News and Updates
Human Trafficking Awareness Day: Standing Against Exploitation
Join the fight against human trafficking this Human Trafficking Awareness Day, January 11th. Learn the signs, report suspected trafficking, and support organizations working to end modern-day slavery. Together, we can raise awareness, advocate for stronger protections, and help victims break free.
Dr. Judith Rycus Appointed Executive Committee Chair of the Psychological Maltreatment Alliance
Dr. Judith Rycus has been appointed Executive Committee Chair of the Psychological Maltreatment Alliance (PMA), leading efforts to combat psychological maltreatment and promote child well-being. Backed by top experts, PMA advances research, policy, and education to protect children. Learn more at PsychologicalMaltreatment.org
Summer Wellness Series Part 13 - Wrap-Up Well-Being
Wrap up your wellness journey with key takeaways from our Summer Wellness Series! Discover expert-backed insights on physical health, mental resilience, social connections, career growth, spiritual well-being, and financial stability. Stay motivated, set new goals, and continue striving for a balanced, fulfilling life.
Summer Wellness Series Part 12 - Environmental Well-Being
Enhance your environmental well-being with simple, sustainable habits! Discover how decluttering, using eco-friendly products, and creating a positive atmosphere can boost your mood, productivity, and health. Learn how small changes at home and in your community can make a big impact on the planet.
Summer Wellness Series Part 11-Financial Well-Being
Financial Wellness: Building a Secure and
Prosperous FutureAchieve financial wellness with smart budgeting, debt management, and long-term planning. Learn how to reduce financial stress, build savings, and create a stable future with practical money management strategies. Take control of your finances today!
The Child Maltreatment Policy Resource Center Hits the Road in August with New Issues in Brief
Discover key insights from the 35th National Crimes Against Children Conference, where over 5,000 professionals gathered to address child advocacy and protection. Dr. Janet Rosenzweig presented groundbreaking research on juvenile registration, human sexuality, and preventing risks to teens. Learn more about the latest findings in child maltreatment policy.
Summer Wellness Series Part 10 - Intellectual Well-Being
Boost your intellectual well-being by staying curious, learning new skills, and exploring diverse perspectives. Discover practical tips on lifelong learning, cultural exploration, brain-boosting activities, and open-minded thinking to enhance cognitive vitality and personal growth. Start your journey to a sharper, more engaged mind today!
Summer Wellness Series Part 9 - Spiritual Well-Being
Discover the power of spiritual well-being in fostering peace, purpose, and resilience. Learn how mindfulness, self-reflection, and community support can enhance emotional and mental health. Overcome barriers and integrate meaningful spiritual practices into daily life for a more balanced and fulfilling journey.
Summer Wellness Series Part 8 - Occupational Well-Being
Boost your occupational well-being with strategies for job fulfillment, work-life balance, career growth, and continuous learning. Discover how professional development, positive workplace relationships, and meaningful work contribute to overall job satisfaction and mental well-being.
Summer Wellness Series Part 7 - Social Well-Being
Enhance your social well-being with strategies to build meaningful connections, overcome barriers to relationships, and foster a supportive community. Discover the health benefits of human connection, practical steps to strengthen your social circle and tips for prioritizing relationships in your busy life.
Summer Wellness Series Part 6 - Emotional Well-Being
Discover effective strategies to improve emotional well-being in our latest Summer Wellness Series. Learn how mindfulness, positive relationships, exercise, and gratitude can reduce stress, enhance resilience, and boost your emotional health. Start your journey to greater happiness and fulfillment today!
Summer Wellness Series Part 5 - Physical Well-Being
Enhance your physical well-being with our Summer Wellness Series! Discover essential tips on sleep, exercise, nutrition, and medical care to improve energy, health, and overall wellness. Learn practical steps to boost your body’s strength and resilience today!
Summer Wellness Series Part 4 - Work-Life Synergy: Setting Boundaries
Discover effective strategies for work-life balance and integration in our Summer Wellness Series. Learn how to set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and find harmony between your personal and professional life. Achieve well-being with conscious presence and energy.
Summer Wellness Series Part 3 - Embracing Imperfection
Join Daria Palatna on a journey to wellness this summer by embracing realistic self-care goals and overcoming perfectionism. Learn effective tips to cope with perfectionism, set achievable goals, and prioritize well-being. Start your path to resilience today!
Summer Wellness Series Part 2 - What is Your Wellness Score?
Start your wellness journey this summer with Mike Nowlin, Director of Operations at IHS, by reflecting on your well-being through the Wellness Assessment. Learn how to identify areas of strength and improvement, set meaningful goals, and prioritize personal growth for sustainable progress. Take the first step now!
Join Us for Our Summer Wellness Series -Part 1
Join Mike Nowlin and the Institute for Human Services (IHS) this summer in our Wellness Series to improve your physical, emotional, and professional well-being. Explore the Wellness Wheel, set achievable goals, and create a supportive community for lasting growth and fulfillment. Take the 5-minute Wellness Assessment to kickstart your journey today!
Learn More About Our Team Member Daria "Dasha" Palatna
Meet Daria 'Dasha' Palatna, Program Manager at the Institute for Human Services, as she shares her journey in social work and child welfare. Learn about her research on community mobilization in Ukraine, the similarities and differences between child welfare in the USA and Ukraine, and her personal approach to self-care. Explore her career highlights and wellness practices that keep her balanced and thriving.
April's Focus on Social Work - Get to Know Nan Beeler
Discover the journey of Nan Beeler, MSW, Program Manager at the Institute for Human Services, who has dedicated nearly 38 years to social work and child welfare. In this interview, Nan shares her passion for helping children and families, the mentors who empowered her, and her memorable career highlights in child welfare training. She also offers advice for longevity in the field and discusses her personal self-care practices, including travel, family time, and staying active.
Pamela Miller Provides Expert Testimony in a Case Involving Intrafamilial Child Torture in Texas
Pamela Miller, JD, MSW, LISW-S, expert in intrafamilial child torture, provided crucial testimony during the Texas v. Calhoun trial, leading to a guilty verdict and ten life sentences. Featured in national and international outlets like People Magazine, Fox News, and the Daily Mail, Miller described the horrific abuse as comparable to wartime torture, shedding light on the severity of child maltreatment.
The Global and Medical Impact of Child Abuse
Recognizing Brain Injury Awareness Month, we highlight the global efforts to address child abuse as a medical issue. Through a partnership with the International Leadership and Development Center (ILDC) in Ukraine, the Institute for Human Services (IHS) has trained over 1,500 doctors to identify and prevent child abuse, including Shaken Baby Syndrome. This initiative empowers medical professionals, raises awareness, and strengthens child protection systems worldwide, ensuring safer environments for children.