18 Degrees Offers Foster Parent Info Sessions

Check out the October Calendar of Events in the 18 Degrees Family Resource Center   

We have a fantastic lineup of groups and programs designed to support mothers, fathers, and kinship caregivers. Whether you’re looking for community connections, parenting resources, or a safe space to share your experiences, we have something for everyone!

We’re thrilled to offer a Brave Space for youth and young adults, where they can express their true selves and connect with others in a supportive environment.

Plus, this month’s feature events include Heroes & Villains Masquerade on October 11 and a Winter Clothing Drive on October 23 and 24, thanks to our friends at Cradles to Crayons!

For more details on our offerings, visit our website or contact us.

September Was Recovery Month

As certified recovery coaches, 18 Degrees’ Parents as Teachers staff support parenting in recovery. Our team members were out in the community sharing information and connecting with participants at several events including Revel in Recovery, Smash the Stigma, the Recovery Resource Fair, and Voices in Recovery. 

Substance use recovery and addiction touches many. Fight the stigma and support your friends, family members, and colleagues in your community. 

Youth Recognition Celebration

Last month, we had the honor of celebrating 12 participants from Pittsfield Community Connection and West Main Connection for their extraordinary perseverance, growth, and accomplishments.

“You have worked hard to reach your goals— with case managers, outreach workers, and mentors walking alongside you as you navigated your paths.  We are incredibly proud of all of you.” – Stephanie Steed, President & CEO

Kindergarten Ready!

On August 21st,  caregivers and family members gathered to celebrate our Pre-K students. They wowed us at their graduation ceremony as they sang and signed their ABCs with smiles galore! In addition to receiving their Pre-K diplomas, each student was recognized for their contributions to the classroom. It was an afternoon filled with high-fives and celebration!

Published Children’s Author Visits EEC

Our Very Own Liz Cole from Adoption

Liz Cole (EJ Cole) has been with 18 Degrees for many years on our Adoption Team. 

Last month, she read her new book, Elizabeth and the Magic Mirror, to our pre-school class in Early Education. 

Her story about a young girl exploring with her imagination helps children find excitement and joy in ordinary days.

Congratulations, Liz!

Kids 4 Harmony Youth Ambassador

9th Grade Kids 4 Harmony violinist Isabella was selected from other applicants nationwide as a 2025 El Sistema USA Youth Ambassador.

Isabella joined others in Maryland in June at the East Coast Regional Gathering, highlighting youth leadership in music education. She was one of twelve students selected to participate, marking the third consecutive year that Kids 4 Harmony students have been chosen as delegates to the El Sistema USA conference.

Before our Annual Summer Concert Gala, we ask each student to share their proudest K4H moment. Isabella responded with a smile, “My proudest moment was getting accepted as the only freshman in the El Sistema USA Youth Ambassador Program. I want my friends to remember that discipline and pushing yourself are the keys to being successful and achieving your goals.”

Vote for 18 Degrees on Target Circle

We are honored and excited to announce that we have been chosen to participate in a special charitable giving campaign sponsored and funded by Target. And you have the chance to help direct a portion of Target’s donation to us!

Now through December 31, 2025, vote for us through the Target Circle program to help determine how Target’s donation will be divvied up. Find out more about Target Circle here: www.target.com/circle

We’re asking our supporters to help us make the most of this incredible opportunity. Every vote counts to help us receive a portion of the available Target funds as we continue our mission to champion access, opportunity, belonging, and well-being for all people on their journey, helping to build thriving communities.

Don’t forget, as you earn more votes, you can keep voting multiple times during the campaign!

Thank you for your support!

Make a difference and support our mission:

We champion access, opportunity, belonging, and well-being for all people on their journey, helping to create thriving communities.