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Happy Mental Health Month and Children’s Mental Health Week! This week’s Monday Memo highlights a range of resources, including education resources and training, funding opportunities, professional development and training, and more. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights Thank you for joining Resilient Georgia’s Spring General Meeting! We were grateful to come together to highlight how the Community Resiliency Model is being implemented across multiple sectors statewide to support resilience, strengthen well-being, and expand trauma-informed practices in diverse communities. The meeting recording and presentation slides are now available on our website. A follow-up document with additional information and links shared during the meeting will be coming soon! Upcoming Training: Community Resiliency Model (CRM): Join Nikki Warner on Wednesday May 13th from 10 AM–12 PM on Zoom for an interactive Community Resiliency Model (CRM) training. This trauma-informed training offers simple, practical tools to support stress regulation, connection, and resilience. Open to all, with a special focus on those working with young children (ages 0–5). Register here and please share widely with your networks! This week is Children’s Mental Health Week! This statewide initiative led by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning highlights the importance of supporting young children’s social and emotional wellbeing. Their webpage offers free resources and activities for educators, families, and communities—including tools to build connection, support emotional development, and promote resilience in early childhood settings. Check it out! Happy Mental Health Awareness Month! In recognition of Mental Health Month, we compiled a variety of resources to support emotional wellbeing and resilience. Mental Health America is hosting More Good Days, Together: A Virtual Wellness Experience on May 20 from 12–2 PM ET, featuring guided chair yoga, journaling, and breathwork designed to reduce stress and promote healthy habits. Cobb County Public Library also offers a Self-Care, Mindfulness, and Mental Health Booklist with curated titles for children, teens, and adults focused on mindfulness, resilience, and mental wellness. In the article Beyond Happiness from Duke Magazine, Kate Bowler explores the difference between happiness and joy through reflections on grief, resilience, and finding meaning during difficult moments. Additionally, a 10-minute guided meditation led by Carolina Bautista-Velez offers participants an opportunity to practice mindfulness, self-compassion, and emotional reflection through themes of presence, grief, and forgiveness. Also this Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) online session Friday, May 15 from 11AM–12PM led by Vira Salzburn is an intro to mindfulness and self-compassion skills designed to support educators, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and anyone experiencing burnout, self-criticism, or stress. Coalition Highlights Resilient South Central Georgia is one of our newest regional coalitions that brings together partners, leaders, and communities across nine South Central Georgia counties to strengthen resilience, promote trauma-informed practices, increase mental health awareness, and support youth and families. Serving Appling, Candler, Emanuel, Evans, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wayne counties, the collaborative focuses on building stronger systems of care through shared resources, partnerships, and community-driven strategies. Check out their April Newsletter to learn more about the ongoing work! Resilient Middle Georgia: The Methodist Home, RMG partner, is hosting a Youth Suicide Prevention Training on Friday, May 29th from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM in Macon. This training will provide participants with practical tools to recognize, prevent, and respond to youth suicide and self-harm, while exploring current trends, trauma impacts, communication strategies, and intervention techniques. Designed for mental health professionals educators, healthcare providers, youth-serving organizations, and community leaders, the training offers 6 continuing education hours through LPCGA, GAMFT, and GSCSW. Register here! Education DOE Mental Health Awareness Training: The Georgia Department of Education’s Mental Health Awareness Training (MHAT) offers customizable, on-demand trainings for schools and community partners across the state. Designed for a wide range of audiences, from educators and school staff to community stakeholders, these sessions cover topics such as suicide prevention, trauma, educator wellness, and general mental health awareness. Trainings are typically one hour and can be tailored to meet outlined in the MHAT course catalog. Organizations can request a training to support professional learning and strengthen whole child supports in their communities. Georgia Multi-Tiered System of Supports: The Georgia Department of Education has introduced the updated Georgia Multi-Tiered System of Supports framework and flowchart, a statewide approach designed to help every student thrive through coordinated academic, behavioral, and wellbeing supports. GaMTSS emphasizes prevention, early intervention, and data-informed decision making to ensure students receive the right support at the right time. The framework is intended to guide districts and schools in building strong systems of support through collaboration, integrated student services, clear behavioral expectations, positive school climate strategies, and ongoing progress monitoring. Educational professionals are encouraged to explore and utilize this framework to strengthen prevention efforts, improve student wellbeing, and support positive outcomes for all learners. Check out this guide for strategies and tools to help implement prevention-focused, trauma-informed supports within schools and districts. Please share with your educational partners! Funding "2026 Moment of Spark" Grant: The Georgia Health Initiative is accepting applications for its 2026 Moment of Spark Grant, a one-year funding opportunity providing up to $55,000 to support established or emerging collaboratives responding to timely community needs or opportunities for change. The grant encourages creative, community-driven approaches that build momentum around advocacy, systems change, and local impact. In addition to funding, grantees will receive coaching and technical assistance in areas such as strategic communications, advocacy, and grassroots organizing, along with ongoing support from the Initiative’s Community Engagement team. An informational session is available for those interested in learning more about the opportunity, register here! Georgia in the News Georgia legislature first in nation to link arts and mental health : Georgia has become the first state in the U.S. to pass a statewide legislative measure explicitly linking the arts to mental health outcomes through House Resolution 1007, a bipartisan effort recognizing the role of arts organizations, artists, and arts-based interventions in supporting trauma recovery, mental health, and community resilience. While the resolution does not allocate funding, advocates describe it as an important policy signal that could lay the groundwork for future investment in “neuroarts” and arts-in-health initiatives. The effort grew out of Healing Arts Atlanta and a broad coalition of arts, health, and research partners, including the Woodruff Arts Center, the Carter Center, BLKHLTH, and university-based researchers. Alongside the resolution, initiatives like the Georgia NeuroArts Coalition are expanding efforts across 11 communities to study and apply how arts engagement supports brain health across the lifespan. YMCA of Metro Atlanta Recognized for their Excellence in Child Safety: The YMCA of Metro Atlanta was recognized for meeting nationally recognized standards in child sexual abuse prevention and youth safety. The accreditation reflects a rigorous evaluation of the YMCA’s policies, staff screening, training, supervision, reporting systems, and overall safety practices. This designation places the organization among the first 20% of YMCA associations to achieve this recognition and affirms its commitment to maintaining safe environments for youth. The accreditation is valid for three years, during which the YMCA will continue upholding these child protection standards. Professional Development and Training Trauma-Focused CBT Webinar: In this exclusive webinar, Dr. Diane Gehart breaks down the essential principles of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): one of the most effective, evidence-based approaches for treating trauma in children, adolescents, and families. To learn more, visit Therapy That Works Institute. For questions, reach out to: Friendlyhelp@dianegehart.com. The Montana Summer Institute 2026: Creating Conditions Where the Good Can Grow will take place June 16–19, 2026, in Big Sky, Montana and via livestream. Recognized as a leading conference on the Science of the Positive, Positive Community Norms, and the Science of Positive Experiences, the event will explore strategies to strengthen resilience, protective factors, and community wellbeing. Through case studies, hands-on learning, and practical tools, participants will gain approaches to fostering positive change across areas such as mental health, substance use prevention, child wellbeing, and community safety. Registered attendees are also encouraged to participate in a pre-institute webinar introducing the foundational frameworks and research behind the conference themes. When Everything Feels Uncertain: Leading with Accountability When the Ground is Shifting: This recorded presentation from Tend Collective explores how individuals and teams can maintain accountability with compassion and consistency during times of uncertainty and stress. Designed for workplace professionals, the session discusses how unclear expectations and broken agreements can impact trust and team functioning, while offering practical strategies for navigating difficult conversations, repairing relationships, and creating supportive accountability structures. The presentation also examines the “polycrisis era,” the brain science of uncertainty, and seven actionable tools participants can implement immediately to foster connection, clarity, and resilience in the workplace. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s memo highlights a range of resources, including early childhood supports, funding opportunities, professional development and training, and resources for parents and caregivers. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights Join Resilient Georgia for our Spring General Meeting THIS THURSDAY April 30th from 11AM–12:30 PM, featuring Resilience in Action: Showcasing the Community Resiliency Model Across Georgia. We will highlight how the Community Resiliency Model is being implemented across multiple sectors statewide to support resilience, strengthen well-being, and expand trauma-informed practices in diverse communities. Join the Zoom here! We have a doctoral student interested in a remote or hybrid Fall 2026 practicum to meet any immediate program-related needs. Potential projects may include theory of change or logic model development, program evaluation data collection, report writing, health communication graphic design, or data visualization. Total hours for the Fall semester would be approximately 100 hours. Please contact Audrey directly at aidaikkadar@resilientga.org to get connected. Next week is Children’s Mental Health Week! (May 4–8, 2026) This statewide initiative led by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning highlights the importance of supporting young children’s social and emotional wellbeing. Their webpage offers free resources and activities for educators, families, and communities—including tools to build connection, support emotional development, and promote resilience in early childhood settings. Check it out! Upcoming Training: Community Resiliency Model (CRM): Join Nikki Warner and Andrea Meyer Stinson Wednesday May 13th from 10 AM–12 PM on Zoom for an interactive Community Resiliency Model (CRM) training. This trauma-informed training offers simple, practical tools to support stress regulation, connection, and resilience. Open to all, with a special focus on those working with young children (ages 0–5). Register here and please share widely with your networks! Coalition Highlights Resilient Northwest Metro: Cobb Collaborative, through the Positive Childhood Alliance Cobb, is working to strengthen child abuse and neglect prevention efforts by raising awareness and supporting families and caregivers. In partnership with SafePath Children’s Advocacy Center, the initiative focuses on creating safer, healthier environments where all children can thrive by engaging the community in prevention efforts. The resource highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of abuse and emphasizes that community involvement is key to prevention, encouraging individuals to learn more, access resources, and take action to support children and families. Join the South Georgia Wellbeing Alliance for All Hands In: Advancing Youth Mental Health on May 8 from 8:15AM-3PM at the Rainwater Conference Center in Valdosta, GA. This full-day summit brings together educators, healthcare providers, community leaders, and youth-serving professionals to strengthen collaborative responses to youth mental health. The event features breakout sessions on the Community Resiliency Model (CRM), Trauma 101, and QPR Suicide Prevention Training, equipping participants with practical skills to support resilience, understand trauma, and respond to youth in crisis. Register here! Resilient Metro: ARCHI is excited to highlight the upcoming GACHW Summit: Heroes Without Capes: Celebrating the Power of Community Health Workers on June 3 at Atlanta Technical College—an energizing, in-person event bringing together CHWs, partners, and advocates to connect, learn, and celebrate their impact across Georgia. ARCHI also welcomes several new partners to Resilient Metro, including YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Retaaza, The Giving Kitchen, and CHRIS 180, whose work strengthens access to resources, behavioral health support, and community wellbeing across the region. Thank you for your tireless efforts, Resilient Metro! Early Childhood Georgetown University’s Thrive Center, home to the federal Center of Excellence for Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC), is launching new resources in response to national workforce challenges, including staff stress and a shortage of qualified consultants. A free monthly virtual education series is now available, offering practical guidance on managing challenging behaviors, supporting staff wellness, and strengthening classroom practices for early childhood professionals. Additionally, a new 4-month Practical Certificate in IECMH Consultation—beginning June 2026—provides competency-based training for both mental health professionals and early childhood educators, with a focus on real-world application. Additional resources from the recent session include a “repair” toolkit, a reflection tool, and more information about their consultation program, which currently has 74 open slots available for June. The GA-AIMH Early Childhood Summit will take place virtually on May 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM, kicking off Children’s Mental Health Week with a focus on early relational health and supporting young children and families. The event will explore strategies for sustaining joy and connection amid burnout while highlighting the work of community partners. It is designed for a broad audience, including early childhood educators, clinicians, home visitors, advocates, and others invested in child and family wellbeing. Register here! The National Institute for Early Education Research 2025 State of Preschool Yearbook highlights continued growth in early childhood education, with record enrollment (nearly 1.8 million children) and $14.4 billion in state investment nationwide. However, progress has slowed, and access and quality remain uneven across states. Notably, Georgia stands out as the first state to achieve both broad access—serving over half of 4-year-olds—and meeting all 10 national quality benchmarks, demonstrating that expanding access and maintaining high quality can go hand in hand. Funding Cooper Foundation: The Housing Stability Grant Program from the Cooper Charitable Foundation provides financial assistance to help individuals and families access or maintain stable housing. The program primarily covers upfront move-in costs such as security deposits and initial rent, as well as emergency expenses like rent and utilities. It prioritizes working individuals at risk of homelessness, including survivors of domestic violence, those exiting foster care or incarceration, and individuals in recovery or receiving health care. Grants typically range from about $500 to $5,500, with most addressing move-in barriers. Applications are submitted through partner organizations that provide additional support services and help ensure long-term housing stability. The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is now accepting applications for From Insight to Action: Health Equity Research that Meets This Moment through its Health Equity Research for Action (HERA) program. This funding opportunity supports community-driven research that advances health equity and addresses structural discrimination. Up to 20 grants (up to $500,000 each) will be awarded to organizations with strong community partnerships. Letters of intent are due May 14, 2026. Parenting GeorgiaCAN Parent Fellowship: GeorgiaCAN is now accepting applications for its Parent Fellowship, a program that supports early-stage advocates in shaping and improving public education across Georgia. The fellowship runs from July 2025 to May 2026, includes a monthly stipend for six selected participants, and is open to individuals passionate about advocating for all students. Applications are due by May 1, 2025. Professional Development and Events Become a Connections Matter Trainer: The Connections Matter Georgia Train-the-Trainer (CMGA TOT) is an in-person training designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and tools to lead Connections Matter workshops for parents, educators, and community members. Focused on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, brain development, and resilience, the training prepares participants to deliver community-based prevention education that strengthens connections and supports child and community wellbeing. Upcoming sessions will be held June 3 and September 29, 2026, in Atlanta, GA. The cost is $500 with an annual $100 licensing fee, and participants must have previously completed a Connections Matter workshop. Certification is valid for one year and includes access to training materials and ongoing support. New Online Learning Series: Getting Started with Collective Impact: This two-part virtual workshop series (June 18 & July 16, 1–4 PM) offers a practical introduction to collective impact, including core collaboration practices, backbone team roles, and collaborative leadership. Participants can attend one or both sessions, with access to materials and recordings included. Ideal for those new to or strengthening their approach to cross-sector collaboration. 2026 GMHCN Annual Conference "W.A.V.E.S.": Registration is now open for the 2026 W.A.V.E.S. Conference, taking place August 4–6, 2026, in Jekyll Island, GA. This multi-day event brings together peers, professionals, and partners to learn, connect, and grow. Two registration options are available: General Registration, which includes full conference access, CEU eligibility, meals, and lodging, and Peer Registration, which includes all benefits except CEUs. Early bird pricing is available through May 25, 2026, with discounted rates for both options. Click to register! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s memo we are highlighting a variety of funding and training opportunities, as well as professional development for healthcare providers. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights FREE CRM Trainings Sponsored by Red Cross!   Resilient Georgia and American Red Cross are partnering to offer free Community Resiliency Model (CRM) trainings to communities that were impacted by Hurricane Helene. Participants will learn the science of how stress and traumatic events impact the brain and nervous system while gaining six body-based, practical resiliency skills that can be applied in your daily life and in times of crisis. For more information on scheduling a training for your community, contact info@resilientga.org .  The  Youth Prevention Network (YPN)  is a statewide initiative that equips youth (ages 13–19) and youth-serving adults with skills for mental wellness, substance misuse prevention, and leadership through flexible, evidence-informed training. Participants receive stipends and the program is currently  seeking partners for 2026 trainings.  An upcoming in-person  Youth Prevention Mentor training for adults  will be held on  May 16th from 9am-5pm  at Changing Lanes Intervention Human Services  in Fayetteville. Participants receive $20/hour, a t-shirt, and a certificate of completion. If interested, please send your name, phone number, email and t-shirt size to:   scheduling@clihumanservices.com .  Sector-Specific Resource Guides:  These guides developed by Resilient Georgia offer practical frameworks, strategies, and training opportunities to help organizations become trauma-informed and better support children and families. We’re also excited to share our newest guide for youth-serving professionals , bringing our total to 11 Trauma-Informed guides  across sectors. Coalition Peer Connection Call: Our first peer connection of 2026 is tomorrow Tuesday, April 21 at 2:00 PM. Please feel free to invite your coalition partners—we encourage at least one member from each coalition to attend! Coalition Highlights Resilient West Central Georgia  is hosting an In-Person Coalition Meeting  on May 6  from 10AM to 2PM  at the Historic Griffin Hotel. This meeting will bring coalition members together for collaboration, updates, and continued work to strengthen community partnerships and advance shared goals.  Register here  if you are located in Butts, Henry, Fayette, Lamar, Pike, Rockdale, Spalding, or Upson counties. Resilient Communities of Marshland GA: Community members, leaders, and service providers are invited to the Building a Resilient Community Summit on   April 29  from 9AM–2PM  at Ogeechee Technical College in Statesboro. Hosted by the Bulloch County Commission on Human Services (Family Connection), this collaborative event will focus on strengthening families and addressing community challenges through education, connection, and shared solutions. As part of Child Abuse Prevention Month, the summit will feature local leadership and interactive sessions on the trauma of poverty, resilience, and brain development, offering meaningful opportunities for participants to learn, engage, and support positive outcomes for children and families. Resilient Communities of East Georgia   is hosting several upcoming opportunities for community engagement and resilience-building. Teens, parents, and guardians are encouraged to save the date for the Annual Resilient Teens Summit on August 29, 2026 , at the Columbia County Exhibition Center. This event will focus on supporting teen resilience and well-being, with more details to come as planning continues. In addition, a Community Resiliency Model (CRM) training will be held on May 14  from 10 AM–1 PM  at The HUB of Community Innovation in Augusta, serving participants from Columbia and Richmond counties   and providing practical skills to strengthen resilience and emotional well-being.  Waycross Area Resilient Georgia , in partnership with American Red Cross, is hosting a free Community Resiliency Model (CRM) Workshop on May 7  from 9:00–11:00 AM  at the Waycross Family Justice Center. This in-person training introduces six foundational wellness skills to support emotional regulation, resilience, and understanding of how stress impacts the brain and nervous system, while equipping participants with practical, non-clinical tools to support youth, reduce burnout, and strengthen personal grounding in high-stress situations. The workshop also emphasizes building shared language and consistent practices across sectors to promote community well-being and safer, more supportive environments for youth. A $100 gift certificate incentive is offered for participating partners, with limited seating available (25 spots). RSVP is requested by April 30 , register here!   Healthcare The American Academy of Pediatrics   is offering two upcoming webinars to support trauma-informed pediatric care: on  April 27 from 2:00–3:00 PM, From Recognition to Referral will guide providers in identifying trauma in children, understanding evidence-based treatments like TF-CBT, and making informed referrals while supporting families; and  on May 14 from 2:00–3:00 PM, Teens Crashing Out  will provide practical strategies for communicating with adolescents, understanding brain development and trauma, and strengthening relational health in clinical settings. Building Partnerships Between Community-Based Organizations and Health Care Providers to Address ACEs in Rural and Farmworker Settings:   This webinar will take place on  April 30th from 3-4 PM EST and will highlight Project NACES, a collaborative initiative that strengthens partnerships between community health centers and farmworker communities to improve ACEs screening, education, and response. Presenters will share key lessons learned from this pilot, including strategies for engaging community voices, expanding culturally responsive care, and building sustainable cross-sector partnerships to better support the health and well-being of farmworker families. Grady supports new health care pathway for students:   Grady is partnering with the Academy for Innovation in Medicine to launch a new healthcare career pathway for students, combining hands-on learning, mentorship, and dual-enrollment opportunities so students can graduate with a high school diploma, an associate degree, and career credentials—building a strong pipeline from early exposure to workforce-ready healthcare professionals. Check out the full article to learn more! Professional Development and Events The Georgia Chamber’s Georgia|2050 Regional Roundtables series  is hosting an in-person event in Albany on May 7 from 10:30 AM–1:30 PM  at Albany State University’s West Bookstore Event Center. This session will bring together business leaders, educators, and policymakers to review data and discuss the long-term economic opportunities and challenges facing Southwest Georgia. The roundtable is part of a broader statewide initiative focused on strategic planning to strengthen Georgia’s future economic growth and opportunity. Register here! The 2nd Annual Georgia Symposium on Effecting Societal Change for Child Sexual Abuse  will take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 8:45 AM–12:00 PM . The event brings together elected officials, nonprofit leaders, faith leaders, educators, researchers, and community advocates to address child sexual abuse, described as a widespread but often underrecognized issue affecting an estimated one in eight children before age 18. The symposium focuses on advancing learning, collaboration, and actionable strategies to prevent child sexual abuse and strengthen community response efforts across Georgia. Click here for full event details or to register .  Safe Space Saturday  is a teen-focused mental health and wellness event taking place on   May 16 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM  at Pittsburgh Yards in Atlanta. The event is designed to create a supportive, empowering space where teens can engage in open conversations, build connections, and participate in workshops tailored to their needs. While the programming centers on teens, parents are welcome and can enjoy a dedicated lounge space with their own activities. Reserve your spot! Funding The following applications are due through Grants.gov  by  May 4,  with final submission in JustGrants   by May 11 .  The OJJDP FY25 Family-Based Alternative Justice grant  is a competitive funding opportunity supporting programs that provide alternatives to incarceration for parents or primary caregivers involved in or at risk of entering the criminal justice system. These family-based approaches focus on rehabilitation, family preservation, and strengthening parenting capacity, with the goal of preventing foster care placement and reducing future justice system involvement for both parents and children.  The OJJDP FY25 Expanding Youth Access to Community-Based Treatment grant  is a competitive opportunity to support programs serving youth under 18 with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health needs who have been involved in the justice system. The funding focuses on expanding access to community-based treatment, improving outcomes, and reducing further justice system involvement.  The OJJDP FY25 Opioid Affected Youth Initiative  is a competitive federal grant opportunity supporting states, local, and Tribal jurisdictions in implementing prevention and intervention strategies for children, youth, and families impacted by opioid, stimulant, and other substance use disorders. The funding focuses on identifying needs, expanding access to treatment, and strengthening supports for affected communities.  The OJJDP FY25 National Mentoring Resource Center grant is a competitive funding opportunity to support the mentoring field by maintaining the National Mentoring Resource Center website and providing training and technical assistance to OJJDP mentoring grantees. The initiative aims to strengthen mentoring programs and improve outcomes for youth through enhanced resources and support. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s memo we are highlighting funding and professional development and training opportunities as well as a few opportunities for parents and caregivers and youth. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights Child Abuse Prevention Month: Prevention Palooza   As we recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month this April, partners are invited to join a series of virtual events hosted by the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy  as part of their  Prevention Palooza . These sessions offer meaningful opportunities to learn, connect, and strengthen prevention efforts statewide. As part of the series, Nikki Warner  will be leading a Webinar Wednesday  session on the Community Resiliency Model (CRM) this Wednesday April 15th from 10–11:30 AM. Explore upcoming trainings and register to participate, and help share these opportunities with your networks. Join Resilient Georgia for our Spring General Meeting  on  April 30th from 11AM–12:30 PM , featuring Resilience in Action: Showcasing the Community Resiliency Model Across Georgia .  We will highlight how the Community Resiliency Model  is being implemented across multiple sectors statewide to support resilience, strengthen well-being, and expand trauma-informed practices in diverse communities. Calendar invites have been sent out to our communications lists, but if you did not receive it or would like to share with folks in your community, you can find the registration link here. Children’s Mental Health Week Photos:   We’re inviting coalition partners to share a photo of themselves anytime between ages 0–26 for an upcoming social or newsletter feature. It’s a great way to celebrate the journeys that shape our work today!  If you’d like to participate, please email your photo to nwarner@resilientga.org by Friday, April 24th. Upcoming April Dates: There will be no update calls in April. Instead, we look forward to connecting with you at our first Coalition Peer Connection of the year on Tuesday, April 21 at 2:00 PM.  Please feel free to invite your coalition partners—we encourage at least one member from each coalition to attend! GUIDE, Inc. is offering two youth leadership opportunities. The Georgia Teen Institute 2026  (June 8–12 at Reinhardt University) is a weeklong training for Youth Action Teams  (YATs) to build skills in leadership, prevention, and community action, with registration due by May 1 . In addition, teams can apply by April 24  to join the Georgia Opioid Use Prevention YAT Network,  a yearlong cohort that begins at GTI and provides subsidized attendance, stipends, training, coaching, and funding to support youth-led opioid prevention and mental health initiatives in their communities.  Coalition Highlights Resilient Middle Georgia  is hiring for two part-time, hybrid positions based in Middle Georgia, both offering $18–$20/hour  for approximately 20 hours per week. The Coalition Engagement Coordinator  focuses on strengthening partner relationships through communication, engagement tracking, and facilitation support, while the Coalition Operations Coordinator  supports internal logistics, scheduling, and systems to ensure smooth implementation of meetings, trainings, and events. Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia : The Vashti Center for Children & Families is hosting two Child Abuse Prevention Month trainings in April 2026 focused on strengthening protective factors for children. The virtual Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences (HOPE) Training   will take place on  April 17 from 10–11AM and will highlight how positive experiences support child well-being and resilience. In addition, the in-person Courage to Care: Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Workshop   will be held on April 21 and April 28 from 9–11AM,  equipping youth-serving adults with practical strategies to recognize warning signs, establish safe environments, promote healthy relationships, and respond to concerns related to child sexual abuse.  Resilient North Georgia:  Join Reaching Teens Connect & Reflect , hosted by Wellroot’s Reaching Teens experts, designed to support professionals in applying trauma-responsive, relationship-based practices to real-life situations. Held on the 4th Thursday of each month  from 12:00–1:00 PM , this facilitated space offers a chance to bring challenges, reflect on responses, and learn alongside others in a supportive, non-judgmental environment—no preparation required. Ideal for anyone working with youth, families, or teams, especially those familiar with Reaching Teens, this session provides meaningful time to slow down, build confidence, and stay grounded in connection-focused work. Participants can drop in as able and are also invited to  join the monthly reminder list to stay connected. Funding Two potential funding opportunities are available for organizations looking to expand their impact The CAPTRUST Community Foundation  provides grants to nonprofits nationwide that focus on enriching the lives of children, including large “Charity of Choice” awards (over $100,000) and additional national grants for aligned organizations.  Meanwhile, the Bob Woodruff Foundation  offers rolling grant opportunities for nonprofits serving veterans, service members, and their families, with a focus on improving health and well-being, increasing access to care, and addressing barriers to thriving after service. Organizations are encouraged to review eligibility and application details to determine fit.  Dobb's Foundation Summer 2026 Grant Cycle Open Now!   The R. Howard Dobbs, Jr. Foundation  is now accepting Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) for its Summer 2026 grant cycle, supporting Georgia-based nonprofits working to strengthen families, communities, and the environment—particularly in underserved areas. Funding priorities include youth mental health and resiliency, innovative education solutions that improve student outcomes, and environmental conservation efforts that promote equitable, community-driven impact. The LOI   submission deadline is April 22nd ,  with an optional information session on April 14  and funding decisions announced in June 2026.  Professional Development and Events Georgia State Child Welfare Training Collaborative: The Knowledge to Action Conversation:  In Our Own Voice, Authentic Stories of Mental Health Resilience  will be held virtually on Thursday, April 23, 2026,  from 10–11:30 AM.  This session features speakers with lived experience, including Lauren Joiner Paul and Sadeja Divine , who will share personal stories to challenge stigma and deepen understanding of mental health conditions. Attendees will gain insight into the realities of living with mental illness, learn how individuals pursue meaningful goals and recovery, and explore ways to support and engage with the mental health community.  The Georgia Association for Infant Mental Health (GA-AIMH) will host a virtual Early Childhood Summit   on May 4th at 12PM   to kick off Children’s Mental Health Week. This gathering will focus on the importance of early relational health, sustaining joy and connection amid burnout, and highlighting the work of community partners supporting young children and families. The event is open to a wide range of participants, including early childhood educators, home visitors, clinicians, advocates, and emerging leaders. Register here! Additionally, GA-AIMH offers a Reflective Supervision/Consultation (RSC) Training   which is a 15-hour virtual professional development opportunity designed for those working with infants, young children, and families. Grounded in infant mental health principles, this relationship-based training helps participants strengthen reflective practice, deepen self-awareness, and enhance their ability to support others. Ideal for current or aspiring reflective supervisors, the training also fulfills requirements for Endorsed Reflective Supervisor (ERS) status. Sessions will be held   April 17, April 24, and May 1  from 9:30 AM–3:30 PM. Register here!   Parents and Caregivers Local parents sharpen their pencils for Parent University :   Parent University  continues to gain momentum in Liberty County, with recent features across social media, local news, and LinkedIn highlighting its impact. The program brings together a wide range of resources—from education and healthcare to youth programming and family supports—creating a one-stop opportunity for parents to connect, learn, and access services. Community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing Parent University as a valuable and empowering space for families across all backgrounds.  Youth HealthMPowers Youth Advisory Board Opportunity:   HealthMPowers   is seeking enthusiastic Georgia students in grades 9–12 for the 2026–2027 school year to join its Youth Advisory Board, offering a unique opportunity to amplify youth voice and make a meaningful impact in their communities. Participants will receive community service hours, advocacy and leadership training, networking opportunities, access to a digital community, and potential letters of recommendation. Members are expected to attend monthly virtual meetings beginning May 3, 2026, participate in an in-person Youth Summit on June 4–5 (with travel and accommodations provided), and commit to at least one academic year of service. Youth can apply here by April 19, 2026.  For more information, contact sequoya.howard@healthmpowers.org .  THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week’s memo highlights resources for parents and caregivers, along with a variety of upcoming professional development, events, and training opportunities. Please note that the Monday Memo will pause next week (April 6) and resume on April 13th. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:   Thanks to everyone who has already submitted their scheduled coalition events for 2026! This   calendar   is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state.   As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here .  We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  Join Resilient Georgia for our Spring General Meeting on April 30th from 11AM–12:30 PM, featuring Resilience in Action: Showcasing the Community Resiliency Model Across Georgia .  We will highlight how the Community Resiliency Model   is being implemented across multiple sectors statewide to support resilience, strengthen well-being, and expand trauma-informed practices in diverse communities. Calendar invites have been sent out to our communications lists, but if you did not receive it or would like to share with folks in your community, you can find the registration link here. EMDR Basic Training Coming to Georgia:   Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most widely researched and effective therapies for treating trauma. In September 2026, Scaling Up  will bring an EMDRIA-approved EMDR Basic Training  to the Atlanta area in Cumming, offering clinicians the opportunity to build practical skills in this evidence-based approach. The training includes the full EMDRIA curriculum, 10 consultation hours, hands-on skill development, ongoing trainer support, and up to 40 continuing education credits. Group discounts, individual scholarships , and MyCAA   scholarships for military spouses  are available, and virtual training options are also offered for those unable to travel. Learn more or register here .  Upcoming April Dates: There will be no update calls in April. Instead, we look forward to connecting with you at our upcoming General Meeting  and our first   Coalition Peer Connection  of the year on  Tuesday, April 21 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of a round-specific meeting this month, this peer connection call will convene all coalition leaders across the state to connect and learn from one another. Please feel free to invite your coalition partners—we encourage at least one member from each coalition to attend! See you on the 21st!  Coalition Highlights Resilient Clayton: Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential’s annual Rising Leaders Luncheon  is Friday, June 5th at 12PM  at Cox Enterprises in Atlanta. This signature event celebrates youth leadership and community impact across Georgia by honoring the work of GCAPP’s Youth Advisory Council , formally inducting a new cohort of youth leaders, and recognizing the Youth Ambassador of the Year. The program will also feature a conversation with Jane Fonda  and a special guest, highlighting the voices and leadership of young people ages 14–24 who are advancing advocacy, prevention, peer education, and civic engagement throughout the state.  Resilient Coastal Georgia: The Coastal Georgia Regional Community Collaborative’s 12th Annual Coastal Georgia Mental Health Symposium  is Thursday, May 14th at Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus (University Hall). This conference will bring together leaders and professionals from behavioral health, healthcare, education, and community services for a day of learning, collaboration, and networking. The symposium will feature keynote speaker Kwame Johnson, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro Atlanta , and lunch will be provided. Registration is required and space is limited. Register here! Parents and Caregivers Raising Emotionally Balanced Boys: What Caregivers Who've Survived a Difficult Childhood Need to Know :  This PACEs Connection  article offers guidance for parents and caregivers, especially those who have experienced trauma, on supporting boys’ emotional growth. Boys feel deeply but may struggle to express emotions due to cultural expectations, peer pressure, and early experiences with discipline, sports, or relationships. Caregivers can help by validating feelings, modeling empathy, setting consistent limits with love, and actively engaging in boys’ lives to build confidence, resilience, and healthy relational skills.  The Importance of Stability in Childhood Development:  This Harvard University Center on the Developing Child’s article explores how stability shapes children’s health, development, and lifelong well-being. Beginning before birth, children’s growth is influenced by their environment. where stability in one area can strengthen others. Societal decisions and policies, from zoning laws to labor practices, affect stability, and inequities have left some families more vulnerable to disruption. The paper offers strategies for policymakers, community leaders, and service providers to create, maintain, and restore stability, highlighting the role of predictable caregiver responses, routines, and the balance of stability and novelty to support cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development in young children. Professional Development and Events Making Sense of Your Past (Worth) - Halo Project:   The   Making Sense of Your Past Worth Facilitator Training ,  developed by Cindy R. Lee  and used by HALO Project International , prepares clinicians and trauma trained professionals to facilitate an evidence informed curriculum designed to help individuals address shame, strengthen self-worth, and move toward secure attachment. The program, originally developed through pilot groups with domestic violence survivors and foster and adoptive parents, provides step by step guidance for leading an eight-week group curriculum or adapting it for counseling settings.  Participants who complete the training receive certification to facilitate the program along with curriculum materials, resources, and ongoing support, enabling them to lead groups or work with individuals in clinical and community settings. The Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network (GMHCN) is now accepting proposals for its 36th Annual Statewide Conference, W.A.V.E.S – We Are Voices Empowering Support,  on August 4–6, 2026 at the Jekyll Island Convention Center. This year’s theme highlights the powerful role of peer support in driving recovery, strengthening communities, and amplifying lived experience across Georgia. Those interested in presenting are invited to submit a proposal including the presenter’s name and affiliation, presentation title, a brief description (up to 500 words), and any special requirements. Proposals are due here April 13th. IRAISE  is expanding access to resilience-building supports in Atlanta through free, evidence-based Resilience Training programs  for both families and professionals across Georgia. Their Resilience Training for Parents and Families  offers practical tools to help caregivers support children through stress, anxiety, transitions, and big emotions, with sessions available in English and Spanish, in person or virtually. IRAISE also provides Resilience Training for Educators and Professionals , a no-cost professional development series covering trauma-informed classroom practices, compassion fatigue, de-escalation strategies, and whole-school wellness, with up to 6.5 contact hours  and certificates of completion. Fully funded by the Selena Gomez Rare Impact Fund , these programs come at no cost to participants and build on IRAISE’s work delivering integrative mental wellness services in 35+ schools , reaching 30,000+ children and families  each year. Please email Nikki to connect with the IRAISE team at nwarner@resilientga.org . NAMICon 2026 :  Join hundreds of advocates, individuals with lived experience, and supporters at NAMICon 2026, May 28–30 at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis . This conference advances mental health awareness, education, and advocacy, offering a transformative space to connect, share personal journeys, and build community while fostering support, hope, and healing. Attendees can engage in thought-provoking discussions, explore innovative approaches to mental wellness, and gain practical tools to reduce stigma, influence policy, and create lasting change.  THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s memo we are highlighting resources for faith leaders, parents and caregivers, professional development and training opportunities, and a scholarship opportunity for youth. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights Join Resilient Georgia for our Spring General Meeting  on  April 30th from 11AM–12:30 PM , featuring Resilience in Action: Showcasing the Community Resiliency Model Across Georgia .  We will highlight how the Community Resiliency Model  is being implemented across multiple sectors statewide to support resilience, strengthen well-being, and expand trauma-informed practices in diverse communities. Calendar invites have been sent out to our communications lists, but if you did not receive it or would like to share with folks in your community, you can find the registration link here. Thank you to everyone who joined our March Lunch and Learn!  During this session, Kim Jones and Roland Behm, co-founders of the   Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership (GMHPP) , shared valuable insights on how community leaders and coalitions can leverage data to inform advocacy efforts, shape policy conversations, and effectively engage decision-makers. If you missed the session, the recording ,   slide deck , and additional resources are available to explore.  We also encourage you to complete the March Lunch and Learn   survey —your feedback helps us continue to strengthen these opportunities.  The 2026 Georgia Child Health Conference  is calling for proposals for their conference  June 14-17  at the Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort. This statewide convening focuses on early childhood development, early intervention, and family-centered, evidence-based practices that support young children with disabilities and their families. The conference organizers have expressed interest in including a session on   Handle With Care  and how it has been implemented.  If you or your community would be interested in presenting on HWC efforts, we would love to help support you with a presentation. The proposal deadline is April 1, 2026. Upcoming Dates!  March Round Calls are scheduled this week as follows: Round 5: Monday, March 23rd, 2pm  Round 2: Tuesday, March 24th, 11am               Round 4: Tuesday, March 24th 2pm Round 3:  No call this month!                                Round 1: Friday, March 27th, 10am Coalition Highlights Resilient Metro:  Join ARCHI for their Quarterly Breakfast on the Impact of Racial Discrimination on Health  on Friday, April 24,  from 8:30-10:30 AM . Speakers will explore how stress, social conditions, and structural factors shape health outcomes over time, and will discuss the implications for building healthier, more resilient Atlanta communities. Register here! Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia  partners, Vashti Center and Hope House, are hosting a Women's Summit: Empowering Hope, Embracing Resilience on Friday, May 8th  in Moultrie, GA. The event offers complimentary health screenings, crafts, and resources tailored to women and girls, features a guest speaker focused on resilience, and provides a free lunch for all registered attendees. Register here! Faith Leaders The Multi-Faith Neighbors Network , in partnership with the Georgia Democracy Resilience Network , is hosting a Safety Net Training  on March 31st  from 9AM–2PM   at The Carter Center in Atlanta. This free, non-partisan training is designed for civic and faith leaders and will provide practical tools to help communities address polarization, extreme rhetoric, and division while promoting respectful dialogue and nonviolence. Participants will receive both physical and digital copies of the Safety Net curriculum, along with guidance on how to apply the training in their local communities. Breakfast and lunch are included, and registration is required . If faith leaders in your community are interested in attending but do not have the funding to travel, please reach out to us—we may be able to help identify funding support for travel.  Parents and Caregivers Elevate Couples Georgia ,  based at the University of Georgia, has launched a new five-year cycle of free, instructor-led, live online relationship education workshops through renewed federal funding. Open to married and unmarried couples statewide, the Elevate program strengthens communication, connection, and teamwork, with participating couples eligible to earn up to $360 for completing the program and follow-up surveys. Organizations that refer couples can receive a $25 e-gift card per participating couple , with no referral limit. Elevate Couples Georgia also offers ready-to-use promotional materials to support sharing this opportunity across communities and partner networks.  Helping Families Flourish – Understanding Foster Care:   Kennesaw State University’s School of Conflict Management, Peacebuilding & Development will host Helping Families Flourish, a full-day Understanding Foster Care Workshop on April 4th  from 8:30AM–5PM on the KSU campus. This in-person training will equip foster parents, caregivers, social workers, DFCS and CASA staff, attorneys, and other child-serving professionals with trauma-informed conflict resolution tools  to better support children and families involved in foster care. Participants will learn strategies for managing conflict, improving communication, and fostering collaboration within foster care systems. CE and CLE credits are available.  The registration deadline is March 28, 2026 , and the cost is $350 . Learn more and register here .   Professional Development and Events Joy Inside Tears  is excited to offer free Youth Mental Health First Aid  and Adult Mental Health First Aid   trainings to support the well-being of our community. These evidence-based programs equip everyday people with practical skills to recognize signs of mental health or substance-use challenges, respond with confidence and compassion, and connect individuals to appropriate support. Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed for adults working with youth ages 12–18, while Adult Mental Health First Aid focuses on supporting adults 18 and older. Ideal for schools, workplaces, faith-based groups, and community organizations, these trainings help strengthen local capacity for trauma-informed, non-judgmental mental wellness support. To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact info@joyinsidetears.com . Silence the Shame  is hosting a Restoring Hope Resource Fair  on April 18, 2026 , from 12:00–3:00 PM  for youth and young adults ages 16–24 . In partnership with the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities’ Office of Children, Young Adults, and Families, this community event will connect young people—particularly those involved in the juvenile justice system or aging out of foster care—with supportive resources. Attendees can access organizations offering assistance with healthcare, mental health and trauma-informed wellness, education and employment, housing and economic stability, and legal advocacy, all within a welcoming, youth-centered environment. Register here!   The Raising Her Project  invites community members and organizations to attend the 2nd Annual Black Maternal Health Brunch on Saturday, April 18, 2026 , from 11AM–2PM  at the Dalton Event Center in Moultrie, Georgia. This free, community-centered event will feature guest speakers and local vendors sharing resources, information, and support services focused on improving Black maternal health and strengthening awareness in the community. Proudly sponsored by United Way of Colquitt County, the brunch aims to foster meaningful conversations, connection, and collaboration while continuing to grow resources for families each year. Registration is free but required to attend. Youth Scholarship Opportunity: Girls Breaking Chains Excellence Scholarship:  Girls Breaking Chains is offering the Girls Breaking Chains Excellence Scholarship, a $1,500 award  for a graduating high school senior in Georgia who has a parent who is incarcerated and plans to pursue higher education. Applicants are asked to submit a 2–5 minute video  sharing how the scholarship will empower them to overcome challenges and pursue their educational goals. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2026 . Students can submit their videos or learn more by emailing Info@girlsbreakingchains.org . Please help share this opportunity with schools, churches, and families who may know a deserving student. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

In this edition of the Monday Memo, we’re highlighting resources for early childhood, funding opportunities, professional development and trainings, and supports for youth happening across the Resilient Georgia network. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights New Resilient Georgia Blog: When the Helpers Feel It Too--Recognizing and Responding to Burnout:   Our most recent blog highlights how burnout can affect professionals working in helping fields and shares reflections from frontline participants in the  Mental Health Career Accelerator (MHCA)  program. In the post, early-career clinicians describe how burnout shows up in their work and the small, intentional practices they use to restore balance and maintain resilience. The Mental Health Career Accelerator supports emerging clinicians by reducing barriers in the licensure process and strengthening the behavioral health workforce through financial incentives, training, and partnerships with states. By expanding the number of licensed professionals and supporting a workforce that reflects the communities it serves, the program helps increase access to mental health and substance use care. 20th Coalition Launched! Resilient Georgia's final coalition,   Resilient Heart of Georgia  will serve Ben Hill, Bleckley, Dodge, Dooley, Laurens, Montgomery, Irwin, Telfair, Tift, Treutlen, Turner, Wheeler, and Wilcox counties, the coalition will advance trauma-informed care, resilience-building, and ACEs prevention through cross-sector collaboration. The coalition is co-led by Georgia Family Connection Partnership, TLC CASA, and other local CASAs , alongside local partners across the region, helping ensure children, families, and communities have access to the resources they need to thrive. Shout out to  LaDonna Collins from Georgia CASA for fostering this local CASA connection!  Mark Your Calendars! Child Abuse Prevention Month is in April – Wear Blue Day on April 10 💙 April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and strengthen our collective commitment to ensuring all children grow up safe, supported, and thriving. Communities across Georgia are encouraged to Wear Blue on April 10 to show support for the more than one million children affected by abuse and neglect each year. To help individuals and organizations get involved, check out GCCA’s Prevention Palooza events and PCA Georgia’s Child Abuse Prevention Toolkit with resources, activities, and ideas for raising awareness and supporting families throughout the month. Coalition Highlights Resilient Gwinnett partners at GUIDE, Inc.   are now accepting applications for the   2026–2027 Youth Advisory Board (YAB) . This leadership opportunity brings together high school students from across Gwinnett to build leadership skills, contribute to GUIDE programming, and lead youth-driven substance use prevention initiatives. Throughout the school year, YAB members participate in monthly meetings, help plan community events and peer prevention campaigns, and may attend the Georgia Teen Institute summer leadership conference. Students who are rising 9th–12th graders living in or attending school in Gwinnett County are encouraged to apply by April 7. Resilient Communities of East Georgia: Several free trainings (sponsored by The Red Cross) are being offered across the East Georgia region to support community members in building resilience and understanding the impact of trauma. A Connections Matter Training   will take place on March 23 from 2–5 PM at Child Enrichment, Inc. in Augusta. Additionally, Community Resiliency Model (CRM) trainings are scheduled for April 1 from 10 AM–1 PM   in Washington County, and   April 22 from 10 AM–1 PM   in Lincoln County. These sessions provide practical tools for understanding adversity and strengthening resilience within communities. Registration forms are linked above. Participants will earn a $100 incentive for completing any of these trainings.  Cobb Collaborative , co-lead for Resilient NW Metro is hosting a Capacity Catalyst Training: Grant Readiness 101   Friday, March 27 , from 11:30 AM–1:00 PM  at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. Part of the 2026 Nonprofit Capacity-Building Training Series, this workshop  is designed to help small and mid-sized nonprofits strengthen internal capacity and prepare for successful grant funding. The session will feature Madeline Mercer, founder of The For Good Community, who will share practical guidance on grant readiness, including developing strong proposals, aligning programs with funder expectations, and building evaluation frameworks to support effective grant applications and long-term impact.  Early Childhood Georgia Early Childhood Landscape Mapping Survey :  The Georgia Association for Infant Mental Health: Birth to Five ,  in partnership with Dr. Katherine Pickard ( Emory University School of Medicine ) , is conducting a statewide assessment of early childhood collaboratives in Georgia. The goal is to better understand existing assets, identify opportunities for collaboration, and strengthen systems supporting young children and families. Partners are encouraged to complete and share the survey  widely!  Early Childhood Leaders of Color Collaborative:  The Early Childhood Leaders of Color Collaborative is a self-organized national network dedicated to strengthening the sustainability, social capital, and leadership power of early childhood leaders of color. The collaborative centers the lived experiences of these leaders and provides programming designed by and for them, with a focus on supporting members at the individual, organizational, and field levels. Guided by principles that value members’ time, responsibilities, and contributions, the network aims to advance equity in the early childhood field and ultimately center liberation as a long-term goal. Those interested in joining are encouraged to review the collaborative’s guiding principles  and complete an intake form  to begin the membership process.  Funding The Promise Venture Studio  has launched The Promise Fund, a new initiative supporting early-stage leaders working to improve outcomes for young children and families. The fund offers two opportunities: the Build Award , providing $200,000 to early-stage ventures ready to scale (preliminary applications due April 10 ) , and the Imagine Award , offering $20,000 for innovators with bold new ideas to test in their communities (applications open the week of July 6 ) . In addition to funding, recipients receive mentorship and support designed for community-rooted leaders working to advance equity for children prenatal through age 5. Learn more or apply through The Promise Fund .  The Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS),  is seeking proposals for innovative projects that strengthen Georgia’s child protective services system and align with goals outlined in the 2025–2029 CAPTA Citizen  Review Panels’ State Plan. Projects should support priorities such as improving child well-being, strengthening workforce competencies, expanding front-end supports for families, and enhancing data and information-sharing systems. Up to $1,000,000 in total funding is available, with individual awards of up to $200,000 for eligible nonprofit applicants. The contract period will run October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027, and proposals are due April 13th at 12 PM . More details and instructions on  how to submit here. Professional Development and Training GSU Child Welfare Training Collaborative’s Knowledge to Action Conversation on A Path to Multicultural Family Connection ,  will take place on March 26 from 10:00–11:30 AM  and will explore how unspoken cultural expectations and lived experiences shape family dynamics within multicultural families. Led by  Andre Essue, co-founder of the Multicultural Family Hub , the session will use trauma-informed coaching practices to help parents build a shared family culture that honors multiple backgrounds, stay emotionally regulated during difficult conversations, and develop practical strategies for navigating cultural differences. The conversation will focus on reframing cultural differences as opportunities to strengthen family connection, resilience, and communication.  2026 Georgia Child Health Conference  is now accepting proposals for its June 15–17, 2026  convening at the Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort. This statewide conference brings together professionals committed to advancing early childhood development, early intervention, and early childhood special education, with a focus on family-centered, evidence-based practices that support young children with disabilities and their families. Proposals highlighting research, practice, advocacy, service coordination, and childhood mental health are encouraged. Speaker proposals  are due Wednesday, April 1, 2026 . Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention Call for Proposals:  Proposals are now being accepted for the 2026 Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention, taking place September 16, 2026  at the Hilton Peachtree City Hotel and Conference Center. This year’s theme, “Collective Care in the Storm,” focuses on how strengthening families, building relationships, and supporting community-driven solutions can help prevent child abuse and neglect while promoting resilience and healing. The conference welcomes session proposals from practitioners, advocates, researchers, parents, youth leaders, policymakers, and community members addressing topics such as positive childhood experiences, community-led prevention, new research and practices, and workforce support. Proposals are due April 17, 2026.   Youth Youth Advocacy Event: The Remix Convening:  The Southern Center for Human Rights (SCHR)  invites community partners, practitioners, and young leaders to The Remix – Youth Advocacy Convening, a two-day gathering focused on developing community-driven solutions to youth violence and expanding youth co-governance models. The event will take place March 20–21 , at the Southern Center for Human Rights in Atlanta and will include a youth and community mixer, facilitated conversations, and a full day of training led by the Southern Movement Committee on youth-centered safety strategies and leadership. Organizers encourage partners to invite and bring 5–10 young people who would benefit from leadership development and collaborative problem-solving opportunities. Learn more and register through SCHR. Register here!   THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s memo we are highlighting resources for parents and caregivers, training opportunities, a variety of mindfulness and self-care resources, and a relevant article on juvenile justice and youth. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights March Lunch & Learn: Using Data to Drive Mental Health Advocacy & Policy    Join us this Thursday March 12th from 12–12:45 PM  for a virtual Lunch & Learn featuring Kim Jones (NAMI GA) and Roland Behm of the Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership (GMHPP) . This session will explore how community leaders can use data to strengthen advocacy, inform policy discussions, and effectively engage decision-makers—especially during and after the legislative session. Participants will gain practical tools and strategies from GMHPP’s work to support systems-level change in mental and behavioral health. Email Alex at aenglish@resilientga.org  for an invite! Save the Date! Join Resilient Georgia for our Spring General Meeting  on  April 30th from 11AM–12:30 PM , featuring Resilience in Action: Showcasing the Community Resiliency Model Across Georgia .  We will highlight how the Community Resiliency Model  is being implemented across multiple sectors statewide to support resilience, strengthen well-being, and expand trauma-informed practices in diverse communities. More details and calendar invite to come! Please block your calendar and stay tuned! Research Opportunity for Trauma-Informed Care Trainers: Augusta University is  seeking 20 Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) trainers who work with schools and healthcare settings in rural counties across Georgia to participate in a research study exploring professionals’ perspectives on using trauma-informed approaches with children, youth, and families. Participation includes completing a brief questionnaire (about 15 minutes) and a 30–60 minute audio-recorded interview, which can be conducted via Teams or in person.  Participants will receive a $50 e-gift card for their time. If you are a TIC trainer who may be interested—or if you know someone who may be a good fit—please contact Ashwini Tiwari Pandey at ashpandey@augusta.edu  for more information. The Carter Center’s Rosalynn Carter Mental Health and Caregiver Program is convening an inaugural 2026 Employer Cohort on Mental Health Parity & Business ,  designed for employers interested in strengthening mental health benefits, advancing parity, and improving mental health literacy in the workplace. Participating organizations will engage in three expert-led employer roundtables  throughout the year and a larger Employer Symposium , gaining practical guidance on parity requirements, health plan design, data use, and leveraging employer purchasing power to close gaps in mental health coverage. The series offers structured peer learning and flexible participation for HR, benefits, and leadership staff, supporting healthier workforces and more equitable, sustainable mental health benefits. Please email Sarah.Phillips@cartercenter.org  if you are interested.   Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of East Georgia  is highlighting two important upcoming  opportunities in Augusta focused on child, adolescent, and family well-being. On  April 29, 2026, community members and professionals are invited to attend Child Enrichment’s   Building Safer Futures Conference ,  a full-day event offering insights, networking, and meaningful discussion on creating safer futures for children and families, with CEUs available. For questions, contact Caitlyn Brantley at Cbrantley@childenrichment.org The same week, a FREE Child and Adolescent Mental Health Symposium   will  be held at Augusta University’s Summerville Campus on  April 30 (9:00 AM–3:00 PM) and May 1 (9:00 AM–12:00 PM) , bringing together community partners, clinical mental health counseling students, and site supervisors to deepen understanding through interdisciplinary perspectives and collaborative learning.  United Way of Southwest Georgia , lead for Resilient Southwest Georgia , is hosting the Youth United 3rd Annual Hoodie Ball ,  a signature high school event designed to create a safe, welcoming space where students are encouraged to be their authentic selves. Taking place on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the Thronateeska Heritage Center in Albany, this event is open to students in 8th–12th grade and centers on comfort, choice, and connection—no pressure, just music, movement, and community at your own pace. Register here!   Parents and Caregivers Silence the Shame  invites parents and caregivers to join their monthly Parent Cafés,  with two upcoming sessions in March: March 11 – Understanding Youth Trauma: A Parent’s Perspective  and March 21   –  Building Resilience Through Self-Care as a Caregiver.  All parents and caregivers are welcome, regardless of connection to the Restorative Hope program. Please consider sharing with your networks to help uplift and support families in our community. Register here!   Parenting in the Digital Age:   Join Hillside, Inc  on   March 13 from 8:30-9:30AM  for an  in-person panel discussion  on how parents and caregivers can navigate screens, social media, and children’s online lives. Experts, including clinicians, youth-focused educators, and state leaders, will discuss how social media, algorithms, and AI-driven platforms influence children’s emotional development, including impacts on anxiety, depression, identity formation, and exposure to harmful content. The panel will also share real-time insights from families, trauma-informed and DBT-aligned digital parenting strategies, and updates on bipartisan policy efforts to better protect youth. Attendees will gain practical tools, clarity, and guidance to strengthen family connection and engage more effectively in the systems shaping children’s mental wellbeing. Register for free here! Join the   Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education   for its   Critical Issues Forum, Family Literacy: A Catalyst for Community Transformation , on March 18   from 9:30AM – 12PM  at Georgia Piedmont Technical College. This event will explore how family literacy promotes long-term wellbeing, economic mobility, and community vitality by strengthening children’s academic success and empowering parents and caregivers as lifelong learners. Education leaders and community advocates will share insights on advancing whole-family learning to strengthen communities.  Register here! Professional Development and Training Suicide Prevention Training:   The Lotus Project   is hosting the second webinar in its Suicide Prevention and Intervention for Asian American & Asian Immigrant (AAAI) Youth series. Webinar 2: Clinical & Community-Based Approaches  will be held on   Tuesday, March 17, 2026 , from 12:00–1:30 PM PT via Zoom. This session will explore culturally responsive suicide prevention strategies for AAAI children, youth, and families, addressing factors such as stigma, internalized achievement pressures, and barriers to care that influence help-seeking behaviors. Mary Lu  and Peter Gee  will highlight trauma-informed clinical and community-based approaches, practical strategies for early identification and intervention, and methods to strengthen engagement through schools, families, and community partnerships. Participants will leave with actionable tools to reduce stigma, expand access to support, and enhance prevention efforts. Register here! Forging Pathways: Cradle to Career,  hosted by Atlanta Way 2.0,  will take place on Thursday, March 26, from 2–4 PM  at Atlanta Metropolitan State College. Part of the Economic Mobility Series supported by the Blank Foundation,  this in-person convening will examine how Atlanta’s education, workforce, and community organizations can align efforts from early childhood through postsecondary and career readiness to improve long-term economic mobility. Featuring partners across the cradle-to-career pipeline, the discussion will be grounded in data on Atlanta’s economic mobility trends and focus on strengthening cross-sector collaboration to expand opportunity for communities with the fewest resources. Register here! Self-Care and Mindfulness Resources As the world continues to feel heavy, the health and wellness of our partners remains our top priority at RG. We encourage our network to take time for self-care and explore a few supportive resources that promote mindfulness, reflection, and connection. PACEs Connection’s Practicing Self-Care and Mindfulness  guide offers simple practices to help slow down, tune into the body, and build resilience.   “4 Ways Mindfulness Helps Us Find Our Way Through the Dark”  highlights how mindfulness can support emotional regulation and compassion during difficult times. You can also explore  Circles of Practice from the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion , which provide supportive spaces for shared reflection and skill-building. Finally, we’re sharing a helpful graphic from Give an Hour on Sociopolitical Stressors and Mental Health , which offers insight and validation for the stress many people may be experiencing right now. Please take what you need and share with your teams—caring for ourselves and each other is essential to sustaining this work. 💙 Youth and Teens What Juvenile Justice Data Reveal:  This   Annie E. Casey Foundation article reports that juvenile arrests declined dramatically from 1995 to 2019 (down 71%), with serious violent offenses by youth falling 67%, and that although the COVID-19 pandemic caused a temporary spike in certain crimes, 2024–2025 data show arrests and detention admissions have dropped well below pre-pandemic levels. Decades of research support diversion, rehabilitation, and strong relationships with caring adults over incarceration, arguing that equitable, community-based approaches are more effective than punitive measures in promoting public safety and helping young people thrive.  THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy March, partners! This edition of the Monday Memo we are highlighting resources for children and families, funding and professional development opportunities, and a variety of resources from Mental Health America. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from RG: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  Save the Date! March Lunch & Learn: Using Data to Drive Mental Health Advocacy & Policy  Join us on March 12th from 12–12:45 PM  for a virtual Lunch & Learn featuring Kim Jones and Roland Behm of the Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership (GMHPP). This session will explore how community leaders can use data to strengthen advocacy, inform policy discussions, and effectively engage decision-makers—especially during and after the legislative session. Participants will gain practical tools and strategies from GMHPP’s work to support systems-level change in mental and behavioral health. Email Alex at aenglish@resilientga.org  for an invite! 20th Coalition Launched! Resilient Georgia is proud to announce the launch of Resilient Heart of Georgia, marking   the  20th regional coalition   and full statewide coalition coverage! What a huge milestone! Serving Ben Hill, Bleckley, Dodge, Dooley, Laurens, Montgomery, Irwin, Telfair, Tift, Treutlen, Turner, Wheeler, Wilcox counties, our final coalition will advance trauma-informed care, resilience-building, and behavioral health support through cross-sector collaboration, education, and ACEs prevention efforts. Led by champions across  Georgia Family Connection Partnership , the coalition strengthens our mission to ensure every community has access to the resources needed to help children, families, and communities thrive.  Resource: The Georgia PACEs Report Card & Regional Data Profiles provide an accessible snapshot of Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences across the state. This resource offers county- and region-level data to help communities better understand local strengths and challenges, support data-informed planning, and guide prevention, resilience, and trauma-informed efforts statewide. More regional data coming soon! Help Improve How We Measure Childhood Adversity & Strengths:   Researchers at Kansas State University are developing a survey to capture Adverse and Positive Childhood Experiences (PACEs) . Adults 26+ living in the U.S.  are invited to take a   30-minute anonymous survey   to help compare this tool with existing measures. Participants can enter a drawing for cash prizes. Your participation will help strengthen future research, prevention, and mental health care.   Coalition Highlights Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition , lead for Resilient Coastal Georgia ,  has recently updated their data dashboard website. The refreshed site features improved navigation, updated resources, and easier access to information about programs, events, and services. Explore the site and stay up to date with local data in the Savannah-Chatham region!  Greater Valdosta United Way Reaches Campaign Goal:   Greater Valdosta United  Way is celebrating a major milestone after reaching 100% of its goal for the 2026 United WE Thrive Campaign, raising $1.3 million to support individuals and families across South Georgia. Thanks to the generosity of donors, businesses, and community partners, funds will be reinvested locally through Impact Partners, in-house assistance, and programs guided by the Community Investment Committee to ensure dollars are used effectively. Campaign proceeds will support youth opportunities, financial security, healthy communities, and community resiliency—strengthening futures throughout the region. This achievement reflects the collective power of community and a shared commitment to helping South Georgia thrive.  Resilient Northwest Metro:   Join Cobb Collaborative  for its Q1 General Membership Meeting  on March 11th from 11:30 AM–1:15 PM . This quarter’s meeting features Leah Chan, Director of Health Justice at the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, who will lead an important conversation on the FY27 Georgia budget and how funding decisions impact our communities, services, and priorities. The event includes networking, lunch, organizational updates, and time for questions—designed for nonprofit, community, and business leaders. Lunch is provided; please register here  if you plan to attend.    Children and Families These three new resources from the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley offer timely, research-informed guidance for supporting children and teens in today’s complex social climate. Seven Tips for Talking With Kids About Politics   explores how early attachment, everyday parenting interactions, and intentional conversations shape children’s long-term civic engagement, emotional security, and ability to critically navigate polarized media.  How ICE Raids Are Affecting Children—And What Schools Can Do examines how intensified immigration enforcement can contribute to fear, absenteeism, and toxic stress among students, with potential long-term impacts on learning and health, while highlighting trauma-informed steps schools can take to promote safety and emotional regulation. Complementing these,  How to Nurture a Mindset in Teens that Values Diversity   offers practical strategies for helping adolescents appreciate differences, reduce bias, and build empathy through curiosity, perspective-taking, and open dialogue. Together, these articles underscore the importance of inclusive practices and supportive environments that help young people feel safe, healthy, and supported during unprecedented times. Save the Date for Children’s Mental Health Week  at DECAL, taking place May 4–8, 2026 ! This annual celebration highlights the importance of nurturing children’s social and emotional development and recognizes the vital role early learning professionals and caregivers play in supporting lifelong mental wellbeing. Throughout the week, DECAL will promote engaging activities that help children build strong social and emotional skills and provide information on how individuals and programs can participate.  Funding Norfolk Southern  offers several grant programs to support safe and sustainable operations, workforce development, and resilient communities across the 22 states in which it operates. Applications for its open 2026 grant cycle are available through August 3.  The Safety First Grant supports organizations providing direct safety services and first responder initiatives, while the Thriving Communities Grant funds sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience efforts. Community Disaster Relief Grants are offered periodically following severe weather events and remain open for 3–6 weeks depending on recovery needs. The In-Kind Donation Grant is available year-round to organizations seeking materials for projects aligned with Norfolk Southern’s focus areas. Mental Health America Resources The Mental Health America 2025 Annual Report  highlights a year of significant impact in advancing mental health nationwide through screening, advocacy, workplace initiatives, and community partnerships. In 2025, more than 4.2 million mental health  screenings were completed, over 588,000 individuals received addiction support services, and 360 employers were recognized through the Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health program—impacting 4.1 million workers. MHA’s national campaigns reached more than 120 million people, while its affiliate network distributed $1.1 million in mini grants to expand local services. The report also outlines policy wins protecting Medicaid access, investments in youth leadership and digital innovations to improve accessibility.   The Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health  is the nation’s leading recognition program for employers committed to fostering mentally healthy workplaces. Through a comprehensive evaluation of workplace culture, benefits, compliance, and wellness, the Bell Seal assesses the full employee experience and sets a national standard of excellence. Organizations that earn the Bell Seal demonstrate a strong commitment to employee well-being, resilience, and sustainable business practices, while signaling to staff, clients, and communities that mental health is a priority.  Prepare for May's Mental Health Month:   MHA has led a nationwide effort each May to promote mental wellness since establishing Mental Health Month in 1949. The 2026 theme, More Good Days, Together, emphasizes supporting individuals as whole people and recognizing that well-being looks different for everyone. MHA offers a downloadable Planning Guide for community organizations, workplaces, educators, and advocates, featuring outreach ideas, real-world examples, customizable communication tools, and partnership opportunities. An Action Guide, to be released in April, will provide additional activities and resources to help individuals and communities reflect, connect with supports, and foster more good days together.   Professional Development and Training The Georgia Child Health Conference  is now accepting speaker proposals for its June 15–17, 2026  convening at the Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort. This statewide conference brings together professionals committed to advancing early childhood development, early intervention, and early childhood special education, with a focus on family-centered, evidence-based practices that support young children with disabilities and their families. Proposals highlighting research, practice, advocacy, service coordination, and childhood mental health are encouraged. Speaker proposals   are due Wednesday, April 1, 2026 . SAVE THE DATE for GCCA's Prevention Palooza  returns this April with a full month of virtual learning opportunities in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month hosted by Georgia Center for Child Advocacy. They’re putting the final touches on the schedule now—more details on their Webinar Wednesday events coming soon! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s Memo highlights resources for schools, a variety of professional development, events, and trainings, including CSA prevention and support, and youth mental health resources. But first, here are some reminders and highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights Thank you to everyone who joined our   February Lunch and Learn ! Jesse Kohler, Executive Director of the Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy & Practice (CTIPP) ,  shared practical resources and strategies for building trauma-informed workplaces across sectors. For those who were unable to attend, the   recording ,   slides ,  and additional resources—including the Trauma-Informed Workplaces Toolkit   and RG's sector-specific TI guides —are available to review. Also be sure to check out RG’s newly developed Trauma-Informed Workplace Flyer for Businesses. We also invite participants to   complete the brief February Lunch and Learn survey   to help inform future sessions, and we’re happy to make connections to Jesse for those interested in learning more.   SAVE THE DATE  for our next   Lunch & Learn on March 12th,  Using Data to Drive Mental Health Advocacy & Policy , featuring Kim Jones and Roland Behm of the Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership (GMHPP). New Handle With Care Webpage Now Live!  Resilient Georgia has launched a  new Handle With Care webpage to support communities interested in implementing this trauma-informed model. HWC helps ensure that when children are exposed to traumatic events, schools are notified so they can respond with care, understanding, and support—without sharing details of the incident. The resource includes an overview of the model, implementation guidance, and resources to help communities get started or strengthen existing efforts. Please share widely! GCN Nonprofit Forecast Survey: This survey from the Georgia Center for Nonprofits   gathers real-time insights from nonprofit CEOs and senior leaders on funding, workforce stability, mission delivery, and community impact over the next year. Responses are confidential and aggregated, and participants receive a statewide benchmark to understand how peers are navigating change. Findings will inform nonprofit infrastructure investments and advocacy— please help share the survey with nonprofit leaders across Georgia. Upcoming Dates!  February Round Calls are scheduled this week as follows: Round 5: Monday, February 23rd, 2pm  Round 2: Tuesday, February 24th, 11am                Round 4: Tuesday, February 24th 2pm Round 3:  Thursday, February 26th, 1pm                 Round 1 : Friday, February 27th, 10am Coalition Highlights Resilient Chattahoochee Valley  is continuing to broaden their impact across the region and are inviting passionate community members to join their Steering Committee.  This group will meet quarterly to help guide strategic direction, discuss key initiatives, and ensure the work remains responsive to the needs of the Chattahoochee Valley. If you are looking for a way to expand your involvement and help drive their collective mission forward, they would be honored to have you. Interested in learning more or joining the committee? Please reach out to RCV coalition lead Imani Jones ijones@unitedcv.org . Join Resilient Gwinnett  in Action Summit on Thursday, March 26  from 8AM–5PM  for a full-day summit designed to move the community from awareness to action. The day includes an opening plenary, a keynote on Systemic Empathy as the Blueprint to Cultivate Resiliency featuring Dr. Stan Sonu of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, three impact tracks (Youth Services, Education, or Business), lunch and networking, an afternoon spotlight on Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children and Human Trafficking, and a closing plenary reception. Partial scholarships are available  to ensure cost is not a barrier. View the full agenda  and register today!   Education Disney Musicals in Schools: Stage Connect Applications , an online teacher training platform that helps public elementary schools build sustainable musical theater programs, are now open for the 2 026–2027 school year . Open to any public elementary school in the U.S., with priority for schools with demonstrated economic need, this program offers high-quality online professional development and removes geographic barriers. Up to 200 schools will receive free access to Stage Connect and free Disney show performance rights. The application deadline is March 9th  and space is limited through a competitive grant process—please share with school partners as a powerful Positive Childhood Experience (PCE) for students. Professional Development, Training and Events Joyful Resistance: A Day of Storytelling, Solidarity, and Action  Join the Justice Reform Partnership  tomorrow  February 24, from 8AM–3PM  in downtown Atlanta. This in-person and livestreamed event brings together community members, advocates, and policy experts to learn about criminal legal reform, engage in storytelling and advocacy, and connect with Georgia lawmakers at the State Capitol. Breakfast and lunch are provided. The event will be livestreamed via Facebook, YouTube, and their website. Tune in tomorrow! ZERO TO THREE Fellowship  is a competitive leadership development program for early- to mid-career professionals (5–15 years of experience) who are committed to transforming programs, systems, and policies to ensure infants and toddlers have a strong start in life. This fellowship brings together a diverse group of leaders to build leadership capacity, advance a personal Vision for Change, and strengthen early childhood systems. The  2026–2028 Fellowship runs from October 2026 through Spring 2028 and includes required in-person meetings with travel covered (excluding international airfare). Applications are open until April 1, with selections announced in mid-July 2026. Connections Matter:  Registration is now open for a 3-hour virtual interactive training  on March 3rd  from 9AM-12PM  that explores Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), brain development, resilience, and the powerful role of relationships and community in fostering well-being. For those interested in facilitating this training locally, Georgia Center for Child Advocacy is hosting an all-day, in-person Train-the-Trainer opportunity is available on March 24 ,  equipping participants to facilitate this meaningful workshop in their own communities. Participants must have completed the CM training prior to registering for the TOT.    Join Changing Lanes  and CWC Alliance  for an upcoming Youth Prevention Network (YPN) training session  in April and May 2026!   Changing Lanes  is recruiting teens (ages 13–20) to serve as Youth Prevention Advocates (YPA) and adults to serve as Youth Prevention Mentors (YPM) for this paid 12-hour training focused on mental wellness, leadership development, and substance misuse prevention. Youth participants earn $15/hour, and adult mentors earn $20/hour, with transportation support available. The training includes a combination of in-person and virtual sessions and equips participants with practical tools to lead positive change in their communities. Sign up by March 20th!  Sexual Abuse Prevention Training and Support Georgia Center for Child Advocacy Courage to Care Train-the-Trainer Dates:   Due to strong interest, three new Courage to Care Train-the-Trainer workshops have been added: February 27  (Northwest GA), March 11  (Atlanta), and April 28 (Atlanta).  Courage to Care is a Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Prevention training. These full-day, in-person TOTs are available at a special rate for former Stewards of Children Georgia facilitators through April. To participate, facilitators must complete a 2-hour virtual Courage to Care training and attend a Train-the-Trainer workshop. Register here!   Registration is also open through GCCA for 2-hour virtual trainings focused on deepening understanding of how children are recruited into commercial sexual exploitation and how prevention can occur at the individual, community, and systems levels. Sessions are available on February 26  and March 5 (healthcare-focused) .   For those interested in expanding their impact, a Train-the-Trainer course is also available on March 4 ,  preparing participants to confidently deliver CSEC Prevention trainings within their own communities.  Sexual Abuse Healing and Prevention Resources | Saprea:   Saprea is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending child sexual abuse and addressing its long-term impacts through free, evidence-informed healing and prevention resources .  Saprea supports adult survivors of childhood and adolescent sexual abuse through retreats, workshops, support groups , webinars, and online tools focused on trauma healing and post-traumatic growth. The organization also equips parents, caregivers, and communities with   prevention education,  awareness training, and no-cost opportunities to become volunteer community educators.   Additional resources help individuals better understand child sexual abuse and how to prevent it.  Saprea will also be participating in National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April  and has shareable awareness assets available. To learn more and stay connected, follow @saprea  on social media for ongoing education and resources. Please share with your networks! Youth Mental Health Restoring the Village: A Community Conversation to Support Teen Mental Health:   Join She Soars  for a community conversation designed for anyone who cares about teens and young adults and may wonder, Am I saying the right thing? Am I doing enough? What if I make it worse? This event will take place on Thursday, March 26th  from 5:30–7:00PM  at Emory University’s Claudia Nance Rollins Building. All are welcome, and attendees will enjoy refreshments and stress kits. They are also looking for partners to table and get involved in the event to share resources and support for youth and families. Email info@gosoar.org  for more information on how to participate.   Registration is now open .   Mindful Self-Compassion for Teens:   Karen Bluth offers several mindfulness and self-compassion resources to support teen mental health. Mindful Self-Compassion for Teens in Schools  equips educators with 16 ready-to-use lessons to help students manage stress, anxiety, and self-criticism. Self-Compassion for Girls  guides caregivers in helping teen girls build resilience and reduce depression risk. The Self-Compassionate Teen and The Self-Compassion Workbook for Teens  provide practical exercises to quiet the inner critic and strengthen emotional well-being, while Mindfulness and Self-Compassion for Teen ADHD focuses on executive functioning and confidence for teens with ADHD. Together, these resources offer accessible tools for teens, parents, and educators to foster resilience and self-kindness. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s Memo highlights resources in education, healthcare, funding opportunities, a variety of professional development events and trainings, and statewide advocacy efforts. But first, here are some reminders and highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights Big News for Georgia MFTs!   The Georgia General Assembly has officially passed SR 589 and HR 1123, recognizing February 11, 2026, as Marriage and Family Therapy Day at the Capitol. This recognition honors the vital role MFTs play in strengthening individuals, families, and communities across Georgia, while educating lawmakers about MFTs’ essential contributions to the state’s mental health system. This milestone celebrates the profession’s impact, including providing evidence-based, systems-focused care; serving rural and underserved communities; collaborating across sectors; and promoting long-term resilience statewide. Shoutout to our very own MFT, Dr. Andrea Meyer Stinson!  Incredibly grateful for her expertise, leadership and dedication to creating a well-equipped and trauma-informed workforce across our state.  State of the US Ecosystem - Foundation for Social Connection:   The Foundation for Social Connection (F4SC) has released its inaugural U.S. Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Connection (SILC) Ecosystem Map and State of the U.S. Ecosystem Report. Informed by insights from more than 60 organizations across nonprofits, government, and coalitions, the report establishes a baseline for understanding this rapidly growing but fragmented field and highlights opportunities to strengthen coordination, research, policy, and funding.  Resilient Georgia  is proud to be featured on the SILC Ecosystem Map. F4SC will host a webinar on February 18th from 2–3PM  to introduce the interactive map and share key findings from the report.  Host a Screening and Community Conversation on Mental Health Stigma: A38 Films , led by filmmaker Antwon Lindsey, is engaging communities across Georgia through  HUSH: Help Us Say Help,  a documentary exploring generational trauma, mental health stigma, and access to support within Black and Brown communities.  Rooted in lived experience and community storytelling, HUSH serves as an entry point for meaningful conversations around mental health, healing, and help-seeking. The film has been featured at universities, conferences, and community gatherings. Through film screenings and facilitated conversations, A38 Films works alongside community partners to support trauma-informed dialogue and connection to existing mental health resources. Contact: Marquez P. Davis at   marquez@thedavis-brand.com .    Folks can also reply to this email to request a direct connection. Coalition Highlights Resilient Northeast Georgia:   Please join Resilient Northeast Georgia in welcoming  Lily Anthony,  the first RNEGA Fellow! Lily joins the Athens Area Community Foundation full-time to support Resilient Northeast Georgia’s signature programming, the Trauma-Informed Communities Grant Opportunity, online toolkit resources, and the development of new community-wide supports across our region. “I am so excited to start at the Athens Area Community Foundation as the Resilient Northeast Georgia Fellow and help serve the community I love so deeply,” shared Lily.  Resilient Communities of East Georgia:   Child Enrichment , partner of RCEGA, is hosting a Mandated Reporter training for teachers, school personnel, doctors, nurses, counselors, therapists, childcare providers, and youth-serving organizations. The training will be held on February 26 , from 9:30–11:00 AM  via Zoom. Register here!  For more information, please reach out to their Prevention Director, Caitlyn Brantley, at CBrantley@ChildEnrichment.org   Education State of Higher Education:   The Georgia Chamber  will host the State of Higher Education on February 25  from 10:30AM to 1:30PM  at the Georgia Tech Exhibition Hall. This convening will bring together leaders from the Technical College System of Georgia, the University System of Georgia, and Georgia’s independent colleges to discuss key initiatives and emerging trends shaping postsecondary education across the state. The event will focus on workforce readiness, education policy, and the future of Georgia’s talent pipeline, with featured speakers including Sonny Perdue, Gregory Dozie, and Jenna Colvin. Register here!   Funding Funding Opportunity: OVC Preventing Trafficking of Girls (FY25):   The Office for Victims of Crime has announced the FY25 Preventing Trafficking of Girls grant ($3.4M) to prevent and reduce sex and labor trafficking among girls and young women age 25 and under. The program supports prevention, education, awareness, resilience-building, and community support, as well as early intervention and trauma-informed services for those at risk or currently impacted. Opportunities for partnership are available, including MOUs/LOIs.  Healthcare Maternal Health Oberservership Summer Experience:  The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center  is offering a six-week Maternal Health Observership Summer Experience from June 15 to July 24, 2026 , for rising second-year medical students who are Georgia natives with a strong interest in obstetrics/gynecology and rural health. Participants will reside in Middle Georgia and shadow OB/GYN providers in rural, medically underserved communities, while also engaging in a didactic curriculum that includes journal club and opportunities for publication. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic standing, leadership involvement, interest in rural maternal health, effective communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, as well as have reliable transportation. The application deadline is March 26, 2026 , and requires a current resume, letter of intent, and a faculty letter of recommendation.  The Advanced Practice Provider Integrated Substance Use Disorder Training Program at Emory University   is a 12-month, full time program that prepares nurse practitioners and licensed clinical social workers for clinical careers in addiction medicine.  In response to Georgia’s high rates of substance use and limited access to mental health services, the program trains licensed and license eligible providers to deliver trauma informed, evidence-based care, including medication for opioid use disorder, in designated Health Professional Shortage Areas. Fellows receive integrated training in primary care and community-based settings, peer and expert led education, support toward addiction certification hours, conference opportunities, and a monthly stipend. Applications are open through May 1 for cohorts beginning July 5.  Professional Development and Training The Knowledge to Action Conversation, Art-Based Trauma Care for Teens Experiencing Homelessness ,  will be held on February 19 from 10:00AM to 11:30AM . This event will feature Malika Whitley , Founder and Executive Director of ChopArt , an Atlanta-based arts nonprofit serving youth experiencing homelessness. The conversation will explore what trauma responsive practice looks like when working with teens facing housing instability and how creative expression, including movement, visual art, music, and storytelling, can help young people process trauma, build resilience, and strengthen agency. Participants will also learn about ChopArt’s alumni leadership model and gain practical strategies that can be adapted across shelters, schools, child welfare, and community settings.   Multicultural Family Hub offers culturally inquisitive, trauma-informed workshops designed for mental health and helping professionals that get to the root of burnout, leadership challenges, and workplace culture. Flexible options include informal Lunch & Learns to build awareness, 90-minute trainings to strengthen skills, immersive half-day experiences that shift culture, and a three-part leadership development series that supports lasting organizational transformation. Interested in bringing this training to your organization? Contact multiculturalfamilyhub@gmail.com  to learn more or reply to this email to request a direct connection. Triple P, the Positive Parenting Program, offers practical strategies that help parents support their child’s development and build a happier, calmer family life. Designed for families with children from birth through age 16, Triple P provides flexible options to fit different needs, including group parenting sessions, one-on-one support with local providers, and free online programs. Triple P Online (for parents of children up to age 12) and Teen Triple P Online (for ages 10 to 16) feature short, self-paced modules that help parents confidently manage challenging behaviors, strengthen relationships, and promote resilience, confidence, and positive life skills.    Statewide Advocacy Georgia Women’s Policy Institute Applications   are now open for the Georgia Women’s Policy Institute (GWPI) State Advocacy Cohort, a nonpartisan policy education and leadership fellowship of YWCA Greater Atlanta. GWPI equips women across Georgia with the knowledge, skills, and connections to engage in legislative advocacy and advance equity for women, girls, and families. Learn more and apply by April 1! Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership – Key Priorities:   The Georgia Mental Health Policy Partnership is advancing a focused 2026 advocacy agenda  centered on enforcing mental health parity, protecting children, saving lives, and strengthening Georgia’s safety net. Top priorities include full enforcement of the Georgia Mental Health Parity Act to stop delays, denials, and “ghost networks”; expanding trauma-informed, preventive, and early-intervention services for children, including school-based care and rapid follow-up after crises; closing the Medicaid coverage gap to reduce disparities and support rural and underserved communities; preventing suicide and overdose through faster access to treatment, MAT, crisis stabilization, and improved data transparency; and strengthening the workforce and systems by streamlining provider licensing and paneling and investing in supportive housing and benefits access. Together, these objectives aim to ensure coverage means real access to timely, high-quality behavioral health care across Georgia.  THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s Memo highlights resources on the impact of childhood trauma for parents and professionals, funding opportunities, a variety of professional development events and trainings from our coalition and statewide partners, and rural health resources. But first, here are some reminders and highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  February Lunch & Learn: Join us  this Thursday, February 12 from 12–12:45PM for a virtual Lunch & Learn featuring Jesse Kohler of the Center for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice (CTIPP).   This session will highlight practical strategies and resources to help coalitions and community partners advance trauma-informed workplaces across sectors, including nonprofits, schools, courts, local government, and employers. Participants will be introduced to CTIPP’s Trauma-Informed Workplace Toolkit and learn actionable ways to foster healthy organizational culture, staff wellbeing, and trauma-responsive policies. Email Alex English to request an invite at aenglish@resilientga.org . Attention Metro ATL partners!   Silence the Shame is launching Restoring Hope,  a trauma-informed pilot beginning in March to support Atlanta-area youth ages 16-24 transitioning out of foster care or involved in the juvenile justice system. The program helps youth navigate adult and behavioral health systems, build trauma awareness, and access care, while offering virtual Parent Cafés for caregivers. Youth receive $200 for completing all sessions, with transportation assistance/vouchers available. Please share widely to boost awareness and recruitment! Application for youth ages 16–17     Application for ages 18 and up Coalition Highlights Resilient North Georgia  is hosting their Reaching Teens Summit 2026   February 26–27th  at the NGUMC Conference Center in Duluth. Designed for youth-serving professionals, the summit offers practical, trauma-informed, and strength-based tools grounded in the Reaching Teens framework, with a keynote from nationally recognized adolescent resilience expert Dr. Ken Ginsburg. Breakout sessions  will cover youth resilience, de-escalation, restorative practices, suicide prevention, trauma-responsive care, motivational interviewing, youth voice, human trafficking prevention, and practitioner well-being, led by clinicians, advocates, and youth advisors. Endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, registration is $50 and includes 8 CEUs, lunch, and a Radically Calm t-shirt. Space is limited, so please register by Thursday, February 12th!  Building a Region of Resilience NWGA:   We wanted to remind our network that BRRNWGA developed self-guided online trainings  to create more trauma-informed communities and professionals. These accessible modules are designed for community members and professionals alike and include Trauma 101 (foundations of trauma-informed care), Poverty 101  (understanding the impacts of economic hardship), Self-Care 101 (tools to support personal and professional well-being), and Systems Change  101  and 201 (strategies for advancing sustainable, community-level change). Perfect for teams looking to deepen shared understanding and strengthen impact. Please share with your networks! Resilient Gwinnett   will host Strong Bonds, Strong Communities,  a three-part virtual workshop series designed to empower families and strengthen community resilience. The series covers   knowing your rights during encounters with law enforcement or ICE (Feb. 12) , creating family safety  and contingency plans (Feb. 19) , and building self-care and stress management skills to navigate fear and anxiety   (Feb. 26) . All sessions are 7-8pm . While hosted by Resilient Gwinnett, the content is broadly applicable and open for sharing across the Resilient Georgia network. Sessions are offered in multiple languages, and registration is now open.  Additionally, the coalition will be hosting their Resilient Gwinnett in Action Summit   on March 26th from 8AM – 5PM. Save the date!! Childhood Trauma Resources for Talking With Young Children About ICE:  This resource from Defending Early Years offers guidance and age-appropriate tools to help parents, caregivers, and educators talk with young children about ICE, immigration enforcement, and violence. It recognizes that children are exposed to news and adult conversations and may feel confused or fearful without support. The page curates conversation guides, practical strategies, and children’s book recommendations aimed at helping adults explain complex and distressing topics in ways that are developmentally appropriate, reassuring, and grounded in care. It also includes trauma informed guidance from trusted organizations to support conversations about violence in the news while promoting emotional safety, understanding, and compassion. Childhood Trauma and the Path to Incarceration:  An article from The Imprint examines the “childhood trauma to prison pipeline,” showing how children with extensive histories of abuse and neglect are frequently sentenced in the adult justice system without their trauma being meaningfully considered. Drawing on survey data from more than 2,200 individuals incarcerated for crimes committed as minors, the article highlights that 94% experienced multiple early childhood traumas , yet courts considered this background in only a small fraction of cases. It underscores the heightened risks children face in adult facilities, including increased exposure to abuse and solitary confinement, and points to trauma-informed reforms such as early screening, rehabilitative sentencing options, and “second look” provisions as more effective approaches to improving outcomes and public safety.  Funding Improving Youth Mental Health Program:   This funding initiative from The Cigna Group  Foundation commits $9 million over three years to support the mental health and well-being of youth ages 5 to 18, with a focus on addressing post-pandemic stress and distress. The program funds evidence-informed, community-based nonprofit efforts that promote social-emotional skill building, strengthen the capacity of parents, caregivers, and youth-serving professionals, and expand pathways to early mental health intervention and access to care, particularly in underserved communities and school-based settings. Grant examples include trauma-informed after-school programs, school-based and virtual mental health supports, peer-led initiatives, and subsidized therapy. Apply here by March 12, 2016! Professional Development and Training PIN Fellowship 2026 Fellowship Application:   The PIN Annual Fellowship is a  12-month, full time, in person opportunity open to adult professionals ages 18 and older with a high school diploma, GED, or higher education credentials. The fellowship places participants with innovative organizations to work on high impact projects across high demand sectors while gaining hands on professional experience. Fellows receive a stipend paid bi-weekly and taxed as income. The fellowship runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027 , and requires fellows to live within or near the communities they serve, work on site full time, and have reliable transportation. Applications are due by March 15, 2026 .  Joyful Resistance: A Day of Storytelling, Solidarity, and Action   is an in-person and livestreamed Justice Day event hosted by the Justice Reform Partnership on February 24, 2026 ,  from 8AM-3PM  in downtown Atlanta. The event brings together community members, advocates, and policy experts to learn about criminal legal reform, engage in storytelling and solidarity, and participate in advocacy at the Georgia State Capitol. Attendees will have opportunities to connect with lawmakers, learn about key justice issues, and explore ways to support incarcerated individuals and strengthen families. Register here!   Webinar: Functional Family Therapy in Foster Care:  The Annie E. Casey Foundation will host a one-hour webinar on February 25, 2026 , from 1 to 2PM  as part of its Leading with Evidence  series. The session will introduce the Functional Family Therapy (FFT) model and examine its application in foster care, highlighting research showing improved placement stability, safer environments for children and foster families, and potential cost savings for child welfare systems. Foster care leaders and behavioral health providers will also hear case examples from Connecticut and Florida, where FFT implementation has led to positive outcomes for both youth and foster parents, with insights from national FFT experts and system leaders.   Register here!    Rural Health The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center   at Mercer University School of Medicine  offers Project ECHO series  that create collaborative, peer-driven learning communities for healthcare professionals in rural Georgia. The Community Paramedicine Conversations & Voices ECHO   (Feb–Oct 2026)  supports Mobile Integrated Health and Community Paramedicine professionals with practical skills like motivational interviewing, resilience training, and patient-centered communication, offering free continuing education credits.   The Rural Autism ECHO   (Jul 2025–May 2026)  equips physicians and providers with strategies for early detection, care, and support of autistic patients and families, addressing the unique challenges of rural communities. Both programs use the “all teach, all learn” model to share real-world experience, strengthen networks, and improve outcomes for patients and families. Rural Opioid Harm Reduction Train the Trainer: Empowering Responders in the Opioid Crisis :   The Institute for Health Logistics & Analytics and Georgia Southern’s Rural Opioid Harm Reduction (ROHR ) program offer no-cost opioid harm reduction support to law enforcement, confinement facility staff, and first responders in rural Georgia counties, funded by the Georgia Opioid Abatement Trust. Services include direct shipment of naloxone (Narcan), fentanyl and xylazine test kits, drug disposal pouches, and other supplies; print, digital, and video educational materials; resource guides connecting individuals and families to local and statewide services; and training on opioid awareness, overdose response, and naloxone administration for responders and incarcerated individuals. The program also provides release or leave-behind bags stocked with naloxone, drug testing kits, and educational materials to support overdose prevention and successful reentry. Register here! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!