The New York State Association for Infant Mental Health (NYS-AIMH) recently launched PROJECT: BRIGHT LIGHTS, a recognition program to honor those making a difference in the lives of young children.
NYS-AIMH is a professional organization and home for specialists across disciplines whose work is relationship-based and supports the developmental and emotional well-being of infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and their families. Its mission is to strengthen and promote social and emotional well-being for all children between the ages of 0-5 in New York State.
According to The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, with the COVID-19 pandemic, the last year has been a stressful time for everyone, worldwide, but in the midst of it all, children’s development doesn’t hit the pause button. They continue to learn and grow, and parents and caregivers can provide for their children, in spite of a situation that can feel frightening and overwhelming.
“Even in the dark, there is light,” said Wendy Bender, LCSW-R, IMH-E®, Executive Director, NYS-AIMH. “Our goal with PROJECT: BRIGHT LIGHTS is to celebrate the efforts of these light makers who are making a difference in the lives of young children, regarding their mental or physical health, self-esteem, or overall care and well-being.”
There is no cost to nominate a Bright Light, nor a limit to how many Bright Lights a single person can nominate. It could be a NICU nurse, doula, Early Intervention provider, teacher, grandparent, child care staff, home visitor, or anyone who deserves to be honored for their efforts to bring more peace, hope, and joy into a young child’s life.
Nominations can be made online at www.nysaimh.org. Submit your name and contact information, as well as that of the person you are nominating, and explain why they are a bright light. This tribute will be published on the program website with the nominee’s permission. Nominations are being collected through Monday, June 21, 2021. Nominees will also receive a Project Bright Lights certificate and special thank you.
Donations can also be made in a nominee’s name to NYS-AIMH to support ongoing efforts to educate and support professionals caring for young children and their families and train them in the highest standards.
“Through our work, we get the chance to interact with some of our state’s brightest minds and kindest hearts — people with a passion for child development and strengthening families,” said Bender. “They in turn work with young children and their families to help create brighter days.
“With PROJECT: BRIGHT LIGHTS, everyone in this circle of caring for young children has a chance to receive a meaningful tribute for their focus and dedication. We hope this program serves to uplift the people caring for young children and inspire others to shine.”
For more information on PROJECT: BRIGHT LIGHTS, or to learn more about NYS-AIMH, visit www.nysaimh.org or follow them on Facebook @nysaimh.org.
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