficking, mental health needs, and more. Thank you to our panelists: Rick Wurth, Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Home of Northern Kentucky, and Eltuan Dawson, youth advocate and board member of Sweet Evening Breeze.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss opportunity youth--young people ages 16 to 24 who are neither employed nor in school--including new research, policy recommendations, and program developments across the state. Thank you to our panelists: Kate Arthur, Community and Youth Services Director at Brighton Center; Dawn Carson, Street Outreach Supervisor at the Brighton Center; Roan Head, youth leader; and Darryl Young, Executive Director of the Coalition Supporting Young Adults.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss updates relating to child nutrition and access to food, including summer EBT, federal investments, and more. Thank you to our panelists: Karena Cash, Advocacy Coordinator with Feeding Kentucky; Leigh Dixon, Community Support Advisor Kentucky Department for Community-Based Services; and Michael Halligan, CEO of God’s Pantry Food Bank and Chair of Feeding America’s Federal Policy Advisory Board.
Families can text "food" to 877-877 to identify summer meals in their community. Take action to end hunger in America at www.feedingamerica.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual forum, we discuss the 2021 national KIDS COUNT Data Book, which was recently co-released by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Kentucky Youth Advocates. We review Kentucky data included in the book and discuss federal and state recommendations to improve child well-being and ensure an equitable and expansive recovery from the pandemic.
View the Kentucky State Data Profile Sheet and read our press release at kyyouth.org/national-kids-count/.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss young children with special needs, including early identification of special needs and how communities, service providers, and policymakers can support these kids and their families. A special thank you to our panelists: Ivy Alexander, Executive Director of CHFS Office for Children with Special Health Care Needs; Judith Bradley, Founder of Jack Be Nimble; and Kristen Williams, Executive Director of Play Cousins Collective.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss how school districts are developing their trauma-informed plans, what needs to be included, and how plans will be implemented. As a result of 2019's Senate Bill 1, the School Safety and Resiliency Act, each local board of education must develop a plan for implementing a trauma-informed approach in its schools by July 1, 2021. A special thank you to our panelists, including Dr. Joe Bargione, Bounce Coalition trainer and Executive Committee member; Michael Ford, Superintendent of Russell County Schools; and Dr. Steven Kniffley, Chief Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Spalding University.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss teens in foster care and the importance of fostering teens. Thank you to our panelists: Christa Bell, Director of the DCBS Division of Protection and Permanency; Eltuan Dawson, member of True Up and former foster youth; Kelly Pullen, Executive Director of the Aetna Better Health of Kentucky SKY program; and Sarah Stalker, foster parent with experience fostering teens.
Learn more about foster care in Kentucky at kyfaces.ky.gov and supporting youth transitioning out of foster care at kyrise.ky.gov.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss caring for, and working with, kids and youth who have experienced trauma of any kind, including the trauma of the COVID-19 pandemic and racialized trauma. Thank you to our panelists: Samantha Behmke, Head Start Behavior Intervention Specialist with Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative; DeShara Doub, school mental health practitioner and Founder/CEO of Vision of Promise LLC; Jill Gay, Director of Programs and Services at Family Nurturing Center; and Marcie Timmerman, Executive Director of Mental Health America of Kentucky.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss supporting youth aging out of foster care in Kentucky. Thank you to our panelists, including Nikki Thornton, Executive Director of True Up; Paula Garner, President and CEO of Maryhurst; and Cynthia Schepers, a young adult who aged out of foster care.
As of April 2021, True Up is officially an affiliated initiative of Kentucky Youth Advocates to expand on the organization's successful track record of engaging, empowering, and connecting young people ages 16 and older who are currently in or have transitioned out of foster care.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss updates on the state of child care in Kentucky. Topics include how the American Rescue Plan funds will be spent, update on Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) enrollment and outreach efforts, the plan for staffed family child care networks, and a lookahead to the 2022 state legislative session. Thank you to our panelists: Dr. Sarah Vanover, Director of the Kentucky Division of Child Care; Senator Julie Raque Adams; and Representative Josie Raymond. View Dr. Vanover's presentation slides at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Dr. Terry Brooks discusses child abuse prevention efforts and supporting Kentucky kids and their families with Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Secretary Eric Friedlander. We also hear remarks from Governor Andy Beshear and Keith Inman, president of Kosair Charities, which founded and funds the Face It Movement. Learn more about the Face It Movement and view child maltreatment prevention resources and events at faceitmovement.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discussed the behavioral health landscape for Kentucky kids and their families, including new Louisville-based qualitative research about barriers to kids receiving high quality care and potential solutions to those barriers. Thank you to our panelists from across the state who shared more about the effects of the past year and how they have navigated serving kids and their families during a pandemic, including state Senator Max Wise; Dewey Rains, Behavioral Health Director with the Cumberland Family Medical Centers; Maria Gurren, Public Protection Coordinator with the Louisville Metro Criminal Justice Commission; and Raine Minichan, Coordinator of Extended School Services, Guidance, and School Mental Health Services at Fayette County Public Schools.
Join Kentucky Youth Advocates and Jewish Heritage Fund for Excellence for a virtual summit, Closing the Gaps in Behavioral Health Care for Youth in Louisville, on Tuesday, May 11th at 9:30AM - 12:00PM ET.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss kids and their families who experience–or are at risk of experiencing–homelessness in Kentucky, including solutions to prevent homelessness. Thank you to our panelists, including Adrienne Bush from the Homeless and Housing Coalition of Kentucky; George Eklund from the Coalition for the Homeless; and Darryl Young from the Coalition Supporting Young Adults.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss federal and state solutions to end child poverty with Bruce Lesley from First Focus on Children, including the anti-poverty measures included in the recent federal American Rescue Plan. Read more about cutting child poverty in half at firstfocus.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we recap the 2021 Kentucky General Assembly with state Senator Reginald Thomas (D-Lexington) and Senator Whitney Westerfield (R-Crofton).
View the Bill Tracker to see the final status of 2021 Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities and other bills that are good for kids. Check out our blog for a recap of wins for kids in the 2021 legislative session at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss strengthening families to prevent child abuse and neglect, including building protective factors and a two-generation approach to mitigate parental trauma. Thank you to our panelists, including Melissa Goins, Director of the Kentucky Division of Family Resource and Youth Services Centers; Julia Goodman, Family Resource Center Coordinator with Kenton County Schools; Tonya Jernigan, LCSW with the UK Department of Pediatric Forensic Medicine; and, Emily Keely with the Kentucky Strengthening Families program.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month -- check out resources from the Kosair Charities' Face It Movement for tips and information on preventing, recognizing, and reporting child abuse and neglect in the commonwealth at faceitmovement.org.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss updates to Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) for Kentucky families. The P-EBT benefit has been extended for October 2020-June 2021, but this round of benefits will be administered differently than previous rounds. Thank you to our panelists: Jason Dunn, Director of the DCBS Division of Family Support, Karena Cash, Advocacy Coordinator with Feeding Kentucky, and Karina Barillas, Executive Director of La Casita Center. Check out this FAQ document from DCBS (and in Spanish here) for more information on this round of P-EBT, as well as this blog post.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting this virtual forum. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss innovative solutions to bridge the digital divide for Kentucky kids and their families. Thank you to our panelists: Commissioner of Agriculture Ryan Quarles, Alicia Sells from Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative, and Ben Reno-Weber from the Greater Louisville Project.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the next chapter of COVID-19 and K-12 schools, including how to address the practical, day-to-day concerns of students’ socioemotional needs and evolving educational environment during this transitional time. Thank you to our partner panelists: Dr. Kish Cumi Price from the Louisville Urban League, Dr. Jim Flynn from the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents, and Sam Corbett from KET's Assignment Education.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the first half of the Kentucky General Assembly, including updates on the status of bills that are good for kids and families and ways to take action, as well as an update on the state budget priorities and process.
Learn more about the 2021 Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities, view our Bill Tracker, and lookup ways to contact your state legislators at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
Dr. Terry Brooks was joined by Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman during Children's Advocacy Week for a discussion about her top priorities for kids now and in a post-pandemic Kentucky. Olivia Pierce, Face It Youth Ambassador of Russell County, shares remarks and Nora Priddy shares an opening song.
This week, hundreds of youth and advocates from across Kentucky are virtually convening for Children’s Advocacy Week and urging elected leaders to support the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
In place of the annual gathering in the Capitol Rotunda, advocates and state leaders tuned into the first virtual Rally for Kentucky Kids. Governor Andy Beshear, House Speaker David Osborne, and Senator Julie Raque Adams shared remarks, as well as young people from across the commonwealth.
This week, hundreds of youth and advocates from across Kentucky are virtually convening for Children’s Advocacy Week and urging elected leaders to support the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children. Learn more at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss how to prepare for Children’s Advocacy Week (February 1st-5th), including reminders about events during the week and updates on key policies to discuss with legislators.
Learn more about the 2021 Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children priorities, check out our Advocacy Toolkit, view our Bill Tracker, and sign up for updates on Children’s Advocacy Week at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss updates from Part 1 of the Kentucky General Assembly, including bills filed related to kids and families, changes to the legislative session due to COVID, and an update on the state budget, as well as ways advocates can stay informed and take action throughout the legislative session.
Learn more about the 2021 Blueprint for Kentucky's Children priorities, check out our Advocacy Toolkit, view our Bill Tracker, and sign up for updates on Children's Advocacy Week at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the intersection of incarceration, substance abuse, and parenting--including new data about mothers who are incarcerated and state policy changes that would allow parents to be held accountable while remaining connected to their child. Panelists included Jennifer Hancock, president and CEO of Volunteers of America Mid-States, and Chaly Downs, graduate of VOA's Freedom House Women's Addiction Recovery Program.
Check out the new Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children issue brief released today by Kentucky Youth Advocates, Data Trends and Policy Recommendations to Address the Impact of Maternal Incarceration on Kentucky’s Children, which shows that the number of women incarcerated has grown at an alarming pace in Kentucky in recent decades and that women incarcerated are more likely to be a parent and to be incarcerated for a drug offense.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the 2021 Blueprint for Kentucky's Children state policy priorities, which seeks to address child health, safety, education, families' economic security, and more. Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers also joins the forum for a look ahead to the 2021 Kentucky General Assembly.
As the commonwealth works to overcome the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and address systemic racism, the Blueprint speaks with a common voice to create brighter futures for all Kentucky kids and their families. View the 2021 priorities and fact sheets for additional information at kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we continue our discussion on data and policy solutions from the new 2020 KIDS COUNT County Data Book, including the theme of this year’s book — the impact of the “dual pandemics” of COVID-19 and racial injustice. A special thanks to state Senator Julie Raque Adams, Majority Caucus Chair, and state Representative Angie Hatton, Minority Whip, for sharing their takeaways from the data and a look ahead to the 2021 General Assembly.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss data and policy solutions from the new 2020 KIDS COUNT County Data Book, including the theme of this year's book -- the impact of the "dual pandemics" of COVID-19 and racial injustice. Panelists included Dr. Henrietta Bada, Director of the Maternal and Child Health Division, Kentucky Department for Public Health; Mike Hammons, Senior Director of Advocacy for Learning Grove; and Dr. Kish Cumi Price, Director of Education Policy and Programming at Louisville Urban League.
View the 2020 County Data Book materials and access the slide deck from the data presentation at kyyouth.org/kentucky-kids-count/
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss Medicaid open enrollment, including what's new for this year, such as the Supporting Kentucky Youth (SKY) program that will provide health services for all kids living in foster care. Panelists include Allison Adams, Vice President for Public Policy at the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky; Veronica Cecil, Deputy Commissioner at Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services; Kelly Pullen, Executive Director of Kentucky SKY; and Ashley Shoemaker, Director of Outreach and Enrollment at Family Health Centers.
Learn more about Medicaid open enrollment and kynect at kyyouth.org
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count podcast. Visit AetnaMedicaidKY.com/choose to learn more about their health care benefits and programs designed with your family’s wellbeing in mind.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Dr. Joe Bargione of the Bounce Coalition led us through a self-care workshop to help us maintain the energy we need to continue our advocacy on behalf of Kentucky kids. As advocates battle the pandemic, support the community, experience personal and professional uncertainty, and sift through election news, it is important that we continue to care for ourselves.
Watch a video recording of the presentation and download the self-care worksheet at kyyouth.org. Learn more about the Bounce Coalition and request a training at www.bouncecoalition.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss substance use amidst COVID-19, the intersection of trauma and substance use, and how state policies and budget investments can best respond and prevent substance use, especially for families with children. Panelists included Toya Gatewood, Clinical Manager at the Morton Center; Carolina Glover, Case Manager for the Daviess Circuit Court, Family Division; and Tiffany Hall, Chief Operating Officer at Volunteers of America Mid-States.
Register to join one of nine regional virtual forums for updates on the implementation progress on the federal Family First Prevention Services Act in Kentucky at kyyouth.org.
Thank you to Aetna Better Health of Kentucky for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss human trafficking and exploitation, including types of trafficking, prevalence in Kentucky, prevention and intervention strategies, and the impact of COVID-19. Panelists included Marissa Castellanos, Director of the Bakhita Empowerment Initiative at Catholic Charities of Louisville; Rebecca Sim, Director of the Immigration Legal Services at Catholic Charities of Louisville; and Dr. Ginny Sprang, Executive Director of the Center on Trauma and Children at the University of Kentucky.
Learn more about human trafficking through the National Human Trafficking Hotline and in the latest Kentucky Child Victims of Human Trafficking Annual Report from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. If you believe you may have information about a trafficking situation, call the toll-free hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Thank you to Aetna for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast.
Amy McGrath, Kentucky candidate for the U.S. Senate, joined child advocates on October 15th to discuss federal issues and solutions focused on kids, families, and strong communities. The forum was hosted by Kentucky Youth Advocates, in partnership with the Blueprint for Kentucky's Children, Council for Agency Executives, Kosair Charities Face It Movement, Kentucky Nonprofit Network, and Center for Nonprofit Excellence. Please note, an invitation has been extended to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to participate in a parallel forum.
Thank you to Aetna for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the data and health impacts of Kentucky youth tobacco use, recent policy wins to curb tobacco use among youth, and policies to consider in the 2021 Kentucky legislative session to continue improving youth health and well-being. Panelists included Bonnie Hackbarth, Vice President of External Affairs at the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky; Shannon Smith, Kentucky Government Relations Director for the American Heart Association; and Ben Robinson, a youth from Daviess County.
Thank you to Aetna for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on families experiencing domestic violence, including the complex dynamics within families, how neighbors and professionals can help, and resources available for survivors. Panelists included Teshanna Brown, Director of Domestic Violence Services for Center for Women and Families; Arlene Grullon, Director of Emergency Shelter for Center for Women and Families; Olivia Spradlin, Senior Program Specialist with Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence; and Darlene Thomas, Executive Director of GreenHouse17.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Find information on Kentucky's domestic violence programs and resources at kcadv.org.
Thank you to Aetna for supporting the Making Kids Count Podcast. This episode is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks is joined by state Representative Josie Raymond and Representative Jason Nemes to discuss paid family leave, including why that policy is important for kids, their caregivers, and the workforce, along with upcoming legislation in the 2021 session.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss child abuse prevention, including the TEN-4 bruising rule, and how the dual pandemics of COVID-19 and systemic racism are impacting family safety and dynamics. Panelists include Dr. Mary Clyde Pierce, Professor of Emergency Medicine Pediatrics and Preventive Medicine at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and co-creator of the TEN-4 Bruising Rule; Dr. Melissa Currie, Medical Director and Chief of the Kosair Charities Division of Pediatric Forensic Medicine at University of Louisville; Pam Darnall, President of Family and Children’s Place, which is a HANDS program provider in Louisville; and, Lynn Hulsey, Director of Programs at Family Enrichment Center. Thank you to Kosair Charities for leading efforts to prevent and end child abuse in Kentucky with the Face It Movement.
Join Face It for a FREE virtual training on Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma with Kentucky's leading child abuse experts! Find details on dates, times, and CEUs and REGISTER at faceitabuse.org.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss recent state enacted child care changes and the impact on families and providers. Panelists included Dr. Sarah Vanover, Director of the Kentucky Division of Child Care; June Widman, executive director, Appalachian Early Childhood Network; and Dawn Thompson, Assistant Director, and Kathy King, special projects manager, of Community Coordinated Child Care (4-C).
Learn more about the recent child care updates at kyyouth.org and TAKE ACTION by telling your federal leaders to make child care a priority in additional federal COVID relief efforts.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we discuss kinship care in Kentucky amidst COVID-19, the important role of support groups, and what advocates can do to stand up for kinship families. We also presented a new handbook for relative caregivers to use as a resource as they navigate caring for vulnerable children and understanding the complex child welfare system. View it at kinshipky.org. Panelists include Mary Jo Dendy, Family Resource Center Coordinator with Fayette County Public Schools; Norma Hatfield, President of the Kinship Families Coalition of Kentucky; and Angela Stephens, a kinship caregiver.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we discuss advocacy during the 2020 election and how you can engage local, state, and federal candidates around policies related to kids. Secretary of State Michael Adams explains this year's election procedures. We also present a new toolkit advocates can use to start conversations with candidates and discuss electoral advocacy best practices with John Tilley, former member of the Kentucky House of Representatives and served as the Secretary of the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we discuss the trauma of the dual pandemics--COVID-19 and racial inequities--for kids and families and what schools and community organizations can do to create supportive environments that can help build resiliency. Panelists include Dr. Kish Cumi Price, Director of Education Policy and Programming at Louisville Urban League; Raine Minichan, Interim Coordinator of Mental Health Services & Guidance Counseling with Fayette County Public Schools; and Ebony O'Rea, Trainer with the Bounce Coalition and Interim Executive Director of Nativity Academy.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we are joined by Chair of the U.S. House Budget Committee, Representative John Yarmuth for a look continued discussion around pending COVID-19 relief packages and more.
View our COVID-19 Action Hub at kyyouth.org to take action on federal priorities for Kentucky kids and families. Review a comparison of provisions that support young children, their families, and child care providers in enacted legislation in response to COVID-19, as well as relevant provisions from the HEROES Act and the HEALS Act that will impact kids and families.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we continue our discussions about priorities for kids and families as Congress debates the next federal COVID-19 relief package, including the U.S. House of Representatives' HEROES Act and the U.S. Senate's HEALS Act. To localize those ongoing federal conversations, we heard from several Kentucky leaders and advocates, including: Lisa Lee, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Medicaid; Mandy Simpson, Director of Public Policy for Metro United Way; Adrienne Bush, Executive Director of the Homeless and Housing Coalition of Kentucky; LaShana Harris, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Juvenile Justice; and, Dr. Jim Flynn, President of the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents. We thank Senate Majority Leader McConnell staff for also joining us for this forum.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page for more information. View our COVID-19 Action Hub at kyyouth.org to take action on federal priorities for Kentucky kids and families.
COVID-19 Impacts on the Kentucky Child Welfare Community: A Public Health Crisis Meets a Vulnerable System
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, we share report findings and facilitate conversations on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the child welfare system. In the spring, Kentucky Youth Advocates, in partnership with Casey Family Programs, set out to get a better understanding of how the public health crisis was impacting young people who are foster or kinship alumni, biological parents, kinship caregivers, foster parents, and service providers that interact with the child welfare system through a series of interviews, focus groups, and online surveys.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks is joined by Bruce Lesley, President of First Focus on Children, to discuss the landscape of ongoing federal advocacy needs for additional COVID-19 relief for Kentucky kids and families.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we discuss the challenges facing kids with special needs and their families during COVID-19, including shifting services during quarantine, increased needs within schools, preschools, and the home, and opportunities for budget investments and policy changes. Panelists include Dana Eckert, Case Manager with Seven Counties Services; Dr. Debbie Mays, Education Consultant with the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative; Kristy Stiltner, Mental Health Director with Mountain Comprehensive Care; and Lori Wilson, Executive Director of Carriage House Educational Services.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks was joined by Dr. Ryan Quarles, Kentucky Commissioner of the Department of Agriculture; Leah Feagin, Vice President of the Kentucky School Nutrition Association; and Kate McDonald, KY Kids Eat Coordinator with Feeding Kentucky. They discuss challenges and bright spots in addressing access to nutritional, affordable food across the Commonwealth during the pandemic.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, advocates from across the state heard a discussion on changes in policies, practices, and systems that will advance racial equity for Kentucky kids and their families. Panelists include Karina Barillas, Executive Director of La Casita Center; Dr. Kish Cumi Price, Director of Education Policy & Programming at Louisville Urban League; Keturah Herron, Policy Strategist with ACLU of Kentucky; and Vivian Lasly-Bibbs, Acting Director of CHFS Office of Health Equity.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, advocates heard from three young people from Barren, Harlan, and Jefferson counties about their unique experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, how the national KIDS COUNT data is reflected in their lives, and ideas for improving outcomes for every Kentucky child.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks was joined by the recently appointed Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services, Marta Miranda-Straub. DCBS includes a number of human services, such as public benefits, child care, child welfare, and more. They discuss challenges and opportunities and Commissioner Miranda-Straub's priorities around trauma-informed care and racial justice as she steps into her new role.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
Terry Brooks shares Kentucky's measurable, but still inadequate, improvements in child well-being as highlighted in Annie E. Casey Foundation's latest KIDS COUNT Data Book, how this data can be used as a guidepost as advocates and decision makers thoughtfully move forward from the immense and disparate impacts of the pandemic, and recommendations to expand opportunities for all Kentucky children to thrive.
View the Kentucky State Data Profile Sheet, and read our press release at kyyouth.org.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we discuss the challenges of parents/caregivers returning to work and how employers and state systems can best support those parents. Panelists included Clanisha Coleman, Shawnee Club Director of Boys & Girls Clubs of Kentuckiana; Bill Londrigan, President of Kentucky AFL-CIO; and Ashli Watts, President and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we continue our conversation on the future of K-12 education amidst the pandemic with the Kentucky Board of Education, including Chair, Dr. Lu Young, and member Patrice McCrary. They discuss the considerations for the 2020-21 school year, commitments to addressing inequities within the education system, the Kentucky Department of Education commissioner search, and more.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum, Terry Brooks reflects on current events, confronting racism, and Kentucky Youth Advocates' recommitment to focusing on the impact of systemic racism on public policy and listening and learning from impacted communities. We also discuss the reopening of child care across Kentucky, including the anticipated impact on child care providers, families, and businesses and the continued advocacy needed so the sector can serve children. Our panelists included, Dr. Sarah Vanover, Director of the Kentucky Division of Child Care; Travis Burton with the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce; June Widman, Executive Director at Eastern KY Child Care Coalition; and Jennifer Washburn, Executive Director at iKids Childhood Enrichment Center. Review the Healthy at Work guidelines for in-home programs and center-based programs at healthyatwork.ky.gov..
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
This week on our Advocate Virtual Forum we continue our conversation on K-12 education with advocates from across the state, including Penny Christian, president of the 16th District PTA in Lexington; Dr. Elizabeth Dinkins, Dean of the Bellarmine University School of Education; Brent McKim, President of the Jefferson County Teachers Association; and, Dr. Leon Mooneyhan, Executive Director of the Ohio Valley Education Cooperative. They discuss the realities of Non-Traditional Instruction, students' academic achievement, the importance of social and emotional development and emphasizing equity, and successfully supporting families as the pandemic continues to impact the Commonwealth.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org/covid19/ for more information.
Terry Brooks was joined this week on an Advocate Virtual Forum by Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, who also serves as the Secretary of the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet, to discuss the future of education and workforce–and more.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page for more information.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Nikki Thornton, Director of Program Operations at True Up, and Tia Humphrey, a member of the Voices of the Commonwealth. They discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting young people in or transitioning out of foster care and the supports they need to stay healthy and safe during this time.
Join a virtual support group with VOC members every Friday at 3 PM CT/4 PM ET. RSVP to wwilson9@murraystate.edu for the Google Hangouts link or conference call link. Join the VOC on Instagram Live (@ky_voc) on Tuesdays at 3 pm CST/4 pm EST.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Abby Drane, President & CEO of Seven Counties Services and Bellewood & Brooklawn, and Dale Suttles, president of Sunrise Children’s Services. They discuss how their organizations have adjusted to the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic and ways they are helping the youth in their care and the families they serve cope with stress and trauma.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Kentucky Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) Deputy Commissioner Elizabeth Caywood and Dr. Jay Miller, Dean of the UK College of Social Work. They discuss the priorities of DCBS during the pandemic, the importance of self-care and wellness of those in the helping professions, and how practices within the child welfare system will be impacted as the commonwealth reopens and recovers from the pandemic.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page at kyyouth.org for more information.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Senator Gerald Neal to reflect on the 2020 legislative session, areas in which Kentucky must continue work for kids, and what to look forward to as the Commonwealth begins COVID-19 recovery efforts.
Listen to Terry Brooks' reflections on the final state budget and 2020 wins for kids in our April 21st episode.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Kentucky House Speaker Pro Tempore David Meade to reflect on wins for kids and families in the 2020 legislative session, areas in which Kentucky leaders must dig deeper for kids, and what to look forward to in 2021 as the Commonwealth begins COVID-19 recovery efforts.
Listen to Terry Brooks' reflections on the final state budget and 2020 wins for kids in our April 21st episode.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Pam Darnall, president and CEO of Family and Children's Place in Louisville, and Tammy Weidinger, president and CEO of the Brighton Center in Northern Kentucky. They discuss the critical services Kentucky's Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) home visiting program provides, current disruptions to the service for many Kentucky families, and the needs of HANDS providers and the families they serve now and post-pandemic.
Families can learn more about HANDS and how to access services in their community at www.kyhands.com.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more. View our COVID-19 page for more information.
Terry Brooks reflects on the 2020 Kentucky General Assembly, the final state budget as it pertains to children’s issues, and wins for kids despite the unprecedented times we're experiencing. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Veronica Cecil, Vice President for Policy at the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky and former Deputy Commissioner in the Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services, Dr. Julia Richerson, pediatrician practicing at Family Health Centers Iroquois in Louisville, and Dr. Nikki Stone, Dental Director at the UK North Fork Valley Community Health Center in Hazard. They discuss the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthy systems, what changes are needed to ensure continuity of health care, and best practices for families to access care during this time.
Families in need of food, cash assistance, or medical coverage can contact the Kentucky Department for Community Based Services at www.benefind.ky.gov or by phone at 1-855-306-8959. For other COVID-19 related information or questions, visit www.kycovid19.ky.gov or call 1-800-722-5725.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Mike Hammons, vice president of advocacy at Learning Grove, and Dr. Sarah Vanover, director of Kentucky's Division of Child Care, to discuss the realities facing the child care sector, what federal investments are still needed to support child care centers, and information for families on setting realistic expectations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Child care centers and families can find information on available supports via the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Check out GROWING SOUND, which uses the power of music to build children's social and emotional skills.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Brigitte Blom Ramsey, president and CEO of the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence, to discuss the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's learning and the K-12 sector.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Deb Stein of the Partnership for America's Children and Doug Scoffield of Volunteers of America Mid-States to dive deeper into the federal supports recently passed by Congress and how those will impact the lives of Kentucky families and the businesses that serve them.
This is part of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more.
Terry Brooks is joined via phone by Dr. Joe Bargione. Dr. Bargione is a licensed psychologist and a member of the Bounce Coalition's leadership team. During this podcast, both will discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on kids and families, as well as tips and resources to cope with and overcome trauma related to a public health crisis.
This is the first episode of a series of conversations where we examine the immediate and long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Kentucky kids and the systems that influence their lives – health care, education, early childhood education and care, child welfare, youth justice, economic security, and more.
On this special episode, Terry Brooks reflects on the Kentucky Senate state budget proposal as it pertains to children’s issues, discusses priorities we hope to see as the legislature enters conference committee, and outlines what to expect in the budget process in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children budget priorities.
Terry Brooks sits down with Senator Reginald Thomas, who is a member of the Senate Education Committee and the Child Welfare Oversight and Advisory Committee, in Frankfort to discuss state budget decisions, criminal justice reforms, improvements within the child welfare system, and more. NOTE: This podcast was taped prior to the increased severity of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org
Terry Brooks sits down with Representative Angie Hatton, who is the Minority Whip of the Kentucky House, in Frankfort to discuss the parallel needs of urban and rural Kentuckians, ongoing budget decisions, criminal justice reform efforts, and more.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org.
Note: This episode was taped prior to Kentucky House passage of their budget proposal.
On this special episode, Terry Brooks reflects on the Kentucky House state budget proposal as it pertains to children’s issues, discusses elements in which we hope to see further investment in kids as it moves to the Senate, and outlines what to expect in the budget process in the final weeks of the Kentucky General Assembly. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children budget priorities at kyyouth.org.
Terry Brooks sits down with Senator David Givens, who is President Pro Tempore of the Kentucky Senate, in Frankfort to discuss ongoing efforts to improve school accountability and assessment measures, state budget decisions, and more.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org.
Terry Brooks sits down with Senator Max Wise, who chairs the Education Committee for the Kentucky Senate, in Frankfort to discuss ongoing efforts to improve school safety, changes in school accountability and assessment measures, state budget decisions, and more.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org.
Terry Brooks is joined by Betty (BJ) Adkins and Dr. David Finke -- both members of the Bounce Coalition leadership team -- to discuss the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Kentucky kids, the role of trauma-informed care practices in building stronger communities, and the important work of the Bounce Coalition.
Terry Brooks sits down with Brent McKim, President of the Jefferson County Teachers Association, to discuss JCTA efforts to support educators and improve student outcomes, investments in education and school safety within the 2020 state budget, and more.
Terry Brooks sits down with Senator Julie Raque Adams, the Majority Caucus Chair for the Kentucky Senate, to discuss her visit to the Whitehouse to discuss the teen vaping epidemic, 2020 state budget and revenue discussions, and other legislative priorities. Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org.
Terry Brooks sits down with Senator Whitney Westerfield, who chairs the Judiciary Committee for the Kentucky Senate, in Frankfort to discuss ongoing reforms within Kentucky's criminal justice and youth justice systems as well as the intersection of those systems with the child welfare system. Since the taping of this episode, Senate Bill 87 has passed the Kentucky Senate.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org.
Terry Brooks is joined by Ashli Watts, President and CEO for the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Jason Bailey, the Executive Director of the Kentucky Center for Economic Policy, and Brigitte Blom Ramsey, the Executive Director of the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence, for a conversation on Governor Andy Beshear's state budget proposal and key areas to focus on as budget and revenue discussions continue with the Kentucky legislature. Learn more about the Blueprint for Kentucky’s Children budget priorities at kyyouth.org
Terry Brooks is joined by Dr. Leon Mooneyhan, Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio Valley Educational Cooperative, to discuss the education components of the Governor's proposed budget and the past, present, and future reforms of Kentucky's education system.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker at kyyouth.org
On this special episode, Terry Brooks reflects on Governor Andy Beshear's state budget proposal as it pertains to kids' issues, outlines what to expect in the budget process, and ways to stay informed as the budget advances through the Kentucky General Assembly.
Terry Brooks is joined by Ben Chandler, president and CEO of the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky, to reflect on the 2020 Children's Advocacy Day at the Capitol and discuss health issues impacting Kentucky kids, including supporting tobacco-free policies, understanding trends around vaccinations, ensuring trauma-informed care to address adverse childhood experiences, and more.
Stay up-to-date on state policies that are good for kids on our bill tracker.
Terry Brooks sits down with Norma Hatfield, President of the Kinship Families Coalition of Kentucky, who shares her story of becoming a kinship caregiver and how that experience has shaped her advocacy efforts for kinship families across the Commonwealth. Norma encourages kinship caregivers and all of our listeners to urge elected leaders to prioritize investments for children who have experienced abuse and neglect by supporting kinship families, including financial and respite care supports. Learn more about kinship care in Kentucky.
Terry Brooks sits down with Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman to discuss her new roles as Kentucky's Lieutenant Governor and the Secretary of the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet and her priorities to improve outcomes for all kids and families.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky House Minority Floor Leader Joni Jenkins to discuss the upcoming 2020 legislative session, developing the biennial state budget, and prioritizing issues impacting kids, such as continuing momentum in child welfare, minimizing the impact of parental incarceration, and addressing the addiction crisis.
Terry Brooks is joined by Eric Friedlander, Acting Secretary of Kentucky's Cabinet for Health and Family Services, to discuss priorities of Governor Beshear's Administration in health and child welfare.
Terry Brooks is joined by two philanthropic leaders in Kentucky: Barry Allen, President and Treasurer of the Gheens Foundation, and Keith Inman, President of Kosair Charities. They discuss the philanthropic landscape locally and nationally, the impact of philanthropy on nonprofits and the kids and families they serve, and the ways in which philanthropic entities and nonprofits can evolve to create the greatest impact for communities.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky Senate Minority Floor Leader Morgan McGarvey to discuss the upcoming 2020 legislative session, developing the biennial state budget, and prioritizing issues impacting kids.
Terry Brooks sits down with partners in the Blueprint for Kentucky's Children, Natalie Harris of Coalition for the Homeless and Mike Hammons of Children, Inc., to discuss 2020 policy and budget priorities that are good for Kentucky kids and families. View the 2020 Blueprint agenda and supporting resources at www.kyyouth.org/blueprintky/.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky Speaker of the House David Osborne to discuss the upcoming 2020 legislative session and priorities impacting kids, including investing in keeping families together safely, addressing the addiction crisis, and more.
NOTE: This episode was recorded prior to the final results of the 2019 Election Day.
Terry Brooks shares the latest trends in child well-being highlighted in the 2019 Kentucky KIDS COUNT County Data Book and sits down with Beatrice Roussel, a high school senior and leader in StAMINA, and Michelle Elison, Kentucky's Partnership Coordinator with the U.S. Census Bureau, to discuss takeaways around youth mental health and the importance of a complete and accurate census count in 2020.
Thank you to our KIDS COUNT sponsors, including signature sponsor Passport Health Plan and presenting sponsor Kosair Charities, as well as Avesis, Corona Spanish Media, Delta Dental, and Mountain Comprehensive Care.
NOTE: We incorrectly stated the number of children in poverty in this podcast episode. As cited in the County Data Book, 219,000 Kentucky children live in poverty.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers to discuss the upcoming 2020 legislative session and priorities impacting kids, including investing in measures to improve school safety, keeping families together safely, addressing the addiction crisis, and more.
NOTE: This episode was recorded prior to the 2019 Election Day.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers and Jennifer Hancock, President and CEO of Volunteers of America Mid-States, to discuss efforts in Clay County to address the addiction epidemic and build a thriving community, and how it can be replicated in other communities across the Commonwealth.
Terry Brooks sits down with Governor Matt Bevin by phone to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as child welfare, economic security, and more. Tune in to hear the candidate’s ideas for making Kentucky the best place to young.
Listen to our podcast episode featuring Gubernatorial Candidate Attorney General Andy Beshear.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky Attorney General Candidate Daniel Cameron to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as the impact of parental incarceration on kids, improvements to the youth justice system, and more. Tune in to hear the candidate’s ideas for making Kentucky the best place to young.
Listen to our podcast episode featuring Kentucky Attorney General Candidate Greg Stumbo.
Terry Brooks sits down with Dr. Helen Deines, Larry Michalczyk, and Pam Darnall, three experts with years of experience in the child welfare field, to discuss the Courier Journal’s recent series on Kentucky’s child welfare system and the need to address the Commonwealth’s high rate of child abuse. Tune in to hear their reflections and calls to action.
This episode is a follow up to the Making Kids Count episode featuring Rick Green and Debby Yetter of the Courier Journal.
Terry Brooks sits down with Kentucky Attorney General Candidate Greg Stumbo to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as the impact of the opioid epidemic and parental incarceration on kids, improvements to the youth justice system, and more. Tune in to hear the candidate’s ideas for making Kentucky the best place to young.
We hope to host candidate Daniel Cameron in a future episode of Making Kids Count.
Terry Brooks sits down with Rick Green, editor, and Debby Yetter, social services and child welfare reporter, to discuss the Courier Journal's recent series on Kentucky's child welfare system and the need to address the Commonwealth's high rate of child abuse. Tune in to hear their reflections and call to action.
This is part one of our series on child welfare. Stay tuned for future episodes featuring experts in the child welfare arena who have worked at the grassroots and policy levels, as well as policymakers who are working in Frankfort to improve the child welfare system through changes to state law.
Terry Brooks sits down with Gubernatorial Candidate Attorney General Andy Beshear to discuss issues impacting Kentucky kids, such as child safety, youth justice, economic security, and more. Tune in to hear the candidate's ideas for making Kentucky the best place to young.
Listen to our podcast episode featuring Governor Matt Bevin.
Welcome to the Making Kids Count podcast brought to you by Kentucky Youth Advocates, where we sit down with policymakers, community leaders, and youth and discuss ideas to make Kentucky the best place to be young. For more info and episodes visit www.kyyouth.org.