News

December 5th, 2024

Kicking the Winter Blues and Keeping Your Spirits Bright

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Winter can be tough, especially when you’re dealing with trauma—whether it’s your own or your child’s. The darker, colder…

November 21st, 2024

Walking in Gratitude: Reflections on Thanksgiving and the Power of Connection

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Thanksgiving has always been a favorite time of year for me. I love time with family and friends; all…

November 14th, 2024

Adventure for All!

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Since launching the Miracle Heights Adventures program in 2022, we’ve aimed to offer inclusive, adaptive aerial adventure programming. With…

November 7th, 2024

Seven Core Adoption Issues for Adoptees, Birth Parents, and Adoptive Parents

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When asked, everyone likes to express that the adoption of a child is a celebratory and joyous occasion. Though…

October 31st, 2024

Building Stronger Families: How Crossnore’s Prevention Department is Keeping Children at Home

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Crossnore Communities for Children launched its Prevention Department in 2021. The goal of developing a continuum of programs to…

October 24th, 2024

Helping Children Find Home by Bridging Families

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Challenges in the Foster Care System Anyone who has ever worked in or been involved with the foster care…

September 13th, 2024

Transforming Tutoring: Mrs. Timaiya’s Impact on Educational Support at Crossnore

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It’s Tuesday afternoon and the middle schoolers have arrived back home. Preteens pour in the door and head straight…

August 29th, 2024

Reflecting on the Past, Forging the Future: Crossnore’s Journey of Program Strategy, Growth, and Innovation

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Exciting times are unfolding at Crossnore Communities for Children as we reflect on our recent achievements and plan for…

August 22nd, 2024

A Spotlight on our Western Region Foster Care Program

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Six years ago, Crossnore expanded its reach to Hendersonville, North Carolina. What started as a foster care team of…

August 13th, 2024

Nurturing Minds and Hearts: Exploring Creative Connections Outdoors

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As summer comes to an end and the routines of school start again, you might find that you and…

August 1st, 2024

Campus Foster Care: A critical piece of the child welfare system in North Carolina

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It’s the middle of the night and a county social worker has just responded to an emergency situation. Five…

July 26th, 2024

Making Trauma-Informed Advocacy a National Priority

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Lina Pasquale is Executive Director of Crossnore’s Center for Trauma Resilient Communities and Board Chair for Campaign for Trauma-Informed…

July 18th, 2024

Who Builds the Team Builders?: Self-Care for Facilitators

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All of us have learned, one way or another, that it’s often easier to give advice to others than…

July 10th, 2024

The Heart of Our Work and The Relationships Formed

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When I started working at Crossnore, I had zero idea how much “the kids at work” would become so…

July 2nd, 2024

Leading from Where You Are: Reflections from Crossnore’s Leadership Academy

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If someone asked you today, “Do you see yourself as a leader”, how would you answer? Launching Leadership Academy…

June 13th, 2024

Crossnore’s Center for Trauma Resilient Communities’ Impact in Winston-Salem & Beyond

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The Center for Trauma Resilient Communities (CTRC), established in 2018 as a part of Crossnore Communities for Children, aims…

June 6th, 2024

What Does Cultural Humility Mean for Crossnore?

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Cultural humility leads to reflecting on trauma-informed principles at Crossnore. When we truly practice cultural humility, we can acknowledge…

May 30th, 2024

Revitalizing Recreation: The Disc Golf Renovation at Crossnore

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In the heart of Winston Salem, amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown, lies a hidden gem that has…

May 9th, 2024

Keeping Sibling Groups Together

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For many children in foster care, their sibling has been the only constant presence in their lives. A sibling…

May 7th, 2024

Press Release: Crossnore Receives Largest Donation in its History

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Crossnore Receives $5 Million pledge toward Comprehensive Campaign. $750,000 Matching Gift from Reynolds American Foundation. WINSTON-SALEM, NC (May 8,…

April 25th, 2024

How to Get Started with Late Spring and Summer Gardening

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Spring is here! Or is it already summer? It sure does feel like summer here in the NC Piedmont…

April 19th, 2024

Earth Day – April 22nd, 2024

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Earth Day is Apr 22, 2024 and it is often a time to appreciate the outdoors and reflect on…

April 11th, 2024

April: National Volunteer Month 2024

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April may be National Volunteer Month, but we are blessed to have volunteer support throughout the year! We get…

April 4th, 2024

Building Hopeful Futures Together: Child Abuse Prevention Month 2024

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April marks Child Abuse Prevention Month. This year’s theme is “Building a Hopeful Future, Together,” with a focus on…

March 28th, 2024

Who Will Roll the Stone Away…?

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March 21st, 2024

Sprinkling Joy and Magic Amidst the Have-To’s

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There are only 24 hours in a day for all of us. But have you ever wondered what a…

March 14th, 2024

Celebrating National Women’s History Month

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March is National Women’s History Month. Women’s History Month initially began as Women’s History Week in Santa Rosa, California.…

March 7th, 2024

Social Worker Appreciation Month: A Reminder of this Important Work

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March is Social Worker Appreciation Month! Each year, I am reminded of the important work social workers do. It’s work…

February 29th, 2024

How to Get Started with Spring Gardening

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See those daffodils beginning to bloom?! Believe it or not, it’s time to start your spring garden planning. If…

February 15th, 2024

Building Resilience in the Great Outdoors

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One of the recent projects I am excited about is a training series we’re creating for the Therapy and…

February 8th, 2024

What is love?

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“Ms. Megan, I love you. I love you, even though you are a Christian.”  I can clearly hear those…

January 31st, 2024

Meet Lila Riley – Metrolina Regional Director

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The below post is from Lila Riley, Crossnore’s Regional Director of the Metrolina Region Six months with Crossnore Communities…

January 25th, 2024

The Power of a Promise

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Campaigning isn’t just for politicians. A well planned and orchestrated campaign can be transformational for a nonprofit organization. Just as…

December 27th, 2023

Reflecting on Hope and Promise

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As we bid farewell to another transformative year, we find ourselves overwhelmed with gratitude for the unwavering support that…

December 21st, 2023

The Importance of Traditions During the Holidays

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Some of my fondest memories as a child are of the Christmas traditions we held as a family. The…

December 7th, 2023

Connection Activities for a Work Setting

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In previous blog posts I’ve highlighted the significance of Peter Block’s concept of Connection Before Content. It is important…

November 16th, 2023

Safety Planning for a Trauma-Informed Holiday Season

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Are you excited about the holiday season?  The holiday season is a time of many feelings - joy, happiness,…

November 9th, 2023

Finding Home Through a Career at Crossnore

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One of the highlights of my childhood came when I was in the second grade. I won a Silver Medal…

November 6th, 2023

Reinforcing Community Resilience

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Communities worldwide have been contending with the word "resilience" for years. What does resilience mean in the context of…

November 2nd, 2023

public phase campaign photo of kids

Crossnore Launches Public Phase of Comprehensive Campaign

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Crossnore Communities for Children is embarking on the public phase of a $41 million comprehensive campaign to expand and…

November 2nd, 2023

charter school exterior photo

Crossnore Receives Approval for Charter School

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Crossnore Communities for Children announces the approval of their charter school application by the Charter School Review Board (CSRB)…

October 26th, 2023

Empowering Our Youth Aging out of Foster Care: The Vital Role We Can All Play

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Adulting is hard. Becoming an adult is often both an exciting and scary time for any of us. We may…

October 12th, 2023

Practicing Trauma-Informed Spiritual Life

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Spiritual life at Crossnore is an inclusive program offering life changing experiences through transformative presence and learning. Although rooted…

September 21st, 2023

Magical Moments with Miracle Heights Adventures

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For most kids, summertime is simply magical. From the rush of freedom that comes from being out of school…

August 31st, 2023

Our Daughter

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“At a minimum, Nevaeh is two years behind in reading. We’re working really hard on the alphabet and sounding…

August 29th, 2023

life in limbo

Life in Limbo

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Life in Limbo® is an interactive role-play workshop about foster care that gives individuals an opportunity to find out the answers…

August 24th, 2023

Connecting with “Host Churches” for Crossnore Cottages

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When I began at Crossnore as the Winston-Salem campus's Spiritual Life & Recreation Coordinator, I learned that I would…

August 17th, 2023

The Revolutionary Act of Self-Care

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We have all heard the catch phrases “Self-care isn’t selfish.” Or “Self-care is not an expense, it’s an investment.”…

August 10th, 2023

Helping Children Manage Back-to-School Stress

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Heading back to school can be a time of great excitement for kids and parents. Getting new school supplies, buying…

August 3rd, 2023

System Change: Why It Matters for Children

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Imagine waking up tomorrow and finding out you had to go live somewhere else. Somewhere you didn’t choose. Away from…

July 19th, 2023

team of people participating in a low ropes challenge attempting to help each other walk across a wire strung between several poles

What Exactly is “Team Building?”

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As I’ve written before, I am convinced there are few phrases that can strike such vivid horror and dread…

July 13th, 2023

bridging families update

Bridging Families Update

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Years ago, Crossnore’s leadership had a vision for how to do the work we have been doing for more…

July 6th, 2023

Family Matters: Crossnore’s Family Preservation Services

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Family. It’s one of the most fundamental structures that impacts our physical and psychological development. It's where we first learn that…

June 22nd, 2023

Preparing for Your Day In Court as a Foster Parent

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As a foster parent, you learn many new skills and parenting techniques. Most foster parents feel educated on child…

June 15th, 2023

In the Direction of Trauma Stewardship

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As human service providers, we bear witness to the joys and suffering of service recipients. We may serve as…

June 2nd, 2023

the way home, episode 41

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Today’s episode features Courtney Branch, Miracle Grounds Farm & Food Forest Coordinator. Courtney talks about permaculture and how the…

June 1st, 2023

Surviving the Summer with Kids out of School

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Do you remember the Staples television commercial with a father gleefully hanging off of the back of a shopping…

May 26th, 2023

the way home, episode 40

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Today’s episode features Elizabeth O'Hagan, Fostering Communities Officer on our Avery campus. Elizabeth talks about in-kind giving, what it…

May 25th, 2023

Fear and Psychological Safety in Our Teams

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Before we dive in, let’s remember that being fearless is not a thing. As noted in the Fear episode…

May 19th, 2023

the way home, episode 39

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Today’s episode features Angela Woods, JD, MBA, Chief Operating Officer at Crossnore. Angela discusses what it means to be…

May 14th, 2023

community photo for grant post

Crossnore Announces Grant for Community Work

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Crossnore Communities for Children and its Center for Trauma Resilient Communities (CTRC) are pleased to be the recipient of…

May 12th, 2023

the way home, episode 38

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Today’s episode features Meredith Martin, Crossnore's Vice-President of Programs. Meredith talks about myths surrounding poverty and families involved in…

May 5th, 2023

the way home, episode 37

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Today’s episode features Nick Reed, Chief Financial Officer, and Laura Lee, Sr. Vice-President of Economic Development, from Greater Winston-Salem…

May 4th, 2023

How to be Long Term Foster Parents

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Foster parenting is a hard job, no doubt about it. It is a significant commitment in terms of time,…

April 28th, 2023

the way home, episode 36

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Today’s episode features Courtney Branch, Miracle Grounds Farm & Food Forest Coordinator. Courtney talks about permaculture and how the…

April 27th, 2023

Battling Microaggressions

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Microaggressions are everyday slights, insults, putdowns, invalidations, and offensive behaviors that people experience in daily interactions with generally well-intentioned…

April 21st, 2023

the way home, episode 35

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Today’s episode features Kelly Holbrooks, Crossnore's Director of Dietary Services, and Erika Brown, Dietary Services Coordinator on our Winston-Salem…

April 20th, 2023

What is a Safety Plan and Why You Need One

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There are many steps that go into a clinical intake for clients enrolled in Crossnore’s therapy services. The final…

April 14th, 2023

the way home, episode 34

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Today’s episode features Alex Hudson, Bridging Families Supervisor, and Deb Eiserman, Bridge Parent at Crossnore. Alex and Deb discuss…

April 13th, 2023

Child Abuse Prevention Month: Reframing Our Approach

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This year marks the 40th year that April has been considered Child Abuse Prevention Month since its inception in…

April 6th, 2023

the way home, episode 33

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Today’s episode features Sarah Norris, Ed.D., Crossnore's Chief Program Officer. Dr. Norris discusses her career in child welfare and…

April 5th, 2023

Hope at Easter

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I love Easter. I always have. Chocolate bunnies, dying eggs, matching family Easter outfits, and the seemingly never-ending Easter…

March 31st, 2023

the way home, episode 32

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Today’s episode features Dawn O'Malley, Psy.D, Crossnore's Vice-President of Clinical Servces, and Amy Mock, Director of Tailored Care Management.…

March 30th, 2023

Loving a Child through a Parent Role with Crossnore

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There are many different definitions of a parent. Defining the word “parent” seems pretty straight forward at first. “Raising…

March 24th, 2023

the way home, episode 31

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Today’s episode features Cyndi Austin, Ed.D., Principal of Marjorie Williams Academy on Crossnore's Avery campus. Dr. Austin talks about…

March 23rd, 2023

Building Youth Resilience Through Play

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When you meet a kid for the first time, you might ask them something as simple as “What do…

March 17th, 2023

the way home, episode 30

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Today’s episode features David McCorkle, co-founder of Crossnore's Center for Trauma Resilient Communities. David talks about spiritual trauma and…

March 16th, 2023

Never a Dull Moment in Residential Care

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I have been in Residential Care for 30 years. It has certainly been a unique journey, and there is…

March 10th, 2023

the way home, episode 29

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Today’s episode features Kevin Redding, Executive Director of Piedmont Land Conservancy (PLC). Kevin talks about the mission and work…

March 3rd, 2023

the way home, episode 28

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Today’s episode features Angela Woods, JD, MBA, Crossnore's Chief Operating Officer. Angela talks about her journey to leadership as…

March 2nd, 2023

Celebrating Social Work Month and Crossnore’s Social Workers

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March is Social Work Month – a great time to celebrate the wonderful profession of social work and Crossnore’s…

February 24th, 2023

the way home, episode 27

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Today’s episode features Michelle Hughes, consultant and project manager for the Center for Trauma Resilient Communities. Michelle talks about…

February 23rd, 2023

black and white hands reaching out and touching finger tips on black and white background

Defining Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

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What does defining diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging actually entail? It's important to know the meaning of these words…

February 17th, 2023

the way home, episode 26

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Today’s episode features Melissa Morrissette-Hurst, Senior Director of Child Welfare, and Angela Voss, Human Resources Manager. Melissa and Angela…

February 15th, 2023

Wellness sign with wooden cubes and flowers and stones

Embracing the Seven Commitments of Sanctuary in Your Leadership Journey

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Practicing the Seven Commitments of the Sanctuary Model embeds and deepens your path to health and wellness. As a…

February 10th, 2023

the way home, episode 25

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Today’s episode features Brett Loftis, Chief Executive Officer of Crossnore. Brett talks about our Youth Independent Living program, partnership…

February 9th, 2023

Workplace Connection and Community in a Post-COVID World

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The pandemic didn’t create the workplace connection issues we see today. But it did bring them to the spotlight.…

February 3rd, 2023

the way home, episode 24

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Today’s episode features Jamie Southern, Executive Director of Bookmarks in Winston-Salem, NC. Bookmarks is a literary arts nonprofit that…

January 31st, 2023

Get to Know our CEO: An Interview with Brett Loftis

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Brett Loftis, our Chief Executive Officer, is celebrating 10 years of growth and success with Crossnore Communities for Children.…

January 27th, 2023

the way home, episode 23

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Today’s episode features Angela Woods, Crossnore's Chief Operations Officer. Angela gives us a good definition of health and wellness,…

January 26th, 2023

Using the Enneagram to Develop a Positive Work Culture

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Several years ago my grad school advisor, and all-around incredible researcher, thinker, and educator, Dr. Barry Garst shared with…

January 24th, 2023

Helping Children through Spiritual Trauma

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At Crossnore we approach all of our work (with clients, staff, and other stakeholders) with a trauma-informed lens. We…

January 20th, 2023

the way home, episode 22

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Today’s episode features Angela Squire, Crossnore's Senior Director of Prevention Services. Angela talks about creating programs to meet the…

January 13th, 2023

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 21

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Today’s episode features Joe Torrence, Director of Community Relations for The Open Table. Joe discusses the mission of The…

January 12th, 2023

Experiencing God Winks at Crossnore

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I remember first hearing the phrase, "That was a God wink,” at summer camp when I was in seventh…

January 6th, 2023

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 20

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Today’s episode features Tanya Blackford, Executive Director-Western Region. Tanya discusses Crossnore's work in western North Carolina, the community partnerships…

December 29th, 2022

Reflecting on the Magic of Giving

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This is the time of year when many of us find ourselves reflecting on the events of the past…

December 23rd, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 19

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Today’s episode features Shana Heilbron, Executive Director-Triad Region. Shana talks about joining Crossnore's team and her role, trauma-informed care,…

December 21st, 2022

Helping Children Feel “Home” during the Holidays

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When I first came to Crossnore, there were certain topics I wouldn’t talk about and questions I wouldn’t ask.…

December 16th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 18

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Today’s episode features Beatriz Vides, co-founder, Faculty, and Senior Director of Program Development for the Center for Trauma Resilient…

December 9th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 17

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Today’s episode features David McCorkle, co-founder and Senior Faculty of the Center for Trauma Resilient Communities, and Cynthia Copeland,…

December 8th, 2022

The Power of Co-Parenting

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Wouldn’t it be great if the word “co-parenting” could be eliminated from our vocabulary? That no marriage ended in…

December 2nd, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 16

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Today’s episode features Caroline Hart, Crossnore's Deputy Director and Chief External Relations Officer. Caroline discusses Giving Tuesday and how…

December 1st, 2022

painted rock with word "gratitude" and smiley faces

Choosing an Attitude of Gratitude

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I recently participated in a live webinar with the leading expert on gratitude, Dr. Robert Emmons. The webinar was…

November 25th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 15

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Today’s episode features Dr. Sarah Norris, Crossnore's Chief Program Officer. Sarah discusses the parenting roles that Crossnore is looking…

November 18th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 14

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Today’s episode features Amber Rucker, Crossnore's Senior Manager of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). Amber discusses her role…

November 16th, 2022

How to be a Help in Hard Holiday Times

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This time of year, the sun shines less, and darkness covers us for longer periods of time. Warmth is…

November 11th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 13

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Today's episode features Dr. Sarah Norris, Crossnore's Chief Program Officer. Sarah discusses Crossnore services, our continuum of care, trauma-informed…

November 10th, 2022

Celebrating the Holidays at Crossnore

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The holiday season can be challenging for many of our children who are missing their biological families. Knowing that,…

November 4th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 12

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Today’s episode features Jim Hart, Director of Christian Education & Experience and Megan Boyles, Spiritual Life & Recreation Coordinator.…

October 28th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 11

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Today’s episode features Patrice Williams, Communications Manager and Blair Johnston, Executive Administrative Coordinator. You'll learn about the process of…

October 27th, 2022

Making Therapy a Safe and Celebratory Space for Kids

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"I don't need therapy." "Therapy is stupid. No shade to you though." "You don't get it. You'll never understand."

October 21st, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 10

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Today’s episode features Brett Loftis, Chief Executive Officer of Crossnore Communities for Children and co-founder of the Center for…

October 14th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 9

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Today’s episode features Kimberly King, Fostering Communities Officer in Winston-Salem and Elizabeth O’Hagan, Fostering Communities Officer on our Avery…

October 13th, 2022

therapist and boy sit together doing therapy

The Importance of Mental Healthcare for Children

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Mental healthcare for children is more important than ever. Mental health of children in the United States and around…

October 7th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 8

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Today’s episode features Marni Eisner, Director of Business Development for Crossnore’s Center for Trauma Resilient Communities. Marni talks about…

October 5th, 2022

Talking to Your Children about Race and Racism

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As a parent of nine year old twins, my spouse and I have found ourselves “all in” at every…

September 29th, 2022

coping strategies

Supporting Your Child in Coping with Anxiety

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The last two and a half years have been full of “unknowns.”  We have longed for a sense of…

September 22nd, 2022

Crunching the Numbers: Why Data Matters

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Like many other child welfare and mental health agencies, Crossnore is committed to building a data-driven culture to fulfill…

September 22nd, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 7

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Today’s episode features David McCorkle, co-founder and senior faculty of the Center for Trauma Resilient Communities, and Cynthia Copeland,…

September 9th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 6

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Today’s episode features Abby Monclova, Senior Director of Human Resources at Crossnore Communities for Children, and a foster mom.…

September 8th, 2022

Preparing for the Future through Crossnore’s Youth Independent Living Program

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This is Thomas’s story of his time at Crossnore and in our Youth Independent Living program. My name is…

September 1st, 2022

Unpacking Boxes – The Beauty of Bridging Families

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Boxes. What do you think of when you hear that word? For some of us it may bring up images of…

August 30th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home, episode 5

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Today's episode features Hailey Bullis, Case Manager at Crossnore Communities for Children, and a foster mom. Hailey talks about…

August 26th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home podcast, episode 4

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Today's episode features Andrew Florence, Director of Experiential Learning, and Peter Berry, Miracle Heights Adventures Coordinator. Andrew and Peter…

August 25th, 2022

Back to School Tips for a Successful Start

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From the store aisles being lined with a multitude of school supplies, backpacks, and trendy clothes, it’s no secret…

August 19th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home podcast, episode 3

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Today's episode features Kelly Riley, Director of Foster Home Licensing & Training. Kelly talks about the need for foster…

August 18th, 2022

8 Tips for Parenting Children Who’ve Experienced Trauma

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Most foster parents are parenting children who've experienced trauma. It is estimated that 90% of children who enter foster…

August 12th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home podcast, episode 2

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Today's episode features Angela Bollo, Fostering Communities Officer in our Hendersonville office. Angela talks about Fostering Communities, how it…

August 10th, 2022

triggered

Triggered: Practical Exercises for Self-Regulation

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What should I do when I feel triggered? Our Director of Experiential Learning, Andrew Florence, offers some practical exercises…

August 5th, 2022

the way home podcast

the way home podcast, episode 1

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Crossnore Communities for Children presents the way home podcast. Each week, we will talk with a staff member or…

August 4th, 2022

Foster Where it Fits: Becoming a Respite Provider

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Not everyone can provide full-time foster care to children in the system. But often, when realizing that limitation, folks…

August 3rd, 2022

Crossnore Communities for Children logo

7 Commitments with an Anti-Racist Framework

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Written by our Evolve committee, these commitments help guide our internal work to ensure that we are operating as…

July 27th, 2022

sanctuary in daily practice

Utilizing Sanctuary in Real Life

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One of the questions we are often asked at Crossnore is how we utilize Sanctuary, our trauma-informed care model,…

July 20th, 2022

three mean standing with big group of new bikes outside rec center

Biggs Bikes: A True Community Effort

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I was six when I learned to ride a bike without training wheels. At nine, I began to enjoy…

July 13th, 2022

A Day in the Life of a Crossnore Therapist

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Have you ever wondered what a day might look like for a Crossnore therapist? Allison and Kenzie share a…

July 7th, 2022

Child Welfare in NC: Implications of FFPSA

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The United States is several years into a child welfare transformation law we call “Families First." This law, the Family…

June 29th, 2022

team building through a trauma informed lense

Why Team Building Through a Trauma-Informed Lens?

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Many of my working hours I am either actively team building, learning about team building, or even just thinking…

June 23rd, 2022

Practical Ways to Help Youth Aging out of Foster Care

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At first glance aging out of foster care appears to be a welcome relief for foster youth. Often, children…

June 15th, 2022

The Cost of Caring: Compassion Fatigue and the Helping Professions

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Every career comes with some personal risks. People in construction are at risk of injuring their back muscles, people…

June 8th, 2022

three children standing with backs to camera against the farm fence

The Messy, Beautiful Work of Living Out Sanctuary

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At Crossnore we learn and live and work through the Sanctuary Model of care. This model informs how we…

June 2nd, 2022

Tiny Theologians and the Goodness of God

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On any given day I find myself learning all over again about the goodness and love of God. From…

May 26th, 2022

How to get Licensed for Foster Care, Step-by-Step

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So you've decided you're interested in foster care. But you’ve also heard the horror stories about the paperwork and…

May 18th, 2022

Advice from Veteran Foster Parents to New Foster Parents

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Being a new Foster Parent can be an exciting, overwhelming, and challenging experience. There may be a lot of…

May 12th, 2022

How do I know if Foster Parenting is right for me?

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“I could never do that.” It’s the response I probably get more than any other when I tell people…

May 5th, 2022

May is Foster Care Awareness Month: Why Should You Care?

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May is Foster Care Awareness Month, but why should you care? Because in the United States a child is…

April 28th, 2022

Self-Care and Self-Expression through Creativity

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During the past couple of years we've been invaded with stressors: worried about our health due to Covid. About…

April 20th, 2022

Child Abuse Prevention Month: A Month to Act

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by Sarah Norris, Chief Program Officer April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The month’s focus it to prevent…

April 14th, 2022

Focusing on Jesus

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If you ask me to tell you about Easter when I was younger I would tell you all about…

March 17th, 2022

Working Toward the Elimination of Racial Discrimination: Then and Now

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On March 21, 1960, police in Sharpeville, South Africa killed 69 people during a peaceful demonstration against apartheid pass…

March 10th, 2022

yellow school bus with children standing on it and hanging out of the windows

Through the Years: The Children’s Home

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We had the opportunity to interview Kimberly King about the history of The Children's Home. Kim started working with…

March 3rd, 2022

Through the Years: Crossnore School

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We sat down with Kathy Dellinger, who now serves as Executive Assistant to our CEO and Deputy Director. She…

February 24th, 2022

sun setting over sloop chapel behind steeple

The HEART of Crossnore: The Work We Do

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For more than 100 years, Crossnore has existed as a place to serve and love children. While our name,…

February 17th, 2022

sunset over mountain range and waterfall

The HEART of the Church: Why We Should Say Yes

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I didn’t grow up going to church regularly, but my family found it in my teen years as we …

February 10th, 2022

7 kids 2 adults bundled in snow clothes looking over a fence toward a snowy pasture

The HEART of a Cottage Parent: Why They Say Yes

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Betty Lovell has always had a heart for children. Her heart, coupled with her more than 44 years of…

February 3rd, 2022

five children standing on a rock wall in front of mountain range

The HEART of a Foster Parent: Why They Say Yes

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Many folks, at one time or another, may feel curious and possibly even called to foster care. With more…

January 27th, 2022

shelves filled with arts and crafts donations

In-Kind Donations. What do we need the most?

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Crossnore was able to provide holiday gifts and support to more than 350 clients and families served between our…

January 20th, 2022

staff members lined up smiling outside of food truck on spring day

New Year, New Job? Maybe you Belong Here.

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The last two years have transformed the way we all think about work.  Millions of employees are now (and…

January 13th, 2022

the adams family of 8 poses along the shoreline in a tropical location

Redefining Family: The Adams’s Story

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If you think your house is bustling, you should meet the Adams Family. No, not that Adams family –…

December 21st, 2021

The Powerful Impact of Your Donations

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New employee orientation demonstrated one glaring deficit on my part: I had no clue of the depth and breadth…

December 16th, 2021

Present in our Communities

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I miss standing around a tailgate on cold Christmas Eves with Hart men waiting for the heat of a…

December 9th, 2021

young boy in blue shirt holding a cardboard cut-out house

Celebrating Home

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I love this time of year. Warming up in sweaters and scarves and drinking hot cocoa by the fire. We celebrate…

December 2nd, 2021

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Crossnore

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On September 1, 2021, Crossnore Communities for Children’s made me its full-time Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Manager. In…

November 10th, 2021

children playing tug of war with a rope illustrating childhood trauma

How Childhood Trauma Impacts Development

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Creating a Family Podcast invited Brett Loftis, Crossnore's CEO, and Dr. Dawn O'Malley, Senior Director of Clinical Services, to…

November 4th, 2021

transracial family with white mother, black father, black son, and white son

Transracial Foster Care & Adoption: Impacts and Interventions

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Growing up in the foster care system is often a lonely and traumatic experience.  Growing up with caregivers of…

October 28th, 2021

Busting Myths for National Adoption Month

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Monday is the first day of National Adoption Month. We have written many blog posts related to adoption, including…

October 21st, 2021

two kids back to camera sitting in wooden chairs talking

Three Lessons I’ve Learned Working in Child Welfare

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I have been in the Residential field for 30 years, currently serving as one of the Residential Supervisors on…

October 14th, 2021

To Those on the Fence About Foster Care

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I share a foster care story or statistic, because their heart is breaking just a little more as it…

October 6th, 2021

picture of reynolds building on winston salem campus

Walking with Youth Aging Out of Foster Care

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Crossnore Communities for Children is excited about the expansion of our Youth Independent Living (YIL) program. The vision of…

September 29th, 2021

Sloop chapel with children out front playing

What It Means for Crossnore to be a Christian Organization

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An old man once told me to never talk about religion or politics. He said they both are loaded…

September 23rd, 2021

kim barnhardt, volunteer, poses with a rack of children's clothing

Making a Difference: Kim’s Story

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Although Kim Barnhardt’s volunteer name badge only states her name, there’s a joke around here that it should really…

September 15th, 2021

A Day in the Life of a Cottage Parent

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Being a cottage parent may very well be the hardest and the most fun job at Crossnore. Cottage Parents…

September 9th, 2021

racial disproportionality blog photo shows children of all races together

Racial Disproportionality in Child Welfare

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Let me admit something, right up front. Writing for this blog topic has been difficult. Not because of the…

September 2nd, 2021

four women, day treatment staff, standing in front of building with bright mural in tie dyed t shirts

Back to School with Our Day Treatment Program

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Almost two weeks into the new school year in Winston-Salem, and we are so thankful to have our students…

August 25th, 2021

Back to School at Williams Academy

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Williams Academy, Crossnore's charter school on our Avery campus, started back to school on August 5th. It has been…

August 19th, 2021

Furry Friends On Campus: Meet Our Dogs

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What helps make a house a home? For many it is the love of a canine companion. At Crossnore…

August 12th, 2021

ropes course guides on the aerial teams course learning how the survival brain responds

Engaging our Survival Brain

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I spend a significant amount of my working hours on our aerial adventure park or our Aerial Teams Course…

August 5th, 2021

Does It Fit? What FFPSA means for the Child Welfare System.

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The Family First Prevention Services Act otherwise known as FFPSA or “Families First” was signed on February 9, 2018. …

July 29th, 2021

four Martin boys wearing blue shirts standing in a line, arms around each other

Love Multiplied: An Adoption Story

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Being a police officer and a social worker, Rob and Kristen Martin are no strangers to serving others. Rob…

July 22nd, 2021

two boys stand on dock in tie dyed shirts looking out over a pond

Five Reasons to Open Your Home to a Teenager

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Perhaps the title of this blog should have been more inviting, like “Free Chocolate and Hugs." That might have…

July 15th, 2021

line of teachers standing in a row backs to camera. shirts say "better together"

Changing Lives through Day Treatment Services

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Crossnore’s Day Treatment program does amazing work. Passionate, all-in staff members make up the program. And they are committed…

July 8th, 2021

teenage girl in pink shirt leaning on building sign smiling

Blossoming Hope: Alana’s Story

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Alana Fisher has a smile that lights up the room. She rushes in with a contagious energy and immediately…

July 1st, 2021

child holding paper doll cutouts of a family

Unbroken Families: Helping Children Facing Divorce or Separation

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The reality of our world today is that most children in America no longer live in a household with…

June 24th, 2021

Announcing: Crossnore Communities for Children

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We are so excited to announce our updated name: Crossnore Communities for Children. In the fall of 2020, Crossnore’s…

June 17th, 2021

group of kids getting ready to play 9 square

Diving in to Summer Fun at Crossnore

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COVID put a damper on some of our summer fun last year, and we have a lot of lost…

June 10th, 2021

Providing Hope and Healing for Transgender Youth

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Imagine Child Protective Services removing you from your home without notice. Imagine then being placed in a strange home…

June 3rd, 2021

Faith at Crossnore: A Path to Healing

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At Crossnore we take team building very seriously. Recently, I was in a meeting where we did an activity…

May 27th, 2021

Becoming Part of our Village

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There are many fun volunteer roles at Crossnore, but Director of Community Outreach, Kim King, says that the role…

May 20th, 2021

wooden fence post

The Meaning & Importance of True Self-Care

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If self-care consisted only of bubble baths, we would all be in trouble. Let’s not get things twisted -…

May 12th, 2021

mom's hand playing letter blocks with two small children

Foster Home Growth – Expanding our Reach

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The number of children in foster care continues to grow each year. Currently, more than 12,000 children in North…

May 6th, 2021

a mom with five young kids on couch

Foster Care Awareness Month: Coming Close to Those in Need

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May is Foster Care Awareness Month, a commemorative month that can feel impersonal until you make an effort to…

April 30th, 2021

diverse group of teens showing peace signs with their fingers

Re-Writing Old Scripts

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In 2019 there were 17,039 children placed in foster care in the state of North Carolina - a number…

April 29th, 2021

black little girl, maybe 4, rides on dad's shoulders at public event

Providing Hope Through Prevention Services

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In 2019 there were 17,039 children placed in foster care in the state of North Carolina - a number…

April 19th, 2021

Project Safe Home: A Pathway to Resilience

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Awareness of the prevalence of commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), otherwise known as sex trafficking, is growing across the United…

April 14th, 2021

the acronym ace for Adverse Childhood Experiences concept represented by wooden letter tiles on a wooden table with glasses and a book

Resilience is My Gain

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In 1985, Dr. Vincent Felitti wanted to know why his obesity clinic had a 50% dropout rate, and when…

April 8th, 2021

national child abuse prevention month

National Child Abuse Prevention Month

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April has arrived and brought with her longer days, warmer weather, showers that will hopefully bring flowers, and Atlanta…

April 1st, 2021

two hands holding the word hope

Beyond Rejection, There is Hope

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Like a lot of kids these days, when I was a teen (way back when), I longed to be…

March 24th, 2021

Staff Spotlight: Yvette Floyd

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Yvette Floyd was born and raised in Winston-Salem and joined Crossnore as a Cottage Parent four years ago. She…

March 17th, 2021

Learning to H.A.L.T during the Pandemic

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Early 2020 we probably didn’t know what the word “Pandemic” even meant. For that matter, I don’t think I’d…

March 10th, 2021

Finding Your Place: Fostering Communities

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This week we approach the year mark of our “two weeks to flatten curve” and the unofficial beginning of…

March 3rd, 2021

Schooling in the time of COVID

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Schooling in the time of COVID-19 has been somewhat of a nightmare for parents, educators, and especially students, testing…

February 24th, 2021

Writing a New Narrative of Healing

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Diversity, equity, and inclusion - three words gaining heavy traction in society, now more than ever. What do they…

February 18th, 2021

Donor Spotlight: Tina Anderson

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It all started with big, red, silly noses. Tina Anderson, a Walgreens Shift Lead, wanted to bless the children…

February 11th, 2021

woman in blue and white shirt with short haircut sitting on stairs

Words Matter

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When I was younger, I often heard the phrase, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will…

February 3rd, 2021

Seeding the Future

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When the Twin City Garden Club (TCGC) in Winston-Salem asked Crossnore’s Miracle Grounds Farm for a project request, little…

January 28th, 2021

red camel city barbecue food truck on crossnore's campus

Beauty from Ashes: Creating Hope in a Time of Loss

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Gena Cook is no stranger to loss. In May of 2016, her beloved 19-year-old son unexpectedly passed away. In…

January 21st, 2021

Fostering Hope in Polk County

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To say that Jeremy and Donna Wood’s lives revolve around children is quite the understatement. They have been married…

January 13th, 2021

child hands playing with pink and yellow play doh

Crossnore Heroes: Our Clinical Services Team

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When the state of North Carolina shut down earlier this year in March, our clinical services teams had to…

January 7th, 2021

photo of a lake with birds flying overhead

A Novel Idea

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Every winter my wife Caroline and I try to have a getaway, just the two of us. Typically, we…

September 23rd, 2020

children playing on campus in winston-salem

We are #crossnorestrong.

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At Crossnore, we are blessed to be a family. Whether it’s the children we care for, our staff, our…

September 17th, 2020

visiting resource with a student

Building Trust, Healing Hearts

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Volunteering is a good thing. Volunteering to serve and love on at-risk children is an even better thing. But…

September 8th, 2020

photo of african american couple

Loving Them to Permanency: A Foster Care Story

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In 1990, Carolyn Butler answered an ad she saw in the paper posted by her future husband, Norman, looking…

September 3rd, 2020

a woman writing in a journal

Dreaming Big – Cuba’s Story

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Cuba Barber is a young woman on the move. Her early history includes moving from family member to family…

August 27th, 2020

boys walking up a dirt road on a farm

Confidence in the Way Back

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Every Monday morning at 8:30, we have a time for prayer in the campus chapel. Most Mondays, the same…

August 20th, 2020

photo of roger and charlene gragg

Feature a Falcon: Charlene and Roger Gragg

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As we start back to school, in a more trying time than ever, we are so thankful to ALL…

August 13th, 2020

student

Creating Her Own Future

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When you meet Tornyha, you are immediately struck by her shy smile and quiet demeanor. But as you get…

August 6th, 2020

photo of khyri's artwork

Learning to Let the Light In

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Khyri Hobson is one of the most incredible 18-year-olds you’ll ever meet. Standing well over six feet tall, he…

July 16th, 2020

strawberries

The Joy of the Strawberry Patch

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After a bummer of a strawberry crop last year, we were so ready and excited for strawberries on our…

May 14th, 2020

food

In the Kitchen during Distancing

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With shelter-in-place orders across the state, many of us have had more time (or just a greater necessity) to…

May 7th, 2020

cottage parent hugging a young child

Shout Out to our Cottage Moms!

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Mother's Day can be a difficult time for many people. You can't acknowledge the beauty of a mother without…

April 30th, 2020

two girls on swings

Shelter In Place Activities at Crossnore

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Social distancing and shelter in place can be tough. At the beginning, it's not so bad, but here on…

April 23rd, 2020

butterfly mural

Renovations on our Winston Campus

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Last year was a long year for our top-notch facilities team. They take care of dozens of buildings, cottages,…

April 9th, 2020

adult holding small boy's hand

What the Pandemic Teaches Us about Foster Care

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It is safe to say that the current COVID 19 pandemic has taught everyone something new about themselves and…

April 2nd, 2020

feature a falcon banner

Feature a Falcon – Holly Bridgeo

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Our students miss their teachers so much during this time, and our teachers miss their students! We'd love to…

March 26th, 2020

adult and child with sidewalk chalk

A Heart for Making a Difference

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Jennifer Grosswald and Lara Wilson have been friends for many years, but when they joined the same book club…

March 19th, 2020

child's hands in an adult's hands

Running to Hope

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I ran away two times in my life. Once for a couple of hours, another time for a solid…

March 12th, 2020

toddler on a playset

Making a Difference for the One

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Tayte Laws is just about the cutest thing you’ve ever seen. The two-year old runs around the playground going…

March 5th, 2020

photo of woosley chapel

A Life of Hope and Healing

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Sometimes you meet people in life who seem to make it their mission to take care of others. Such…

February 27th, 2020

students at the pavilion

Helping Students Find Success

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In Crossnore's Day Treatment program, we provide mental health services to students who have been unsuccessful in a traditional…

February 20th, 2020

adult laying on the floor with a dog

National “Love Your Pet” Day!

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Today is National "Love Your Pet" Day, so we asked our cottages to submit photos and descriptions of their…

February 19th, 2020

farm

Conservation Easement is Finalized

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I am thrilled to announce that Crossnore School & Children’s Home has finalized the $6.5 million dollar conservation easement…

February 13th, 2020

child on a swing

Seven Ways to Help Children in Foster Care

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If you have a heart for children, especially children, who through not fault of their own, have found themselves…

January 30th, 2020

trees around a lake

Fighting Those Winter Blues – SAD

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If you are like me at all, you may start to feel down as fall turns to winter, especially…

January 23rd, 2020

boy sitting on the ground with his head on his arms

Childhood Trauma, ACES, and Changing the Story

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Crossnore School & Children's Home has more than 100 years of experience serving children affected by childhood trauma. The…

January 16th, 2020

employees with two volunteers

A young heart full of grace

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In a world where our youth are often misjudged, dismissed, and overlooked, we are thankful to be in a…

December 20th, 2019

adult reading to a group of kids at christmas

Christmas at Crossnore

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Our children not getting to be at home is always tough, but especially around Christmas time. We can't change…

December 11th, 2019

houses in the snow

A Lasting Impression

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Growing up southern meant many things. In the summer it meant you grew tomatoes and green beans and collards.…

December 4th, 2019

thank you wednesday banner

We did it!

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Friends! We did it! The grand total for Giving Tuesday was $17,047! With the $15,000 match from a very…

December 3rd, 2019

crossnore promise tervis tumblers

Stories of Hope

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Do you ever wonder what impact your donations have on the children served by Crossnore? Meet Abby (not her…

November 26th, 2019

gratitude banner

The Power of Gratitude

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“We steer where we stare.”  This quote by Lysa TerKeurst radically changed how I practice therapy with children and…

November 20th, 2019

thanksgiving recipes banner

Our Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes

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We asked our staff to submit some of their favorite and best thanksgiving recipes, and we got a lot…

November 13th, 2019

Zion Williamson trading card

A basketball card, a decision, and making a difference

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Jimmy and Cathy Mahan have been long time friends of Crossnore. After hearing about Crossnore through a friend that…

October 24th, 2019

people working in a greenhouse

Miracle Grounds Network – Connecting to the Soil and to our Community

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Recent research has shown that approximately 6,000 children living in Forsyth County leave school each unsure of where their…

October 18th, 2019

Virginia Coffey in the weaving room

The Rhythm of a Steady Beat

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Virginia Coffey was born in 1933 in Stokes County, North Carolina. She lived there until 1975 when she remarried…

October 10th, 2019

family standing in front of a barn

Raising a King

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“Draw a superhero,” says, King, age 3, as I sit in his living room talking to his family and…

October 4th, 2019

students with a donation check

Jam for Hope

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Hope can come from many places and in many shapes and sizes, but this past January, it came through…

September 24th, 2019

photo of chris ward preaching

A Changed Life

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There’s something about landing in foster care twice that affects the life of a young boy. Chris Ward knows…

September 19th, 2019

photo of a child on a fence at the farm

Grace Around the Table

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As a child, I especially looked forward to dinner time. If it was summer, I had been outside most…

September 13th, 2019

photo of a teen at the spartan race

A True Spartan

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One of the definitions of spartan is a person of great courage and self-discipline. These are not the words…

September 6th, 2019

family hugging

It Starts with Showing Up

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When Trip and Jacqui moved to Grandfather Mountain permanently, they knew they wanted to be more involved at Crossnore.…

August 23rd, 2019

Sloop Chapel Fresco by Benjamin Long

Tightly Woven Threads

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On a daily basis, we walk a cultural, social, and theological field of land mines. Not the instantly explosive,…

August 16th, 2019

two teens sitting on a ledge

Life After Crossnore: Youth in Transition

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Did you know that more than 23,000 children will age out of the U.S. foster care system every year?…

August 9th, 2019

adult and a teen hugging in front of a christmas tree

A Life Changed Through Education

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Alyssia Dula came to Crossnore School & Children’s in November of 2014 with her younger brother, Tyler. Two years…

July 29th, 2019

day treatment staff

Summer Enrichment at Crossnore

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Our Winston Salem campus offers Day Treatment counseling services to the students of Kingswood Academy during the school year.…

July 12th, 2019

back to school needs

Back to School Needs List 2019

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It's that time again! The summer is flying by and soon our students will be back at school, and…

June 28th, 2019

kids white water rafting

Whitewater Rafting and Love that Bears

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The below letter was written by our Director of Christian Education & Campus Pastor, Jim Hart, after a joint-campus…

June 21st, 2019

adults on the high ropes course

Staff Ropes Course Day

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Last week we invited all of our staff to come have a day of team and resiliency building on…

June 13th, 2019

dad helping daughter in the kitchen

Shout Out to our Cottage Dads!

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Father's Day, as you can imagine, can be a rough time for our kids. The beautiful thing, though, is…

June 7th, 2019

kids on a tire swing

Foster Care Gone Right – Stories of Hope

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We asked our amazing Foster Care Team to share their best stories of "foster care gone right." Here are…

May 31st, 2019

kids in rain boots and coats

Foster Care Questions Answered

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To cap off Foster Care Awareness Month, we asked our amazing Foster Care Team to answer some questions for…

May 24th, 2019

young girl holding a baby

Nine Ways to Help Children in Foster Care

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Not everyone can be a foster parent. More than are can, but many can't. If you can't (but if…

May 16th, 2019

photo of brian robinson

Donor Spotlight: Brian Robinson

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With a flair for the dramatic, Brian Robinson is someone you want on your side, regardless of the cause…

May 14th, 2019

we need your help banner

Important! House Bill 580 / Senate Bill 636

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We need your help to secure funding in the Senate budget for House Bill 580/Senate Bill 636 to increase the reimbursement…

May 9th, 2019

kids on avery campus with the campus pastor

Seeds Planted in Love

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Part of Cottage Parent training at Crossnore is learning about our Spiritual Life programing. Every Monday morning at 9am…

May 3rd, 2019

photo of tammy henson and a volunteer

Volunteer Spotlight – Judy White

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Judy White exudes a deep humility and a tender sweetness when you meet her. She has a lot to…

April 26th, 2019

three women with boy on bike

Investing Your Heart

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When grown kids fly the nest, many people start making big plans - plans to remodel the house, take…

April 12th, 2019

the children's home memorial

The Experience of Two Lifetimes

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Kay Stone came to live on the Winston-Salem campus of Crossnore School & Children’s Home (then called The Children’s…

April 5th, 2019

truck holding brush cleared from campus

Volunteer Spotlight – Mark Serosky

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Mark Serosky has spent his life in service to others and he’s doing the same in his retirement by investing in the…

March 22nd, 2019

boys playing basketball

Hope Springs Up

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There's something about spring that makes me begin to reflect. After the cold, dark, rainy winter, it's beyond refreshing…

March 15th, 2019

the bell tower on crossnore's avery campus

Growing up at Crossnore

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“I came [to campus] with a paper bag that had all my belongings in it,” recalls Crossnore alumna Mitzi Petrey Ensor. The year was 1973 and then seven-year-old Mitzi,…

March 8th, 2019

barn with new roof

It was a Barn Raiser!

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The lovely Arbor Acres United Methodist Retirement Community is just a short drive from our Winston-Salem campus.  The residents…

March 1st, 2019

the chefalo family with their dog

Hope from a Garbage Bag Suitcase

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Shenandoah Chefalo was 13 when she first went into foster care. Prior to that her life had been filled…

February 21st, 2019

large building with four large columns on front porch

A Place to Call Home

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Colleen Green Hutchens was born in Bryson City, but has lived in Winston-Salem since she was three and a half years…

February 14th, 2019

Katheryn Northington, Board Chair 2018-2020

Introducing Katheryn Northington

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Southern charm and steely determination describe Katheryn Northington and her dedication to children in North Carolina. Katheryn grew up…

February 7th, 2019

three girls sitting together on grass

The Mission of Agape Love

by

First Corinthians 13 is a scripture that most of us know well. It is read at most weddings, and…

February 1st, 2019

author standing outside in red coat smiling

My Journey to Living Lean

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My entire life, I had always been what I considered “medium sized,” and had accepted that as the way…

January 24th, 2019

adolescent boy with head down sitting on the floor by a window

A Healing Moment – Suicide Awareness and Prevention

by

What do you do when your child looks at you and wishes to be dead or no longer on…

January 17th, 2019

miracle heights adventure ropes course

High Ropes Course Brings Adventure-Based Counseling to Crossnore

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What is Adventure-Based Counseling?  Adventure-based counseling is a specific method of doing group-based therapeutic interventions. Typically it includes games…

January 14th, 2019

shenadoah chefalo

Chefalos for Crossnore Update!

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Last July, we posted a blog about the Chefalo family (read the post HERE) who were planning their holiday trip…

January 10th, 2019

family of four at game

Living Out God’s Plan

by

When you meet Adam and Megan Joseph, the joy of life is written all over their faces. But it…

December 31st, 2018

giselle and annette

A Tale of Two Sisters

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The Echevarria family grows strong women, just ask Annette Echevarria and her sister, Giselle Echevarria Helton. A shared family…

December 21st, 2018

back of kids

Adoption Spotlight – The Harts

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Jim and Caroline Hart are a couple who have lived their lives in service to God, their family, and…

December 14th, 2018

child in front of a computer

Surviving the Indoors (with kids!)

by

After 2,467 hours stuck in the house after snow and rain, is anyone else out there going crazy? Will…

November 13th, 2018

christmas wish list banner

Christmas Wish List

by

Thank you for your interest in Crossnore School & Children's Home and for your help in providing Christmas for…

September 3rd, 2018

brett loftis and kids on the farm

CEO Brett Loftis is Appointed to Child Well-Being Transformation Council

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Crossnore School & Children’s Home is pleased to announce the appointment of Chief Executive Officer, Brett A. Loftis, JD…

July 23rd, 2018

back to school needs

Back-to-School Supplies 2018

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It is time for Back-to-School supplies! You can help us collect the school supplies our children will need for…

July 16th, 2018

williams academy crest

School Uniforms for Williams Academy

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Marjorie Williams Academy, the charter school on our Avery campus, is transitioning to a new school uniform for all…

July 5th, 2018

family photo

Chefalos for Crossnore

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Shenandoah Chefalo, author of Garbage Bag Suitcase: A Memoir, is a fierce advocate for children in foster care. She…

June 7th, 2018

local misions

Local Missions

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The popularity of staying local (“stay-cation” vacations, farm-to-table dinners. etc.) is on the rise. And more people are discovering that…

June 7th, 2018

summer needs

You can help with our summer needs!

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Summertime is here! Your generosity helps us move through the changing seasons as our cottages prepare for summer trips…

November 2nd, 2017

A picture of the gospel

A Picture of the Gospel

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It started when he was about five. Removed from his home because of his parent’s choices, Edgar had no idea what…

September 11th, 2017

Volunteer Spotlight – Donna McNeil

Volunteer Spotlight – Donna McNeil

by

Volunteers are vital to any nonprofit organization. They are also great ambassadors for the organization and its cause. That’s…

September 5th, 2017

A Day in the Life of Day Treatment

A Day in the Life of Day Treatment

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On any given day, the members of the Day Treatment team may sit and talk with a student, run…

September 1st, 2017

And the Winner is… (Part III)

by

BB&T’s Lighthouse Project provides financial support and manpower to the community by giving BB&T employees the opportunity to nominate,…

August 30th, 2017

And the Winner is… (Part II of III)

by

BB&T’s Lighthouse Project provides financial support and manpower to the community by giving BB&T employees the opportunity to nominate,…

August 28th, 2017

And the Winner is… (Part I of III)

by

BB&T’s Lighthouse Project provides financial support and manpower to the community by giving BB&T employees the opportunity to nominate,…

May 30th, 2017

Sanctuary is a Way of Life

by

If you spend any time on the Crossnore School and Children’s Home (CSCH) campuses you will hear the word…

May 24th, 2017

3 benefits becoming foster parents

Three Benefits to Becoming Foster Parents

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In the past five years the number of kids in the NC foster care system has increased more than…

May 15th, 2017

4 Practical Tips to Encourage Kids to Love Cleaning

by

Just in time for spring-cleaning season, we've got the tips you need to keep your household tidy. We asked…

May 3rd, 2017

Where Passion Meets Purpose

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Nestled in the North corner of the Crossnore campus is a special place where passion meets purpose for 125…

March 21st, 2017

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Program

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CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. It is a program where consumers pay for a “share” of the farm…

March 16th, 2017

A Regional Resource for Psychiatric Care

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We are excited to introduce Dr. Naomi Leslie as the Medical Director for Crossnore School & Children’s Home. Dr.…

February 14th, 2017

Movin’ On Up!

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When it comes to moving day, are you a list-making organizer or do you just throw it all in…

January 9th, 2017

One Organization…Two Campuses

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I am happy to announce the official merger of The Children’s Home in Winston-Salem, NC and The Crossnore School…

November 15th, 2016

Christmas Wish List 2016

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Thank you for your interest in The Children’s Home and your help in providing Christmas for the children we…

November 10th, 2016

Christmas Wish List 2016

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Thank you for your interest in The Crossnore School and your help in providing Christmas for the children we…

October 21st, 2016

Dress for Success

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Success in education is very important for the children who live at The Crossnore School. From the day children…

August 9th, 2016

Dedication of the Young Children’s Village

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On Friday, August 5, 2016, The Crossnore School held its dedication of the Young Children’s Village. Excitement filled the…

August 3rd, 2016

The Summer Enrichment Program presents…

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“I’m bored!” is a phrase kids often repeat by this time of the summer. They have been out of…

July 20th, 2016

back to school

Back to School We Go!

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It’s time to get our kids ready to go back to school! The children living in foster care, whether…

July 15th, 2016

Students at The Crossnore School have been having a blast this summer

We can’t believe summer is half over!

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Students at The Crossnore School have been having a blast this summer, which makes it that much harder to…

July 8th, 2016

Students at The Crossnore School have been having a blast this summer

We can’t believe summer is half over!

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Students at The Crossnore School have been having a blast this summer, which makes it that much harder to…

July 7th, 2016

Brett A. Loftis, CEO Shares The Children’s Home Story

Brett A. Loftis, CEO Shares The Children’s Home Story

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Western North Carolina Conference, United Methodist Church held their annual conference at Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center on…

June 21st, 2016

Castles in the sand

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What’s more fun than going to the beach the week after school gets out for the summer? Not much!…

June 8th, 2016

Summer time Is Here

Summertime is here!

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Graduation has come and gone. The school books are put away for this year. And summertime has arrived. You’ve…

May 9th, 2016

Fostercare and Adoptions

For-Now Families and Forever Families

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This time of year is hard for many of our children. Mother’s Day brings up many memories…some pleasant, and…

April 5th, 2016

CrossnorekidsatWashingtonMonument

Look how much has been accomplished!

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We made a pretty big announcement just two months ago. For some of us, it seems like it was…

March 29th, 2016

Foster Care and Adoptions: Changing generations

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People often ask us how others can be foster parents. How can they take kids they don’t know into…

March 24th, 2016

Case managers are the hub of students’ teams

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Their doors are almost always open. Yeah, it’d be easier if kids made appointments to see them. But they…

March 3rd, 2016

The Counseling Center: A Safe Place to Talk

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It's a quiet building nestled in the trees offering a sense of serenity as you walk up the sidewalk…

March 1st, 2016

A Safe Place to Call Home

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Nearly every child wishes for a strong family. Even if they can’t verbalize it, there is nothing that makes…

February 19th, 2016

Car

Young Children’s Village Update

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"Car!" It's the cry that rings out every afternoon around the small playground outside of three of our cottages…

February 18th, 2016

Getting to know The Crossnore School

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Hopefully by now you have heard the news of our new affiliation with The Crossnore School in Crossnore, NC, but…

February 16th, 2016

Getting to know The Children’s Home

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Founded in 1909 by the Western Conference, United Methodist Church, The Children's Home has served children for more than…

February 16th, 2016

The Sanctuary Model of Care

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So many of the children that we serve at The Children’s Home are suffering the difficult effects of the…

February 8th, 2016

The Children’s Home affiliates with The Crossnore School

The Children’s Home affiliates with The Crossnore School

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The Children’s Home Board of Trustees has approved its affiliation with The Crossnore School, a residential foster care home…

February 8th, 2016

Community volunteers rally to reinvigorate farm

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When programmatic decisions and economic realities threatened to shut down The Children’s Home farm in 2014, community volunteers rallied…

February 8th, 2016

Alumni effort preserves memories in museum

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The Children’s Home’s massive, red brick buildings on an expansive, green carpeted campus always will be home for thousands…

February 5th, 2016

The Crossnore School expands to serve more children

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With the foster care system in North Carolina currently serving more than 10,000 children, The Crossnore School's number one…

January 20th, 2016

powerprojects

Power Project Donations

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POWER PROJECTS are our way of funding the small but important needs that arise for our children. When you…

January 14th, 2016

Mission: Possible

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Everybody loves the idea of a sanctuary, don’t they? A place of rest and refreshment. A place that brings…

January 12th, 2016

A mile in their shoes

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As I look back on what it was like to be 18 and emerging into adulthood, I often remember…

January 7th, 2016

Cottage Parent Life

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Andrew and Melissa hold a special place in my heart. They are in the small group of couples that…

December 17th, 2015

Residential Team trains in Love & Logic

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When you were a kid, did you ever ask one parent a question and not get the answer you…

December 14th, 2015

DAR Chapters continue their support of The Crossnore School

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The Daughters of the American Revolution has a long and storied history with The Crossnore School. The DAR’s involvement…

December 11th, 2015

MosBootscheck

Mo’s Boots Blesses The Crossnore School

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Mo’s Boots in Boone, NC celebrated their 10th anniversary during the weekend of October 23, 2015. Mo’s Boots is…

December 9th, 2015

Edward Jones Hosts Christmas Party

Edward Jones Hosts Christmas Party

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Do you remember the anticipation you had as a child at Christmas? Everything seemed brighter and more fun. You…

December 3rd, 2015

Community Center Opens

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The Residential Team of The Crossnore School is proud to announce the opening of their new Community Center. Located…

December 1st, 2015

Giving Tuesday…and a Challenge

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We have a day to give thanks. To spend time with family and friends. To eat…and eat some more.…

November 25th, 2015

A Precious Gift

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There is nothing better than a handmade gift. Something the maker has put careful thought into and has given…

November 24th, 2015

Eat Shop Explore

Eat Shop Explore

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Are you ready for the biggest shopping weekend of the year? While lots of big box stores and national…

November 23rd, 2015

GoFalcons

Williams Academy Hosts Invitational Tournament

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Williams Academy was proud to host the Williams Academy Invitational Tournament this past week. Inviting the boys' and girls'…

November 17th, 2015

Young Life at Crossnore

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At The Crossnore School, community partnerships play a vital role in providing extra experiences for our students, who come…

October 29th, 2015

John Blackburn, New Chairman of the Board

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The Crossnore School is pleased to introduce John Blackburn as new Chairman of the Board. John holds a bachelor’s…

October 29th, 2015

The Children’s Fund

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The Children’s Fund supports the annual operating budget of the School. Gifts to the fund are unrestricted and directly…

October 29th, 2015

Brett-melinda-nancy-award

Business of the Year

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On the evening of September 10, the Avery County Chamber of Commerce presented The Crossnore School with the Business…

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