Sunflower Kids: Getting Started

The Sunflower Kids Logo is joyful and happy, a great representation of the organization.

      

       After one visit with the Executive Director of Sunflower Kids, Stephanie Hoffman, I knew I was going to love working with this organization. 

        Sunflower Kids is best described by taking a look at their mission: "Sunflower Kids uniquely supports Kentucky families and safe communities through Supervised Visitation Services. Sunflower Kids values safety, justice, and respect so that all individuals are empowered to live free of violence." The non-profit features a FAQ on the website which answers many questions I had about the organization, clarifying common terms they use on the site. 

Below, see answers to commonly asked, interesting

 questions found on the website. 

There is no court order to use Sunflower Kids' services.  Are we still able to do so?

A: Most families are referred to SFK through a court order; however, SFK also accepts referrals from community and state agencies and self-referrals by families.

We have a no-contact protective order in place. How can I be sure I won’t run into him/her when taking my child(ren) to visit?

A: Sunflower Kids uses staggered arrival and departure times to ensure that parties will not come in contact with one another during visits or exchanges.

What does the Visitation Monitor do during visitations?

A: The Visitation Monitor remains in the room with the visiting party and children at all times to ensure the safety of the children.  The Monitor is there to observe and record the interactions between the visiting party and the children, but does so with as little interference as possible.  The Monitor only interferes in the visit if SFK guidelines are not being followed.

       During our group orientation, Stephanie explained how the organization works, expanding on the mission. Families that have experienced violence or abuse can have a safe visit with their children & other family members. Stephanie explained how safety is a huge priority, & off duty police officers are present when high risk visitors are there. I thought this was very interesting, & it makes me feel like the volunteering experience is going to run safely & smoothly. 

      

       Stephanie is extremely organized, yet very flexible with volunteers. After looking through my schedule, I decided that Wednesdays would probably work best. I will arrive at about 3:15 & help with office work like answering the phone. When visitations begin, I will be an extra pair of hands to answer the door, phones, or just make sure things are running smoothly. I will stay for a few hours each time I volunteer.

 

A lively little girl's photo featured on sunflowerkids.org. Don't you just love that happy face? 

        I'm really looking forward to becoming involved with Sunflower Kids. I love children and I love the vision they have for violence free visitation for families. I can’t wait to volunteer here and see how I can impact other’s lives through service. I feel like volunteering for Sunflower Kids will help me grow as a person and I can’t wait to get started! 

Until next time,

Shelby