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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!

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 .

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!

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 .

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.

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!

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!

Happy June, Partners! As summer begins, we hope you're finding time to rest, recharge, and reconnect. This week’s memo features a fresh set of resources, articles, training opportunities, and initiatives designed to support children, families, and communities across Georgia. We hope you’ll explore and share these highlights as we step into a new season of growth and impact.  Before we dive in, here are some  updates and highlights from the RG Team:  RG UPDATES New Resources on RG’s Website! Explore the updated Case for ACEs Prevention  and Community Resiliency Model   briefs, new resource pages for populations including Ag Worker/Farmer Mental Health Resources , Resources for People with Disabilities , Parents and Caregivers , and Immigrants, Refugees and New American familie s,  and our   8th Learning Card on Self-Care   (currently available in English, translations to come). Please share this resources widely!  Upcoming June Dates:   June Peer-to-Peer Network:  Coalition partners are welcome to join us Tomorrow June 3rd from 2-3pm   an informal, connection-focused session with fellow coalition leads across the state. This is a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and enjoy some lighthearted conversation. We will also take time to discuss how we’d like to use this time moving forward to help us plan for fall sessions and we’d love your input on how to make this sessions a success! We’ll be pausing Peer Network meetings in  July. June Lunch and Learn: Community Resiliency Model (CRM®):   Join us 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.   Check out our updated   2025 Updated Conference List ! 988 Data Now Available by Region:   Did you know you can now access 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline data for your region? Visit 988ga.org/data  to explore call volume trends and insights. The highest call volume is currently in the Valdosta region. This kind of data can be a powerful tool to advocate for mental health and trauma-informed services. Please check it out and share with your local leaders.  Partner with the Georgia Veterans Suicide Mortality Review Committee : The Georgia SMRC is looking for coroners and medical examiners to help review veteran suicide cases and identify prevention strategies. Reviews are confidential, take about two hours, and can be done virtually. If you or your partners have connections with coroners, MEs, or others in veteran services or public health, please help spread the word and support this life-saving work. For more information, contact Devon Howard at dhowar96@kennesaw.edu .    Coalition Spotlights Resilient Communities of East GA:   Dr. Brooke Amero, a 2025 graduate of the Medical College of Georgia,   has been awarded the prestigious John F. Beard Award for Compassionate Care , recognizing her exceptional commitment to serving vulnerable communities. Through MCG’s partnership with Resilient Communities of East Georgia, Dr. Amero collaborated with Resilient Teens to support adolescent well-being and address intimate partner violence. Her efforts included creating educational resources, expanding IPV training for medical students, and helping launch a free street medicine clinic focused on women's health. Dr. Amero’s work exemplifies the powerful impact of trauma-informed, community-centered care.  Additionally, RCEGA’s 2nd Annual Resilient Teens Summit  will be Saturday, August 16th from 8:30am-2:30pm in Augusta, GA . This event aims to empower teens through interactive workshops, peer-led discussions, and expert panels focused on mental health, trauma-informed care, and leadership development. The summit provides a platform for youth to engage in meaningful conversations, build resilience, and connect with community resources dedicated to their well-being. Register here!   Children and Families The   Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.)   is inviting everyone with a personal connection to adoption—adoptees, adoptive and birth/first parents and grandparents, and siblings—to take a 15 minute anonymous survey .  These voices will help shape the future of adoption-competent mental health services nationwide. Please share and encourage folks to submit the survey through June 30, 2025!  Stay Safe This Summer: Water Safety Tips from Strong4Life:   As summer begins, Strong4Life  has developed a helpful resource with essential water safety tips for older kids and teens. From the importance of swim lessons and close supervision to avoiding risky behaviors and using the buddy system, these tips are designed to prevent drowning and keep youth safe around water. Explore and share the full guide to help families and youth stay safe this season!  Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Briefs For Supporting Economic Child and Family Wellbeing:  The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation   recently released two briefs exploring how economic policies can better support families. One examines how reshaping the tax system— through reforms like expanding the Earned Income and Child Tax Credits(CTC) —can promote equity and family wellbeing. The other highlights evidence from over 150 U.S. guaranteed income programs ,  showing that unconditional cash payments improve financial stability, health, and opportunities for children and families. It recommends reimagining policies like the CTC and Earned Income Tax Credit as forms of guaranteed income to provide unconditional support, thereby promoting economic security and wellbeing for all families.  Education 2025-2026 Education Policy Fellowship Program – GPEE:   The Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education  is now accepting applications for the 2025–2026 Education Policy Fellowship Program (EPFP)—a nine-month professional development opportunity for leaders in education, policy, and community sectors. Fellows engage in monthly sessions focused on public policy, leadership, and networking while continuing in their full-time roles. Applications are due June 27, 2025 , and one full tuition scholarship is available.   Click here for more information!    Healthcare Pediatric Firearm Injuries and the Role of Primary Care:   This online educational bundle offered through the Center for Interrelational Science and Pediatrics (CISP)  is designed to provide healthcare professionals with comprehensive training on the prevention, assessment, and management of firearm-related injuries in children. It likely includes modules on clinical care, public health strategies, and trauma-informed approaches, aiming to equip practitioners with evidence-based tools to address the growing concern of pediatric firearm injuries.  Funding Youth Mental Health Fund :  The Decolonizing Wealth Project's  Liberated Capital is accepting proposals for its Youth Mental Health Fund, aiming to distribute at least $15 million over three years to support culturally responsive mental health care for BIPOC and LGBTQ+ youth aged 12–24. Eligible U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and Federally Recognized Native American Tribes can apply for grants ranging from $30,000 to $250,000. The fund prioritizes community-led initiatives that increase access to care, promote cultural healing, and advocate for systemic change. Applications are due by  July 10, 2025, at 8 PM EST.  Cobb County Opioid Abatement Grants:  Cobb County is offering funding to local organizations and nonprofits through its Opioid Abatement Settlement to support treatment, prevention, recovery, and harm reduction efforts. Grants will be awarded to programs that directly benefit Cobb residents and align with the county’s strategic plan. Applications are open now and due by Friday, July 11, 2025.  Please share with organizations local to Cobb County!   Professional Development "When It Doesn’t Leave A Mark" M.E.D.L.A.W. June Learning Series:   MEDLAW (Medical Education Delivered. Legally Applying Wisdom)   is hosting a free virtual CLE-approved course series this June 2025 titled When It Doesn’t Necessarily Leave A Mark, in collaboration with the Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children . This five-part series is designed to equip judges and legal professionals with critical medical knowledge that can inform courtroom practices involving children and families. Topics include sexual abuse, pediatric strangulation, neighborhood gun violence, and abusive head trauma. Sessions will be held Wednesdays at 12 PM EST starting June 4th and are open to judges, attorneys, law enforcement, and others. Community-Based Interventions & Healing Webinar — Lotus Project:   Join the Lotus Project  on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 4:00–5:30 EST  for the final session in their webinar series on domestic violence among Asian American and Asian Immigrant (AAAI) communities. This session will highlight culturally responsive, trauma-informed programs that support the healing of children, caregivers, and families impacted by DV. Register here!

Happy Monday, Partners! Welcome to another edition of the Monday Memo from the Resilient Georgia team. As always, we're excited to share updates, resources, and highlights from across our statewide network.  Please note that we’ll be pausing the Monday Memo next week in observance of the Memorial Day holiday—keep an eye out for our next edition on June 2nd. Wishing you all a restful and meaningful holiday weekend ahead! RG UPDATES April General Meeting:   For those who couldn’t attend our Spring Meeting, you can check out the recording here  and the  follow up document here . The presentation slides , recording, and follow up document are now also available on our website . Save the Date!  Our next General Meeting Regional Showcase will be held on November 13th at 11:00 AM —we hope to see you there!  ACTION ITEM: Win $50 for a 5-Minute Survey on Tier 1 Services   As a reminder, our partners at The Carter Center and Georgia State’s Center of Excellence  are conducting a short survey to better understand universal prevention (Tier 1) services in Georgia schools and communities. Your input will help identify gaps, barriers, and opportunities to improve youth mental wellness and substance use prevention efforts statewide. Complete the survey for a chance to win a $50 gift card and share it with your colleagues and partners! Take and/or share the survey here .   For questions, contact Dr. Natasha De Veauuse Brown at   ndeveauusebrown@gsu.edu .   Thank You for Joining Our May Lunch & Learn!   Thank you to everyone who attended our May Lunch and Learn featuring Dr. John McElveen from   Georgia Agriculture Wellness Alliance . Dr. McElveen shared powerful insights on the mental health challenges impacting Georgia’s agricultural community and highlighted resources and strategies to support farmer well-being. If you missed it,   view the recording here . We’d also appreciate your feedback—take a quick survey to help us improve future sessions!  New! Updated ACEs Brief & Self-Care Learning Card Now Available!  We’re excited to announce the release of our newly updated brief, The Case for ACEs Prevention , and our 8th Learning Card focused on Self-Care —a powerful resource designed to support individuals and organizations in fostering resilience and well-being. Currently, the Self-Care Learning Card is only available in English but we are working on getting it translated. Please check out our newest resources and share widely! Job Opportunity! Youth Program Director at CWC Alliance:   CWC Alliance  is hiring a full-time, grant-funded Youth Program Director  to lead Georgia’s statewide Teen Substance Use Prevention Initiative . This role is ideal for a mission-driven professional with experience in youth behavioral health, program development, public health education, and large-scale community outreach. The position is Georgia-based (remote/hybrid), with a strong preference for candidates in the Atlanta area. Please share this opportunity widely!  Coalition Highlights Resilient Northeast Georgia Trauma & Resilience Resources and Grant Opportunity:   Resilient Northeast Georgia  created a comprehensive Trauma and Resilience Toolkit  and Trauma 101 webinar  designed to support communities in understanding and addressing trauma. The toolkit includes downloadable resources such as social media graphics, educational PDFs, and videos tailored for healthcare professionals, educators, and community leaders. In addition, RNEGA is offering a Trauma-Informed Communities Grant  opportunity, aimed at organizations working to prevent ACEs and enhance trauma-informed awareness and care in the region. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, churches, and government entities serving the 12-county region of Northeast Georgia. The grant supports program costs, capacity building, and expansion efforts that directly impact individuals from birth to age 26. Interested organizations are encouraged to watch an   informational webinar  and apply here by June 30th.   Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia & Shape Up Miller Partnership:   RCSWGA  is proud to partner with Shape Up Miller to support the growing Mental Health Council in Miller County. This community-led effort hosts monthly meetings featuring guest speakers who share insights on mental health and wellness. Meetings are open to the public and take place every third Thursday at 1 PM  at the Colquitt Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, immediately following the Shape Up Miller meeting. To attend, please RSVP by emailing Leigh Ribolzi at lribolzi@springcreekhealth.com  or Sheila Freeman at sfreeman@springcreekhealth.com .   Resilient Communities of East Georgia:   We’re thrilled to celebrate Dr. April Hartman of RCEGA on her appointment to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC)   by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. With over 25 years of pediatric experience and a steadfast commitment to children’s health, Dr. Hartman brings vital expertise to this national role. We’re proud to see a Georgia leader helping shape the future of Medicaid and CHIP for families nationwide—thank you for your service and leadership!  Infant Toddler Courts Two opportunities from Georgia THRIVe/Mindworks Georgia    Upcoming Webinar Series: GA THRIVe Infant-Toddler Court Program : Join the Georgia THRIVe  team for their Infant-Toddler Court Program (ITCP) Webinar Training Series   every 2nd Wednesday of the month at 2pm , designed to strengthen knowledge and collaboration around infant and early childhood well-being in the court system. This virtual series will cover key topics including foundational ITCP principles, reflective supervision, and trauma-informed approaches. Sessions are open to all interested professionals and partners.   Check out the flyer linked above for registration details. Registration is available for individual sessions or the series.   Georgia THRIVe All-Sites Conference:  Mark your calendars and join professionals from across the state for the   Georgia THRIVe   All-Sites Conference on  Friday, July 25th   at the UGA Center for Continuing Education in Athens. This event brings together judges, attorneys, social workers, child welfare teams, and more for a day of learning, collaboration, and sharing strategies to improve outcomes for infants, toddlers, and families in the court system. Highlights include keynote speakers, panel discussions, and local and statewide program updates.   Register here!   Professional Development and Events Event Highlight: Critical Condition – Health in Black America Screening & Panel   This Wednesday, May 21 from 6–9 PM  Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health. PBS NOVA, and a variety of sponsors, are hosting a screening of Critical Condition: Health in Black America, followed by a panel discussion with filmmaker Stanley Nelson and public health experts. The film explores the roots of health disparities in the U.S. and the impact of racism on Black Americans’ health. A catered reception will follow the event. Check it out and please share widely, especially in the Metro-Atlanta region!  GSU Child Welfare Training Collaborative: Knowledge to Action Conversation: Adoption, Trauma & Resilience:   The Georgia State Child Welfare Training Collaborative  is hosting a virtual event Thursday, May 29 from 10–11:30 AM on adoption, trauma, and resilience. Dr. Mark Andrews, adoptive parent and TBRI® Practitioner, will share insights from both personal and professional perspectives on how to support children impacted by trauma. Learn how to recognize hidden signs, build felt safety, and empower families with compassionate, structured care. Register here . Building Resilient Communities for Children Conference 2025:  Join the Attachment & Trauma Network  for the Building Resilient Communities for Children Virtual Conference on  June 23–24, 2025 . This conference offers five specialized tracks—Parenting, Schools, Youth Justice, Communities, and Counselors/Clinicians—featuring live sessions, interactive workshops, and keynote speakers, including Dr. Bruce Perry. Attendees will have access to recorded sessions for 30 days post-event. Register here!   2025 Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention:   Join over 350 professionals on September 10, 2025,  in Peachtree City for the Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention. This full-day event will feature innovative workshops on preventing, intervening in, and treating child maltreatment. Hosted by the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy , Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta , and PCA Georgia .  Early bird registration is $115. Register here .  Rural Resources New NAMI Resource: Mental Health in Rural America : NAMI’s  latest resource, Mental Health in Rural America , explores the unique challenges rural communities face in accessing mental health care and outlines policy solutions to improve outcomes. The guide outlines barriers like provider shortages, stigma, and transportation, and offers strategies like telehealth, workforce growth, and community-based care. A valuable tool for advocates, policymakers, and rural health leaders working to close the gap in mental health access. Additionally, Resilient Georgia has launched a new mental health resource page for farmers and agricultural workers , offering tools to boost well-being, resilience, and access to care. Addressing stressors like financial strain, isolation, and limited services, the page aims to reduce stigma and connect rural communities to vital support. Please share with your networks! Youth Yes and Know: Connect Youth to GCAPP’s New Virtual Life & Relationship Skills Program : GCAPP   is excited to share Yes and Know —a new virtual curriculum from   ETR   designed for youth ages 14–19. This engaging program builds healthy relationship skills, supports decision-making, and promotes sexual health, all in a format accessible to youth in rural and underserved areas. If you work with teens or families, help spread the word by sharing the   interest form  to connect young people to this opportunity!

Happy Monday, Partners! This week, we’re spotlighting a range of tools, training opportunities, and initiatives that support children, families, and professionals across Georgia. From early childhood development and educational equity to trauma-informed practices and nonprofit innovation, these resources aim to foster resilience, promote wellness, and strengthen communities. We hope you’ll explore and share these opportunities as we continue working together to create healthier, more supportive environments for all. Before we dive in, here are some updates and highlights from RG:   RG UPDATES New Blog! From Pain to Purpose: A Family Lawyer’s Journey of Healing and Hope  by Casey Tuggle :  For many, Mother’s Day can stir up complex emotions and painful memories. In our latest Power of Healing blog, family lawyer Casey Tuggle shares her personal journey of navigating a traumatic childhood and turning her pain into purpose. Now an advocate for families and children, Casey’s story is a reminder that painful beginnings can lead to hopeful outcomes. Regional Coalition Events Reminder:   Thanks to everyone who has continued to submit their 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!  Cafe Momentum  is a nonprofit restaurant and workforce development program that offers paid internships and wraparound support to justice-involved youth. With a newly opened location in Atlanta, the program provides hands-on training in all aspects of the restaurant industry while also connecting youth with critical resources like mental health counseling, education support, and financial literacy. By investing in second chances, Café Momentum is helping young people build brighter futures and break cycles of incarceration. The RG team is excited to check out the new Atlanta location soon and support this incredible initiative! May Round Calls: This month’s Round Calls are scheduled this week as follows. Please ensure at least one member from your coalition is able to attend!   Round 1: Friday, May 30th 10am    Round 2: Tuesday, May 27th 11am    Round 3: Thursday, May 29th 1pm Round 4:  Tuesday, May 27th 2pm         Round 5: Monday, May 19th 2pm   Coalition Spotlight Resilient and United Communities of South GA ,  in partnership with the Lowndes County Mental Health Coalition, is hosting a Mental Health Day Lunch on the Lawn  this Friday, May 16 from 11 AM – 1 PM at Unity Park in Valdosta. Join for a free, family-friendly event with great food, live music, and local resources to support mental health and well-being in Lowndes County.  Early Childhood Development Council on Addressing Racism in the Early Years (CARE):   The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard launched CARE to explore how racism impacts young children's development. In partnership with Boston University and UNC-Chapel Hill, CARE brings together experts to create tools and strategies that support families, educators, and policymakers.  GEEARS HeadStart One-Pager: Developed by GEEARS (Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students) , this resource highlights the impact of Early Head Start and Head Start, which serve over 20,000 children across nearly 400 sites in Georgia. These programs provide essential services like early education, health screenings, nutrition, and family support. In many rural areas, Head Start is the only childcare provider and a key employer. Research shows Head Start reduces poverty, increases college completion, and lowers reliance on public assistance—making it a smart investment in Georgia’s future. Please share and take action to support continued funding at geears.org/take-action/advocate . The Baby Brain Map: Your Guide to Early Brain Development:   ZERO TO THREE's Baby Brain Map  is an interactive tool designed to help parents, caregivers, and early childhood professionals understand how babies' brains develop from birth to age three. It translates complex brain science into practical strategies, offering insights into how early experiences shape cognitive, emotional, and social development. The tool provides age-specific guidance to support healthy growth and emotional well-being, making it a valuable resource for fostering nurturing environments during these critical early years.  South Georgia Healthy Start Expands Support for Families: GPB   South Georgia Healthy Start , serving 10 counties, received a $2 million grant from the United Health Foundation to add doulas to its staff, strengthening support for pregnant individuals before and during birth. This expands on $5.5 million in federal funding already supporting the program, which enrolls over 1,000 moms, dads, and children from pregnancy through 18 months postpartum. Doulas will enhance case management services by providing hands-on support, advocating for families, and improving maternal health outcomes.  Education EdQuest Georgia Leading Indicators Report   released in April 2025 by the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education , introduces a framework of forward-looking metrics designed to assess the quality, effectiveness, and impact of state and community investments in education and workforce development. These leading indicators span five key areas: early learning, K-12 education, post-secondary and workforce readiness, educator support, and community health and environment. By focusing on these areas, the report aims to guide Georgia toward its "North Star" goal of ensuring that 65% of adults aged 25 to 64 attain a post-secondary credential by 2033.  Reaching Rural Educators w/ Angie Battle of the Georgia Council on Economic Education Podcast:   In the latest episode of   Field Notes , Kathleen Da Silva of the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education  talks with Angie Battle from the Georgia Council on Economic Education  (GCEE) about their efforts to strengthen economics education in Georgia’s public schools, with a special focus on supporting teachers in rural communities. Check it out and consider sharing the episode with your networks interested in education.  Professional Development and Training 2025 LEARN Conference | Elevate Early Childhood Education:   The ZERO TO THREE  LEARN Conference 2025 will take place on October 8–9, 2025 , in Baltimore, Maryland. This event gathers early childhood professionals—including educators, healthcare providers, mental health specialists, and policymakers—for two days of immersive learning and networking. Attendees can participate in over 65 sessions covering topics such as infant mental health, early learning, child welfare, and early intervention. Registration is open now!   Virtual Workshop: From Prototype to Practice: Bringing New Ideas to Life in Your Nonprofit:   Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 10AM-12PM   GSU’s Child Welfare Training Collaborative  is hosting an interactive workshop designed to help nonprofit leaders and staff refine and implement innovative ideas. Participants will explore frameworks for testing prototypes, embedding new programs into existing systems, and scaling successful initiatives. Approved for 2 CEU hours  for social workers, LPCs, and marriage and family therapists, this session offers practical tools for translating creative concepts into sustainable, impactful programs.  Trauma-Informed Resources Using trauma informed principles in content design - Content Design London:   A recent blog from Content Design London highlights how trauma-informed principles can improve digital content for all users—especially those navigating stress or trauma. By prioritizing safety, trust, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural awareness, content creators can make websites and materials more inclusive, supportive, and easier to engage with. Read more about how thoughtful design can promote healing and accessibility. The 4 Steps - Trauma Informed Lancashire:   Trauma Informed Lancashire’s  four-step framework— Trauma Aware, Trauma Sensitive, Trauma Responsive,  and Trauma Informed —is based on the Missouri Model for becoming trauma-informed. This same model guided our team at Resilient Georgia in developing our Trauma-Informed Training Roadmap , helping organizations and professionals in various sectors take meaningful steps toward embedding trauma-informed values into their work. Check out this list of resources  from Trauma-Informed Lancashire!

Happy May, Partners! May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to shine a light on the importance of mental well-being, reduce stigma, and uplift the many ways our communities are building resilience. This month’s newsletter highlights upcoming events, trainings, and resources that support mental health across Georgia. To kick things off, check out this Free Your Feels Mental Health Awareness Month resource guide   from Georgia DBHDD  and Georgia Voices.  Now, here are some   highlights and reminders from the RG Team:   RG UPDATES April General Meeting:   Thank you to everyone who joined our General Meeting on Fostering Trauma-Informed Sectors and Systems  last month! For those who couldn’t attend, you can check out the recording here  and we will share a follow-up resource document soon. In the meantime, the presentation slides  are also available on our website. If you attended, please take a moment to complete our brief survey   to help us improve future meetings.  Save the Date!  Our next General Meeting Regional Showcase will be held on November 13th at 11:00 AM —we hope to see you there!  Statewide Community Resiliency Model Summit Interest:   With the help of some of our amazing coalition leads, we're planning Georgia’s first-ever statewide Community Resiliency Model (CRM) Summit for Fall 2025, and we want your input! This free event will bring together professionals from across sectors to connect, learn, and strengthen trauma-informed practices statewide. Whether you're new to CRM or already using it in your work, please take 2–3 minutes to complete this brief survey   to help us gauge interest, estimate attendance, and shape a powerful, inclusive experience.  Upcoming May Dates:   May Peer-to-Peer Network:  Coalition partners are welcome to join us Tomorrow May 6th from 2-3pm   an informal, connection-focused session with fellow coalition leads across the state. This is a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and enjoy some lighthearted conversation. We’ll be pausing Peer Network meetings and office hours until the fall ,  so we hope you’ll join us for this final session before the summer!  May Lunch and Learn :   This Thursday March 8th at Noon, join us for a presentation with John McElveen  from Georgia Agriculture Wellness Alliance  focused on mental health in Georgia’s ag community. Email Alex at aenglish@resilientga.org  for the invite!  Coalition Spotlight Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia:   Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia is celebrating Mental Health Month with a Mental Health Mondays  Virtual Lunch & Learn series  on May 5, 12, and 19 at 12:00 PM —short, engaging sessions focused on mental health and resilience. These weekly events offer a great opportunity to learn, connect, and prioritize wellness during your lunch break. You can join each session via Zoom at this link . Additionally, in partnership with GSU’s Child Welfare Training Collaborative , the coalition is offering "Differences are Good! An Exploration of Cultural Competence"  on May 19, from 10AM–1:30PM at the Vashti Center.  Resilient Southwest Georgia   is offering a virtual Connections Matter training  on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 9AM-12PM facilitated by Nikki Warner and Alex English. Connection’s Matter explores the impact of trauma, ACEs, brain development, and resilience, offering practical tools to strengthen personal and community well-being. The training is ideal for parents, educators, service providers, nonprofit professionals, and community members, and is approved for 4 CEUs  for LPCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, law enforcement, and Bright from the Start. Details and registration information can be found here.   Funding Funding Challenge: Young Futures  has launched its latest Funding Challenge to support nonprofit-led solutions that help alleviate the pressures teens and preteens face in today's tech-driven world. The grant term will run from October 2025 through September 2026. Letters of Intent (LOI) are due May 9, 2025   and  full proposal submissions (by invitation) are  due by June 30, 2025 . Eligible applicants include nonprofits focused on youth mental health, digital well-being, and related areas.  Research to Advance Racial and Indigenous Health Equity:   The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's  Evidence for Action program invites proposals for its "Research to Advance Racial and Indigenous Health Equity" initiative. This funding opportunity supports two tracks: Rapid Response Research grants for projects that have lost federal funding, and New Research Support for community-driven, action-oriented studies addressing systemic health inequities. Deadlines are  May 28, 2025 , for Rapid Response brief proposals and July 16, 2025,  for New Research letters of intent.  Healthcare Medicaid Member Advisory Group:   Georgians for a Healthy Future  and Georgia Voices  are recruiting individuals aged 18+ who are enrolled in Medicaid (Amerigroup, CareSource, Peach State Health Plan) and parents or caregivers of children enrolled in Medicaid or PeachCare for Kids to join a new Medicaid Member Advisory Group. Members will help shape Georgia’s Medicaid and PeachCare programs by sharing their insights through monthly virtual meetings (1–2 hours) and will be compensated for their time. Please share and interested folks can apply here !  Training and Events Georgia Children's Mental Health Day at the Capitol 2025:   The   20th Annual Children’s Mental Health Day  at the Capitol is this Thursday, May 8th from 8AM-12:30PM ! This year’s event will feature commissioners, legislators, state behavioral health leaders, youth voices, and more, along with great networking opportunities, resources, and giveaways. We invite all Resilient Georgia staff, colleagues, friends, and family to attend and show support for children's mental health in Georgia.   Register here!     "Shape of My Eyes" & Mental Health Virtual Fireside Chat Series :   Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage and Mental Health Awareness Month by joining the Catalyst Coalition’s virtual series during the month of May! Each week features meaningful conversations with Dave Gibbons and mental health professionals discussing key topics from his memoir. Sessions will be held on May 8th (Race & Identity with Dr. Stan Sonu), May 15th, May 22nd, and May 29th, from 8–9 PM ET.  Check out the flyer for more details on speakers and topics, and   register here! Upcoming Mental Health Trainings from Mental Health America of Georgia: Join Mental Health America of Georgia  this May for three free virtual workshops focused on building resilience and promoting mental wellness:  OWL - Building Resilience in Youth   (May 7, 10:00 AM) : Learn about social-emotional development, the impact of trauma, and strategies to build resilience and prevent caregiver fatigue.   Register here!   Mental Health in the Workplace   (May 8, 2:00 PM) : Explore coping tools for self-care, maintaining work-life balance, and advocating for mental health in workplace settings. (Geared toward ages 16–26, but open to all!) Register here!   Building Resilience and Coping   (May 22, 2:00 PM) : Understand how effective coping skills can support mental health, and create a personalized plan to reduce stress and build resilience. (Geared toward ages 16–26, but open to all!) Register here!   Youth Healthy Kids — Healthy Communities Project Updates:  The Partnership for Inclusive Innovation's (PIN)  Healthy Kids Healthy Communities initiative is dedicated to fostering healthier futures for Georgia's children. Through programs like the Citizen Farmers Academy, youth engage in hands-on experiences that teach farming, entrepreneurship, and wellness. These initiatives aim to provide education, economic opportunities, and access to healthy food for socio-economically and racially diverse families across the state.

Happy Monday! This week’s Memo is packed with resources to support child development, strengthen nonprofits, as well as funding, career, and professional development opportunities.  Before we dive in, here are a few key  updates and reminders from the RG Team:   RG UPDATES New Blog! From Hurt to Healing: How Two Women Transformed Their Trauma into Resilience   by Heather Flowers and Amanda Manard:  In our latest Power of Healing blog, these two courageous women share deeply personal journeys on turning pain into purposeful action. From surviving sexual trauma and navigating mental health struggles, to finding healing through advocacy and service, their stories are a powerful reminder that healing is possible, and hope is never out of reach. We want to thank Heather and Amanda for using their voices to help those they serve. We honor your vulnerability and are so grateful for you both. ACTION ITEM: Universal Prevention/Tier 1 Services Survey: As a reminder, our partners at The Carter Center and Georgia State’s Center of Excellence  are gathering input for a statewide analysis of prevention programs in schools and communities.  Please take and share this  8-minute survey  to help identify gaps and inform future planning. Share with colleagues and partners in education! For questions, contact Dr. Natasha De Veauuse Brown at ndeveauusebrown@gsu.edu . Resilient Georgia Internship: RG is hiring a remote, part-time intern to support the statewide teen opioid and fentanyl prevention efforts in partnership with the CWC Alliance . This position is ideal for second-year MPH students passionate about public and behavioral health, trauma-informed care, and youth-focused prevention strategies. To apply, send application materials to Alex English at aenglish@resilientga.org . New Resource! Mental Health Support for Farmers and Agricultural Workers:  RG published a new resource page dedicated to supporting the mental health of agricultural workers in rural areas. Explore support, crisis lines, and resilience-building resources designed to meet the unique needs of Georgia’s farming sector. May Lunch and Learn :   Our next Lunch and Learn is scheduled for May 8th at 12pm . Join us for an important conversation led by  John McElveen  of the Georgia Agricultural Wellness Alliance , as he shares compelling data from recent studies highlighting the mental health challenges faced by Georgia’s agricultural community. This session will explore the high levels of stress, mental health concerns, and suicidal ideation impacting farmers and agricultural workers—and what can be done to support them. Please feel free to invite your rural and mental health partners! Email Alex for the invite at aenglish@resilientga.org . Coalition Highlights Cobb Collaborative:  Cobb Collaborative created Mental Health Support resource guides for People with Disabilities  and Parents and Caregivers . Mental health is a core focus of the coalition’s strategic efforts to improve outcomes for all individuals and families. As part of their commitment to inclusive well-being, they’ve created new resource guides tailored specifically for these two populations. RG is also working with Cobb to build out resource pages for these populations on our website, so stay tuned! Resilient WEST   is hosting a Community Coalition Meeting  on Wednesday, May 28th from 9AM-12PM   at the UWG Newnan Campus. This gathering is open to community partners, wellness advocates, educators, and local leaders. Attendees will learn about the Resilient WEST initiative, connect with fellow community members, and help shape a collaborative network focused on strengthening child and family resiliency through connection, care, and shared action. Additionally, Alex English, RG Regional Program Coordinator, had the pleasure of attending the Troup County Trauma Responsive Collaborative Summit this month, as part of the Resilient WEST coalition. The event featured inspiring remarks from keynote speaker Stephanie Blank, who emphasized the lifelong impact of early childhood connections and the importance of trauma-informed care. Mindy Bierman from GEEARS shared a timely legislative update on early childhood care, highlighting concerns around potential Medicaid coverage loss for Georgia families. The day concluded with a meaningful tour of the Troup County Juvenile Court, where Judge Key showcased the court’s intentional efforts to create a trauma-informed environment for youth. We are so grateful for our partnership with RG’s newest Round 5 coalition!   Child Development The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University   has released two resource guides highlighting how environmental challenges impact early childhood development. One guide explores how limited access to clean, reliable water  can harm children's health, behavior, and learning—especially in underserved communities. The other examines how extreme heat poses serious risks to young children , who are more vulnerable to heat-related stress and developmental disruptions. Both guides offer actionable strategies to reduce environmental risks and promote healthy development. Check out the full guides to learn more!  Babies at Risk With Proposed HHS Cuts | ZERO TO THREE:   Policymakers are currently reviewing potential changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which supports over 39 million individuals, including families with young children. Nearly one-third of SNAP benefits assist households with children under five, helping to reduce food insecurity and support early development. At the same time, the President’s proposed FY 2026 budget outlines funding levels that could impact key early childhood programs such as Head Start, early mental health initiatives, and other family services. Additional updates include a new brief from the Child Welfare League of America  highlighting the critical role of the Social Services Block Grant (SSBG) and Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) in child welfare services, along with potential risks to those funding streams. A   recent report from Child Care Aware of America   shows that many states are not investing in childcare at the levels needed to adequately support families and strengthen local economies.  Funding The Georgia Opioid Crisis Abatement Trust   will open its 2025 grant application period this May to support statewide efforts addressing the opioid crisis. A Notice of Funding Opportunity will be released on May 5, with the application portal opening May 19. To guide potential applicants, the Trust will offer in-person and virtual training sessions in early May, detailing the application process and funding priorities. This follows the Trust’s inaugural $70.3 million investment in 128 Georgia-based projects announced in December 2024. The funding supports evidence-based prevention, treatment, and recovery programs using Georgia’s share of national opioid settlement funds. 2025 Informational Workshops   Coastal Georgia:  Friday, May 2 at 9 a.m. at Savannah’s Candler Hospital Register here!   South Georgia:  Friday, May 2 at 2:30 p.m. at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton Register here!   Metro-Atlanta:  Monday, May 5 at 10 a.m. at the Floyd Building   Register here!   North Georgia:  Tuesday, May 6 at 10 a.m. at Dalton State University Register here!   Virtual:  Monday, May 5 at 2 p.m. Register here!   Job Opportunity Sandra Dunagan Deal Center for Early Language and Literacy   has announced a new statewide leadership opportunity: Georgia Literacy Coach Coordinator, a role created through House Bill 307. Housed within the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement (GOSA), this hybrid position will lead and align Georgia’s three major literacy coaching systems—Let’s Read Georgia, Growing Readers, and CSI Coaches—in collaboration with key partners like the Georgia Council on Literacy and the Deal Center for Early Language and Literacy. The coordinator will support implementation of the Georgia Early Literacy Act by ensuring coherence, quality, and fidelity across all coaching efforts. Applicants should email a resume to Joy Hawkins at joy.hawkins@gosa.ga.gov  by May 8, 2025.  Nonprofit Resources Nonprofits and the New Administration:   Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta  has launched a new resource page to support organizations facing legal uncertainty amid recent federal policy and funding changes. This hub offers timely guidance on issues like layoffs, lease terminations, DEI programs, government contracts, lobbying, and immigration. With increased demand for assistance, PBPA is expanding its volunteer network and adding a staff attorney to help nonprofits remain compliant and mission-focused. We encourage you to share it with your networks!  US Policy Changes Resource Hub | GCN:  The Georgia Center for Nonprofits  offers a comprehensive Resource Hub to help organizations navigate evolving federal policies. It includes tools for risk assessment, scenario planning, crisis communication, and advocacy, along with updates on executive orders and budget developments. Nonprofits can also access district-level funding data and participate in a survey to share how federal actions are affecting their work.  National Council of Nonprofits Resources:   The National Council of Nonprofits has released key resources to help organizations navigate recent concerns around federal oversight. A new risk assessment checklist  guides nonprofits in reviewing federal funding sources, contracts, and compliance with executive orders. In addition, a myth vs. reality fact sheet  clarifies common misconceptions about executive authority, including that the executive branch cannot unilaterally revoke nonprofit status or directly target organizations. The latest Nonprofit Champion  newsletter  also highlights ongoing advocacy efforts, policy developments, and guidance to help nonprofits remain informed.  Professional Development and Training Become a Connections Matter Trainer – Connections Matter Georgia:   The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy  and CRM Georgia are offering two upcoming Connections Matter Georgia Train-the-Trainer (TOT)  sessions in Atlanta on June 17th  and September 18th . This hybrid training—comprising one full in-person day and a half-day virtual session—equips professionals with the tools to deliver the Connections Matter curriculum, which focuses on the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, brain development, and resilience. Participants will receive a trainer’s manual, presentation materials, and access to a trainer portal. A prerequisite for attending the TOT is prior participation in a Connections Matter workshop. The cost for the training is $500. Click here to apply for the TOT!