“Listen to Children”, a program of Jewish Family Service of MetroWest, in partnership with the Livingston Public School District is an innovative prevention and enrichment program located in seven elementary and middle schools in Livingston. It is designed for children who are at risk for developing social and/or emotional problems due to life crises or other circumstances. Trained, warm and accepting older adult volunteers are paired with children who are experiencing an emotional upheaval in their lives (such as the loss of a significant person, divorce of parents, or other life crises). During the special one-on-one meetings, the pair play games, work on crafts, or just talk about issues of concern to the child.

Through its supportive interventions, the Listener’s Program seeks to provide children at- risk with positive coping and problem solving skills enabling them to better handle family and interpersonal problems. The program’s core value is that children are important and it conveys to the children that what they have to say, what they think and how they feel is important and valued. This validation can have a very positive impact on the child’s self-esteem and relationships with family and peers.

The United Way of North Essex congratulates Jewish Family Service of MetroWest, the Livingston Board of Education, the “Listener Volunteers” and all who are involved in this worthwhile effort. We are proud to be a part of this innovative and award winning program.