As part of a plan to increase organizational sustainability and enhance programming and impact, we are pleased to announces the promotion of Barb Thayer to the position of Executive Director.  This reorganization–which included the elimination of three executive-level positions and one middle management position–will form a streamlined staff, ensuring that RCC will thrive and grow in […]

Adolescence is a pivotal time during which young people experience new and exciting, yet sometimes uneasy transitions. Young adults face the daunting tasks of maintaining social relationships with peers and family, juggling academics and extracurricular activities, and dealing with the physical and emotional changes that come with puberty. That’s a complicated repertoire even without the […]

Parenting adolescents isn’t easy.  This is especially true when it comes to keeping our kids away from alcohol and drugs.  In 2016, the Monitoring the Future Survey reported that 3% of 8th graders, 10% of 10th graders and 16% of 12th graders admit to binge drinking.  The survey noted that self-reported marijuana use was 9% […]

Marijuana is in the news daily.  While only a few states have legalized marijuana for recreational use, many others, including Illinois, permit its medical use.  These new laws have caused many young people to believe that marijuana is safe.  To make informed decisions about marijuana use, parents and young people should understand the facts. Many […]

In our culture, the word “stressed” is too often used to describe how we’re feeling. One in five 9-17 year olds are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder each year. How can we become calmer, more positive, even happier people, and help our kids to be happier as well? According to Shawn Achor, professor of Positive […]

In the Fall of 2017, The Robert Crown Center for Health Education (RCC) will shift to 100% in-school delivery and discontinue the “field trip” model that was once part of the RCC tradition. This change comes as a result of customer feedback and the organization’s commitment to providing cost-effective, science-based health education to the greatest […]

Families look forward to spring break activities (or the relaxing lack thereof) as opportunities to enjoy one another’s company and shake off the stress of school and work. A multitude of bonding opportunities—air or car travel, beach days, shared meals, books and movies – offer moments for quality conversation without the distraction of school responsibilities. […]

Substance abuse takes varied forms and affects individuals of all ages in our community. Because of the heightened coverage and devastating effects, let’s focus on opioids: heroin and prescription pain pills and the impact on young people. From the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids: One in four teens reports having abused a prescription drug at least […]

As school budgets have tightened, teachers and administrators have been pressed to do more with less time and money. Enrichment activities meant to supplement school curriculum are as important as ever, but delivery of those activities had to be streamlined to fit neatly into the precious little space allotted for them. In recent years, many schools […]