BRIDGES OUT OF POVERTY Bridges Out of Poverty

BRIDGES OUT OF POVERTY Bridges Out of Poverty Steering Committee November 13, 2013 Milton City Hall

RESILIENCE Resilience = the capacity of individuals to effectively cope with, adapt to, recover from, or be strengthened by adversity. “Resilience does not come from rare and special qualities, but from the everyday magic of ordinary, normative human resources in the minds, brains, and bodies of children, in their families and relationships, and in their communities. ~Ann Masten, 2001, p 9

RESILIENCE According to Bonnie Benard (1991, 2004), research has demonstrated that there are four main categories or manifestations of resilience: 1) Social Competence Responsiveness, Communication, Empathy, Compassion 2) Problem Solving Planning, Flexibility, Resourcefulness, Critical Thinking 3) Autonomy Positive Identity, Internal Locus of Control, Self-Efficacy, Adaptability, Awareness, Humor 4) Sense of Purpose Goal Direction, Creativity, Imagination, Optimism, Faith

RESILIENCY § Resiliency is the ability to work with adversity in such a way that one comes through it unharmed or even better for the experience § Resilience means facing life’s difficulties with courage and patience—refusing to give up. § It is the quality of character that allows a person or a group of people to rebound from misfortune, hardship, and trauma.

RESILIENCE § Resilience is rooted in a tenacity of spirit—a determination to enhance all that makes life worth living even in the face of overwhelming odds. § When we have a clear sense of identity and purpose, we are more resilient, because we can hold fast to our vision of a better future.

RESILIENCE Much of our resilience comes from community—from relationships that allow us to lean on each other for support when we need it.

RESILIENCE Resilient people are good at problem solving, self-aware, step away from negatives, believe they can influence the outcomes around them.

MYTHS ABOUT RESILIENCY • Resiliency is the exception not the rule. Science has proven resiliency is ordinary, not extraordinary. • You got it or you don’t. • Resilient people don't need help. • Being resilient does not mean you don’t experience stress.

FOSTERING RESILIENCE IS A PROCESS • Believe in the potential of the person • Focused listening • Provide opportunity for participation

FOSTERING RESILIENCE IS A PROCESS • Believe—Have high expectations. Look for strengths and assets that the person has, not the deficits. • Listen in a deliberate manner. Active not passive. Don’t wait for your chance to say your piece. • Meaningful participation and contribution—I hate always being the one to ask for help!