News Archives - The Children's Guild

Empowering Young Minds: A Day in The Children’s Guild Extended School Year Program

by | Aug 1, 2024 | Education, News, Special Education

At The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore, summer learning continues with their Extended School Year program! Beginning every July, this initiative supports children in achieving their IEP goals and smooths the transition back to school in the fall. Each year features a unique theme; this year’s focus is “Community Helpers.” The program blends fun activities with essential subjects like reading and math. Students participate in various hands-on activities, such enjoying field trips like  visiting the pool, where they engage with community helpers like lifeguards.

Mrs. P, a teacher at The Children’s Guild School of Baltimore, explains that the “Community Helpers” theme is designed to teach students the significance of internal and external helpers. “We’re helping students understand where their community is, how we build our community, and how we enrich our community. It is very important for us to develop that sense of community, especially considering the background of many of our kids.” She further describes how students in the classroom “respect each other, are kind to each other, and protect each other.”

Will, a 9th grader, shared that he has learned how to clean up not just his school and home but everywhere in his community. He helps his grandmother around the house and enjoys playing games with his friends. Will loves the Extended School Year program because it allows him to continue his education and spend a lot of time at the pool.

Brianna, an 11th grader, shared that she likes to help people “who are sick, alive, and those who respect themselves.” This summer, Brianna has spent a lot of time playing outside and practicing piano. She explains that she is contributing to her school community by collecting trash and sweeping the floors.

We invite you to engage with our vibrant community. Consider becoming a community helper in your own neighborhood by participating in local clean-up events, volunteering at community centers, or simply spreading kindness in your daily interactions. Let’s work together to inspire and empower the next generation of community helpers! Share your own community helper experiences with us on Facebook or Instagram @TCGBaltimore. 

The Children’s Guild Welcomes New Chief Human Resources Officer And Announces Three New Senior Level Promotions

by | Aug 1, 2024 | News, Our People

Ellen Meyer Joins The Children’s Guild Board of Directors

The Children’s Guild, a leading Mid-Atlantic nonprofit human-services and education organization is thrilled to announce the appointment of Holly Webb as the new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Holly brings over 20 years of experience in driving organizational success through strategic HR initiatives. As the Chief Human Resources Officer at The Children’s Guild, Holly will leverage her expertise to foster high-performance teams, enhance employee engagement, and maximize organizational efficiency.

Throughout her career, Holly has held key HR leadership positions for companies worldwide. Her accomplishments include designing and implementing service-oriented HR functions, creating metrics-driven processes, and leading workforce planning and development efforts that have resulted in significant cost savings and improved organizational performance.  Holly holds an MBA from the University of Indianapolis and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business.

“Holly Webb is a dynamic leader who embodies our core value ‘Our People Matter’,” said Jenny Livelli, President and CEO of The Children’s Guild. “We are looking forward to working closely with Holly to align HR strategies with organizational goals, promoting a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring that our people and teams are optimally positioned to support our mission of transforming the lives of children and families.”

The Children’s Guild is also proud to announce the promotions of the following three prominent staff members:

Mark Rapaport is the new Vice President of Business Development: In his previous role as the Managing Director of Autism Services, Mark was instrumental in opening The Children’s Guild School – Transformation Academy located in Baltimore, MD. This facility serves students with autism and related disorders, providing a comprehensive and tailored educational experience. Mark’s leadership led to the successful implementation of innovative programs that improved student outcomes and satisfaction. In his new role as Vice President of Business Development, Mark will be working to expand current business lines as well as identify market growth opportunities and new business ventures to enhance The Children’s Guild’s service offerings.

Ronesha Estep-Franklin is the new Vice President of Program Operations: In her former role as Managing Director of School Operations, Ronesha Estep-Franklin oversaw the daily operations of our charter schools and preschool. Her leadership was pivotal in improving program operations, leading to enhanced educational experiences for students. Ronesha introduced several innovative practices that streamlined operations and boosted program efficiency. As Vice President of Program Operations, Ronesha will now oversee all program operations for The Children’s Guild, including nonpublic schools, charter schools, and preschools located in Maryland and Washington, DC, along with treatment foster care and behavioral health services, ensuring high-quality outcomes and program sustainability. 

Kelly Schwalbert is the new Vice President Chief of Staff: Having served as the Managing Director of Mission Advancement, Kelly Schwalbert was instrumental in building systems to improve operations across multiple departments. She developed and launched the first centralized grant department and expanded marketing services throughout the organization. Kelly’s strategic vision led to the creation and development of new departments, enhancing organizational capacity and efficiency. In her new role as Vice President Chief of Staff, Kelly will continue to support fundraising efforts while working closely with Jenny Livelli, President and CEO, as well as the Board of Directors and key stakeholders, to drive organizational strategy and growth.

In addition to these new staff positions, Ellen Meyer has been appointed to The Children’s Guild Board of Directors. Ellen is a Human Resources leader with over 36 years of comprehensive experience. She is a former teacher with a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development, and follows in the footsteps of her late mother, Louise Goldberg, who was also a reading teacher at The Children’s Guild and a former Board Member.  For two generations, the Meyer family has been a huge champion of The Children’s Guild. Their unwavering dedication and support have not only shaped the lives of children in need but have also woven a rich tapestry of love, commitment, and community spirit.

“A heartfelt congratulations to Mark, Ronesha and Kelly all who have been instrumental in building on the success of TCG and all who are well deserving of their new roles,” added Jenny Livelli. “We are also honored to welcome Ellen Meyer to our board, she and her family have built their legacy on compassion, service, and an unyielding belief in the power of education and care. I am excited for the future of our organization with such a dynamic leadership team in place.”

The Children’s Guild (TCG), founded in 1953, focuses on helping students and families find success socially, emotionally, educationally, and developmentally through special education, school-based mental health services, treatment foster care, autism services, family mental and behavioral health services, and workforce development programs.