Darien Speaker Series: Moira Rizzo on Pandemic Parenting

Family therapist Moira Rizzo will lead an interactive discussion on Thursday, April 8th at 10 am on “Pandemic Parenting: Strategies to Keep You and Your Kids Sane Through Challenging Times,” including how to effectively talk with teens about mental health, social connectedness, and substance use.

The discussion is the fourth in a series of The Community Fund of Darien’s “Our Darien” events this year designed to educate parents about the dangers of substance use, youth mental health, and how they can best support their teens. Registration for this Zoom webinar, sponsored by The Depot Youth Center and YWCA Parent Awareness, is free and required at www.communityfunddarien.org.

Moira Rizzo, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is the Chief Clinical Officer for Recovery Network of Programs, where she plans and directs outpatient and residential clinical services. She has 20 years of experience providing professional support to individuals and families including communication, high-risk behavior, parenting, and conflict resolution. Rizzo holds a Master’s degree from Fairfield University, Marriage and Family Therapy Program, and her Bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

About The Community Fund of Darien/Our Darien Campaign:

For the past four years, The Community Fund of Darien in collaboration with the Thriving Youth Task Force (TYTF) has educated Darien teens and adults about the dangers of teen binge drinking through the “Our Darien” social marketing campaign. This public health initiative aims to shine a spotlight on the impact of alcohol on the teen brain and to offer proven tactics towards healthier attitudes and behaviors. A growing body of research shows an ongoing parent-child dialogue about risky behaviors, combined with clear rules and consequences, equips students to make healthy choices in the short and long term. The “Our Darien” campaign is funded by a grant from the state of Connecticut’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).

About The Depot Youth Center:

The Depot Youth Center’s mission is to build confident youth in our community offering a connected and inclusive environment while providing essential programming and leadership development.

About YWCA Darien/Norwalk Parent Awareness:

YWCA Darien/Norwalk Parent Awareness provides free support and education to parents and children with the goal of encouraging the healthy, positive development of Darien youth and families.