CAP Thriving OST
Regional Professional Development
Join us for Thriving OST professional development sessions with both virtual and in-person options! Check out the options below and see full session descriptions when you click "Register"
No Money? No Problem. Turning Scarcity Into Innovation.
May 15 - Virtual
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
What do you do when the money runs out, but the need doesn’t? This session flips the script on scarcity and shows how to turn “we can’t” into “what’s possible right now.” Through fast-paced, interactive challenges and real stories from the field, you’ll learn how to use what you already have - people, partnerships, and community - to build solutions that actually work.
Presenter
Jodi Walker
CAP Board Member
Born and raised in Morgan County, Jodi has never been afraid to take on controversial issues and frequently use unorthodox approaches to bridge the cultural, economic, and generational challenges of the Eastern plains. Jodi’s understanding of the complex interplay of major political, financial and distribution systems – and the impact at the local level – has led to national recognition for both her and her organization.
She has brought together immigrants from Mexico and South America, refugees from Africa, and local children whose families have lived on the Eastern Plains for generations to build a network of youth who use peer support and other means to increase their job potential and to promote the value of diversity in rural Colorado.
This work has allowed her to develop sustainable programs that serve not only local children but to inspire others. Her work extends beyond her county to encompass regional, state and national missions to improve the lives of children. She also serves on the board of the statewide Community Resource Center, Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger, Colorado Afterschool Partnership, and she has served as a member of the state Americorps advisory group. One of her favorite projects is working with a national cohort of 9 agencies tasked to bring innovations to solving rural childhood hunger.
Jodi overcame a traumatic brain injury to pursue her soul work on behalf of children and families. She and her husband run a 300 acre family farm in Wiggins, and a towing and auto repair business. Together, they have six children, one granddaughter and a 120lb, Great Pyrenees, puppy. When she is not working, she loves exploring the Colorado outdoors preferably on a paddleboard, reading and sewing.
Staffing Success: Recruiting, Engaging, and Retaining Afterschool Talent
May 21 - Virtual
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
High turnover and staffing shortages don’t have to be the norm. This workshop equips afterschool leaders with innovative approaches to recruitment and retention that work in today’s environment. Learn how to expand your candidate pool, strengthen your hiring process, and create conditions that keep staff motivated and committed. Ideal for afterschool leaders ready to move from constant hiring to long-term team stability.
Join Jen Harris, independent consultant, CAP Board Member, and Veteran OST Expert, to learn how to boost your staff and your programs!
Presenter
Jen Harris
CAP Board Member
Jennifer Harris has over 30 years of experience in out-of-school time programs, with roles spanning direct service, program coordination, and system leadership. Her work includes positions with Camp Fire USA (Alaska), Arkansas State University, the Arkansas Out-of-School Time Network (CS Mott-funded), the Denver Afterschool Alliance, and, most recently, The Flourish Lab. A systems thinker, Jennifer is currently a consultant who focuses on building integrated supports and modeling best practices through strong facilitation.
SAVE THE DATE: Gale Gorke - Half Day Training Session!
Save the Date!
May 29
Afternoon
Foothills Parks and Rec., registration required. Half-day training with Dr. Gale Gorke.
