Parenting resources, toy drives, inclusive rec programs, water testing

Free virtual parenting discussions

Check out these free online talks presented by Child, Adolescent and Young Adult Connections (CAYAC). Registration is required to receive the Zoom link. Learn more and register online at www.healthdistrict.org/classes-trainings-and-talks or call 970-530-2843.

  • Experimentation or Cause for Concern? Helping Parents Understand Substance Use among Teens: Wednesday, November 3, Noon–1pm
  • Fostering Healthy Body Image: Monday, November 8, 6–7pm
  • Child and Adolescent Anxiety: Wednesday, November 17, Noon–1pm
Help keep your student healthy for in-person learning

Larimer County is offering Saturday appointments for school vaccines at no cost for students who have Medicaid, health insurance that does not cover vaccines, or those who do not have health insurance. COVID-19 vaccines will also be available for anyone 12 years and older. The next session is Saturday, November 6 from 9am until 3pm in Loveland and appointments are required. Learn more about vaccines recommended for school-age children and book your appointment at www.larimer.org/health/clinical-services/immunizations/back-school-immunizations or by calling 970-498-6767.

Young Entrepreneur Tournament postponed

In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and help keep the community safe and healthy, Larimer County Economic and Workforce Development postponed the 2021 Young Entrepreneur Tournament (YET). The YET offers youth 18 and under an opportunity to develop and refine a business plan with experienced business leaders and then pitch that business plan to a panel of judges, competing for over $2,200 in prize money. What was to take place over four weekends in October is now intended to occur in February or March 2022. To receive program updates, complete the YET Interest Form online at www.larimer.org/young-entrepreneur-tournament.

Mom Kits offer resources and support

High Plains Library District (HPLD) is now offering Mom Kits with resources, library books and community information on topics such as on becoming a mom, pregnancy loss, breastfeeding, infant development, sleep, starting solids, toddlerhood, self-care, and parenting styles. You can request your personalized kit online at https://hpld.formstack.com/forms/mom_kits–and if you’re interested in a topic not listed, request that as well–and pick it up at the local HPLD library location of your choice.

Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation in Greeley

Did you know Greeley has an Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) program for individuals with varying levels of physical and/or intellectual abilities? Participants of all ages can enjoy playtime, crafts, bowling, dances and more, and in an effort to foster inclusion, accommodations or additional support can be requested (two weeks in advance) to fit the needs of people who want to participate. Learn more and view the list of winter events at https://greeleyrec.com/adaptive-and-inclusive-recreation-in-greeley or call 970-350-9779.

Diapers to those in need

The Food Bank for Larimer County distributes nearly 200,000 diapers a year to families in need, and local partner agencies receive thousands more through The Nappie Project. If you are a parent with little ones in need of diapers, visit one of the Food Bank’s pantries (see locations below.). If you are able, you can help by donating funds, learning about and advocating for needs; hosting a diaper drive; or dropping off diapers at any of the following locations. Learn more at www.foodbanklarimer.org/the-nappie-project.

  • 3 Food Bank locations: 5706 Wright Drive, Loveland, 1301 Blue Spruce Drive, Fort Collins; 2600 N. Lincoln Avenue, Loveland
  • Learning Express, 4357 Corbett Dr #100, Fort Collins
  • Marinda Simpson State Farm Agency, 2601 S. Lemay #36, Fort Collins
  • Me Oh My Coffee and Pie, 3310 W. County Rd 54G, Laporte
  • Weedin Insurance Agency, 1601 E. Eisenhower Blvd., Loveland

Free lead testing for Weld County well water

Lead is a toxic metal used for many years in products found in and around homes and can enter drinking water from plumbing materials. Lead may cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities to seizures and death, and children 6 years old and younger are most at risk.

With a grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment is offering residents whose main source of drinking water is well water, the opportunity to have their water tested for lead, at no charge. To qualify, the home must have been built prior to 1988 and have either lead pipes, brass fixtures or lead connectors (solder) in its water system. Learn more at www.weldgov.com/Government/Departments/Health-and-Environment/Environmental-Health/Lead-Program or call 970-400-2215.

Nominate a homestead for NoCo Urban Homestead Tour

If you or someone you know…grows fruits or vegetables…has chickens, goats or bees… is interested in composting…or preserves their food…consider nominating  them for next year’s NoCo Urban Homestead Tour! Homesteads need to be located in Fort Collins, Loveland or neighboring areas. Planned for Saturday, July 30, 2022, featured homesteads enjoy special perks and are critical to the event’s success. Learn more about what is involved and nominate a homestead at www.fcgov.com/gardens/noco-urban-homestead-tour.