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- MONDAY MEMO #45
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week we have compiled a variety of resources including grief, substance misuse, and suicide prevention resources for education professionals, funding and professional development opportunities, and information on listening sessions for veterans. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Regional Coalition Events Reminder: Thanks to everyone who has continued submitting coalition events! 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! New RG Resources! Sector-Specific Resource Guides : RG has created ten trauma-informed guides for various sectors! Check them out and please share widely with your networks. Resilient Georgia Overview Flyer: We have also updated our RG coalition overview flyer. This can be used to share information about our work with your partners and stakeholders at meetings and events. Please download, print, and share widely! New Brief! Understanding the Opioid Epidemic in Georgia: Developed in partnership with the CWC Alliance through our youth opioid prevention project, this new resource mhighlights the sharp rise in opioid overdoses and the urgent need for awareness and prevention among Georgia’s youth and communities. Check it out and share widely! September Lunch and Learn: GUIDE/Cap Your Cup Program : Join us this Thursday September 11th at noon to learn about GUIDE’s Community United in Prevention program , which engages young adults (18–25) to address health disparities related to heavy and binge drinking. The program fosters a safer culture around alcohol use through monthly virtual meetings and community action plans. Andrew Williamson, Program Coordinator for LGBTQIA+ Substance Abuse Prevention, will share the history of GUIDE, insights from building a Community Prevention Alliance Workgroup, and strategies for connecting with Georgia’s LGBTQIA+ community. To request a Zoom link, please reach out to Alex English at aenglish@resilientga.org . The 2025 CSRA Regional School-Based Behavioral Health (SBBH) Forum is this week, September 12, 2025, from 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM at Augusta University and will bring together schools and community members for a day of learning, networking, and collaboration. Sessions will spotlight innovative approaches to student mental health, including prevention strategies, peer-led programs, family engagement, and sustainable funding solutions . Please share widely! Coalition Highlights Resilient North Georgia: Wellroot family services, lead partner of RNG, is inviting youth-serving adults across the state to attend their virtual Reaching Teens Deep Dive Trainings. These trainings run virtually from September-December and teach communication strategies on how to engage with teenagers todays using a trauma-sensitive model. Attendees may also earn 1.5 CEU credit hours through the Georgia Society for Clinical Social Work. Register here! Resilient Coastal Georgia: The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire, a proud partner of Resilient Coastal Georgia, is currently in the process of hiring a new Executive Director to lead the organization in advancing its mission of providing innovative conflict resolution services and fostering stronger, more resilient communities. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader passionate about collaboration, justice, and community impact. Learn more and apply here! Resilient Clayton: Join GCAPP on Saturday, September 20th at 10AM at Columbus State University for the Youth Advocacy Summit! This exciting event brings together youth, parents, and youth-serving professionals to learn, grow, and lead in creating positive change. Participants will dive into dynamic sessions on leadership, legislation, and advocacy strategy, while engaging with experts, decision-makers, and peers. Come sharpen your skills, build connections, and be inspired to make a lasting impact in your community. Light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Register here! Education School Grief Group Facilitators | Kate's Club: Kate’s Club is a Georgia-based nonprofit offering free, peer-supported grief programs for children, teens, families, and young adults and.is looking for facilitators for 6-to-10 week school grief groups. The organization will provide all curriculum and materials. Applicants must have a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or related field and must have experience working with children. Facilitators will be compensated with $75 per group session. Apply here . Preventing Suicide: The Role of High School Teachers – Suicide Prevention Resource Center: The SPRC offers a downloadable fact sheet for high school teachers on noticing and responding to suicide warning signs. The fact sheet also provides suicide prevention resources and information for helping students. Please share with your education partners! Best Practices Registry- Suicide Prevention Resource Center Also from the SPRC, the Best Practices Registry is a comprehensive directory of suicide prevention trainings and resources. On the site, users can filter for the type of approaches, strategy, topics, prevention level, evidence type, type, people, ages, race or ethnicity, places, languages, delivery options, implementer, credentials needed, and cost. Back to School Toolkit | SAMHSA: SAMHSA offers a Back-to-School Toolkit for supporting behavioral wellness for students. The toolkit provides a variety of resources on how to talk to children about mental health and substance misuse. Funding Focus for Health | Children's Health & Chronic Illness: Focus for Health Foundation provides funding to organizations with annual operating budgets less than $1 million who address health disparities, racial justice, criminal justice reform, and/or child sexual abuse. The foundation additionally provides grantees capacity-building trainings, opportunities to network, and resources to support sustainable program success. May be a resource to explore as your work to diversify funding streams! Rapid Response: Reinvesting in Racial and Indigenous Health Equity Research: The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is offering $5 million Rapid Response grants to help research losses due to federal funding cuts. This grant is available to applicants researching health equity and who have lost their full or partial funding from the federal government. Awards may range from $50,000 to $200,000 each. Submit proposals by October 1, 2025 for a grant start data of January 15, 2026. Learn more and apply here . Professional Development and Training GEEARS' Annual Fundraising Luncheon - 2025: Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students (GEEARS) annual fundraising luncheon is October 23, 11:30AM-1:30 PM at Zoo Atlanta – Savanna Hall. Come to the event to meet keynote speaker Steve Burns, former host of Blues Clue’s and connect with business leaders and state officials on early childhood care in Georgia. Get your tickets here! Webinar: Planning for Stability Not Surprises | The College for Behavioral Health Leadership: Join a free event hosted by Kara Hill, consultant with WildBlue Health on September 25 from 1PM –2 PM EST . This event highlights ways to build leadership and organizational resilience in uncertain times. Hill will speak about navigating staffing uncertainties by funding cuts or reductions in force challenges. Register here . 2025 - Nonprofit Capacity Building Training Series: Athens-Clarke County Gov ACCGov’s Housing and Community Development Department is offering the 2025 Cultivating Nonprofit Capacity in Athens training series, a free six-part program designed to strengthen nonprofit operations, leadership, and impact. Open to staff, board members, and volunteers serving Athens-Clarke County, the series covers topics including board governance, strategic planning, program design, management, staff and volunteer leadership, and resource development. Sessions run Sept–November 2025 at local venues, with both morning and evening options. The September meeting is tomorrow September 9th from 5–7PM on Program Management at Athens-Clarke County Library. Register here! Veterans Listening Sessions – Georgia Veterans Resources The Technical College System of Georgia’s Technical Education Initiatives (TEI) and Office of Military Affairs invite you to join the No Wrong Door Listening Sessions, a statewide initiative dedicated to strengthening support for Georgia’s veterans, service members, and their families. These sessions will bring together stakeholders to share best practices, identify gaps, and collaborate on strategies to improve outcomes for the military community. Sessions run from 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m . at locations across Georgia: Metro Area (Sept. 25, Acworth), South Georgia (Sept. 30, Valdosta), West Central Georgia (Oct. 9, Americus), East Central Georgia (Oct. 16, Savannah), and North Georgia (Oct. 23, Lawrenceville). Register now to reserve your spot and be part of this important conversation.
- MONDAY MEMO #44
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week we have compiled a variety of resources including assessment and evaluation support, training opportunities, and resources to support men’s mental health, foster care and substance use prevention. As a reminder, next Monday is Labor Day, so the Memo will be on pause until Sept 8th. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Calling all early-career mental health and substance use clinicians! The National Mental Health Workforce Acceleration Collaborative is now recruiting. Powered by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and Kaiser Permanente in partnership with Resilient Georgia , this program supports post-master’s clinicians on their path to licensure with up to $10,000 in stipends and professional development, live and on-demand trainings, peer support groups, mentorship, and access to experts and networking opportunities. Who should apply? (click here for more details) Recent or soon-to-be master’s grads in counseling, social work, marriage and family therapy, or addiction counseling, clinicians with less than 20% of hours completed towards licensure, those employed at eligible community-based mental health organizations or candidates with demonstrated financial need. Apply here by September 3rd or contact NMHWAC@TheNationalCouncil.org with questions. New Resources Available! Sector-Specific Resource Guides : RG has finalized three new Trauma-Informed Guides for folks working in Juvenile Justice, Nonprofits, and Early Learning. Please check them out, download them from our website and share widely! Thank you to everyone who joined our August Lunch and Learn! We were thrilled to host Matt Smith, Director of Policy & Research, and Kathleen Da Silva, Regional Engagement Manager with the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) . They provided an engaging overview of GPEE’s work supporting state and community leaders including the EdQuest Georgia Coalition and the Rural Learning Network . For those who missed it, you can explore the recording , slides , and additional resources including the Top Ten Issues Podcast and the Thomasville’s Project Workforce . Please feel free to reach out to Matt Smith at msmith@gpee.org or Kathleen Da Silva at kdasilva@gpee.org if you would like to connect to learn more about GPEE and how to get involved! If you wouldn't mind taking one minute to fill out our August Lunch and Learn Survey , we greatly appreciate your feedback! The 2025 CSRA Regional School-Based Behavioral Health (SBBH) Forum is September 12, 2025, from 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM at Augusta University and will bring together schools and community members for a day of learning, networking, and collaboration. Sessions will spotlight innovative approaches to student mental health, including prevention strategies, peer-led programs, family engagement, and sustainable funding solutions . Register here by Sept 5th! Please share widely! Coalition Highlights Resilient Clayton: The GCAPP Changemakers Network brings together young professionals, entrepreneurs, influencers, and community leaders to empower youth and drive lasting change. Members connect through monthly virtual meetings, quarterly in-person events, leadership opportunities, and volunteer roles such as mentoring, youth summit support, and event assistance. Next virtual meeting: Wednesday, August 27 at 5:00 PM . Sign up to make an impact! Resilient Coastal Georgia: General Civil Mediation Training – Oct. 14–17, 2025: This 28-hour virtual entry-level course (9:00 AM–5:00 PM ET daily) covers the fundamentals of facilitative mediation, including conflict theory, ADR history, and mediation’s role in the community. Participants will engage in role-plays, hear from mediators, attorneys, and volunteers, and learn best practices. Completing this training and practicum is the first step toward registering with the Georgia Office of Dispute Resolution (GODR) to mediate court-ordered cases. Cost: $250 for volunteers, $1,250 for private mediators. Resilient Teens comes to Coastal GA! Additionally, RCG and CGIC are excited to share that registration is now open for Resilient Teens: Building Strength Through Connection ! This 9-week virtual mentorship program, beginning September 8th, is designed for middle and high school students to build resilience, emotional wellness, and leadership skills. Led by medical students and rooted in trauma- and evidence-informed practices, the program prioritizes youth who have experienced adversity, offering a safe and supportive space to thrive. Sessions are held weekly, and registration can be found here . Please help spread the word and support this important pilot! Assessment and Evaluation Free Community Assessment Opportunity : Emory University Professor Kimberley Hagen ( kbs.hagen@emory.edu ) is seeking partner organizations for her graduate Community Assessment course at the Rollins School of Public Health, running August 28–December 11, 2025 . In this one-semester project, a team of MPH students will conduct a tailored, no-cost community assessment to help answer a specific question about your organization’s geographic or affiliative community—information you can use to guide new programs, services, or initiatives. Past partners have included the Atlanta Beltline, Atlanta Sickle Cell Foundation, and the Center for Black Health and Equity, with projects ranging from identifying program gaps to exploring community health needs. This could be a great opportunity for regional coalitions, as well as other local agencies that would benefit from fresh data and analysis. Six projects must be confirmed within the next 2 weeks. Please email Kimberley to inquire ASAP! Become a Foster Parent Call for Foster Parents: Region 10 DFCS recently shared the urgent need for more foster families. Many foster parents close their homes after adopting or as they age, leaving gaps in available placements. For example, in Thomas County, there are 54 children in care but only 15 active foster homes. Georgia especially needs caregivers for older youth, sibling groups, and children with complex needs. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, call 1-877-210-KIDS (5437) or complete the inquiry form . Additional resources are also available through the Adoptive and Foster Parent Association of Georgia . Please share widely! Men's Mental Health Boy Crisis of 2025, Meet the ‘Boy Problem’ of the 1900s - The New York Times: In the early 1900s, America faced a “boy problem” — high truancy, delinquency, and social disconnection — met with sweeping civic action that birthed organizations like Big Brothers, Boy Scouts, and 4-H. Today, many young men face a similar crisis amid technological disruption, economic inequality, and rising loneliness. Suicide rates among young men have surged, college completion lags, and social ties are fraying. Authors Robert D. Putnam and Richard V. Reeves argue that public policy and civic institutions must again step up — through mentorship, male role models, and spaces designed to foster connection — to help boys and men find purpose, dignity, and belonging. Training and Events CRM Teacher Training Impact: A recent Trauma Resource Institute survey shows the powerful ripple effect of CRM Teacher Training. On average, CRM Teachers train about 100 people annually, with some reaching over 1,000. Nearly all (99%) continue using CRM skills, and every respondent using them reported improved stress management, self-control, and resilience. Over 94% practice weekly, 87% use them at work, and 90% go on to teach formal workshops—while 64% share skills conversationally each week. Thank you to all of our CRM GA facilitators for helping spread wellness in communities statewide! F REE SCERTS Framework Training: Georgia Mental Health Access in Pediatrics ECHO is offering free training for healthcare professionals on the evidence-based SCERTS framework to support emotional well-being in autistic and neurodivergent children. Choose from two Level 1 series ( fall or spring ) and one Level 2 series (spring). Investing in Housing to Build Healthy Communities Join the Georgia Health Policy Center’s 30th anniversary speaker series on Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Centennial Hall, Georgia State University (reception to follow). David Zuckerman, president and founder of the Healthcare Anchor Network, will be in conversation with Kathryn Lawler, CEO of Saint Joseph's Health System/Mercy Care, exploring how health systems can invest in housing and other place-based solutions to improve health, economic, and social outcomes . Register here! Substance Abuse Community Conversation on Opioid Use Disorder : Join the University of Rochester’s Recovery School of Excellence this week throughout South Georgia for an open discussion on the stigma surrounding substance misuse, opioid use disorder, and its impact on recovery. This event offers insight, challenges assumptions, and fosters hope, understanding, and connection. Look for a session to attend between August 25th-27th in various locations across Georgia . Register for the sessions here ! Addiction Prevention Conference | Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center: Attend the Prescription for Prevention Conference. This is a free conference at Mercer University School of Medicine on Thursday September 18, 2025 from 9 AM to 4:30 PM at Mercer University in Macon . The conference will cover numerous topics centered on opioid misuse. Attendees will be provided breakfast and lunch and are invited to attend the Recovery Bus Tour at the end of the conference. Additionally, vendors are encouraged to attend, the cost for a vendor table is $75, apply here . Continuing Education credits (CME, CNE, & CEUs) will be available to all attendees. Register here .
- MONDAY MEMO #43
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week we have compiled a variety of gun violence prevention resources, as well as resources and opportunities for education, healthcare, professional development and veterans. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Professional Development Opportunity: Positivity and Relaxation Training (PART) for Coalition Leaders Resilient Georgia is excited to once again offer the Positivity and Relaxation Training (PART) program, led by Tara Jones from Resilient Coastal Georgia , this fall from October 13th-December 8th. This free 9-week program helps reduce stress, boost well-being, and build resilience through techniques like meditation, improving sleep and physical activity, and cultivating positivity. Sessions are 1.5 hours each week. If you’re interested in participating, please submit the interest form here. Updated 2025 Conference List: RG updated our conference list for 2025! Check out the full list of future conferences here and find your next professional development opportunity! Thank you to those of you who attended our Lunch and Learn last week with our partners from the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education . A recording of the session will be uploaded on our website soon! SAVE THE DATE: Our next Lunch and Learn will be September 11th. August Round Calls: This month’s Round Calls are scheduled next week as follows. Please ensure at least one member from your coalition is able to attend! Round 1: Friday, August 29th 10am Round 2: Tuesday, August 26th 11am Round 3: Thursday, August 28th 1pm Round 4: Tuesday, August 26th 2pm Round 5: Monday, August 25th 2pm Coalition Spotlights Resilient North Georgia: RNG and Wellroot Family Services is continuing to offer FREE, virtual Reaching Teens trainings monthly on August 28th, September 25th, October 23rd, and November 20th. Reaching Teens is a trauma-informed, strength-based training that equips youth-serving professionals with practical communication strategies to support adolescent resilience and well-being. Based on Dr. Ken Ginsburg’s evidence-based model, it focuses on building trust, fostering positive relationships, and empowering teens to navigate challenges. Explore and sign up for trainings here. Please share with your networks and youth-serving partners! Resilient Coastal Georgia: Join the Mediation Center for their annual community event “Peace in the Park” on September 28 from 1-4 PM at Daffin Park in Savannah, GA. There will be resource tables, music, and art. Come be apart of building a peaceful and resilient community! Call to Action: Violence Prevention According to Georgia Majority for Gun Safety , in the past month, 37 people were shot in Atlanta over four days, with additional mass shootings at Ft. Stewart and near Emory. Georgia’s gun violence rate is among the highest in the nation and Georgia has some of the weakest gun safety laws . Georgia Majority for Gun Safety is a nonpartisan coalition working to reduce gun violence through evidence-based, widely supported safety measures that protect both public welfare and constitutional rights. We encourage you to make your voice known by writing, calling, or emailing your local representative and state leaders. Please check out the following violence prevention resources and articles below: AJC: Youth Programs Lower Gun Violence – Police credit youth engagement programs like At Promise for recent declines. Atlanta organizations like Girasol Wellness, led by Dr. Jordan Murphy of CISP , are sustaining grassroots efforts to reduce gun violence through community-based programs and violence interrupter initiatives, while evidence-based approaches such as Chicago’s “Choose to Change” program show how cognitive behavioral therapy can help at-risk youth reframe their thinking and avoid violent behavior—demonstrating that long-term advocacy, community engagement, and targeted support can work together to make communities safer. You can check out Girassol Wellness’s The Brave Space Podcast for more information on gun violence prevention and intervention efforts. Another powerful example comes from Roca —a national nonprofit dedicated to relentlessly disrupting violence, incarceration, and poverty by engaging young adults, law enforcement, and systems to heal trauma, offer hope, and drive meaningful change. Urgent Call to Action: Protect Violence Prevention Funding The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has frozen CDC funding for FY2025 for key programs—including ACEs, firearm and youth violence prevention, and state injury prevention work —despite Congressional approval. This threatens our critical efforts that save lives and build resilient and safe communities. We encourage you to contact your members of Congress today to urge them to reverse this restriction, just as they did for the NIH. Your voice can help restore these vital funds. Take Action Here. Education Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures | Kid Pro Quo: In the latest episode of Kid Pro Quo, host McKinney speaks to Emory University pediatricians, Dr. Veda Johnson and Dr. Terry McFadden on how school-based health centers. The pair share about their work with Partners for Equity in Child and Adolescent Health and trauma-informed care. Listen to the episode here . The Georgia School-Based Behavioral Health Collaborative is excited to announce the CSRA Regional School Based Behavioral Health Forum September 12th, at Augusta University . Hosted in partnership with CSRA RESA , Augusta University School of Public Health Our partners at , and Resilient Communities of East Georgia coalition, the forum will bring together school administrators, support staff, mental health professionals, and community leaders to share resources and highlight regional efforts in school-based mental health. Healthcare Shattering the Stigma: Trauma-Informed Care for Healthcare Heroes | September 16 @ 12pm – 1pm EST Pediatric healthcare professionals often operate under high-stress conditions, with exposure to secondary trauma, burnout, and moral distress affecting both mental health and professional longevity. This 1-hour American Academy of Pediatrics webinar, by Dr Dena Hubbard, will explore how the principles of trauma-informed care (TIC) can be applied not just to patients, but to support the well-being of healthcare providers themselves. Join this webinar to better understand how adopting a trauma-informed approach can enhance individual well-being, team dynamics, and the overall health of healthcare systems . Register here! Rural Mental Health A Guiding Hand: $1.7M Grant Expands UWG’s Impact on Rural Mental Health | UWG: Dr. Caisey Crawford of the University of West Georgia was awarded a $1.7 million federal grant to support rural students. The grant will support aspiring school counselors through critical hands-on training and expand the school's counseling program. Read the full story here ! Professional Development Holistic Therapist Conference 2025: The Holistic Therapist Conference is hosted for therapists, mental health professionals, and healers to learn how to integrate holistic and trauma-informed care into their practice and leadership. This is a three day conference is October 24-October 27 at the Lola in Atlanta. Register here . ELPNO - J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development: Join ELPNO, a program for nonprofit leaders to learn how to improve the effectiveness of their organization. The week long program will run from January 11-16, 2026 in Athens, Georgia . Participants get to engage in daily workshops, network, and build personal leadership skills. Applications are due November 3, register here . Veterans Beyond the Uniform: Navigating U.S. Military Veteran Workplace Stigma and Mental Health Literacy in Work Performance: Give an Hour is seeking input from U.S. military veterans to improve workplace support systems. Veterans are invited to complete a short, anonymous survey—“Beyond the Uniform”— by August 31, 2025 , to share their experiences with workplace stigma and mental health. The survey takes 8–15 minutes, is best on a phone or Chrome browser, and includes an optional sweepstakes entry for a $500 TV. Not a veteran? You can still help by sharing the survey to ensure more veteran voices are heard and contribute to more inclusive, supportive workplaces.
- MONDAY MEMO #42
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. As the school year kicks into gear, we have included a variety of back-to-school and youth-centered mental health and substance use prevention resources, as well as professional development and funding opportunities! But first, here are some updates from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Regional Coalition Events Reminder: Thanks to everyone who has continued to submit your coalition events for our website. 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! August Lunch & Learn: Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education: Join us this Thursday, August 14 from 12:00–12:45 PM on Zoom for our next Lunch & Learn featuring Kathleen Da Silva and Matt Smith from the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE). They’ll share how GPEE’s initiatives—including EdQuest Georgia, Regional Summits, Community Asset Mapping, and the Rural Learning Network—help align education and workforce strategies across the state. This session will highlight the powerful role of community, health, and environment in shaping educational outcomes and economic opportunity. Please share with your educational partners and email Alex English, aenglish@resilientga.org , to request an invite. August Power of Healing Blog: "Perfect" to Present: A Back-to-School Mindset Reset by AAshi Patel As part of Resilient Georgia’s Power of Healing series, high school student AAshi Patel shares a powerful reflection on the toll of perfectionism and her journey toward self-acceptance. Drawing from personal experience, AAshi opens up about the pressure to perform academically from a young age, which ultimately led to burnout. Her message is a timely reminder—especially at the start of a new school year—that our worth isn’t defined by grades or achievements. AAshi is our first youth writer of this series and you can check out her other works on her substack. Coalition Spotlights Resilient Coastal Georgia: WTOC’s Morning Break recently featured CGIC Executive Director and RCG lead, Kim Clifton, discussing Georgia’s drop to 39th in the nation for overall child well-being, as reported in the 2025 Kids Count Data Book. She outlined how the Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition is addressing local challenges—like rising child poverty and declining academic performance—through data-driven strategies, cross-sector collaboration, and community-led initiatives, all aimed at reversing troubling trends and building a stronger, more resilient Chatham County. Watch the broadcast here! Resilient WEST Central: Our newest coalition partners at Pike and Upson Family Connections are hosting an upcoming Stop Suicide USA training on September 9th . This L3 Suicide Intervention Skills training will be in Meansville, Georgia at Northridge Church from 9AM-2:30PM . The training is eligible for CEU's. Check out the flyer or click here for registration and details. Resilient WEST is co-hosting the Trauma-Informed Workforce and Restorative Justice Summit in partnership with the Development Authority of LaGrange , Communities in Schools Georgia, and the Troup County School System on August 22nd from 9-11AM in LaGrange. This event will focus on the power of trauma-informed practices to build stronger, healthier communities. Attendees will explore how trauma-informed approaches in education, workforce development, and restorative justice can enhance organizational engagement, support economic outcomes, and improve recruitment. Resilient WEST’s Judge Key will be among the featured speakers, sharing valuable insights and strategies. Breakfast will also be provided. Register here! Back-to-School Bullying Prevention Webinar for Parents & Caregivers – The Georgia Department of Public Health invites families to join a free, one-hour webinar on Tuesday, August 12 at 4:30 PM , led by Dr. Eric Landers of Georgia Southern University. This interactive session will help parents recognize the signs of bullying, understand the difference between normal peer conflict and true bullying, and learn practical ways to support children who are affected or have witnessed it. Register here for tools to foster safe, respectful environments as the new school year begins and please share! As the school year begins, we wanted to take a moment to remind folks of Kate’s Club , a Georgia nonprofit focused on helping children and families cope with grief. Training topics range from child bereavement 101 , supporting the young adult griever, and mental health awareness training . All training sessions are interactive and are offered virtually or in-person. Kate’s Club works with youth-serving organizations and schools to provide services and training. For more information on how to partner, please contact lane.pease@katesclub.org . Funding Third Wave Fund - BIPOC gender justice liberation The Mobilize Power Fund from Third Wave Fund offers grants of up to $10,000—or $20,000 for partnerships—to support urgent community organizing, healing justice, legal needs, and grassroots efforts. The fund prioritizes youth-led groups by and for young women of color, and trans, queer, gender nonconforming, and intersex youth of color under age 35. Upcoming application deadline is October 7, 2025. Mental Health In the News New digital mental health resource tool launches in Alabama, WSFA CredibleMind , a free, confidential online mental wellness platform, was launched by the Alabama Department of Public Health to make mental health support more accessible. It offers evidence-based resources—videos, podcasts, apps, books, and articles—on topics like stress, anxiety, sleep, grief, and more, helping residents access self-care tools anytime without stigma or long wait times. When Productivity Becomes Pathological | A Slight Change of Plans: In this moving episode, psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph shares her personal and professional insights into high functioning depression, a condition not yet recognized in the DSM. She discusses her groundbreaking research, the first and only study of its kind, and highlights how healthcare workers and mental health professionals are particularly vulnerable. Dr. Joseph also offers self-assessment tools on her website, including a High Functioning Depression Quiz and Anhedonia Quiz , to support self-reflection and early intervention. Her story is a powerful reminder that even when everything looks “fine” on the outside, many are silently struggling—and they’re not alone. Illinois is the first state in the United States to require mental health screenings for students : Starting the 2027-2028 school year, students are required to undergo minimum of one mental health screening annually and parents and caregivers will have access to the Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation Portal, a mental health resource and service guide. Professional Development NAMI Walks Georgia Dr. John Constantino , Chief of Behavioral and Mental Health at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta , is the Honorary Chair of NAMIWalks Georgia 2025 on October 4 from 9 to 12 PM at Assembly Park in Doraville. Join to support mental health and illness prevention, walking with others. Please share this event widely with your networks! 2025 Black Maternal Mental Health Summit and Sponsorship Opportunity Postpartum Support International Georgia’s fifth annual Black Maternal Mental Health Summit will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 , at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. This year’s theme, “Together We Thrive,” centers on collective healing, empowerment, and connection across families, providers, and systems of care. Check out the sponsorship guide here . GA-AIMH 2025 Conference is happening November 12 from 9 AM to 4 PM at Georgia State University. The conference will focus on infant and early childhood mental health and well-being of caregivers and supporters of infants and children. Register here early by August 31 for a discount or by October 31 for regular price and access the sponsorship guide here . Youth Substance Use and Vaping GUIDE, Inc. Is focused on improving and preventing substance use and abuse through collaboration work, promoting positive youth development, and offering training and resources. Navigate the website to learn more information about the work GUIDE is doing in communities, upcoming trainings , or substance use and abuse resources . The Georgia Prevention Project works with community members, schools, and prevention professionals to stop substance abuse among young people in Georgia. The project comprises of various coalitions a, councils, and partnerships, like the College Prevention Partnership and the Partners in Prevention Project. Read more about the numerous initiatives under this project here . Additionally, peruse resources offered by the project here . TarWars is a prevention program targeting early prevention o tobacco and vaping education for Georgia students. Tar Wars works with the Georgia Healthy Family Alliance and Georgia Academy of Family Physicians to educate about tobacco products in Georgia schools. Learn more on the curriculum here .
- MONDAY MEMO #40
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. This week we included a variety of resources for early childhood professionals, educators, parents and caregivers, as well as funding and professional development opportunities and workforce mental health support! But first, here are some updates from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Youth Event Outreach Form : CWC Alliance and RG are currently identifying aligned partner organizations and youth-centered events across Georgia where we may collaborate, support, or co-deliver programming focused on substance misuse prevention and youth mental health. If your mission and programming align, we invite you to complete this form with information about upcoming youth events over the next year! Bonus: Complete this form by August 1st to be entered into a raffle for a $100 gift card! For questions, please reach out to Phylicia Hancle, Youth Program Director, at phylicia@cwc.ngo . Please share with your youth-serving partners! Regional Coalition Events Reminder: T hanks to everyone who has already submitted their scheduled coalition events for 2025! 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! Coalition Spotlight Resilient Gwinnett: Gwinnett Nonprofit Coalition is hosting A Revenue Diversity Panel for Nonprofit Leaders on Wednesday August 20 at 9 AM- 11 AM in Lawrenceville, GA . The event will focus on how to help nonprofit and community leaders strengthen their financial strategies in the face of rising uncertainty around funding. The panel will feature a variety of panelists from nonprofits in Georgia. Admission is $20 per person and includes breakfast. Register here . Resilient Middle Georgia recently released guidance on how to create a Trauma-Informed Onboarding Training Policy , as well as an example of what this can look like for organizations. This guidance offers a step-by-step framework for integrating trauma-informed principles into employee onboarding. It walks agencies through reviewing current practices, identifying gaps, developing a policy rooted in SAMHSA’s six key principles, and sustaining training through continuous improvement and leadership engagement. Designed for human service organizations, this resource helps create safer, more supportive workplaces for both staff and clients. Please use this as a model for your own regions to influence positive systems change! July Power of Healing Blog: Trauma in Technicolor: How Netflix’s Sirens Dresses Up Childhood Wounds in a Pastel Pink Bow: In this month’s blog RG’s Regional Program Manager, Nikki Warner , explores how Netflix’s miniseries Sirens uses storytelling to shed light on childhood trauma and reflects on how the show’s themes resonated with her own healing journey—and how stories like these deepen empathy and understanding in trauma-informed care. Check it out! Upcoming Dates! July Coalition Connections are TOMORROW Tuesday July 29th! Rounds 1,2,5 : Tuesday July 29th at 11am Rounds 3,4: Tuesday July 29th at 2pm August Peer-to-Peer Network: Our Peer Network meetings are reconvening starting next month! Join us on Tuesday, August 5th from 2–3 PM for an informal, connection-focused conversation on Trauma-Informed Training Across Sectors . It’s a great opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences engaging different sectors around trauma-informed care. August Lunch & Learn: Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education: Join us Thursday, August 14 from 12:00–12:45 PM on Zoom for our next Lunch & Learn featuring Kathleen Da Silva and Matt Smith from the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE). They’ll share how GPEE’s initiatives—including EdQuest Georgia, Regional Summits, Community Asset Mapping, and the Rural Learning Network—help align education and workforce strategies across the state. This session will highlight the powerful role of community, health, and environment in shaping educational outcomes and economic opportunity. Please share with your educational partners and email Alex English, aenglish@resilientga.org , to request an invite Partner Spotlights: Resilient Communities of SWGA : RCSWGA released their training calendar f or quarters 3 and 4. Trainings include, Becoming a More Resilient Parent, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Kate’s Club Grief and Family Dynamics, and more! Resilient Communities of East Georgia: The Georgia School-Based Behavioral Health Collaborative is excited to announce the CSRA Regional School Based Behavioral Health Forum September 12th, at Augusta University. Hosted in partnership with CSRA RESA , Augusta University School of Public Health , and Resilient Communities of East Georgia coalition, the forum will bring together school administrators, support staff, mental health professionals, and community leaders to share resources and highlight regional efforts in school-based mental health. Our partners at GUIDE, Inc created this Social Media and Mental Health resource, emphasizing both Social Media’s benefits and risks. The guide offers clear signs that your habits may need a reset—such as constant comparison or sleep disruption—and provides practical tips for setting boundaries, like limiting screen time, managing notifications, curating content, and practicing mindful scrolling. Please share with your networks, including educators, youth-serving professionals, and caregivers! Early Childhood An Expanded Story of Early Childhood Development - Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University: This resource from Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child highlights how a child's developmental environment—including relationships, environment, and exposure to factors like air quality, housing, green space, and climate conditions—shapes not only brain architecture but all biological systems beginning before birth. It underscores how responsive caregiver interactions, equitable community planning, and systemic policies (addressing racism and climate impacts) collectively influence lifelong health and development. The guide calls for multidisciplinary, science-informed action to redesign environments so that every child can thrive. ZERO TO THREE recently released two helpful resources for early childhood professionals and caregivers. How to Foster Resilience in Infants and Toddlers offers practical, relationship-based strategies to support young children’s emotional development through consistent, responsive care. Buzzwords Explained breaks down commonly used terms in the early childhood field—like “attachment,” “co-regulation,” and “trauma-informed”—to promote shared understanding and clearer communication among caregivers, educators, and families. Please share widely! Education Back to School Resources: As students head back to school, Mental Health America and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Strong4Life offer helpful tips for easing the transition. Mental Health America's “Back to School with Mental Health in Mind” guide encourages families to prioritize open conversations, routine-building, and emotional check-ins to support students’ mental well-being. Strong4Life offers practical strategies for managing back-to-school anxiety , from validating kids’ feelings to creating predictable routines and modeling calm behavior. Together, these resources support families in nurturing emotional wellness throughout the school year. CARES Mental Health Case Study Report: GPEE This case study from the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education highlights how Dublin City, Hall County, and Henry County school districts used federal COVID relief funds to expand school-based mental health supports. With a focus on leadership, systems planning, staffing, training, and sustainable funding, these districts saw early improvements in student attendance, behavior, and well-being. The report emphasizes the critical role of school counselors, social workers, and psychologists—and calls for long-term investment to sustain this progress. Check out the full report and please share with your academic partners! Funding How Family Philanthropies Can Support Community Organizing to Strengthen the Fabric of US Democracy - NCFP: A recent article highlights how family philanthropies can play a powerful role in strengthening U.S. democracy by funding community organizing efforts. With only about one-third of Americans expressing satisfaction with democracy, the piece urges philanthropic families to invest early, offer flexible long-term support, and fill gaps in civic infrastructure often overlooked by traditional donors. By backing grassroots, community-led initiatives, family foundations can help build trust, civic engagement, and resilience from the ground up. Dobb's Foundation Fall 2025 Grant Cycle Open Now! The Dobbs Foundation is now accepting Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) for its Fall 2025 grant cycle until August 18th. This cycle will prioritize efforts that promote youth mental well-being, including stigma reduction, trauma prevention, school- and community-based care, and mental health workforce development. Selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals by September 1, with final decisions expected in early November. Submit an LOI here! Professional Development and Training Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention: Join the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy , PCA Georgia , and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta on September 10th from 8 AM to 4:30 PM with workshops on prevention, intervention, and the treatment of children and families impacted by child maltreatment. The conference is at the Hilton Peachtree City Hotel and Conference Center in Peachtree City, GA – register here . PBPA’s Legal Bootcamp for Emerging Nonprofit Leaders: This ProBono Partnership of ATL Bootcamp provides tailored training for nonprofit executive directors in Georgia. The program includes tailored legal education, opportunities to connect with other leaders, and assistance with developing a capacity building action plan. Cost of the program is $75 and includes 4 in person sessions between September and November. Apply by August 22, 2025 here . Workforce Construction, Suicide Prevention, and Mental Health Support: The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) highlights the elevated risk of suicide among construction workers and outlines a new, industry-specific version of AFSP’s flagship Talk Saves Lives program — tailored for construction teams and supported by OSHA—to raise awareness of warning signs and prevention strategies. The page also spotlights a major partnership: Bechtel has committed $7 million to this initiative, aiming to reach 500,000 U.S. construction workers over five years. Please also check out this AJC article on how the mental health crisis is affecting Georgia construction workers. Mindshare Partners Resources: Mind Share Partners recently highlighted a sharp increase in mental health-related leaves , urging employers to build supportive cultures rather than rely on individual “mental health days”. They also launched the Mind Share Partners Institute for Workplace Mental Health Leadership Certification to empower leaders in creating psychologically safe environments. Participants will attend five 2-hour virtual training sessions and earn a certificate that demonstrates their expertise in creating supportive environments. It’s ideal for those seeking a robust, organization-wide approach to reduce stigma, support employees, and drive sustainable culture change from the top down . The certification program for nonprofit staff is only $500, rather than the regular cost of $1300 (email institute@mindsharepartners.org for a discount code) . Additionally, feel free to check out their 2025 Mental Health at Work Report which discusses rising anxiety, depression, and burnout rates in the U.S. workforce.
- MONDAY MEMO #39
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. We hope everyone is enjoying their summer and finding time to relax and rejuvenate, as fall is right around the corner. This week, we’re sharing a wide array of education and healthcare resources as well as funding and professional development opportunities. Before we dive in, here are some updates and resources from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Connections Matter Georgia Virtual Training: Join Alex English and Nikki Warner on Monday, July 28 from 9AM – 12PM for a free virtual Connections Matter workshop, hosted by RG. This 3-hour, evidence-informed training engages participants in building caring connections to boost resilience, prevent childhood trauma, and support healing. CEUs are available for LPC, MSW, MFT, Bright from the Start, SCEL, and POST (attendance for the full session required). Open to all community members— register today to receive the Zoom link! Coalition Onboarding Resource Guide: We wanted to reshare RG’s Coalition Onboarding Packet for partners and coalition members that may be new to this work. Check it out and please share with your coalition members so they can learn more about who we are and what we do! Updated 2025 Conference List: RG updated our conference list for 2025! Check out the full list of future conferences here and find your next professional development opportunity! RG Becoming a Trauma-Informed Business : Check out RG’s newest Sector-Specific Resource Guide for Businesses. The guides highlight policies and programs that foster wellbeing in the workplace and share trainings that equip leaders and staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to recognize trauma and employ effective strategies to support employees. Please share! July Coalition Connections: This month’s Round calls will be Coalition Connections as follows: Rounds 1,2,5: Tuesday July 29th at 11am Rounds 3,4: Tuesday July 29th at 2pm August Peer-to-Peer Network: Our Peer Network meetings are reconvening starting next month! Join us on Tuesday, August 5th from 2–3 PM for an informal, connection-focused conversation on Trauma-Informed Training Across Sectors . It’s a great opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and learn from each other’s experiences engaging different sectors around trauma-informed care. Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia launched the Trauma-Informed Communities Grant . The grant of up to $3,000 are offered to projects related to efforts to reduce the effects of trauma and improve outcomes for individuals from birth to age 26 and their families. Local organizations can apply by July 31, 2025 here . Resilient North Georgia is launching new opportunities to support families and strengthen communities! Register now for upcoming Reaching Teens virtual trainings in June, August, and September 2025. Additionally, they are launching The Family Resiliency Project (FRP) —a new Hall County pilot led by Hall County Juvenile Court and Wellroot Family Services in partnership with Emory’s Barton Child Law & Policy Center and Rollins School of Public Health. FRP integrates legal advocacy, social work, and peer support to address upstream challenges such as housing instability, poverty, and mental health concerns. BIPOC Mental Health Month Black Men Heal Free Therapy: Black Men Heal is offering eight free therapy sessions for Black men living in Georgia, providing a powerful opportunity to prioritize mental health and healing. This initiative offers a safe, supportive space with culturally competent care tailored specifically for Black men. Learn more or become a client here . Please share widely! Education Eating Disorder Awareness for School Providers: Join SAMHSA’s Eating Disorder Center of Excellence on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 1PM for a webinar focused on Eating Disorder Awareness for School Providers. This session will equip school-based service providers with the knowledge and tools to recognize and support students who may be at risk of or experiencing eating disorders. Topics will include increasing public literacy, dispelling common myths, and promoting community engagement in prevention and early intervention efforts. Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice · GA Education Climate Coalition Meeting: Join the Georgia Education Climate Coalition in Macon (with virtual option available) on July 30th from 12-2pm for Supporting School Climate & Child Well-Being in Middle Georgia , hosted by the Georgia Education Climate Coalition (GECC). This special event brings together educators, behavioral health providers, and community leaders to explore data-driven solutions and partnerships that promote positive school climate and child well-being. The program includes a panel of local and state experts, updates on behavioral and mental health supports, networking opportunities, and a youth art exhibit. Register here! Funding Dobbs Foundation: The Dobbs Foundation focuses on expanding access to essential health services—including behavioral health care—through evidence-based strategies. They prioritize capacity-building investments aimed at improving maternal health and child and adolescent mental health across Georgia. Coalitions are encouraged to explore these future funding opportunities and consider applying for future grants . To learn more, sign up for the next open information session on July 23rd at 4PM: Sign Up Here! Healthcare Georgia Rural Health News: The Kids Alliance for Better Care (KidsABC) , part of Georgia’s Rural Pediatric Network, empowers rural pediatric and family care providers with education, collaboration, and resources—through free monthly CME/CNE webinars, a monthly newsletter, peer networking, in-person training, and simulation-based emergency preparedness. The initiative recently celebrated a milestone: Monroe County Hospital’s Emergency Department held a ribbon-cutting on May 17 , marking significant progress in pediatric emergency care through upgraded child-friendly equipment, staff training, and new treatment protocols for conditions like asthma. Participants Needed! Domestic Violence Study: D r. Dabney Evans at Emory University is seeking participants for a research study examining care coordination between hospital and community organizations for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). Eligible participants have sought care for IPV or work with people who face IPV and will be invited to participate in a 90-minute confidential focus group to share your experiences giving or receiving care for IPV. Study participants will receive a $50 gift card for your time. Register here . Nonprofit News New Tax Law Threatens Nonprofits’ Ability to Serve Communities: National Council of Nonprofits: The National Council of Nonprofits analyzed the 2025 federal tax bill and found that, while it introduces a universal charitable deduction to encourage small donor giving, the overall impact poses risks to the nonprofit sector. The NCN’s advocacy helped remove several harmful provisions—including a proposal allowing the Treasury to revoke tax-exempt status without due process and new taxes on nonprofit logos and transportation benefits, however, the final bill still includes caps and floors on deductions, an excise tax on nonprofit salaries over $1 million, and expected cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, which could significantly strain nonprofit resources. The Council estimates a net loss of at least $7 billion in charitable giving over the next decade. Click here for a full analysis of the 2025 Bill. Professional Development and Training Leadership Programs from 8 Top Universities: Access an organized guide for 8 free leadership courses from top universities across the globe. Trainings include learning how to become an effective leader from Doane University, successful negotiation and conflict mediation from University of Michigan, and leadership strategies from Harvard University. Check it out and please share with your networks! NAMI Ask the Expert: Understanding Stress, Distress and Trauma: This Thursday, July 24th from 4–5:30PM , join professor, clinician, and researcher Dr. Bruce Perry for a virtual presentation on how brain functioning is “state-dependent.” Dr. Perry will explore the key neural systems that shape our stress-response capabilities and explain how overwhelming stress, distress, and trauma can disrupt emotional, cognitive, social, and motor functioning—especially in children. This session will highlight critical insights into the impact of trauma on brain development and offer a deeper understanding of how internal states influence behavior. Register here!
- MONDAY MEMO #38
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. We hope everyone is enjoying their summer and finding time to relax and rejuvenate, as fall is right around the corner. This week, we’re sharing a wide array of resources for educators, caregivers, and rural communities, as well as professional development and training opportunities. Before we dive in, here are some updates and highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES August Lunch & Learn: Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education: Join us Thursday, August 14 from 12:00–12:45 PM on Zoom for our next Lunch & Learn featuring Kathleen Da Silva and Matt Smith from the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE). They’ll share how GPEE’s initiatives—including EdQuest Georgia, Regional Summits, Community Asset Mapping, and the Rural Learning Network—help align education and workforce strategies across the state. This session will highlight the powerful role of community, health, and environment in shaping educational outcomes and economic opportunity. Please share with your educational partners and email Alex English, aenglish@resilientga.org , to request an invite. ACTION ITEM! Youth Event Outreach Form : CWC Alliance and RG are currently identifying aligned partner organizations and youth-centered events across Georgia where we can collaborate, support, or co-deliver programming focused on substance misuse prevention and youth mental health . If your mission and programming align, please complete this form with information about any upcoming youth events over the next year! Bonus: Complete this form by August 1st to be entered into a raffle for a $100 gift card! For questions, please reach out to Phylicia Hancle, Youth Program Director, at phylicia@cwc.ngo . Please share this form widely with your youth-serving partners! Whose Responsibility Is It to Address Mental Health? A Common Good Forum : Amid a national mental health crisis, this article from Common Good Mag interviews four people – a psychologist, a public health official, a policy advocate, and a pastor – to see everyone's perspectives and roles they play in creating healthy communities. The article questions experts on defining the mental health crisis, the responsibility to heal or intervene, the role of churches in the crisis, policy changes, and overall mental health concerns. Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of East Georgia: Expanding Resilient Teens to Coastal Georgia RCEG has received a $50,000 grant from the Georgia Health Initiative to expand the Resilient Teens program to the Resilient Coastal Georgia region, serving Chatham, Bryan, and Effingham counties. This effort includes collaboration with the Medical College of Georgia campus in Savannah and local Family Connection Collaboratives. Congratulations on this exciting new partnership! ARCHI : Join ARCHI at Friendship Baptist Church for their next quarterly breakfast on August 15 from 8:30–10AM for a meaningful morning focused on youth mental health, featuring insights from leading voices across the region. Following the session, they are offering a free Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® training from 10AM–12PM , with a grab-and-go lunch provided. CRM is an evidence-based approach that teaches practical tools to manage stress and trauma, helping individuals and communities build resilience and support trauma-informed environments. Register here! Education Georgia House Bill 268 Mindworks Policy Brief: The Mindworks team has released a new policy brief on Georgia’s House Bill 268, a comprehensive school safety and student mental health bill developed in response to the tragic incident at Apalachee High School. The brief outlines key components of HB 268, including expanded mental health services in schools, mandated panic alert systems for emergency response, and improved student data tracking. Check it out and share widely! Cell Phones & Teens: Exploring Policies & Practices in Georgia Schools-GPEE : Join Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education and Emory Rollins School of Public Health for an event focused on adolescent cell-phone use, well-being, and academic success with political, academic, and community speakers. The event is Thursday August 14 from 8 AM –2:30 PM . Register here. Hiring Interns Partner with Emory’s REAL Program: The Rollins Earn and Learn (REAL) Program at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health offers a unique opportunity for organizations to hire highly skilled graduate students at half the cost. Emory covers 50% of each student’s salary, while your organization pays the remaining 50% for part-time work from September to May. This is a fantastic way to build capacity while supporting the next generation of public health leaders. We encourage our partners to explore this opportunity—it's affordable, impactful, and a great way to invest in future talent! Learn more and get started here or email real@emory.edu . Parents and Caregivers C ommunity Café Facilitator Training: Strengthening Families Georgia is offering a free online Community Café Facilitator Training to support parent engagement and social connections. Community Cafés—also known as Parent Cafés—create safe, welcoming spaces for caregivers to connect, share, and support each other through meaningful conversations. This self-paced, 3-hour course equips participants with tools to build resilience, foster social connections, understand child development, and promote children's emotional well-being. Prerequisite training is also free and online. Enroll now! Professional Development CTIPP Community Advocacy Network July Meeting: Join the Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice’s CAN call on Wednesday, July 16, from 2-3:30 PM on Zoom. These free monthly calls open to all offer a space for connection, networking, and resource sharing within the trauma-informed community. CTIPP is also launching a new Youth Advocacy Initiative to equip young people with the tools and training to lead trauma-informed change. This upcoming curriculum will support youth in sharing their stories, advocating for healing-centered policies, and driving systemic transformation in schools, communities, and beyond. Alliance Fellowship Program – Advancing Perinatal Mental Health Equity: Postpartum Support International’s Alliance Fellowship Program supports mental health professionals of color in expanding access to culturally responsive perinatal care. Through training, mentorship, and community-building, fellows gain tools to better serve families of color and address systemic disparities in perinatal mental health. This program strengthens the pipeline of diverse providers and promotes healing-centered, equitable care across communities. Please share this fellowship with your networks! Apply by July 31st! Georgia Family Support Network: Standards of Quality Training : Join the Georgia Family Support Network for a free two-day virtual training on Standards of Quality for Family Strengthening and Support happening August 27–28 . This training explores how to integrate the Principles of Family Support Practice with the Strengthening Families framework and its five Protective Factors to better support families. A great opportunity for professionals looking to enhance their family engagement practices. Rural News Rural Central Georgia Better Health & Fitness Together (BhFiT) Project ECHO Series: Join the Morehouse School of Medicine on July 23rd at 12 PM via Zoom for the next session of the Rural Central Georgia Better Health & Fitness Together (BhFiT) Project ECHO Series. This session will focus on integrated behavioral healthcare in rural communities , featuring expert insights and best practices for improving access and outcomes. Register here! Mental Health Cuts to Hit Rural Schools: AJC The current administration cancelled school mental health grants across the country, hitting mental health services in rural schools the most. The mental health grants were installed under the Biden administration with the intent to help schools hire more psychologists, counselors and other mental health workers, prioritizing rural areas and providers from diverse backgrounds. Read the full story here . Exploring Pride and Support of LGBTQ+ Young People in Rural Communities : This research by HopeLab suggests LGBTQ+ youth living in rural regions experience feelings of isolation and struggle to connect with others that affirm or share their identities. A few key findings include LGBTQ+ young people in rural areas report more depression than suburban/urban peers and turn towards online environments to find support. Download and read the report here or read an article covering the report here .
- MONDAY MEMO #37
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. It’s hard to believe we are already halfway through 2025! This week, we’re sharing a wide array of resources across child development, education, healthcare, and community engagement. From practical toolkits and policy briefs to professional development and funding opportunities, there’s something for everyone. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Regional Coalition Events Reminder: Thanks to everyone who has continued to submit their scheduled coalition events for 2025! 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! July is BIPOC Mental Health Month! Mental Health America recognizes July as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, in honor of the late advocate Bebe Moore Campbell . Their newly released 2025 BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit empowers both individuals and community groups with practical, culturally grounded resources across three pillars: self-care, community care, and advocacy.. The toolkit , available in English and Spanish along with shareable graphics and printables, is designed to turn awareness into concrete action to support mental wellness in communities of color. As part of this month’s offerings, they are also hosting a virtual Chair Yoga session —a healing space that blends gentle movement, breathwork, and affirmations from BIPOC mental health leaders to help you reconnect with your body, spirit, and strength. Register for Chair Yoga here! Additionally, Free Your Feels has also released a BIPOC Resource Toolkit which you can access here . GA Athletes Lead Mental Health in Sports Movement | Ad Council: The Love, Your Mind campaign , a partnership between the Ad Council and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation , has launched a Georgia-specific mental health initiative featuring local athletes from major sports organizations. Through powerful videos and PSAs , athletes share how they care for their mental well-being, helping normalize mental health conversations across the state. The campaign directs Georgians to free, localized support resources. For more information on the initiative, check out this press release here! Upcoming July Dates: This month’s Round calls will be Coalition Connections as follows: Rounds 1,2,5: Tuesday July 29th at 11am Rounds 3,4: Tuesday July 29th at 2pm Please note: Lunch and Learns and Peer to Peer Network calls will resume in August! Coalition Highlights Each month, Resilient Coastal Georgia hosts Savannah Solutions, a monthly collaborative meeting for Chatham County social service providers to come together in a supportive environment to problem-solve and find solutions for individuals, children, and families. Hosted at The Front Porch, meetings take place every 4th Wednesday from 10AM-12PM. Providers share challenges, exchange community resources, and build creative partnerships to maximize impact. To learn more or receive calendar reminders, contact Tara Jones at tara@coastalgaindicators.org . Introducing Our 18th Coalition: Resilient West Central! We’re excited to announce the launch of our 18th regional coalition serving Butts, Henry, Fayette, Lamar, Pike, Rockdale, Spalding, and Upson counties. Resilient West Central is co-led by Bloom , Fayette Factor Family Connection , and Pike County Family Connection , bringing together strong community leadership to advance trauma-informed practices, support mental and behavioral health, and build lasting resilience across the region. We look forward to the powerful collaboration and positive change ahead! Stay tuned for updates from our newest Round 5 coalition! Child Development Explore a series of resources from Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child and Frame Works surrounding the impact of environment and racism on childhood development. Watch a webinar hosted by a panel of experts on how racism impacts children’s development and how it contributes to unequal access to opportunity in the places where children live, grow, play, and learn. Read a report examining how built and natural environments and systemic factors of policies and systemic racism play into shaping exposure to risk and access to opportunity. Find the full report here . Navigate a toolkit created to help communicators to apply recommendations communicating how structural racism shapes the environments of young children and childhood development. Navigate to the toolkit here and learn how to be equipped with effective communication methods on this topic. Read Frame Works full brief on effective strategies for talking about the connections between place, racism, and early childhood development and recommendations for advancing this strategy in personalized work. Education The Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education’s Ten-Minute Top Ten podcast released 2 new episodes. In Episode 12, Matt speaks with student engagement expert Emily Rubin about how fostering social and emotional connections can enhance student engagement. Episode 13 features Joy Schofield from Hall County Schools, who discusses the district’s use of Dialectical Skills Groups (DSG) to help students regulate emotions, build mindfulness, and strengthen relationships. Originally introduced as a behavioral intervention, the DSG approach has since expanded to benefit educators and families, improving overall school climate and community engagement. Additionally, GPEE’s 2025 Top Ten Issues to Watch report was also recently published. This resource highlights Georgia’s education and workforce challenges, with data-driven insights and recommendations for building a stronger, more equitable future. Read the full report here . Funding The Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time (BOOST) grants program offers one-year grants to community-based organizations that operate comprehensive out-of-school time (OST) programming year-round, during the summer months, or after school during the academic year. The BOOST program’s goal is to provide evidence-based afterschool and summer enrichment programming that supports students in learning essential skills and concepts while addressing non-academic barriers to learning through a whole child’s approach. Applications are due August 1, 2025 at 5 PM and folks are invited to join the Information Session on Friday, July 11 at 10am. Learn more information about eligibility and apply here ! Healthcare Kid Pro Quo is a Georgia Voices podcast sharing stories from professionals working on the front lines of child well-being in Georgia while diving into the policies and programs that shape the future of Georgia. In the first episode of this podcast, Dr. Anu Sheth, a Georgia pediatrician, speaks about the critical role Medicaid and Medicaid expansion plays in keeping children healthy drawing upon her experiences about preventable medical emergencies from lack of insurance. Listen to the podcast here . The National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care is offering two upcoming webinars focused on trauma-informed pediatric care. “ Building Trust Through Trauma-Informed Care” on July 15 at 12pm will highlight the power of relational health in pediatric settings through lived experience and practical strategies to foster trust and psychological safety. “Rethinking ACE Screening” on August 12 at 1pm will feature Dr. Heather Forkey, who will explore the latest research on ACEs screening, its limitations, and alternative trauma-informed approaches in pediatric care. Both webinars are free and open to all—please share with your networks! Job Opportunities Georgia Health Initiative is hiring for two in-person leadership roles based in Atlanta: Director of Community Engagement , who will lead programs centered on maternal health and community-driven strategies to advance health equity; and Director of Policy Strategies , who will guide policy initiatives, research, and partner engagement to support equitable health outcomes across Georgia. Applications are due via email by July 14th. Professional Development Join the Compassionate Cities of Georgia Initiative! The Compassionate Cities of Georgia Initiative, led by Compassionate Atlanta , is seeking local changemakers and trusted community champions in Lenox, Moultrie, and Hahira to help spark compassion in their communities. Participants will receive leadership training, resource development, and may qualify for micro-grants to bring simple acts of care to life in public spaces. This opportunity is open to those working in youth services, mental health, education, peer and disability support, faith-based work, small business, and the arts. Please spread the word and folks interested should apply here by July 15th!
- MONDAY MEMO #36
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. This week features exciting opportunities for caregivers, funding sources, upcoming professional development and event opportunities, and valuable resources for self-care and youth well-being. Before we dive in, here are some updates and reminders from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Regional Coalition Events Reminder: Thanks to everyone who has continued to submit their scheduled coalition events for 2025! 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! Connections Matter Georgia Virtual Training: Join Alex English and Nikki Warner on Monday, July 28 from 9AM – 12PM for a free virtual Connections Matter workshop, hosted by RG. This 3-hour, evidence-informed training engages participants in building caring connections to boost resilience, prevent childhood trauma, and support healing. CEUs are available for LPC, MSW, MFT, Bright from the Start, SCEL, and POST (attendance for the full session required). Open to all community members— register today to receive the Zoom link! New Blog! Transforming Grief into Impact: The Origin of MentalFit by Derrick McElroy : In honor of Men’s Mental Health Month , our June Power of Healing blog highlights Derrick McElroy , Cobb County resident and founder of MentalFit, a mobile app supporting whole-person mental wellness. After losing his mother to suicide at 17, Derrick transformed his grief into action—creating MentalFit to help others navigate their mental health journeys. The app offers easy access to emotional, physical, and social well-being tools, whether you're just starting out, maintaining progress, or seeking professional support. Read the full story and explore MentalFit in our latest blog! Coalition Highlights Cobb Collaborative Move Towards Resiliency Booklet: Developed by Cobb Collaborative, this youth-focused booklet introduces six practical skills from the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® to help manage stress, build emotional strength, and stay grounded during life’s ups and downs. Designed as a hands-on tool—it helps to empower youth to better understand and regulate their nervous systems using evidence-informed techniques. Feel free to share widely! Resilient Gwinnett: Resilient Gwinnett has introduced a new training fee structure to support the sustainability of its trauma-informed training and consultation services for corporate partners and businesses. Developed in collaboration with Vira Salzburn of Resilient Coastal Georgia , the model includes tiered pricing based on training length and number of facilitators, with all proceeds reinvested into local resilience-building efforts. This structure can serve as a model for other coalitions seeking to sustain similar initiatives. Caregivers Georgians for a Healthy Future Caregivers Advisory Group: Family caregivers across Georgia are invited to join a new coalition focused on shaping policies and improving support for those caring for loved ones with disabilities, aging needs, or complex health conditions. Members will share their experiences, engage in policy discussions, and receive compensation for their participation. Apply here and help spread the word! Funding Partners are encouraged to explore the Safe and Loved Foundation (SLF) grant process and consider collaborative proposals. Potential opportunities include joint applications between CJCC and Family Justice Centers, IT-related grants for law enforcement, or training-focused proposals to prevent child sexual abuse (CSA) and support first responders. Aligning proposals to demonstrate a unified, statewide approach to CSA prevention is highly encouraged. If you or your partners plan to apply, please notify the Resilient Georgia team so we can support your efforts! Please share widely! Professional Development & Events CompassionCon 2025 : Join Compassionate Atlanta and Georgia Public Broadcasting for this year’s Compassion Con and Be My Neighbor Day on October 26th at Historic Legacy Park in Decatur. This inspiring event celebrates compassion, connection, and community by bringing together nonprofits and changemakers to share their work, build relationships, and grow in partnership. It’s a chance to meet fellow mission-driven neighbors and uplift the collective impact of compassionate action. Early bird registration with discounted pricing is open through July 18 —nonprofits should select "CA Partner - Non-profit Registration" on the form to receive the discount. Register here or contact Leanne at leanne@compassionateatl.org. Call for Proposals: 27th Annual GACSB Leadership Conference: The Georgia Association of Community Service Boards (GACSB) is now accepting proposals for its 27th Annual Leadership Conference on October 26th–28th at Legacy Lodge at Lake Lanier . With the theme “Empower, Engage, Evolve: The Future of Inclusive Leadership,” the event invites proposals focused on leadership, clinical innovations, workforce resilience, governance, and more. Presentation formats can include workshops, panels, and spotlight talks. Submit proposals by July 10th to Cynthia Summers at summers.cyn@gmail.com . Self-Care and Support How to Stop Being So Hard on Yourself : Published by the New York Times, this article advises readers on ways to stop being our own harshest critics, which can lead to greater resiliency over time. The article emphasizes the transformative power of self-compassion—treating ourselves with kindness, recognizing shared humanity, and practicing mindful awareness—especially during difficult moments. Research links self-compassion to greater resilience, reduced anxiety and depression, and improved well-being. By embracing this compassionate mindset, individuals can foster emotional growth and navigate life’s setbacks with greater grace. Check out the full article on how to be more compassionate towards yourself and others! Building Personal Resilience: Managing Anxiety and Mental Health: Learn practical tools to manage stress and anxiety with Harvard’s free online course! Led by Dr. Luana Marques, this self-paced, 6-week course draws on cognitive behavioral therapy and teaches science-backed skills to help you build resilience, confront challenges, and boost well-being. Free to audit on edX, with an optional certificate available. Learn more and register here! Youth PARTNERS 2024 Annual Report : The 2024 Annual Report for PARTNERS for Equity in Child and Adolescent Health highlights a year of significant progress toward advancing health equity for Georgia’s children and adolescents. Key accomplishments include expanding school-based health centers (SBHCs) to over 125 sites, launching the Center for Family Resilience, enhancing a family-centered primary care model, and continuing impactful programs like Reach Out and Read and Project R.E.A.C.H. The report also showcases training efforts through Emory’s pediatric residency and the PEACHES advocacy track. Guided by strong partnerships and philanthropic support, PARTNERS remains committed to improving health, education, and outcomes for children in under-resourced communities statewide. Building The Goodness Web: How a Philanthropic Collaborative is Transforming Youth Mental Health : Launched in 2022 and composed of nearly 200 foundations, The Goodness Web is dedicated to investing in evidence-based solutions to support youth mental health services, donating more than $10 million to organizations focused on youth mental health support and wellbeing. Grants focused on on-campus awareness, prevention and early intervention, insurance parity and equitable access to mental healthcare, service provision in primary care offices for youth and parents, and policy change to advance youth mental health. The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation of Georgia made a sizable contribution to TGW to support mental health philanthropy .
- MONDAY MEMO #35
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. We are excited to share another list of resources, but first, here are some highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES June Lunch and Learn: Thank you to everyone who joined our June Lunch and Learn! Elaine Miller-Karas and Dr. Michael Sapp from the Trauma Resource Institute shared how the Community Resiliency Model (CRM) can support healing during and after disasters through practical, neuroscience-based wellness skills. If you missed it, you can view the recording and slides . We’d also love your input on this session—please take a moment to complete the evaluation survey to help us continue offering meaningful learning opportunities. Tier 1 Prevention Services Survey : The Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health & Wellbeing at Georgia State University is extending their brief 5 minute survey and participants can receive a $50 Walmart giftcard! The purpose is to identify universal prevention (tier 1) services, activities, and programs being implemented in schools and communities across Georgia. Access the survey here. New Blog! Mind Over Matter: Cultivating Resilience Through Gratitude and Self-Care : Members of the Mind Over Matter HOSA (Future Health Professionals) chapter in Forsyth County, GA have put together a blog post of key messages they’ve shared with their peers throughout the school year. Mind Over Matter HOSA have been actively promoting mental health awareness among high school students over the past year with initiatives like a bake safe fundraiser. Read the blog post here to learn more about embracing gratitude and prioritizing self-care to safeguard our mental health and wellness while also creating a supportive environment and mindful community. Updated 2025 Conference List: If you’re looking for opportunities for professional development and networking, click here for our updated list of conferences! Coalition Highlights Join Cobb Collaborative for Session 6 of the 2025 Capacity Catalyst Series: From Clicks to Contributions: Optimizing Your Donation Page for Nonprofit Success on Thursday, June 26 at 3 PM . Led by Ronald Pruitt of 4aGoodCause , this virtual session will share proven strategies to boost online donations and enhance your giving experience. Attendees will also receive a comprehensive Donation Page Audit Checklist with 95 best practices. Click here to RSVP and take your fundraising to the next level! Child Wellbeing The Annie E. Casey Foundation , known for research on children and young people, has prepared a comprehensive analysis of child well-being across all 50 U.S. states. The report highlights improvements in areas like child poverty, teen birth rates, and health insurance coverage since 2019, but there have been declines in reading and math proficiency, preschool enrollment, and chronic absenteeism since 2019. The report underscores geographic disparities for children in the South and Southwest compared to children in the Northeast and Midwest. Read through this report here to learn about the latest trends in child well-being since 2019. Healthcare The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is launching a Trauma-Informed Pediatric Care and Resilience Promotion ECHO series, beginning June 25, 2025. This weekly virtual series will equip pediatricians and pediatric clinicians with tools to effectively address childhood trauma and build resilience in patients and families. Sessions run Wednesdays from 12:00–1:00 PM ET through August 6 . Participants can earn 7 CME and 7 MOC Part 2 credits. Register here and help spread the word! For questions, contact Robinn Yu at ryu@aap.org . Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) for Community Health Workers: Georgia Watch and SPCC Atlanta AHEC are offering free Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training for Community Health Workers, equipping them to support individuals facing mental health or substance use challenges. Upcoming virtual sessions will be held on July 9, August 6, and September 3 (9 AM–2 PM) , with an in-person session in North Georgia on October 4 (8 AM–4 PM) . Don’t miss this opportunity to build your skills— register here! Federal Updates Last month the House of Representatives appointed new leadership to the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus , signaling renewed commitment to collaborative mental health policy in the country. A joint letter signed by Caucus NACo and the National Association of County Behavioral Health and Developmental Disability Directors called for counties’ critical role in funding and delivering mental health services. The letter urges the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus to advance several key legislative priorities. Read the full article here . Proposed Cuts to Federal Disaster Assistance Will Hit States Just as Hurricane Season Ramps Up: The current administration is proposing changes to disaster-related costs nationwide ahead of the 2025 hurricane season, shifting the financial burden to states rather than federal support. This article analyzes FEMA disasters from 2008 to 2024, finding that the changes proposed by the current administration would reduce the number of qualified declared disasters and leave states and local governments with $41 billion in public assistance spending. All states will be greatly affected by these funding changes, but states with large populations and significant disaster losses will be most impacted. Read the full report here . Funding The Saks Fifth Avenue Foundation is renewing their fund to support ten U.S.-based, local organizations serving the mental health of those in need. Qualifying non-profits should be registered 501c3 non-profit, existed for at least 1 year, have a stated mission that focuses on direct access to mental health care or have a program with a stated focus on direct access to mental health care operating in the United States, and be nonpartisan. Eligible applicants are invited to submit a short proposal for a grant to fund their work. Proposals are due July 1 - apply here ! The AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation is dedicated to preventing and mitigating adverse childhood experiences by granting yearlong project grants up to $250,000. The foundation prioritizes nonprofit organizations that work to end ACEs with geographic and financial requirements - see the website for full details. Proposals are due June 25, 2025, apply here ! Professional Development Grant Series Workshops: Join Georgia Congressman Hank Johnson for his 4-part Series Grant Workshop between August 11- August 14, at 1 PM each day. Workshop topics are (1) Grant Writing 101: Finding Funding & Drafting the Project Narrative, (2) Grant Writing 201: Budgeting, Evaluation, and How to Become Competitive, (3) Finding Alternative Resources (Resilient & Innovative Funding) (4) Understanding the Community Project Funding Process. Attendees may attend as many workshops as they’d like, register here . Rural Health Podcast Highlight: Health Wanted – Rural Health & the Opioid Crisis This Health Wanted episode, produced by WABE and Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health, explores the health challenges facing rural communities, including the impact of the opioid epidemic. Host Laurel Bristow is joined by Dr. Hannah Cooper , Chair of Substance Use Disorders Research at Emory, who provides valuable insight into rural health disparities and substance use trends. The first segment includes helpful stats and messaging our team and partners may reference in advocacy conversations. This episode may also offer strategic value in connecting with Dr. Cooper as a potential collaborator in our opioid misuse prevention efforts. Listen to the episode here . Suicide Prevention The CDC offers two powerful resources to support suicide prevention efforts nationwide. The Suicide Prevention Resource for Action outlines evidence-based strategies to reduce risk and promote resilience across communities, while the Suicide Prevention Communication Playbook provides a step-by-step guide for developing effective, behavior-change-focused messaging campaigns. Together, these tools help organizations and advocates create impactful, coordinated approaches to prevent suicide and support mental well-being. Additionally, the Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) recorded a webinar on how to Apply Motivational Interviewing in Suicide Risk Assessment.
- MONDAY MEMO #34
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. We are excited to share another list of resources, but first, here are some highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES Call for authors! Power of Healing 2025 Blog Campaign: We are still looking for authors for September-December for our 2025 Blog Series. The purpose is to showcase stories of personal resilience, healing, and recovery. Contributors are invited to share their experiences overcoming adversity or life’s challenges, along with the tools and strategies that helped them rebuild their lives. These stories aim to inspire and empower others facing similar hardships. If you’d like to share your story of resilience, contact nwarner@resilientga.org to inquire about submitting a blog post! Please share widely with your partners. Pride and mental health | Mental Health America: Mental Health America shared a comprehensive "Pride & Mental Health" awareness page, celebrating LGBTQ+ identities while acknowledging the real mental health challenges the community faces due to stigma, discrimination, and minority stress. This resource site features new articles on topics like LGBTQ+ parenting and easily shareable social media “graphics and messages” for advocacy during Pride Month. June Round Calls: This month’s Round Calls are scheduled next week as follows. Please ensure at least one member from your coalition is able to attend! Round 1: Friday, June 27th 10am Round 2: Tuesday, June 24th 11am Round 3: Thursday, June 26th 1pm Round 4: Tuesday, June 24th 2pm Round 5: Monday, June 23rd 2pm Coalition Highlights Coalition Spotlights Building a Region of Resilience NWGA created a wonderful slide deck highlighting their ongoing regional coalition work. Additionally, they have announced their Regional Summit for Friday, October 24th from 9:30AM to 3PM at Dalton State College. This engaging event will focus on the three pillars of Trauma Wise Care—Safety, Connection, and Regulation—and serve as a hands-on exploration of tools like Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®), with insights applicable across all care sectors. RG is so grateful for BRRNWGA’s coalition efforts to bring this summit to their community! Resilient & United Communities of South Georgia: As hurricane season approaches, Greater Valdosta United Way and the Resilient and United Communities of South Georgia (RUCSG) coalition are working to address the rising mental health needs in Lowndes County . In the wake of recent storms and flooding, residents are experiencing increased anxiety, PTSD, and emotional strain. RUCSG coalition partner, Legacy Behavioral Health, is providing 24/7 mental health evaluations, and the 988 crisis line continues to be a vital lifeline. Together, these local organizations are helping families recover—not just physically, but emotionally—by expanding access to care and reducing stigma around mental health. Huge thank you to our leaders at Greater Valdosta United Way for their efforts in supporting community mental health and disaster relief! Caregivers and Parents TripleP - PCA Georgia: The Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) offered through Georgia State University’s PCAGA is a flexible, evidence-based training opportunity for parents, caregivers, and professionals working with children. It provides a multi-tiered approach—from light-touch seminars to in-depth, multi-week group or individual training—designed to build positive family relationships, manage childhood behavior, and boost parenting confidence. Participants learn practical strategies like praising positive behavior, setting clear expectations, and responding effectively to misbehavior. These sessions support both early intervention and deeper skill development, empowering families and community providers to foster healthy, resilient children. Check out their upcoming trainings here! Kate’s Club Open House Kate’s Club is offering two upcoming opportunities to learn more about their free grief support services for children, families, and young adults. Grieving families are invited to attend a drop-in open house on Saturday, June 21 from 10AM–12:30PM. in Brookhaven ( register here ). Youth-serving professionals and potential partners can join a virtual info session on Tuesday, June 17 at 12:30PM virtually via Zoom ( register here ). For questions, contact victoria.ravenell@katesclub.org . Early Childhood Professionals Free Social-Emotional Learning Resources - Center for Interrelational Science and Pediatrics: The CIS Pediatrics offers a curated set of free downloadable handouts and templates designed to support professionals and caregivers working with young children. Materials include bilingual (English/Spanish) “Taking Care of Ourselves” stress-management booklets, “Social Emotional Tips” sheets for infants and toddlers, a stress-log template, and a “Talk Back to Your Unhelpful Thoughts” tips sheet—all ideal for use in workshops, clinics, or home visits. These practical, field-ready tools promote emotional wellness and strengthen social‑emotional learning in early childhood settings. Please share widely! Alliance AIMMH Early Education Endorsement: The Endorsement for Culturally Sensitive, Relationship-Focused Practice Promoting Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health® is a credential that validates early childhood professionals’ expertise in supporting young children and families. Those interested must join a virtual info session on June 16 at 3 PM or July 1 at 1 PM to learn about the Endorsement pathways, competency guidelines, and steps to apply. For questions, contact GA-AIMH at gaendorsement@gsu.edu . Please share with your early childhood networks! Funding and Development Trilith Foundation: The Trilith Foundation supports Georgia-based creatives with holistic well-being resources, including mental health counseling, physical wellness programs, spiritual growth opportunities, and community-building events. Their Enrichment Resources include access to local and online counseling services, yoga and fitness partners, and weekly spiritual gatherings. Creatives can also apply for a $500 mental health subsidy to help cover therapy costs with approved providers. Applications are open now and funds must be used within six months of approval. Expand Your Nonprofit’s Impact with Candid Learning: Candid Learning offers a rich mix of free live and self-paced courses tailored for nonprofit professionals, with a strong emphasis on grant writing and fundraising. Beyond grant writing, you’ll find courses on digital fundraising, budgeting, and additional resources to strengthen organizational development. Please share with your networks! Healthcare Patient-Centered Mental Health in Pediatric Primary Care (PPP): The REACH Institute is offering several upcoming sessions of its Patient-Centered Mental Health in Pediatric Primary Care (PPP) program, a nationally recognized training designed for pediatricians, family physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. This interactive program equips providers to diagnose and manage common childhood mental health conditions (such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression), effectively use psychopharmacology, and implement evidence-based treatment plans. The training includes a 3-day virtual course followed by eight case-based learning calls over four months. Upcoming sessions are scheduled for July 11–13, September 12–14, September 26–28, and November 14–16, 2025. Learn more and register here. Please share with your healthcare providers! Professional Development The ACEs We Carry, The Systems We Can Change: Join Georgia Public Defender Council on Wednesday, June 25 at 2PM for an inspiring virtual session exploring how we can take an upstream approach to addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), with a special focus on sexual abuse and trauma. Led by attorney, author, and advocate Shavontana “Starr” Davis of The Starr Institute, this webinar will challenge participants—especially those in the legal field—to consider how systems can evolve to better protect children and strengthen families. Learn practical strategies to prevent ACEs, build resilience, and spark meaningful change. Free CLE credit is pending approval. Register here to be part of the conversation and please share with your colleagues in the legal sector! A Briefing on the Ground-Level Impacts of Federal Budget Cuts: Join the Georgia Center for Nonprofits for a Reverse Town Hall on Thursday, June 27 at 9 a.m. to explore how proposed FFY 2025 federal budget cuts could impact Georgia’s communities. With potential reductions to SNAP, housing, childcare, mental health services, and cultural programs, this session will highlight critical disruptions to the social and economic fabric of our state. Tailored for elected officials, philanthropic leaders, and civic stakeholders, the briefing will outline what’s at stake and how we can work together to protect essential services. Register here to attend live or receive the recording. Georgia CASA Conference 2025: This year’s CASA conference will be Saturday, August 23, 2025 at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Conference Center. This full-day event features a continental breakfast, keynote luncheon (honoring the Volunteer of the Year), and three workshop sessions packed with practical insights for CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocate) volunteers and affiliate program leaders. Connect with legal, child welfare, and nonprofit professionals, access vendor resources, and celebrate volunteer excellence—all while strengthening advocacy efforts for children in foster care. Registration and vendor table details are now available— register here! Youth Hosted by the School-Based Health Alliance , this virtual, youth-led conference from June 29th-July 1st is designed for high school students passionate about school-based health and community advocacy. This three-day event offers engaging workshops aimed at equipping youth with advocacy, policy, and leadership skills. Under the inspiring theme “The Future Starts With Us,” attendees will connect with peers and professionals nationwide to share ideas, build networks, and drive positive changes in school-based health care. Registration for the virtual sessions is open now! Please share with the families and youth you serve!
- MONDAY MEMO #33
Happy Monday, partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo. We are excited to share another list of resources, but first, here are some highlights from the RG Team: RG UPDATES New Sector-Specific Resource Guides Now Available ! RG has expanded our sector-specific resource guides to better support various professionals across Georgia. Additions include guides for Healthcare Organizations, Faith Communities, First Responders, and Law Enforcement. These guides offer trauma-informed tools, training recommendations, and practical strategies to build resilience within each sector. Check them out and share! We’re proud to share that "The Body Can Balance the Score: Using a Somatic Self-Care Intervention to Support Well-Being and Promote Healing" by William Chance Nicholson, Michael Sapp, Elaine Miller Karas, Ingrid Margaret Duva, and Linda Grabbe has been published in Healthcare as part of the Special Issue Beyond Words: Somatic Approaches for Treating PTSD and Trauma . We are honored to continually partner with such talented researchers and practitioners who are advancing the field of trauma-informed care. Read the full article here . June Lunch and Learn: Community Resiliency Model (CRM®): Join us this Thursday, June 12th via Zoom, for our next Lunch and Learn featuring an introduction to the Community Resiliency Model (CRM®) in Disaster Recovery Efforts —a set of practical, body-based wellness skills that help individuals and communities manage stress and heal after crisis. Featured speakers Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW , co-developer of CRM®, and Dr. Michael Sapp , clinical psychologist and CEO of the Trauma Resource Institute , will share practical applications of CRM® to support long-term recovery following disasters. Their work has supported communities across the globe in the wake of hurricanes, wildfires, conflict, and mass trauma. If you haven’t taken a CRM training before, we encourage you to check out these Medscape videos ahead of the session . Anyone is welcome to join our Lunch and Learn. To request an invite, please email Alex at aenglish@resilientga.org. Mental Health Parity Toolkit Now Available: The Carter Center has released a digital toolkit to help metro Atlanta residents understand their rights under Georgia’s Mental Health Parity Act of 2022. The toolkit includes sample messaging, social media content, FAQs, and more — all designed to spread awareness about equal insurance coverage for mental health care. A Spanish version is also available to help reach more communities. Explore the toolkit and learn more at georgiamentalhealth.com . Please download and share these on your organization’s socials over the next few weeks! Coalition Spotlights Resilient WEST is hosting a virtual Community Resiliency Model Training June 30th from 9am-12pm facilitated by Todd Wilcher, the Director of Youth Engagement and Street Outreach at Covenant House and a DECAL approved trainer. This training is geared towards professionals that work closely with young children and families, including, but not limited to, childcare and early childhood professionals. Register for the training here! Additionally, Resilient WEST is now on LinkedIn. Check it out and give them a follow! Resilient Gwinnett is hosting multiple, virtual trauma-informed training sessions. Workshops are focused on building resilience, preventing adverse childhood experiences, and promoting community well-being. Trainings are free and between June and December and include Community Resiliency Model, Mandated Reporter, Connections Matter, and Human Trafficking. Register here ! Additionally, join Resilient Gwinnett for a networking event on Wednesday June 11 5:30-7 PM . This event is free, register here ! Child Development The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University has key guidance on resilience and children’s development available to the public. Check out the pages on: Toxic Stress - Covering the basic background and types of toxic stress and includes a resource guide Guide to Resilience - Understand protective factors within children’s developmental environment which impact their ability to build essential skills for coping with adversity and well-being. Also includes various explanatory videos Developmental Environments - Describes the importance of children’s environment on their development and incorporates a developmental environments resource guide Grants The Morgan Stanley Alliance for Children’s Mental Health has funding opportunities! The Innovation Awards ($100,000 each) are open to all and Next Gen Innovation Awards ($25,000-$50,000) are open to nonprofits more than two years in operation founded by or led by leaders under 32 years old. Apply here by July 7th ! NAMI Georgia Training Opportunity – Now Accepting Applications: Thanks to new SAMHSA funding, NAMI Georgia is offering free, research-based training and certification for peers and family members to become presenters and facilitators in their communities. This includes programs like Ending the Silence , Peer-to-Peer , Family-to-Family , and In Our Own Voice , many of which are offered virtually. Certified participants receive stipends ($50–$250 per session) and travel support for community presentations. These trainings are ideal for individuals with lived experience who are ready to lead and support others. Upcoming June trainings include Ending the Silence (6/12), In Our Own Voice (6/28), and Family Support Group Facilitator (6/28–29). Organizations interested in partnering can contact grants@namiga.org . View the full training schedule and applications here . Juvenile Justice Georgia Voices Juvenile Justice Landscape Analysis: Last month, Voices for Georgia's Children released Punishment to Potential: A Landscape Analysis of Georgia’s Juvenile Justice System , offering a comprehensive examination of the state's juvenile justice landscape. The report highlights persistent challenges, including high incarceration rates—over 7,000 youths admitted to secure facilities in FY2023—and disproportionate impacts on Black youth and those with behavioral health or developmental issues. It also addresses systemic issues such as the automatic charging of 17-year-olds as adults and workforce shortages leading to increased use of solitary confinement. The analysis identifies five focus populations requiring tailored reforms and emphasizes the need for improved coordination among agencies, investment in preventive services, and incorporation of youth voices in policymaking. For a detailed exploration of these findings and recommendations, check out the full report here. Professional Development and Events PIN Regional Leaders Program – 2025 Cohort Opportunity: The Partnership for Inclusive Innovation’s Regional Leaders Program is now accepting applications for its 2025 cohort, supporting public, private, and community leaders in rural, small, and midsized Southeast communities. The program empowers collaborative teams focused on regional economic growth through innovation and tech-based development. Selected teams will receive up to $40,000 in grant funding, expert coaching, program support, and access to a regional peer network. Apply by July 3, 2025, at 5 PM to join this unique opportunity to build stronger, more inclusive local economies. Georgia State Child Welfare Training Collaborative is hosting a free virtual event today Monday, June 9, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM about food insecurity. The event, titled Knowledge to Action Conversation from Trauma to Table: Empowering Through Nutrition , aims to educated attendees on how Grady Hospital’s ‘Food as Medicine’ program combines medical care with nutrition education and patient empowerment to create long lasting changes. Hosted by Dhana Blissett, MSN, LD, RDN the event will cover the relationship between food, insecurity, chronic illness, and trauma. Join to learn how Grady Hospital’s model equips patients, particularly those with high ACES scores and serious health conditions, with the education and tools to plan, cook, and eat with purpose and how to advocate in communities. Register here ! Rural Mental Health Rural Minds hosted a webinar focused on mental health challenges for the youth in Rural America. Posted onto their website, this one-hour presentation features Asheton Medlin, a student at UNC, sharing her personal experience with stigma surrounding mental illness and barriers to mental health that are unique to growing up in a rural community. Additionally, Dr. Eric Arzubi, CEO and Co-Founder of Frontier Psychiatry in Billings MT talks about his observations as a psychiatrist treating adolescents living in rural communities throughout Montana, Idaho, and Alaska. Access the webinar here . To learn more about rural communities and the mental health crisis, access Rural Behavioral Health Institute’s website on more information about suicide in rural areas and here to read about the work the organization is doing to incorporate suicide prevention and mental health screenings in schools. Substance Use and Recovery The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has various educational resources on drug abuse. NIDA offers helpful information on proper terminology on drug abuse , particularly for healthcare providers. The organization additionally provides free lessons and activities on the science and consequences of drug use developed by scientists at leading universities and the NIDA. Lastly, the NIDA offers a compiled list of scientific journals and articles on drug addiction. Georgia Society of Addiction Medicine 2025 Annual Conference : Join GSAM for its 2025 Annual Conference, taking place July 25th–26th at South University in Savannah. This event will offer up to 9.5 CME credits and cover key topics including medications for alcohol use disorder, pain and addiction management, ADHD and dual diagnoses, and treatment for pregnant patients. Learn, connect, and explore the latest evidence-based practices in addiction medicine. Register here!
