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During times such as these, full of stress and unknown, community is more important than ever. However, the current public health practice of “social distancing”, while critical for flattening the curve of this pandemic, is a huge barrier for our community to naturally give and receive the support they need, the very type of support that can transform toxic stress into tolerable stress. 

 

Kitsap Strong is fundamentally focused on helping to make sure that the stress families are facing due to COVID-19 does not become "toxic stress", and we recognize that it absolutely has that potential. This is why we are excited to announce the launch of Kitsap Strong's Virtual Community Center. Our goal is to help our community find connection through “regulation” activities/practices (regulation refers to science-informed activities that help individuals manage stress; art, music, drumming, singing, movement, play, breathing, mindfulness, etc.) all while still practicing social distancing and gathering virtually. 

 

Our Virtual Community Center launched in May 2020 and ran for approximately two weeks. Information was be posted to the Kitsap Strong Facebook page via events. Each virtual session was provided via zoom or previously recorded videos and is all free to our community. We are also exploring other accessible ways to share this content with community who aren’t currently online.

 

Please help us spread the word with all of the families in your life! We look forward to becoming part of their community! Thank you for helping make Kitsap strong!

  • Key Elements of Collective Impact
    Collaboration instead of Competition Kitsap Strong is the backbone agency working to create an environment in our community where agencies are supported and rewarded for collaboration and innovation. When each agency in a community views the “problem” (mental health issues, substance use, homelessness, criminal behavior, chronic disease, etc.) through their own perspective... we have isolated impact. Collective impact allows for the emergence of innovative ideas/solutions, when communities develop a common language, a shared understanding/perspective of the “problem”, and work together towards a shared goal. Effective collaboration requires strong relationships and a process for coming together & learning.
  • Common Agenda
    Improve the well-being and educational attainment of Kitsap residents, through a focus on empowerment and equity, the prevention of ACEs and the building of resilience.
  • Shared Measurements
    BY 2025… A 10% DECREASE IN THE PROPORTION OF KITSAP COUNTY RESIDENTS REPORTING 3 OR MORE ACES A 20% INCREASE IN THE PERCENTAGE OF ADULTS IN KITSAP COUNTY WHO REPORT THEY FEEL SOCIALLY & EMOTIONALLY SUPPORTED A 20% INCREASE IN THE PERCENTAGE OF CHILDREN IN KITSAP COUNTY WHO REPORT THEY HAVE SOMEONE TO TURN TO WHEN FEELING SAD OR HOPELESS ABOUT THE FUTURE A 10% INCREASE IN THE PERCENTAGE OF CHILDREN IN KITSAP COUNTY WHO REPORT THEY LIVE IN A HOME WITH GOOD FAMILY MANAGEMENT A 50% INCREASE IN POST-SECONDARY COMPLETION (CERTIFICATE OR DEGREE) FOR KITSAP & MASON STUDENTS, THROUGH A FOCUS ON REDUCING GAPS IN EQUITY AND OPPORTUNITY FOR AFRICAN-AMERICAN, HISPANIC, PACIFIC ISLANDER, LOW INCOME, AND SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS AND YOUNG ADULTS. (DRAFT; THIS MEASUREMENT IS STILL BEING DISCUSSED)
  • Mutually Reinforcing Activities
    COLLABORATIVE LEARNING ACADEMY IMPLEMENTATION PROJECTS Coming soon...
  • Continuous Communication & Backbone Agencies
    Creating a process and environment in our community where agencies can come together to discuss complex social issues - homelessness, intergenerational poverty, ACEs, mental health issues, substance use, criminal activity - and develop innovative solutions is hard work. We must all be patient while holding each other accountable. Kitsap Strong's role as the backbone: Have a dedicated staff Have a high level of credibility within the community Serve as neutral convener - create a space/process for agencies to learn together Build key relationships across agencies involved in the initiative Focus people’s attention & create a sense of urgency Frame issues to present opportunities & difficulties Use evaluation as a tool for learning & progress Ensure coordination & accountability Establish collective ownership
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