BY ALICIA JUSTIS
Los Alamos

I first encountered Los Alamos JJAB in 2013 in my role as a psychologist working for a nonprofit providing therapeutic services to children and families in Northern New Mexico. I was impressed by the inclusive model of JJAB – its resources are available to all families that reside, or attend school, in Los Alamos County, regardless of income or level of need – and their focus on helping families find the resources they need, through the Resource Specialist Program. As a busy parent myself, having an expert do the leg work of finding the right (and available!) resources sounded absolutely amazing!

In 2017, my family and I moved to Los Alamos, and I was soon asked to join the JJAB Board. I was excited for this opportunity, because it aligned with my passion for supporting the youth and families in our community. Even better, I knew it would help me find the resources I needed for my own family, and let’s face it, we can all use a little help with parenting!

I quickly joined the “programs” committee and was astounded by the number of programs that were available in this small community to support its youth and families – many of them supported by JJAB. Having worked as a child and family psychologist for years, I knew how hard it was to apply for and maintain funds for these kinds of programs, even in urban or suburban communities. That’s when I recognized the true “gem” that is JJAB. Some of my personal favorites have been their restorative justice model used to assist Teen Court; community conversations about fentanyl use, mental health, and bullying; trainings on Youth Mental Health First Aid; and of course, the Resource Specialist Program.

I’ve personally referred many families to the RS Program and witnessed the positive changes that have occurred for these families. However, this program holds a particularly special place in my heart after they helped my children and I find resources and support after we lost their father five years ago. In one of the most overwhelming periods of my life, it was an immense blessing to have someone caring for me and supporting me in caring for my children. Our Resource Specialist helped us communicate with the schools, found counseling for us all and summer camps for my children, and helped me problem solve the next steps in caring for my kids.

I am forever grateful for the wonderful resources provided to our little community by JJAB. Please help me celebrate their 20th Anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Ashley Pond from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and wish them the best in the next 20 years!