For nearly 140 years, Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina (BCH) has been a steadfast presence in the lives of countless individuals. Originating in Thomasville, NC, and now extending its reach to over three dozen locations across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Guatemala, BCH has dedicated itself to providing diverse and comprehensive programs that cater to the needs of various populations, embodying a legacy of care and commitment.
Over the years, BCH has grown to include a wide range of programs to include foster care and adoptive services, cottage homes for children, support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, aging adults ministry, care for birth and single mothers, and camps. Their extensive reach and diverse programs showcase their commitment to creating supportive environments for those in need and their holistic approach to service provision.
One of BCH's notable initiatives is its commitment to staff training. Recognizing the importance of preparing their team to deliver the best care possible, like many of their peers, BCH has invested in certification programs like the CARE model from Cornell University and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention. These models serve as their foundation, ensuring every interaction with children and families is grounded in trauma-informed care, promoting a safe and nurturing environment.
However, what sets BCH apart is their dedication to consistency in care. Not only do they train their staff in the CARE model, but they extend this training to foster parents as well. This approach fosters a shared understanding and response to the unique needs of the children calling BCH home, creating a cohesive and supportive community for everyone; from children and their families to the staff that support them.
Furthermore, BCH's focus on trauma-sensitive and developmentally appropriate practices is evident in their programs. The residential wilderness program, for instance, offers a unique opportunity for children to learn and grow through experiences they may not have had otherwise. Engaging in various activities throughout the year, BCH strives to create normalcy for the children by aligning their experiences with those of their peers.
In addition, to further enhance their commitment to excellence, BCH recently enrolled in a new Supportive Supervision curriculum developed by Benchmarks. Starting in March, this four-part workshop series aims to combine supportive supervision techniques with trauma-informed knowledge and practices. The goal is to create a supervisory environment where staff feel comfortable being vulnerable, sharing information and feedback, and learning new skills.
This investment in supportive supervision underscores BCH's dedication to continuous improvement. By prioritizing staff growth, communication, and skill development, BCH ensures a well-equipped team, fostering increased staff retention. This benefits both the organization, retaining experienced professionals, and the youth, reducing disruptions and creating a stable, supportive environment for their well-being.
Baptist Children's Homes of North Carolina stands as a pillar of support, embodying a legacy of care and commitment that spans generations. Through their diverse programs, trauma-informed care practices, and ongoing investment in staff training, BCH remains steadfast in its mission to provide a nurturing and transformative environment for every individual they serve.
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