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How can churches bridge the gap between spiritual mission and community care?

Johan Heinrichs and Wendi Park explore the innovative Care Portal technology, which merges church efforts with social services to support child welfare and community needs. They emphasize the importance of relational engagement and the impactful role of small community groups. The episode underscores the challenges churches face in mobilizing members and highlights the Care Journey, a small group resource offered by CareImpact, which encourages churches to deepen their discipleship and community involvement. The conversation touches on the broader understanding of poverty, the call for empathy-driven support, and the importance of awakening dignity in service, all aimed at fostering real, transformative engagement, reflecting the teachings of Jesus.

[06:58] Helping churches become transformative through active engagement.

[07:58] Supporting churches with discipleship-focused resources collaboratively.

[12:26] Focus on transforming community, not information overload.

[15:20] Kairos Moments: divine interruptions and responding with faith.

[19:45] Trauma Care: Presence over rescue, presence matters.

[21:21] Showing respect and dignity in human interactions.

[27:04] Excited for church's role in social services.

[29:09] The harvest is plentiful, but workers few.

The Care Journey small group resource: https://careimpact.ca/carejourney

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Email: [email protected]

About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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What happens when caregiving and personal growth converge in the life of a newlywed? Johan Heinrichs welcomes his daughter, Danika, who recounts her journey of balancing self-care and supporting her husband, Jaden, through his bipolar disorder.

She opens up about her challenges, from navigating her own ADHD diagnosis to experiencing burnout and learning the importance of a support network. As Danika reflects on her post-school life and their transformative move to a new apartment, she shares how closer ties to their church community improved their mental and emotional well-being.

This conversation highlights the balance between self-care, faith, and the supportive power of the community, providing valuable insights on managing personal and shared struggles with grace and resilience.

[05:28] Love transcends mental health; initial surprise reciprocated.

[07:09] Navigating marriage with spouse's fluctuating mental health.

[11:03] January emotional challenges; hospitalized for bipolar diagnosis.

[15:50] Balancing self-care and communal support amid crises.

[17:22] Medication and diagnosis significantly aided his stability.

[20:35] Feeling confident, supported by family and community.

[23:42] Managing ADHD with self-care, journaling, and hobbies.

[28:58] Moving improved my outdoor experience and routine.

[31:58] Address suicidal ideation immediately; trust in God.

Choosing Kin Parts 1-3 (Danika's Adoption Story): https://player.captivate.fm/collection/dc99c0ff-5a67-433e-aeb1-3af68ed5ed9f

Differently Wired | Bipolar Disorder in Community (Jadon's Episode)

https://www.careimpact.ca/post/s03e21

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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What does reconciliation truly mean to you?

In this conversation, Johan Heinrichs plays snippets from previous conversations with a diverse group of guests—Jared Ross, Howard Jolly, Jennifer Mason, and Jimmy Thunder and others—who share their personal journeys and insights on reconciliation, cultural identity, and the role of faith.

From Lyn Dyck's experience fostering an Indigenous child to Jared's reflections on the lasting impact of residential schools, the episode is a heartfelt exploration of how we can better listen, learn, and participate in healing and restoration. Highlighting the need for genuine community engagement and the transformative power of faith, this episode challenges listeners to engage with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action and to commit to real, impactful change.

[00:00] A New Graduate of Social Work Shares Her Land Acknowledgment

[00:59] Epilogue

[02:36] Jimmy Thunder on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action

[4:34] Dr. Robertson’s Insights on Christian Engagement in Reconciliation

[07:17] Jennifer Mason on Reconciling Anishinaabe Heritage with Faith

[9:21] Fixing the Fractures: Karen Jolly on Dialogue and Mending Relationships

[10:49] Joel Calabrese on Theological Reflection and Cultural Participation

[13:33] Spiritual Healing in Reconciliation: Melissa Spence on God's Unconditional Love

[16:07] Fostering Cultural Connections: Lyn Dyck's Journey with Indigenous Heritage

[19:58] Healing Through Faith: Jared Ross on Reconciliation and the True Gospel

[21:47] The Sacred Common Bowl: Ray Aldrid on Treaties and Shared Resources

[24:08] Bridging the Gap: Wendi Park on Churches, Communication, and Reconciliation

[26:22] Forgiveness and Friendship: Howard Jolly on Acknowledging Pain and Building Genuine Connections

[28:47] Prologue

Jim Thunder | Making a Ruckus with Pope Francis

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/jim-thunder-making-a-ruckus-with-pope-francis

Dr. James Robertson | Uncovering the History of the Canadian Church

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/dr-james-robertson-uncovering-the-history-of-the-canadian-church

Jennifer Mason | I'm Not God's Mistake

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/jennifer-mason-im-not-gods-mistake

Karen Jolly | "Maybe I'll Wear My White Buckskin Before Jesus"

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/karen-jolly-maybe-ill-wear-my-white-buckskin-before-jesus

Decolonizing Your Mindset: Small Steps to Engage with Truth and Reconciliation | Joel Calabrese

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/decolonizing-your-mindset-small-steps-to-engage-with-truth-and-reconciliation-joel-calabrese

Melissa Spence | Resilient and Strong

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/s01e05

The Settled Stranger | The Stranger Among us With Guest: Lyn Dyck

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/the-settled-stranger-the-stranger-among-us-with-guest-lyn-dyck

From Trauma to Freedom: A Story of Healing and Redemption | Jared Ross

https://player.captivate.fm/collection/944f3c3c-e727-4801-9513-bd760394ade9

Decolonization, the Bible, and Indigenous Spirituality | Ray Aldred

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/decolonization-the-bible-and-indigenous-spirituality-ray-aldred

Beyond Good Intentions | Guest Host Dr. James Robertson Interviews Wendi Park on CareImpact and CarePortal

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/beyond-good-intentions-guest-host-dr-james-robertson-interviews-wendi-park-on-careimpact-and-careportal

The Estranged Indigenous | Loving The Stranger Among Us With Guest: Howard Jolly

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/the-estranged-indigenous-loving-the-stranger-among-us-with-howard-jolly

Learning Everyday: A Powerful Father-Son Story of Reconciliation and Prayer Through Dance

https://journey-with-care.captivate.fm/episode/indigenous-dance-reconciliation-and-cultural-identity-rayne-pasqua-and-kevin-harris

https://ehprnh2mwo3.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf

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Email: [email protected]

About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

DONATE! Help connect and equip more churches across Canada to effectively journey well in community with the most vulnerable: careimpact.ca/donate

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What does self-care look like for those who give their all to educate and support others? In this conversation, Amy-Jo Smith, a seasoned early childhood educator and trauma care trainer, shares her insights on the unseen roles of caregivers and educators, emphasizing the importance of self-care, community support, and maintaining personal identity. Amy-Jo discusses practical self-care practices such as outdoor activities, journaling, and balancing work with personal joy. She also explores the challenges of secondary trauma, systemic frustrations, and the vital role of supportive networks. Amy-Jo’s compelling anecdotes of international caregiving, along with her expertise in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), highlight the profound impact of connection and empathy in caregiving.

[05:46] Connection and presence bridge gaps in childrens' needs.

[08:18] TBRI stems from Karen Purvis' trauma research.

[11:12] Support systems are crucial for caregiver resilience.

[15:54] Friend's small help greatly relieved overwhelmed teacher.

[19:35] Movement and beauty alleviate stress and trauma.

[21:14] Monitor emotions to prevent burnout through processing.

[26:26] Supporting colleagues facing trauma needs debriefing, teamwork.

[30:37] Feeling overwhelmed by limited resources in service work.

[32:31] Child's note revealed deep teacher-student bond.

Leading Differently Together | Teachers with Amy-Jo Smith: https://www.careimpact.ca/post/s03e11

Sanctuary Songs: https://shorturl.at/WvPN9

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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How can caregivers maintain their well-being while juggling the demands of their duties? Alicia Freeman (a mother six to children in care and her own bio kids) shares the importance of integrating self-care into daily routines and recognizing early signs of burnout, such as insomnia and irritability. Alicia offers practical strategies for balancing household chores and personal time. With a busy household and summer routines winding down, Alicia anticipates the return of a predictable school schedule and the necessity of staying connected to her own needs.

[04:53] Parents manage control by maintaining predictable routines.

[08:35] Struggling to care when not feeling grounded.

[10:26] Motherhood is fulfilling but maintaining individuality essential.

[13:42] Teaching self-care is crucial for balanced caregiving.

[18:14] Balancing self-care with caregiving through daily activities.

[19:47] Finding fulfilling self-care without added stress.

[24:15] Grateful for supportive partnership in handling challenges.

[26:57] Church community supports prioritizing marriage and relationships.

[29:36] Offer gift card, watch kids, support couple.

[34:27] App helps identify emotions through energy categories.

[35:56] Relief in identifying emotions and celebrating moments.

[39:07] Struggling mom finds freedom through self-care education.

[43:30] Caregiving is tough, seek professional help regularly.

[46:18] Mindfulness and proper breathing can change mindset.

How we feel app: https://howwefeel.org/

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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How does a social worker maintain peace and hope amidst relentless challenges? This conversation on Journey With Care features Rebecca, a social worker and case manager deeply committed to supporting children, youth, and caregivers. Discussing the emotional toll of her work, Rebecca candidly reveals feelings of frustration and sadness with systemic failures and tough outcomes.

We highlight the significant role of churches in supporting social workers through compassion and practical acts of kindness, with a particular focus on the positive impact of initiatives like CarePortal and CareImpact.

[04:25] Similar situations, unique individuals, engaging with empathy.

[08:02] Supporting professionals in challenging, high-pressure roles.

[11:12] Left previous job, sought other options, avoided stress.

[16:04] Taking a break for fresh air and reflection.

[16:50] Coping with emotions and maintaining professionalism.

[20:25] Hold on to metaphorical pebbles for hope.

[24:11] Maintain faith, stay connected with Jesus and others.

[27:53] Pray for people outside the church community.

[30:35] Empowering churches to care and make a difference.

[33:32] Church supports social workers, impacts lives positively.

Previous episode with Rebecca: https://www.careimpact.ca/post/s02e36

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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How can simple acts of kindness transform communities? Wendi Park engages with Audra, who shares her impactful story of aiding an international student in distress. Emphasizing dignity and agency in support, Audra and Wendi discuss how community engagement and the church play crucial roles in meeting needs, facilitated by CarePortal technology.

They highlight the power of collective action, from delivering care packages to fostering deep connections and fulfilling experiences. The conversation underscores the spiritual rewards of intentional giving, encouraging us to take meaningful steps toward reducing poverty, fostering reconciliation, and supporting their communities.

[03:28] Generosity rooted in family history and faith.

[07:46] Balancing busy life with intentional care technology.

[12:22] Church member reached out, offered to help.

[14:03] CarePortal connects needs with generous community.

[18:19] Uncertainty over gifting reaction and interaction.

[21:22] Her choice, her initiative - sharing and comfort.

[25:03] Honouring dignity through equal, neighbourly assistance.

[27:42] Involvement in community fosters others' orientation.

[32:24] Addressing community needs through CarePortal partnership.

[34:24] Welcoming and giving brings blessings and Jesus.

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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Can one act of kindness spark a lasting relationship? It began with delivering two beds, but the connection deepened as Rob and his team saw the family's sparse living conditions and decided to step up. Bringing more than just furniture, they created a genuine bond, transforming lives with each visit.

The culmination of this heartfelt support was a Christmas miracle, complete with a tree, ornaments, and gifts, orchestrated by their church community. This is a powerful testament to how small acts of kindness can weave together to create a tapestry of love and support. Listen and be inspired by the amazing outcomes of compassion, connection, and the robust power of community involvement.

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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Ever wondered how one small act of kindness can transform lives? Listen to this incredible story of a mother and her three daughters who escaped a violent situation with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Through the amazing connections facilitated by CarePortal, a community came together to provide essential support, from clothes and food to heartfelt encouragement and spiritual guidance.

As this family navigates their way through temporary housing and immense struggles, they experience the profound love and support from a united church community.

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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How can simple acts of kindness transform a community? Kathy Boschmann, shares a story of how meeting a basic need for a queen mattress and toddler bed evolved into a profound friendship. Kathy shares the inspiring story of a single mother of four, whose resilience, love, and community spirit deeply impacted her. Through CarePortal's efforts and the power of neighbourly support, Kathy and the mom not only helped each other but also extended their compassion to others in need. This touching narrative highlights the beauty of connection, the importance of community, and the transformative power of lending a helping hand.

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About the CarePortal: careimpact.ca/careportal

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