The River Center: Strengthening Our Community, One Family at a Time
Being a community hospital means building strong bonds with our community partners. We are happy to recognize the incredible contributions the River Center has made to the place we call home. As we step into the new year, it's a perfect time to reflect on the incredible work being done by The River Center and how it continues to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families across the Eastern Monadnock Region.
Their Mission and Your Needs:
Since its inception in the 1990s, The River Center has evolved to become a designated Family Resource Center of Quality (FRC-Q). The River Center believes everyone deserves to thrive. That's why they provide parent education, family support, and community connections in a welcoming environment. They understand the challenges and changing needs of our community, and their programs and services are designed to address them head-on.
Building Strong Families:
Everyone from Newborns to Grandparents and Households of One
Connection is a major concern for families today and The River Center is addressing that need in many ways. They help individuals grow, learn, and connect.
They offer a wide range of programs to support families at every stage. From family support, early home support, and parent and caregiver assistance, to youth programs, kinship support, financial coaching, tax preparation, and the valuable FACT book – the center is a wellspring of resources tailored to our community's needs. Last year The River Center helped 300 families maximize their tax return.
Success Stories: Making a Difference, One Family at a Time
The impact of The River Center is best highlighted through stories like Melissa French's, who has accessed their resources for over a decade "The River Center has been there for me every step of the way," she says. "They've helped me with everything from fuel assistance to taxes. They truly make a difference in people's lives." From the Baby and Me group to financial coaching, Melissa attests to the profound impact the center has had on her life. Her words resonate: "When someone has a problem, I tell them to call The River Center; they can help."
Upcoming Events:
Here are just a few highlights of programs at The River Center:
If your household income is approximately $64,000 or less, you may qualify for free tax preparation and e-filing services through the IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Certified volunteers are trained to maximize tax credits, including earned income and child tax credits, and ensure that you receive the largest refund possible. The VITA volunteers are certified by the IRS and undergo a quality review process to ensure accuracy. They are also trained as money coaches to help you make sense of your finances. The program runs from the end of January to mid-April each year. Call 603-924-6800 ext. 30 today to check if you qualify or set up an appointment. Don't pay for tax preparation services when you can have it done for free and keep more money in your pocket.
In 2023 20% more tax returns were filed than 2022.
A MAXT Maker Space collaboration for curious middle schoolers to express creativity and strengthen social skills. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
Kinship Potluck
Non-parent caregivers meet once a month for support and connection. Call 603-924-6800 to register.
In 2023 the Kinship Navigation program doubled.
Introducing young children to the wonders of the outdoors. This very popular program allows families with young children to learn more about places right in the area, introduces the concept of play, and allows parents to let their kids get messy in a safe environment. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
In 2023 75 people registered for one program.
Discuss "Confident Parents, Remarkable Kids" in February. Go online to the calendar and look up the program to register.
Make a Difference Today: Strengthening Our Community Together
Visit their website, donate, volunteer, or simply share this information with your friends. The #1 referral for their programs is word of mouth.
Remember, when you don't know where else to go, call The River Center. They're here for you.
Together, let's keep The River Center flowing strong, one family, one connection, at a time.
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[post_content] => In a heartwarming display of community support, local Beautycounter independent consultants collaborated with the community to donate all-natural body products to the Oncology and Infusion Therapy Center at Monadnock Community Hospital. They donated nearly 80 handmade bags, each valued at $40, containing nourishing lip gloss, body butters, soothing teas, and personalized notes of encouragement. These donations aim to provide comfort and relief to cancer patients undergoing treatment. Financial contributions from the community, along with independent Beautycounter consultants Denise Chatel, Ellen Smith, and Ruth Clark, made these donations possible. To learn more about contributing to Monadnock Community Hospital, visit MCHGiving.org.
Pictured from left to right: Denise Chatel, Ellen Smith, and Ruth Clark smile bright as they donate gift bags for Oncology patients
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[post_content] => [caption id="attachment_36931" align="aligncenter" width="780"] CVTC volunteers celebrate winning the Nonprofit of the Year award from the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce in 2021 Photo credit: Steve Lipofsky[/caption]
Since its establishment in 2008, The Community Volunteer Transportation Company (CVTC) has been on a mission to provide rides to non-emergency medical or social service appointments, including the grocery store, bank, post office and pharmacy for those in the community needing assistance with transportation. Their mission to optimize the health, well-being and independence for community members is ongoing and expanding daily. CVTC is excited to strengthen services and is seeking community support in the form of drivers for their organization through the introduction of the CVTC New Driver Challenge.
While CVTC has made remarkable progress, they are facing a challenge. To meet their goals and serve the community even better, they need more volunteer drivers. Their New Driver Challenge aims to recruit ten new drivers by the end of this year. Currently, CVTC has 65 drivers, with an average of 55 actively serving the community each month. In 2023, they have provided an average of 3,600 rides, approximately 11 rides per day.
However, some trips remain unfulfilled due to various reasons, including a lack of available drivers. In 2022, 14% of rides went uncompleted, and the year-end projection for 2023 is approximately 400 rides not completed which equals 11.5%, highlighting the critical need for additional drivers. In 2023, CVTC is projected to drive over 130,000 miles, an impressive feat that showcases the significant impact of their services on the community.
If you're wondering why you should become a CVTC volunteer driver, the answer lies in the benefits and the profound sense of community you'll experience. As a volunteer driver, you'll receive mileage reimbursement, which helps cover your expenses. More importantly, you can select trips that match your availability, allowing you to contribute at your own pace while building connections with members of the community.
CVTC receives annual support from both Monadnock Community Hospital and Cheshire Medical Center, emphasizing the community's collective commitment to this valuable service. CVTC has also been recognized for its outstanding efforts, earning the prestigious Nonprofit of the Year award from the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce in 2021.
Learn more
Learn more at CVTC-NH.org, or get started as a driver today by calling CVTC at (603) 821-0569, and become a driving force of positive change in our community. Let's work together to ensure that everyone in the Monadnock Region has access to the transportation they need for a better and more independent life.
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[caption id="attachment_36630" align="aligncenter" width="780"] Mary Frances Lawler with MCH’s volunteer coordinator, Toni Gildone Photo credit: Alycia McDuff[/caption]
For over a decade, Mrs. Mary Frances Lawler has dedicated herself to MCH, accumulating an astounding 2,225 hours of service since 2012. Her presence on the MCH campus is synonymous with a warm smile and a heart full of compassion. Her service to patients and our community begins long before 2012, as she first filled her life with a career in nursing.
Living in Jaffrey, Mrs. Lawler's connection with MCH runs deep, interwoven with the hospital's history and mission of exceptional care. Her journey as a nurse traces back to her mother, who served as a night supervisor nurse at the hospital. This familial connection ignited her passion for nursing, leading her to start as a volunteer at MCH during her high school years. Determined to pursue her dreams, she worked at the 5 & 10 in Jaffrey to save for nursing school.
Her educational path took her to the Carney Hospital School for Nurses and ultimately to a bachelor's degree in Rehabilitation Nursing from St. Anselm. She then landed a 50-year nursing career, including four decades at Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center. Throughout her career, she garnered many nursing awards, accolades, and letters praising her kindness, dedication, and lasting impact, a testament to her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication. As a mentor, Mrs. Lawler passed on her wisdom to the next generation of nurses, instilling in them the importance of going above and beyond for patients. Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Lawler has given back to her community in many ways, such as receiving a 30-year pin for her work with the Red Cross's Bloodmobile.
Today, Mrs. Lawler continues her selfless journey as a volunteer in the hospital's Human Resources department. Her presence is celebrated with words like “Magnificent Amazing Resourceful Youthful, and Loyal Awesome Wonderful Loving Enthusiastic Reliable.” This spells out her name on a bulletin board, reflecting the impact she makes every day.
"I go by the rules and I don't fail," Mrs. Lawler declares with characteristic determination. Her journey has come full circle, from working as a nurse in a room next to the office where she now volunteers, showcasing her enduring bond with the hospital. Her reflection on MCH echoes its commitment to compassion and friendliness. Mrs. Lawler emphasizes that there's always a warm "good morning" from the staff, reinforcing the hospital's dedication to creating a supportive environment.
Monadnock Community Hospital proudly salutes Mary Frances Lawler for her exceptional contributions to patient care, community well-being, and support for our staff. She embodies MCH's values, and her unwavering dedication continues to inspire us all.
To join Mrs. Lawler and our incredible team of volunteers at Monadnock Community Hospital, please contact Toni Gildone, Volunteer Coordinator, at (603) 924-7191 x4190. Together, we can make a difference in our community.
[caption id="attachment_36633" align="aligncenter" width="780"] Bulletin board at MCH created by HR where Mary Frances Lawler volunteers[/caption]
Monadnock Community Hospital is a 25-bed Critical Access Hospital offering Primary Care, Medical and Surgical Care, Obstetrics, Pediatrics, and Behavioral Health services. In addition, a wide variety of outpatient services are available, including an extensive Primary Care Network, Orthopaedics, Cardiology, Cardiac and Physical Rehabilitation Services, 24-hour Emergency Care, Oncology, Occupational Health, a fully equipped laboratory and an extensive Radiology department. MCH is very fortunate to have strong leadership and a dedicated medical community that allows us to meet the ever-changing requirements of today's healthcare environment. As that environment changes, MCH is also committed to changing and providing the communities we serve with appropriate and innovative programs. Visit MonadnockHospital.org for more information.
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Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) has partnered with local agencies and individuals to form Be the Change—Behavioral Health Task Force, a team dedicated to enhancing community education and raising awareness about behavioral health needs, including mental health and substance use, within our community.
This vital group's initiatives include:
Organizing and conducting community education programs
Building peer support groups
Creating a comprehensive resource guide for the Eastern Monadnock Region
Holding Narcan training sessions to help reverse opioid overdoses
Together, our community continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by mental health and substance use issues. Let’s continue to work together for a healthier future.
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[0] => Due to the increasing demand for mental health and addiction support services, Monadnock Community Hospital (MCH) established the "Be the Change" initiative, a community-based task force committed to providing vital education and resources regarding substance use and mental health to our community. This task force is a collaborative effort, bringing together many essential community partners, including the Peterborough Police Department, local fire departments, schools, resource centers, parents, and individuals in recovery.
"Be the Change" plays a crucial role in the Monadnock Region, offering a wide range of initiatives designed to support individuals and families affected by mental health challenges and substance abuse. In addition to organizing community educational forums that increase awareness and understanding of these issues, the task force provides support-group guides to help residents find the resources they need. Monthly Narcan administration training sessions are also hosted to empower community members with life-saving skills, reflecting our commitment to combating the opioid crisis.
One of the recent achievements of the "Be the Change" task force is the installation of a prescription drug take-back box at the Peterborough Police Department, made possible through the generosity of the 100+ Women Who Care - Peterborough. This secure and accessible take-back box, the first of its kind in the eastern Monadnock region, is available to the public during Police Department business hours. It offers a safe and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired medications, thereby reducing the risk of substance misuse within our community.
At MCH, we understand the importance of addressing mental health and addiction with compassion and collaboration. The "Be the Change" initiative is a result to our dedication to improving the well-being of our community by providing comprehensive support and fostering strong partnerships. We invite everyone in the Monadnock region to participate in our efforts to create a healthier, safer environment for all.
The new prescription drug take-back box located at the Peterborough Police Department Members of Be the Change—Behavioral Health Task Force, representatives of 100+ Women Who Care - Peterborough, and Police Chief Scott Guinard cutting the ribbon of the new prescription drug take-back box.
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