Partnership Connections

Can We Really Prevent Child Maltreatment Without Fighting Poverty?

Join us as we chat with Dr. Kristen Slack, Senior Scientist at Research Triangle Institute and a leading expert on poverty and child welfare; to explore the complex relationship between socioeconomic factors and child maltreatment. We discuss how economic hardship influences family involvement with child welfare systems, the role of safety nets, and what can be done to better support families before crises occur.
 

Voices of Open Adoption: Birth Parents, Adoptive Parents, and the children they help

This episode dives into the complexities of adoption, exploring open adoption, birth family involvement, and the lifelong impact on adoptees and parents. Guest Deborah Siegel shares her personal and professional journey, insights from decades of research, and practical advice for child welfare professionals on supporting families with empathy and transparency
 

The Unseen Goodbyes: Navigating Ambiguous Loss for Ourselves and the Families We Serve

In this episode of the Partnership Connections Podcast, hosts Stan Brajer and Holly Pacheco explore the concept of ambiguous loss with guest Kate Tetuan Parent, Associate Director at Boston Children’s Hospital Neighborhood Partnership Program. Together, they discuss the two types of ambiguous loss, its impact on youth and families, and practical strategies for supporting those navigating grief and uncertainty. The conversation emphasizes honesty, storytelling, and building resilience in the face of complex, ongoing loss.
 

Youth Corrections Reimagined: Breaking Barriers & Building Bridges

Join us as we chat with Rhode Island Training School Executive Director Larome Myrick and Senior Community Development Specialist John Scott. They share powerful personal stories, challenge misconceptions, and highlight innovative community partnerships that support youth rehabilitation at the Rhode Island Training School. From urban gardens to historical cemetery projects, this conversation sheds light on how purpose-driven programs are transforming lives and building bridges between systems.

Setting the P.A.C.E: Charting the Future of Child and Family Well-Being in Rhode Island.

Join us as we sit down with Melissa Aguiar-Rivard, Chief of Strategic Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation at the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), to unpack the agency’s five-year strategic plan. Melissa shares insights from DCYF's Listening & Learning Tour, revealing how staff, families, partners, and youth shaped the plan’s core pillars: Prevention, Accountability, Collaboration, and Engagement (PACE).
Here is the Stategic Plan in its entirety!

Substance Use in Transition: Myths, Facts, and the New Reality

Join us as we welcome back Ocean State Recovery Executive Director Chris Dorval and MADD Rhode Island Program Director Jennifer O’Neil to explore the evolving landscape of substance use and impaired driving in Rhode Island. The conversation covers rising trends in alcohol and cannabis use, the impact of fentanyl and xylazine, and the challenges of prevention, treatment, and harm reduction. With a focus on child welfare, the guests emphasize the importance of honest dialogue, myth-busting, and supporting recovery to protect families and communities.

When the Stakes Are Too High: Gambling and Child Welfare

Join us as we chat with Desiree Soto, Program Director for Rhode Island Lottery's Problem Gambling Services Program. We explore intersections between gambling disorder and child welfare, from defining gambling addiction to discussing its neurological and emotional impacts. Learn about some of the latest trends in online betting, the role of mental health, and how child welfare professionals can better screen for and address gambling-related challenges. 

Mindful Moments with Mimi: Alternate Nostril Breathing

The following is a meditation provided by Dr. Mimi Mumm, Professor at the School of Social Work at Rhode Island College. Dr. Mumm is also a certified Yoga Instructor. She has been gracious enough to record several sessions, so please visit our show page for more episodes!
Alternate Nostril Breathing/Nadi Shodhana. (5 minutes). This breathing technique involves breathing through one nostril at a time. It is believe to clear the mind and bring calmness.
Please practice in a safe space and never while operating a vehicle or other machinery! 

Bringing Your Whole Self to Work: Culture, Identity, and Why it Matters

We welcome back Jennifer Gaviria, RIC SSW Adjunct Faculty, School Social Worker and Co-Founder of the Latino Mental Health Network to discuss the importance of integrating one's cultural identity into the workplace. Listen as we explore how cultural values influence professional behavior, the challenges of navigating workplace norms, and the impact of imposter syndrome—especially for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. The conversation offers insights for supervisors and organizations on fostering welcoming environments in child welfare and beyond.

Mindful Moments with Mimi: Gratitude Practice

The following is a meditation provided by Dr. Mimi Mumm, Professor at the School of Social Work at Rhode Island College. Dr. Mumm is also a certified Yoga Instructor. She has been gracious enough to record several sessions, so please visit our show page for more episodes!
This gratitude meditation is a mindfulness practice that focuses on recognizing and appreciating the positive aspects of your life. This practice can help shift attention away from stress or negativity and foster a sense of peace and contentment.
Please practice in a safe space and never while operating a vehicle or other machinery!