Creating a work-life balance is a struggle in today’s hectic world, so the US Congress set aside October as National Work and Family Month in 2003. The awareness campaign received a Presidential endorsement in 2010 and continues each year.

Africa

Oct

Work from Home Week, Ntl: October 7-11

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Millions of Americans work from home daily, earning money via various businesses, from entrepreneurship to telecommuters. It's rewarding and frustrating (especially when your parents, regardless of income and age, never cease to ask: "when are you going to get a real job?"). The joys of working at home far outweigh the downers. Use National Work from Home Week as an opportunity to celebrate your lifestyle if this is you, or say an 'Ata boy (or gal)' to someone you know.

Africa

Oct

Work Life Week, Ntl.(UK): October 7-11 (est)

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National Work Life Week is Working Families’ annual campaign to get employers and employees talking about well-being at work and work-life balance. Employers can use the week to provide staff activities and showcase their flexible working policies and practices.

Africa

Oct

Workplace Politics Awareness Month: October

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If you're in an organization of more than one person, politics in the workplace is inevitable, and how you navigate it defines your career. National Workplace Politics Awareness Month is a time for employers and employees to work on understanding the corporate culture, its governance, and its players. You may hate office politics, but ignoring it doesn't make it go away. Playing it well leads to promotions, power, and responsibility. Use this month to learn how.

Africa

Oct

World Series MLB: October 22 - November 2

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The World Series is an annual group of seven baseball games played at the end of the season between the championship teams of the American and National Leagues. The team that wins the majority of the seven games is declared the winner of the World Series and receives the Commissioner's Trophy (and bragging rights). The first World Series occurred in 1903. PLEASE NOTE: Treat all televised and venue-specific events (sporting, concerts, trade shows, etc.) as estimated. Several factors can cause an event to move dates at the last minute, including weather, strikes, natural disasters, political upheaval, conflicting programming, pandemics, and current events. Because of this, always verify the event with the promotor before committing resources. LEEP often estimates dates based on the previous year's schedules, as the final dates are unknown until a few months, weeks, or days before the event. If the date is known to be estimated, you will see an (est) following the date in the title.

Africa

Oct

World Thrombosis Day: October 13

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World Thrombosis Day (WTD) is a global awareness that began in 2014. It focuses on thrombosis, its causes, risk factors, signs/symptoms, and evidence-based prevention and treatment. Thrombosis is a fancy word for a blood clot forming in a blood vessel and preventing blood from circulating through your body. Thrombosis can kill or permanently disable. World Thrombosis Day aims to raise awareness and educate the public about this situation and ultimately reduce the occurrences of death and disability caused by this condition. Annually in October.

Africa

Oct

Yom Kippur (J): October 11/12

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Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day in the Jewish calendar and concludes the High Holy Days, which begin with Rosh Hashanah. For 25 hours, observant of the faith, fast, pray, and ask for repentance. It is a day to ask God for forgiveness for any sins committed against Him. Sins against a person must be atoned for before Yom Kippur, with repentance expressed through reconciliation and righting the wrongs. Yom Kippur is a national holiday in the state of Israel. PLEASE NOTE: All Hebrew calendar months begin and end at sundown. LEEP Calendar marks Jewish months starting on their first full day. Observant people of the faith will observe the beginning of the month at sunset the day prior.

Africa

Oct

Yorktown Day, Virginia (US-VA)(1781): October 19

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October 19, 1781, marks the last major battle of the American Revolution. American and French troops defeated the British at Yorktown. Every year the city of Yorktown, Virginia, celebrates this event with festivals and parades in true colonial fashion. The official state holiday is on the second Monday in October. Celebrations go on through the 21st of each year in the city. PLEASE NOTE: Treat all televised and venue-specific events (sporting, concerts, trade shows, etc.) as estimated. Several factors can cause an event to move dates at the last minute, including weather, strikes, natural disasters, political upheaval, conflicting programming, pandemics, and current events. Because of this, always verify the event with the promotor before committing resources. LEEP often estimates dates based on the previous year's schedules, as the final dates are unknown until a few months, weeks, or days before the event. If the date is known to be estimated, you will see an (est) following the date in the title.

Africa

Oct

Youth Justice Action Month, Ntl.: October

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Youth Justice Action Month (YJAM) began in 2008. Its purpose is to raise awareness, strengthen coalitions, build campaigns, and encourage actions that keep children out of the adult criminal justice system.

Africa

Oct

YWCA Week Without Violence: October 20-26

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Week Without Violence is part of a global movement to end violence against women and girls with YWCAs across the country and around the world. For over 20 years, YWCA has set aside the third week in October as a Week Without Violence, holding events, sharing information and stories, and advocating and working to end gender-based violence.

Africa

Oct

Zindajan Earthquakes (AF)(2023): October 8-15

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Between October 8-15, 2023, Afghanistan suffered four 6.3-magnitude earthquakes near Herat. The United Nations reported that the quakes resulted in over 3,000 deaths, while hundreds are still unaccounted for. Key details include: The first two earthquakes have impacted more than 11,000 residents in the Zindajan district, with every home reportedly destroyed. The U.N.'s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs notes over 300 families affected in other areas. As rescue operations proceed, mainly involving villagers using rudimentary tools to sift through the rubble, the casualty count is expected to grow. Local hospitals need help coping with the influx of injured patients. The U.N. has allocated $5 million from the Afghanistan Emergency Reserve for relief initiatives in response to the tragedy. While countries like Pakistan, Iran, and China have pledged aid, some organizations, including World Vision Afghanistan, believe that more than international assistance is needed. The U.S. has refrained from providing direct aid after the earthquakes, but Secretary of State Anthony Blinken stated that U.S. humanitarian allies are assisting with urgent relief. A third 6.3 earthquake hit the region early on the morning of the 11th. Many of the dead are still buried under the rubble of the original two earthquakes. By the 11th, the death toll from those was nearing 3,000. More casualties are expected due to this third quake. A fourth 6.3 earthquake hit Haret on October 15, 2023, adding at least two more people to the death toll. The region is no stranger to seismic activity. A June 2022 earthquake near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border resulted in over 1,000 casualties. The recent natural disaster exacerbates Afghanistan's challenges, with the Taliban takeover in 2021 leading to heightened food scarcity and poverty among its population.

Africa

Oct

Abolition Day (BL): October 9

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ABOLITION DAY IN SAINT BARTHÉLEMY: SLAVERY ENDS Abolition Day in Saint Barthélemy is a solemn yet celebratory occasion observed annually to mark the end of slavery on the island and to honor the memory of those who endured the hardships of bondage. The day serves as a reminder of the island's history and journey towards freedom and equality. The history of Abolition Day in Saint Barthélemy dates back to October 9, 1847, when slavery was officially abolished on the island. Saint Barthélemy, a French-speaking Caribbean island under Swedish rule at the time, had a small population of enslaved people who worked in various capacities, including agriculture and domestic service. The abolition of slavery in Saint Barthélemy came as part of a broader movement against slavery in Swedish colonies, influenced by growing global pressure and humanitarian efforts. The island observes Abolition Day with various activities that blend reflection with celebration to commemorate this significant event. The day often begins with church services, where prayers and readings focus on themes such as freedom, justice, and reconciliation. These services are followed by cultural events, including music, dance, and performances highlighting the island’s African heritage and the resilience of those who lived through slavery. Community gatherings and educational programs are also central to the observance of Abolition Day. Schools, local organizations, and museums may host talks, exhibitions, and workshops that explore the history of slavery in Saint Barthélemy and the broader Caribbean region. These events aim to educate the younger generation about the island's past and the importance of preserving the memory of those who fought for freedom. The day concludes with communal meals and festivities that unite the community, celebrating the shared values of freedom and equality. Traditional foods, music, and dance are integral to these celebrations, reflecting the cultural diversity and unity of the island's population. Abolition Day in Saint Barthélemy is a day of both remembrance and celebration. The island pays tribute to its history while looking forward to a future grounded in the principles of freedom and human dignity.

Africa

Oct

ADHD Awareness Month: October

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UNDERSTANDING ADHD: ADHD AWARENESS MONTH ADHD Awareness Month raises awareness about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. The event aims to educate the public about ADHD, reduce the stigma associated with it, and provide resources and support to individuals living with ADHD and their families. WHAT IS ADHD ADHD is a condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. It is one of the most common mental disorders in children, though it also affects many adults. The history of ADHD dates back to the early 20th century. In 1902, Dr. George Still, a British pediatrician, first described a condition resembling ADHD. He described a group of children who were impulsive, inattentive, and had difficulty with self-control, which he attributed to a defect in moral control. This early description laid the groundwork for what would later become known as ADHD. The term "Attention-Deficit Disorder" (ADD) emerged in the 1980s, and the condition was later renamed ADHD, reflecting the recognition of hyperactivity as a core feature in many individuals. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) officially included ADHD in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1980. Various organizations support this event, including CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), and the ADHD Coaches Organization (ACO). These organizations work together to provide education, support, and advocacy for individuals with ADHD, their families, and the professionals who work with them. WHAT CAUSES ADHD? The exact cause of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not fully understood, but research suggests that it is likely due to a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Here's a closer look at what is currently known about the causes of ADHD: GENETICS ADHD tends to run in families, indicating a strong genetic component. Studies have shown that if a parent has ADHD, there is a higher chance that their child will also have the disorder. Specific genes related to the neurotransmitter dopamine, which plays a key role in attention and impulse control, have been linked to ADHD. NEUROLOGICAL FACTORS —Brain Structure and Function: Differences in brain structure and activity have been observed in individuals with ADHD. For example, certain areas of the brain, such as the frontal lobe, which is involved in executive functions like decision-making, problem-solving, and impulse control, may be smaller or less active in those with ADHD. —Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain. Imbalances or deficiencies in these neurotransmitters are believed to play a role in ADHD, affecting attention, motivation, and emotional regulation. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS Prenatal and Early Childhood Factors: Exposure to certain environmental risks during pregnancy or early childhood may increase the likelihood of developing ADHD. These include: Prenatal exposure to alcohol or tobacco: Smoking or drinking alcohol during pregnancy has been linked to a higher risk of ADHD in children. Premature birth or low birth weight: Babies born prematurely or with a low birth weight are at an increased risk of developing ADHD. Exposure to toxins: Lead exposure, particularly in young children, has been associated with an increased risk of ADHD. Psychosocial Factors: Although not direct causes, psychosocial factors such as family stress, early trauma, or unstable home environments may exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD. DIET AND LIFESTYLE FACTORS —Dietary Factors: While diet alone is not believed to cause ADHD, specific dietary components, such as excessive sugar, artificial food additives, and food allergies, may influence the severity of symptoms in some children. However, this is still a topic of ongoing research and debate. —Screen Time: Excessive screen time and lack of physical activity have been suggested as potential factors contributing to attention issues in some children. However, these are not recognized as primary causes of ADHD. BRAIN INJURIES In some cases, a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can lead to symptoms that resemble or exacerbate ADHD, though this is not a common cause. ADHD is likely the result of a complex interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental influences. While a family history of ADHD and specific brain characteristics can predispose an individual to the disorder, environmental factors may trigger or worsen symptoms. Understanding that ADHD is a multifactorial condition helps in approaching its diagnosis and treatment more holistically, focusing on both medical interventions and supportive environments. WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ADHD? ADHD symptoms are divided into two categories: inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD may exhibit symptoms from one or both categories: INATTENTION —Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities —Often makes careless mistakes in schoolwork or other activities —Frequently loses things necessary for tasks and activities —Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli —Often forgetful in daily activities HYPERACTIVITY AND IMPULSIVITY —Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat —Unable to stay seated —Runs about or climbs excessively in inappropriate situations —Talks excessively —Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games) These symptoms can lead to academic, occupational, and social difficulties. HOW PREVALENT IS ADHD? ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting an estimated 5-10% of children worldwide and about 4-5% of adults. The prevalence of ADHD varies depending on the criteria used for diagnosis and the population being studied. In the United States, it is estimated that around 6.1 million children aged 2-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). ADHD Awareness Month plays a crucial role in promoting understanding and acceptance of ADHD. By raising awareness, the event helps to reduce the stigma associated with the disorder, encourages early diagnosis and intervention, and provides essential support for individuals and families affected by ADHD. Through education and advocacy, ADHD Awareness Month aims to improve the quality of life for those living with this condition.

Africa

Oct

Adoption Week, Ntl. (UK): October 21-27

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SUPPORTING FAMILIES:

NATIONAL ADOPTION WEEK IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

National Adoption Week is an annual event in the United Kingdom that focuses on raising awareness about adoption, encouraging people to consider adopting, and supporting those involved in the adoption process. This important week is typically observed in October and has been a significant part of the UK's adoption landscape since it was first established in 1997.

Adoption Week is organized by Adoption UK, a national charity dedicated to providing support, advocacy, and information for adoptive families and those considering adoption. The event is also supported by local authorities, adoption agencies, and other organizations involved in the adoption process. These groups work together to promote the week and to provide resources and support to potential adoptive parents, adoptees, and birth families.

OBJECTIVES OF NATIONAL ADOPTION WEEK

The primary purpose of National Adoption Week is to increase awareness about adoption and to highlight the need for more adoptive parents. The event aims to dispel myths about adoption, address misconceptions, and provide accurate information to those considering adoption. It also seeks to:

—Encourage Adoption:

The week encourages more people to consider adopting children who need loving homes by sharing stories, testimonials, and experiences of adoptive families.

—Support Adoptive Families:

National Adoption Week provides a platform to offer resources, advice, and support to those who have adopted or are in the process of adopting, ensuring they have the tools they need to navigate the adoption challenges.

—Highlight the Needs of Children:

The event draws attention to the children in the UK who are waiting for adoption, particularly older children, siblings, and those with additional needs, who may face more challenges in finding permanent families.

—Promote Awareness:

The week is an opportunity to educate the public about the realities of adoption, the emotional and legal processes involved, and the lifelong impact it has on both the children and the adoptive families.

Throughout National Adoption Week, various activities are organized, including informational events, workshops, and media campaigns. These efforts help engage the public, answer questions about adoption, and connect prospective adopters with the needed resources.

National Adoption Week plays a crucial role in the UK's adoption system, ensuring that the needs of children waiting for adoption are met and that those considering adoption are well-informed and supported throughout the process.

Africa

Oct

Animal Welfare Week: October 3-9

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A LOOK AT ANIMAL WELFARE WEEK AND WORLD ANIMAL DAY Every October, animal lovers worldwide celebrate and advocate for better treatment of all creatures during Animal Welfare Week, which coincides with World Animal Day on October 4. These events offer a unified platform for raising awareness and addressing issues affecting animals globally. World Animal Day was established in 1925 by Heinrich Zimmermann, who organized the first event in Berlin. Initially held on March 24, it was moved to October 4 in 1929 to coincide with the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, to gain broader appeal. This date has since been a focal point for animal advocacy worldwide. Animal Welfare Week evolved as an extension of this day, providing a more extended period to engage the public and promote animal welfare causes. These observances are championed by various animal rights groups and welfare organizations globally. World Animal Day, in particular, is facilitated by a UK-based charity that supports the animal welfare movement. The week-long event sees participation from local communities, educational institutions, and even governments uniting under the common cause of animal welfare. People participate in various ways during Animal Welfare Week and World Animal Day. Activities range from educational workshops to animal welfare campaigns, fundraising events, and community clean-ups to promote habitats for wildlife. Social media also plays a crucial role, with advocates using it to spread messages, share resources, and mobilize support through hashtags and online campaigns. World Animal Welfare Week is significant because it not only highlights critical issues such as animal cruelty, habitat destruction, and the illegal wildlife trade, but also plays a crucial role in fostering legislative actions. By bringing these matters to the forefront, Animal Welfare Week and World Animal Day educate the public and create a global network of support for animal rights. Ultimately, these observances remind us of the importance of coexistence and humans' role in protecting every species on the planet. Together, Animal Welfare Week and World Animal Day strengthen the voice for animals, urging a compassionate approach towards all living beings.

Africa