Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84 In each meeting, a leader guides participants in lively discussions on topics such as communication and friendships. Plus, meetings include a game, craft or fun activity to drive the point home in a memorable way. This small group setting provides a safe, confidential environment for children and teens to learn and share. “Each meeting starts with ‘sunshine and cloud’---a time for kidstosharebothhappythingsanddifficultthingsthathappened that week,” explains Brown. Kids share both big issues (“My dad has to go back to another country.”) and small issues (“I miss my friends.”), Brown says. “This gives us a chance to find out what’s going on in their lives and gives them a chance to share.” Besides weekly support groups, Rainbow Days provides a menu of drug-free, life-enrichment services including art retreats, back-to-school celebrations, family outings, holiday events, special outings, and summer camps. “We’ve literally had generations grow up with our program, providing a range of services that support kids’ needs,” cites Brown. “Over the years, we’ve helped change systems, such as how homeless shelters work within the community. And we’ve helped influence school climate, such as helping schools understand that students will be academically stronger if we take care of their social, emotional, and mental health needs.” For many kids and teens, like Karaan, Rainbow Days serves as both a beacon of hope and as one of the few constants in their lives. “It’s really played a big role in my life,” Karaan points out. “It takes me out of the environment I’m used to and lets me know that there is better stuff out there.” Here’s to more sunshine and fewer clouds. For more information, visit www.rainbowdays.org. goodDEEDS Karaan, pictured here with children at the Kids University summer program, says Rainbow Days taught him to“not give up on his hopes and dreams."