Happy Monday, partners! This week includes child and family well-being support, along with training and professional development opportunities, and juvenile justice and self-compassion resources. Additionally, September is Suicide Prevention Month, so we’ve highlighted a variety of resources below. Before we dive in, here are a few highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights NEW Blog! Bringing County-Level Data to the Communities It Reflects by Jordan Ricketts Learn how Resilient Georgia and regional partners are using county-level PACEs (Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences) data to help communities identify strengths, address challenges, and drive local action. Check out the blog to explore how data is being translated into meaningful conversations and solutions across Southwest Georgia. Handle-With-Care In-Person Training: Join partners from across Georgia for an in-person Handle With Care (HWC) Implementation Training on September 24th in Clayton County. This session is designed for first responders, law enforcement, educators, school staff, mental health providers, community leaders, and other partners interested in implementing or strengthening the HWC model. Participants can earn 3 hours of CEU and POST credit by attending in person. Space is limited, register here! Faith-Based Mental Health Training Offerings: Dr. Ca Trice Glenn, LPC, is a pastoral counselor and the founder of Church Mental Health Training. She equips faith-leaders, congregations, and nonprofits to recognize mental health concerns, respond with care, and refer well, integrating trauma-informed practice with the theological frameworks faith communities already trust. Her doctoral research centered on childhood trauma, resilience, and a spiritually focused approach to healing. She offers customizable trainings on mental health literacy and response, pastoral care triage, clergy wellness, trauma-informed ministry, grief, and crisis response. Please connect your faith-based partners by contacting info@churchmentalhealthtraining.com. September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote help-seeking. Explore the following resources that offer practical tools and wellness strategies, safety planning, crisis support, and ways to start meaningful conversations about mental health and suicide prevention. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free, confidential support 24/7, while SAMHSA and NAMI offer educational materials, outreach tools, and guidance for communities, families, and individuals. You can also check out the Free Your Feels Suicide Prevention Toolkit or attend a free Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) October 15-16th in Fairburn, Georgia. This workshop provides practical skills to recognize suicide risk, intervene confidently, and connect individuals to support and resources. The training is open to community members, educators, first responders, faith leaders, mental health professionals, veterans, and anyone interested in strengthening suicide prevention efforts in their community. Register here! Coalition Highlights Resilient West Central: Bloom University, a co-lead of Resilient West Central, has partnered with Amerigroup to offer free trauma-informed training opportunities for foster, adoptive, and kinship parents, biological parents, educators, volunteers, and professionals who serve children and families. Upcoming sessions include Bullying Prevention on October 7th and Compassion Fatigue on November 11th at 10AM via Zoom. Resilient Communities of East Georgia is offering a Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) training on September 23rd from 8:30-3:30, at CSRA RESA in Dearing, GA, providing participants with practical strategies for supporting children and families impacted by adversity. In addition, registration is now open for the free Resilient Teens program, a nine-week virtual series for students in grades 6-12 that helps youth build resilience, manage emotions, strengthen relationships, and develop healthy coping skills. Participation incentives are available for students who complete the program. Family and Child Wellbeing The At a Glance: Developmental Environments resource from the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard highlights how the conditions and environments where children grow, learn, and live can influence their development and lifelong health. This resource provides practical, actionable strategies for communities to create environments that reduce hazards and provide children with safe, supportive, and enriching opportunities to promote healthy development and well-being. The Healthy Relationships Toolkit (HeaRT), developed by the CDC, is an evidence-based model designed to help 11–14-year-olds build healthy relationship skills and prevent dating violence and other risk behaviors before they begin. The toolkit includes seven prevention components that address individual, peer, family, school, and community factors, along with implementation guidance, training, and program materials. Complementing this resource, How Educators Play a Role in Preventing ACEs is a five-lesson series that provides educators with an overview of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), their impact, how ACEs can affect the school environment, strategies for prevention and reducing their effects, and ways to raise awareness and educate others. The Caregivers: Safety Starts With Connection resource provides practical guidance to help caregivers protect children and youth from human trafficking and exploitation. It explains how traffickers may build trust with young people who are seeking connection or support before using manipulation, pressure, or threats to gain control. The resource emphasizes that strong, supportive relationships can reduce vulnerability and encourages caregivers to maintain open communication, model healthy relationships and boundaries, conduct regular check-ins, promote positive peer and community connections, and support children’s confidence and self-image. It also highlights the importance of responding calmly and supportively if a child discloses an experience of abuse or exploitation and reminds caregivers that trafficking and abuse are never the fault of the child or caregiver. Juvenile Justice Adapting Practices in the Justice System for Emerging Adults: Annie E. Casey Foundation: This resource explores how probation officers and defense attorneys can adapt their practices to better support the healthy development of young adults ages 18–25. Based on lessons from emerging adult justice pilot sites, the resource highlights practical strategies such as supporting executive functioning through reminders and assistance with deadlines, using plain language instead of legal terminology to improve understanding and participation, and building rapport and trust by taking time to learn about young people’s interests and goals. These developmentally appropriate approaches can help emerging adults better navigate the justice system and may contribute to more positive outcomes. Professional Development and Events The Knowledge to Action Conversation on Building Resilience Through Father Engagement will take place on September 24, from 10:00–11:30 AM. The session will explore how father engagement can strengthen families, build resilience, and improve outcomes for children. Participants will learn about common challenges and misconceptions surrounding Georgia’s legitimation process, resources available to help birth fathers establish their legal rights, and ways child welfare professionals can strengthen collaboration and support fathers in remaining actively involved in their children’s lives. GA-AIMH 2026 Conference: The Georgia Association for Infant Mental Health will host its 5th Annual Conference on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Georgia State University’s Student Center East in Atlanta. Centered on the theme “Listening In,” the conference will encourage participants to practice presence, humility, and curiosity while deepening their understanding of the families they serve and the field of infant and early childhood mental health. Register now! The “A Conversation with Chelsea Handler: Making Mental Health a Higher Priority” will be October 2nd from 1–2PM at The Carter Center in Atlanta, GA. The conversation will focus on elevating the importance of mental health and promoting greater awareness and discussion around mental well-being. The event is in person only, with no virtual attendance option. Register here! Partnership for Innovation Summer Internship Program 2027: The Partnership for Innovation (PIN) is preparing for the 2027 Summer Internship Program and will soon open applications for organizations interested in becoming Partner Organizations and hosting summer interns. Organizations interested in learning more about partnership opportunities or the application process, which launched September 7, are encouraged to connect with Cody Cocchi at cody.cocchi@innovate.gatech.edu to discuss participation. Self-Compassion Can Self-Compassion Change the Way You See Society? A new study suggests that self-compassion may influence how we relate to others and view society. Researchers found that people with higher levels of self-compassion tended to show greater empathy and were more likely to hold egalitarian views, while lower levels of self-compassion and empathy were associated with more authoritarian attitudes. Read Can Self-Compassion Change the Way You See Society? to explore how practices that foster kindness toward ourselves may also help build more compassionate communities. For those interested in building self-compassion skills, the Mindful Self-Compassion for Busy People program from the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion offers a practical opportunity to learn and practice these tools. The program will run every Thursday from September 17 - October 22nd and it $325 to register. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week includes resources for child and family well-being, along with upcoming trainings, events, and professional development opportunities. Please Note: There will be no memo next week due to Labor Day. We'll resume on September 14. Before we dive in, here are a few updates and highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights Resilient Georgia Lunch and Learns August Lunch & Learn Recap: Thank you to everyone who joined our August Lunch & Learn featuring Dr. Stephen Patrick from the Emory Center for Child Health Policy. Participants explored key findings from the 2026 State of Child Health and Well-Being in Georgia Survey and discussed how communities can use data to better understand local needs, inform advocacy efforts, and strengthen partnerships. For folks who missed, you can access the slides and recording here. We appreciate your engagement and encourage you to complete the session feedback survey to help inform future Lunch & Learn topics. September Lunch & Learn: Expanding Access to Evidence-Informed Trainings Across Georgia: Join us again September 10th at noon for a virtual Lunch & Learn featuring Tiffany Sawyer of the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy and Dr. Jyll Walsh of the Positive Childhood Alliance of Georgia. The session will highlight training opportunities, including Connections Matter, Strengthening Families, Triple P, HOPE, Mandated Reporter Training, and child sexual abuse prevention programs. Participants will also learn strategies for building local training capacity through Train-the-Trainer models, partnerships, and other sustainable approaches that strengthen communities long-term. To request an invite, contact Alex at aenglish@resilientga.org. Rural Health Community Inventory Project Seeking Participants: Amanda Juarez, Coalition Lead for Resilient Middle Georgia and MPH student completing her practicum with UC Berkeley, is seeking participants 18+ for a Rural Health Community Inventory Project. This Community Inventory Project seeks to understand how people in rural areas access healthcare and social services and make decisions about the resources they use. Eligible participants will complete a brief screening form and, if selected, participate in a 30 to 60 minute virtual interview. Participants who complete the interview will receive a $25 digital gift card. Amanda hopes to gather perspectives from rural communities across Georgia to help inform this important work. To learn more or participate, contact Amanda Juarez at amanda@resilientmiddlegeorgia.org. Handle-With-Care In-Person Training: Join partners from across Georgia for an in-person Handle With Care (HWC) Implementation Training on September 24th in Clayton County. This session is designed for first responders, law enforcement, educators, school staff, mental health providers, community leaders, and other partners interested in implementing or strengthening the HWC model. Participants can earn 3 hours of CEU and POST credit by attending in person. Space is limited, register here! Coalition Highlights Resilient Chattahoochee Valley: The Mill District has launched “Parent University,” a new initiative designed to connect families with practical tools, resources, and trusted partners from cradle to career. As part of the initiative, parents participate in sessions on topics such as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), positive childhood experiences, and strategies for supporting children’s development and learning. The program emphasizes a whole-family approach, recognizing the role of education, healthcare, financial stability, and community partnerships in helping children and families thrive. Resilient Metro: On Friday, November 6th from 8:30 AM – 1 PM ARCHI will convene more than 250 leaders, including healthcare providers, public health professionals, funders, practitioners, and community advocates, to examine the State of Metro-Atlanta Health. The event will feature the latest health data and community perspectives while exploring cross-sector strategies to address health inequities and their root causes, including housing, workforce development, care coordination, and advocacy. Participants will have opportunities to collaborate and identify strategies and investments to advance health equity across metro Atlanta. This free event is expected to sell-out, save your seat today! Family and Child Wellbeing Why Kids Need Safe, Stable, Nurturing Relationships | Strong4Life: This resource from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life highlights the importance of safe, stable, nurturing relationships in building resilience and supporting children’s emotional and developmental wellbeing. It explains how trusted adults—including parents, teachers, coaches, and other caregivers—can provide consistent support by listening, showing up, avoiding shame, and responding to children’s needs. The resource also emphasizes that these relationships do not have to be perfect; repairing mistakes and maintaining dependable support can help children develop a sense of safety, belonging, and self-worth. Finding Balance Through Purpose and Connection: For many families, balancing work, caregiving, school activities, and everyday responsibilities can feel overwhelming. Two resources from the Greater Good Science Center offer a helpful reminder that balance doesn't come from doing everything perfectly. Instead, it begins with identifying what matters most. The Life Crafting practice encourages individuals to reflect on their values, envision the life they want for themselves and their lives, and take small, intentional steps toward those goals. The article Are You Struggling With Work-Family Balance? suggests that focusing on purpose, rather than striving for a perfect work-family balance, can reduce stress and help families make decisions that align with their priorities. Together, these resources offer practical strategies for creating a more meaningful, connected, and balanced daily life. Silence the Same 2026 Parent Cafe Series: The virtual 2026 Parent Café Series offers parents, caregivers, and adult allies of Georgia’s transition-age youth (ages 16–24) an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and strengthen family well-being. Sessions will be offered throughout the year and will provide a supportive space to learn practical tools and strategies for supporting youth as they transition into adulthood. New Resource: Home Visiting Works- Georgia Essentials: Georgia Essentials for Childhood recently released Home Visiting Works, an infographic highlighting how evidence-based home visiting programs support expecting parents and families with young children. These free services connect families with trained professionals who provide parenting support, child development guidance, and links to community resources. The infographic also shares Georgia outcomes demonstrating improvements in child health, school readiness, family well-being, and child maltreatment prevention, reinforcing the value of early support for families and communities. Systems Change Third Sector Develops Systems Change Evaluation Approach: This article from Stanford Social Innovation Review explores how organizations can evaluate systems change, particularly when outcomes are complex and cannot be attributed to a single organization or intervention. Drawing on Third Sector’s evaluation of government systems-change projects, the authors recommend using a systems lens to examine structural, relational, transformative, and community-level changes; embedding culturally responsive and equitable evaluation practices that center lived experience and community voices; focusing on an organization’s contribution rather than claiming direct attribution; and beginning evaluation from stakeholders’ perspectives and experiences. The article emphasizes that systems change is long-term work and that combining storytelling, stakeholder perspectives, and systems-level analysis can provide a more meaningful understanding of how change occurs and is sustained. Professional Development and Events Family Crisis Center Conference 2026: The Family Crisis Center will host its “Empowered to Protect, Educate and Heal” Conference on Tuesday, September 29, from 9 AM –5 PM at The Colonnade in Ringgold, GA. The conference will bring together victim advocates, law enforcement professionals, healthcare providers, educators, social workers, and community leaders to raise awareness of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking and explore prevention, intervention, advocacy, and collaborative approaches to supporting survivors. Featured speaker includes Elizabeth Smart and seating is limited. Register here! Middle Georgia Regional School-Based Behavioral Health Forum: This event on September 11th from 9AM-3:30PM in Macon will bring together educators, school staff, mental health professionals, families, students, and community leaders to explore practical strategies for supporting student mental health. The event will feature presentations from Dr. Katherine Pickard of the Marcus Autism Center at Emory on supporting neurodivergent youth and Dr. Oatanisha Dawson of Next Level Lead on school community wellness and engagement. Attendees will also participate in the inaugural SBBH Innovation Lab focused on strengthening school-based behavioral health planning and increasing access to services. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Register here! Training of the Trainer- Connections Matter Workshop: The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy will host a full-day Training of the Trainer course on September 29, from 8:30 AM –4 PM in Atlanta. The training prepares participants to become certified Connections Matter Georgia facilitators. Participants must complete the Connections Matter training before attending the Training of the Trainer. Register Now! The Endorsement® for Culturally Sensitive, Relationship-Focused Practice Promoting Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health is an internationally recognized credential for professionals who support pregnant people, young children, and families. Offered by GA-AIMH, it helps strengthen skills in mental health, early childhood education, healthcare, home visiting, and child welfare. The Endorsement recognizes specialized knowledge and experience, enhances professional credibility, and demonstrates a commitment to high-quality, relationship-focused practice. Those interested can learn more during the upcoming Endorsement 101 virtual information session September 16th at 10 AM. Additionally, don’t forget to register for the 2026 GA-AIMH Conference on November 12-13th. The $75 early registration fee ends TODAY. Register now! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including funding and nonprofit news, and training, events, and professional development opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights New CRM Video Resource Now Available: We’re excited to share a new Community Resiliency Model (CRM) video resource developed by Inky Brittany, now available on the Resilient Georgia website. This short video introduces the Community Resiliency Model and highlights practical resilience-building skills that can support emotional well-being for individuals, families, and communities. Whether you are new to CRM or looking for a quick refresher, this resource is a great tool to share with partners, community members, and anyone interested in building resilience. Please share widely! New Prevention & Resilience Resources from PCA Georgia and Georgia Essentials for Childhood: The following practical tools and learning opportunities help individuals and organizations integrate mindfulness and resilience-building practices into everyday life. The HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) Initiative highlights the power of positive childhood experiences in promoting lifelong health, resilience, and well-being. For those looking to strengthen data-informed prevention efforts, the Essentials for Childhood Data Hub provides easy access to Georgia data on child and family well-being, helping communities identify needs, track progress, and guide strategies that prevent adversity and support thriving children and families. Additionally, PCA Georgia’s Institute for Motivational Interviewing offers training that strengthens communication skills, builds trust, and supports meaningful behavior change. Motivational Interviewing is an evidence-based approach that helps professionals engage families more effectively, navigate resistance, and foster family-driven goals. PBPA’s Legal Bootcamp for Emerging Nonprofit Leaders: Applications are still open through August 31st for ProBono Partnerhsip of Atlanta’s Legal Bootcamp, an interactive training program designed for new executive directors of emerging Georgia nonprofits serving low-income or disadvantaged communities. The four-session program, held in Atlanta from September-November 2026, provides practical guidance on nonprofit governance, legal compliance, fundraising, risk management, board development, and organizational capacity building. Participants will also have opportunities to network with peers and develop an action plan to strengthen their organizations. Apply Now! Coalition Highlights Resilient Gwinnett: Congratulations to Dr. Shannon Hervey of the Gwinnett Coalition for receiving the Greater Good Award at the 2026 Moxie Awards presented by the Gwinnett Chamber, this award recognizes women whose leadership and service make a meaningful difference in their communities. We are proud to celebrate Shannon's commitment to strengthening outcomes for children, families, and communities across Gwinnett and beyond! Resilient Communities of East Georgia: The 2026 Resilient Teens Summit is this Saturday August 29th from 10 AM – 4 PM at the Columbia County Exhibition Center in Grovetown, GA, with check-in beginning at 9:30 a.m. The summit will bring teens together for a day focused on connection, resilience, and personal development. Registration is $15 per person and includes lunch, snacks, drinks, a T-shirt, and promotional items. Financial assistance is available for those who need support with the registration fee. Register Now! Resilient NW Metro: Cobb Collaborative will host two upcoming virtual and in-person learning opportunities. On September 10th from 6–7 PM, the virtual Community Resiliency Model (CRM) Training will be offered in recognition of Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month. Led by Mental Health Program Coordinator Lesleigh Sanders, the interactive session will introduce practical wellness skills for managing stress, building resilience, and supporting others. The following day, September 11th, from 11:30 AM – 1 PM, the Capacity Catalyst Training: AI for Nonprofits will be held at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce in Atlanta. This training will explore how nonprofits can use AI to reduce repetitive, time-consuming tasks, with real-world examples and practical strategies for incorporating AI into organizational work. Funding 2027 Building the Field of Health Advocacy Grant: The Georgia Health Initiative is accepting applications for its 2027 Building the Field of Health Advocacy Grant, which supports nonprofit organizations working to advance health equity and address systems-level health issues across Georgia. Funded projects may focus on statewide or community-specific issues and use strategies such as coalition building, policy research, community education, strategic communications, and engagement with decision-makers. Priority will be given to projects that elevate community voices, build partnerships, use an equity-focused approach, and strengthen organizations’ capacity for effective advocacy. There is an Informational Webinar on September 9th at 2pm for organizations interested in learning more about the opportunity. USDA Housing Preservation Grants in Georgia: The Housing Preservation Grant Program is open until September 8th, providing funding to organizations that repair or rehabilitate housing for low- and very-low-income residents in eligible rural areas. Funds may support repairs such as roofing, electrical systems, foundations, heating, water and waste systems, and accessibility improvements, as well as labor, materials, and administrative costs. Eligible properties must generally be located in rural areas or towns with populations of 20,000 or fewer people or on federally recognized Tribal lands. OVW FY2026 Consolidated Youth Grant Program: The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) is offering funding to support community-based efforts addressing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking. The program supports the development or expansion of prevention, intervention, treatment, and response strategies for children and youth ages 0–24 affected by violence, as well as initiatives that engage men and youth in preventing these forms of violence. Individual awards will range from $350,000 to $500,000, and no cost sharing or matching is required. Applications are due September 8, 2026. Nonprofit News Federal Contracts, Grants, and the New Landscape of Risk and Compliance: The Georgia Center for Nonprofits is offering a free 90-minute virtual trainings to help nonprofit organizations navigate changing federal funding compliance requirements and manage associated risks. Upcoming sessions are available tomorrow August 25 and September 1 from 10:30 AM –12 PM. The training will cover key federal compliance requirements, common risk areas and red flags, strategies for identifying compliance gaps, and practical tools for managing and mitigating risk. The training is designed for nonprofit leaders, program and grants staff, finance and compliance teams, and board members overseeing funded programs. After cancer diagnosis, lawyer shifts careers and now leads Atlanta nonprofit: After a breast cancer diagnosis at age 35, attorney Cati Diamond Stone reevaluated her career path and found a new calling in nonprofit leadership. Now CEO of CHRIS 180, an Atlanta-based organization providing mental health services, foster care and adoption support, and housing for youth experiencing homelessness, Stone is focused on expanding access to trauma-informed care across Georgia. In an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, she highlights the importance of viewing mental health as preventive care, reducing stigma, and supporting young people before they reach a crisis point. Stone's story is a powerful reminder that resilience, healing, and purpose can emerge from life's most difficult challenges. Faith Communities 26th Annual Interfaith Prayer Celebration and FUNdraiser for Children: The Interfaith Children’s Movement will host its 26th Annual Prayer Celebration on August 30th, from 2–5:30 PM in Atlanta. The event will bring together faith and community leaders, advocates, families, and young people in support of Georgia’s children and families, featuring interfaith prayers, live music, youth speakers, and awards recognizing individuals and organizations making a difference in the lives of children. Reserve your seat today! Professional Development and Events Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellows – 2027–2028: The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is accepting applications for its Health Policy Fellows program, a full-time, midcareer fellowship that provides an intensive learning and leadership experience at the intersection of health, science, and federal policy in Washington, D.C. Fellows participate in a three-and-a-half-month orientation with national health and policy leaders before securing a placement in a federal government office, where they gain firsthand experience in the federal policymaking process. Fellows must commit to at least 12 months in Washington, D.C. Applications are due November 3, at 3 PM. The Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention on September 16th hosted by PCA Georgia, the Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children at CHoA, and the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, will explore how communities can work together to promote resilience, healing, and hope for children and families with workshops focused on preventing, intervening in, and treating child maltreatment. Register now! 31st Annual Cheer for Children Gala: The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy will host its 31st Annual Cheer for Children Gala on Saturday, September 26, from 7–10 PM. at The Sinclair in Atlanta. Themed “Soft Lights, Jazz + Nights: An Evening in New Orleans,” the event will bring together supporters and community partners to celebrate and support the Center’s work advocating for children and promoting child safety. Please consider supporting and sharing with others! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including child abuse prevention resources, information on Georgia’s healthcare and mental health landscape, and professional development and event opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights New Blog! Social Connection and Youth Voice as an Antidote to the Youth Mental Health Crisis: In the first post of Resilient Georgia’s monthly blog series, Resilient Futures, Nikki Tobeck explores how elevating youth voices and creating meaningful opportunities for connection can help build resilience and improve well-being amidst the growing mental health crisis in youth and young adults. Resilient Georgia is also seeking guest blog authors ages 14-26 to share their perspectives, experiences, and ideas related to mental health and resilience. Check out the blog and email ntobeck@resilientga.org if you’d like to share your perspective! Help Us Strengthen Child and Family Well-Being Across Georgia! Georgia Essentials is seeking input from professionals across sectors, including education, healthcare, early childhood, child welfare, philanthropy, and family support. Take their brief 3-5 minute survey to help us better understand awareness of Georgia Essentials and Georgia's Child and Family Well-Being Plan. You can also explore the Georgia Essentials Family Well-Being Messaging Library, a collection of ready-to-use resources, toolkits, and practical tools designed to support child and family well-being. Please share widely! If you're attending the Georgia CASA Conference on August 22, be sure to check out a presentation featuring Resilient Georgia's own Audrey Idaikkadar alongside Gabrielle Stewart and Laura Beth Newsom. Their session, "Meeting Families Where They Are: A Trauma- and Poverty-Informed Approach," will explore strategies for supporting children and families through practices that recognize the impacts of trauma and poverty while fostering resilience and connection. Upcoming Dates! August Round Calls are scheduled this month as follows: Round 5: Monday, August 24th 2pm Round 3: Thursday, August 27th 1pm Round 2: Tuesday, August 25th 11am Round 1: Friday, August 28th 10am Round 4: Tuesday, August 25th 2pm Coalition Highlights Resilient Metro Meets with North Fulton Mayors: Resilient Metro recently joined the North Fulton Municipal Association meeting to share its work advancing trauma-informed systems and strengthening supports for children, youth, families, and communities across Fulton and DeKalb counties. Led by partners including ARCHI, the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, and CHRIS 180, the coalition looks forward to continued collaboration with local leaders to build a more resilient metro Atlanta region. Resilient Gwinnett Coalition: Join Gwinnett Coalition on August 25 for the Peace Index for Nonprofits, an interactive professional development workshop designed to help nonprofit professionals prioritize their own well-being while continuing to serve their communities. Participants will explore the Peace Index, a five-part framework for assessing personal wellness, identifying barriers to fulfillment, and creating a practical path toward greater balance and resilience. Through guided reflection, wellness activities, and connection over breakfast, attendees will gain actionable strategies to prevent burnout, strengthen personal well-being, and support sustainable growth both professionally and personally. The workshop will be held from 8:30-11:30 AM on Tuesday, August 25, at the Lawrenceville Arts Center in Lawrenceville, Georgia. CSA Prevention Saprea's What is COCSA? resource provides families, caregivers, educators, and youth-serving professionals with guidance on understanding child-on-child sexual abuse (COCSA), including risk factors, warning signs, prevention strategies, healthy boundary- setting, and how to respond when abuse is disclosed or suspected. At the same time, the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy's Courage to Care training equips adults with practical tools to recognize warning signs, create safe environments, foster healthy relationships, engage in proactive communication, and take action to prevent child sexual abuse and exploitation. Those interested in expanding prevention efforts within their organizations can also participate in GCCA’s Courage to Care Training of Trainers workshop on October 22. Specialized training helps Columbus investigators identify human trafficking victims: A This report highlights how specialized human trafficking training is helping Columbus-area investigators better recognize and identify trafficking victims who might previously have been overlooked. Funded by a $15,000 investment from the Columbus Rotary Club, the training encourages a victim-centered approach, helping law enforcement connect individuals with support services while strengthening investigations and increasing awareness of trafficking in the community. Healthcare GHI: What does navigating our health care system look and feel like for real people living in Georgia?: A new statewide poll commissioned by Georgia Health Initiative and conducted by the University of Georgia School of Public and International Affairs Survey Research Center found that health care remains a top priority for Georgia voters across party lines. Among more than 1,000 likely voters surveyed, 62% say health care costs are too high, and 37% reported delaying or skipping care because of cost. Strong majorities identified expanded access to behavioral health care, maternal health services, and health insurance coverage as key priorities, while 77% said a candidate’s position on health care will influence their vote. The findings highlight widespread concern about affordability and access, as well as strong public support for improving Georgia’s health care system. Explore the Issue Brief here. Best & Worst States for Healthcare: This report evaluated all 50 states and the District of Columbia across 44 metrics measuring healthcare cost, access, and outcomes. Alaska, Mississippi, Georgia, Texas, and West Virginia were the five lowest-ranked states, with Georgia ranking 49th overall. The report also highlights significant disparities across states, including Texas having the lowest health insurance coverage rates for adults and children, Mississippi having the highest infant mortality rate, and differences in healthcare workforce and hospital capacity. Overall, the findings demonstrate substantial variation in the affordability, availability, and quality of healthcare across the country. Professional Development and Events The 2026 Georgia Association for Positive Behavior Support (GAPBS) Conference will be Friday, December 4th in Duluth, GA, with the theme “Strengthening Safety and Supports.” The conference will bring together educators, interventionists, family members, clinicians, and community partners to share research, resources, and practical strategies related to positive behavior supports across homes, schools, and communities. Participants will have opportunities for networking, continuing education credits (CEUs), expert learning, and exploring positive behavior support practices across the lifespan. Register here and share widely! Now Enrolling: Soar with Wings: Wings for Kids, a nonprofit with 30 years of experience in social-emotional learning (SEL), is now enrolling participants for the 2026-27 Soar with Wings leadership training program. Designed for schools and youth-serving organizations, this no-cost program equips educators and staff with practical, evidence-based tools to strengthen SEL skills in the young people they serve. Participants gain hands-on strategies they can immediately apply, earn Certified Soar Leader credentials, and learn proven approaches backed by research and decades of positive outcomes. Organizations interested in learning more are invited to join a free 30-minute informational webinar on August 24 at 1:00 PM. Trauma Resource Institute 20th Anniversary Conference and Gala: The Trauma Resource Institute (TRI) will celebrate its 20th anniversary with a conference October 2–4, 2026, offered both in person in California and virtually. Under the theme “Rooted in Well-Being, Planted in Community, Cultivated by Hope,” the conference will bring together educators, practitioners, researchers, and community partners to explore real-world applications of the Community Resiliency Model (CRM) and Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), emerging research, innovative programs, and practical tools for strengthening well-being across communities. Reserve your spot now! Workforce and Mental Health Supporting the People Behind Georgia’s Economy: As Georgia continues to lead the nation in business growth, recent reports highlight the urgent need to strengthen mental health support for workers across industries. A SaportaReport article notes that Georgia’s booming construction industry—one of the state’s fastest-growing sectors—is prioritizing suicide prevention, mental health training, and workplace wellness initiatives to address the unique stressors faced by workers, including long hours, labor shortages, and job-site risks. At the same time, the 2026 Mental Health Vulnerability Index ranked Georgia as the most vulnerable state for access to mental health support, citing challenges such as provider shortages, affordability, and access to care. Together, these findings underscore the importance of investing in workforce mental health, reducing stigma, and creating supportive workplace cultures that help employees thrive both on and off the job. While Georgia continues to be recognized as a top state for business, mental health advocates warn that the state still faces significant challenges in mental health access, workforce well-being, and behavioral health system capacity, reinforcing the need for continued investment in prevention, support services, and workplace mental health initiatives. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including education and child wellbeing resources, professional development and training opportunities and rural health initiatives. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Call for Authors: Resilient Futures Blog Series: Resilient Georgia is seeking authors for its 2026–2027 Resilient Futures blog campaign, a statewide series focused on youth mental health and well-being. Youth ages 14–26, parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, researchers, and community leaders are invited to share personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based approaches that help young people build resilience and thrive. For more information, contact ntobeck@resilientga.org. Thank you to the Coalition Leaders who shared their input for our 2027 Lunch & Learn Calendar! We received 31 responses, and the top five topics were: Supporting Youth in Under-Resourced Communities, School-Based Mental Health Supports, Understanding Policy and Legislation, Suicide Prevention and Mental Wellness Resources. We will use these results to develop and plan the 2027 Lunch & Learn Series. Thank you for helping us ensure that the topics reflect the interests and needs of our coalition network! Reminder: Help Us Build Georgia’s Trainer Directory! There is still time to participate in the Resilient Georgia Trainer Information Survey. We have received 35 responses so far and would love to hear from even more training organizations across the state. If your organization provides trainings related to resilience, trauma-informed practices, behavioral health, prevention, recovery, or related topics, please take a few minutes to complete the survey by August 17, 2026. Survey responses will help us better understand Georgia’s training landscape and strengthen connections between organizations, trainers, and communities seeking these valuable services. As a thank you, participants who complete the survey will be entered for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card. Complete the survey here. Alex English and Andrea Meyer Stinson had the opportunity to present at the Georgia THRIVe 3rd Annual Conference. This year provided a meaningful opportunity to explore the foundations of trauma and discuss how we can build trauma-informed systems into everything we do. We are grateful to the Georgia THRIVe team and all participants for creating such an inspiring event. Together, we continue to learn, grow, and strengthen support for children and families across Georgia. Coalition Highlights Cobb Collaborative offers a collection of youth-focused resources designed to support mental health, resilience, and overall well-being. Resources include mental health toolkits, wellness apps, Resilient Georgia Learning Cards, and materials for parents, caregivers, and diverse communities. These tools can help you connect young people with valuable supports and strengthen protective factors that promote healthy development. Additionally, they launched a Substack where subscribers can receive updates, event announcements, resources, and insights related to the organization's work in mental health, literacy, civic engagement, and collective impact. Child and Family Wellbeing The Overview of Mental Health Screening Tools for Infants & Toddlers: Compiled by the Georgia Health Policy Center/Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health & Wellbeing and the IECMH Task Force, this reference guide helps pediatricians, early childhood professionals, and behavioral health providers identify and select appropriate evidence-based screening tools for infants and toddlers. The resource compares assessments based on age range, screening domains, administration methods, and time requirements, supporting the early identification of developmental, social-emotional, and mental health concerns and helping professionals connect young children and families with appropriate services. Georgia HOPE Resources for Families offers a range of services designed to support children, youth, and families across Georgia. Their Foster Care Services provide wraparound support for children in the foster care system while equipping foster families with training, guidance, referral services, and 24-hour access to mental health professionals. In addition, Georgia HOPE’s Family Centered Treatment (FCT) is an evidence-based, trauma-informed, in-home therapy program that helps stabilize families, prevent out-of-home placement, and support reunification. Through individualized support focused on strengthening relationships, resilience, and healthy family functioning, FCT addresses the impacts of trauma, behavioral health challenges, and family instability while providing around-the-clock practitioner support for participating families. Education The Georgia Education Policy Fellowship Cohort Announcement GPEE has selected 28 leaders for the 19th cohort of the Georgia Education Policy Fellowship. Participants will engage in a 10-month learning experience focused on Georgia’s education policy landscape, beginning in August 2026 and concluding in May 2027. The fellowship brings together leaders from across the state to deepen their understanding of education policy and strengthen their capacity to support positive outcomes for Georgia’s students and communities. Check out the list and connect with folks representing your communities! Back-to-School Mental Health Resource Toolkit: This new Free Your Feels toolkit brings together trusted resources, data, and practical tools to support young people, caregivers, and professionals as they navigate the transition to a new school year. It provides guidance for addressing stress, uncertainty, and emotional well-being while helping school communities foster connection, support, and mental health throughout the year. Professional Development and Events Emerging Leaders for Community Change 2026-2027 Cohort: Applications are open for the 2026–2027 ELCC cohort for young adult leaders of faith ages 18–30 who are interested in civic engagement, bridging divides, and creating positive change in their communities. The program provides training from experts, mentorship and funding support, opportunities to build a network of young leaders, and support to design and implement local initiatives that address community divisions. No specific work or educational experience is required, and all people are encouraged to apply. Apply here by August 18, 2026. Passing the Pencil - A Case Study of Art as a Mental Health Intervention: This virtual session on August 18 at 7:00 PM will explore the use of art as a mental health intervention for youth. The session is hosted by Improving the Wellness of All Youth (IWAY2), a SAMHSA-funded initiative serving youth ages 12–18 which focuses on increasing access to trauma-informed mental health services and creating safe spaces for youth to explore their mental health and identity. Housing Justice in Georgia: Advancing Safe, Stable Homes for Every Child: Explore how safe, stable housing supports children’s health, education, and opportunities during this virtual session on August 20th from 10–11:30 AM with the Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice, will discuss legal advocacy and partnerships working to improve housing conditions, strengthen tenant protections, and advance equity for families across Georgia. Email essentials@gsu.edu with any questions! Knowledge to Action Conversation: Understanding Neurodiversity: Nurturing Every Child's Potential: This virtual conversation hosted by GSU Child Welfare Training Collaborative on August 20th from 10–11:30 AM will explore neurodiversity through a child-centered lens. Educators from Jacob’s Ladder will discuss how understanding brain development, connection, and emotional regulation can help families and professionals create supportive environments where neurodivergent children can build relationships, learn, and thrive. Participants will leave with practical strategies and insights to apply in their daily work. GA-AIMH: Birth to Five 5th Annual Conference – Call for Presentations: The Georgia Association for Infant Mental Health is seeking presentation proposals for its 5th Annual Conference, themed “Listening In,” which will explore infant and early childhood mental health through connection, reflection, and shared learning. Proposals are welcomed from content experts and those highlighting innovative programs, partnerships, initiatives, and systems-level work supporting young children, families, and the early childhood workforce. Submit a proposal here by September 5th! Rural Health Georgia Issues $30 Million in Phase 2 GREAT Health Awards to Advance Rural Healthcare Transformation: The Georgia Department of Community Health announced $30.6 million in Phase 2 GREAT Health awards to 26 organizations, bringing total funding committed through the program to $43.3 million. The investments will support rural hospitals, healthcare workforce development, care coordination, school-based health infrastructure, behavioral health services, and technology-driven healthcare innovation. Funding includes $6.5 million for expanding access to care, $12.5 million for developing the rural healthcare workforce, $7 million for technology and healthcare innovation, and $4.6 million for strengthening coordination across healthcare, behavioral health, public health, and education systems. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy August, partners! It’s hard to believe summer is coming to an end. This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including resources for child and family wellbeing and a variety of upcoming professional development and training opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Change Makers Leadership Institute: Strengthening Georgia’s Resilience Infrastructure: The Change Makers Leadership Institute (CMLI), founded by Gabrielle Stewart, provides trauma-informed, equity-centered consulting to help coalitions strengthen leadership, collaboration, strategic planning, and community engagement. Grounded in the belief that lasting systems change begins with leadership that models the values it promotes, CMLI helps leaders build cultures rooted in transparency, accountability, emotional safety, belonging, and resilience. Reach out to GabrielleCMLI@pm.me to learn about consulting services, rates, and opportunities. Call for Authors: Resilient Futures Blog Series: Resilient Georgia is seeking authors for its 2026–2027 Resilient Futures blog campaign, a statewide series focused on youth mental health and well-being. Youth ages 14–26, parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, researchers, and community leaders are invited to share personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based approaches that help young people build resilience and thrive. For more information, contact ntobeck@resilientga.org. The Handle With Care (HWC) model helps schools provide trauma-sensitive support to students who have experienced potentially traumatic events while protecting student confidentiality. This brief introductory training video from Savannah-Chatham Public Schools explains how HWC enables schools to respond with empathy, promote resilience, and support academic success. For communities interested in implementing the model, the free Handle With Care Action Pack from Salud America! offers guidance, tools, training resources, and TA to help build partnerships among schools, law enforcement, and mental health providers. Check out this slide deck from last month’s HWC National call to learn more about the model. National HWC meetings will be held on August 20, 2026 and September 17 via Zoom. The next Georgia taskforce meeting will take place on August 21st at 10am. Email ntobeck@resilientga.org to request an invite. Job Opportunity: The University of Georgia is hiring an Outreach & Recruitment Coordinator for Elevate Couples Georgia, a statewide initiative supporting couples and families. This role focuses on community partnerships, outreach, recruitment, and engagement. Ideal candidates have experience in community engagement, education, social work, nonprofit programs, or partnership development. Apply here! Coalition Highlights Resilient Metro: Join ARCHI for a virtual Policy Pulse webinar on August 24th from 1–2PM, exploring Georgia's Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) and its impact on rural health care. Expert panelists from the Georgia Health Policy Center, Georgia Hospital Association, Dodge County Hospital, and Augusta University will discuss the program's policy framework, implementation, and implications for hospitals, providers, and communities. The webinar is designed for health care, public health, government, philanthropic, and community leaders seeking practical insights into one of Georgia's most significant recent health policy initiatives. Resilient North Georgia: Reaching Teens has officially been added to the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) Course Catalog, making it easier for schools to access this evidence-informed training focused on positive youth development, resilience-building, strength-based communication, and trauma-sensitive practices. Reaching Teens equips educators and youth-serving professionals with practical strategies to strengthen connections with students, foster resilience, support mental health, and enhance school climate. This opportunity is especially relevant for school counselors, social workers, psychologists, administrators, nurses, student support teams, and other youth-serving organizations. Trainings can be requested through the GaDOE MHAT Request Page and are now more accessible than ever to schools seeking to support the whole child. Child and Family Wellbeing PCA Georgia Family Well-Being Messaging Library: Developed by Positive Childhood Alliance Georgia (PCA Georgia) as part of Georgia Essentials for Childhood, this curated collection of resources is designed to help organizations and professionals promote the safety, health, and resilience of children and families. Organized around the Strengthening Families Five Protective Factors framework, the library features messaging toolkits, social media content, infographics, podcasts, webinars, policy briefs, assessment templates, and other practical tools to support families and advance protective factors across. Explore to find ready-to-use resources that can enhance your work with children and families. AAP Trauma-Informed Care Impact Report: The AAP's National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care is helping pediatricians integrate trauma-informed care into everyday practice. Recognizing that childhood trauma can have lifelong effects on physical, mental, and emotional health, the Center provides education, training, implementation support, and resources to help healthcare professionals recognize trauma, promote healing, strengthen family relationships, and build resilience. In its first year, the Center expanded into a nationwide resource, supporting clinicians, healthcare systems, and community organizations in advancing trauma-informed, relationship-based care for children and families. Check out their report! Building Resilience at Home: The Greater Good Science Center recently shared two insightful resources for parents and caregivers. How to Raise Kids Who Feel Capable in the World explores how resilience and confidence are built through problem-solving, perseverance, and learning from life's challenges. How Kids Might Be Learning Bullying at Home highlights how children often model adult behavior, emphasizing the importance of demonstrating empathy, respectful communication, and healthy conflict resolution. Together, these articles offer practical guidance for fostering resilience, positive relationships, and emotional well-being in children. Professional Development and Events The Violence Intervention Wellness Experience Session: Hosted by the Emory Urban Health Initiative on August 6th from 12:30 - 1:30PM, this virtual session, "The Art of Thriving During Uncertainty Part II: Sustaining Your Well-Being During Change," focuses on supporting the well-being of individuals involved in violence intervention work. Participants will explore strategies for maintaining resilience, managing stress, and sustaining personal wellness while navigating uncertainty and change. 2026 Holistic Therapist Conference: The 2nd Annual Holistic Therapist Conference will take place October 1–4, in Boone, NC. This immersive four-day retreat brings together therapists, mental health professionals, and healers for trauma-informed education, holistic and somatic practices, and opportunities for professional connection. The conference also explores self-care, nervous system regulation, integrative healing approaches, and strategies for expanding holistic mental health practice. Learn more and register here. Child Care Innovation Expo: The Georgia Child Care Association (GCCA) will host the Child Care Innovation Expo on September 12, at Chattahoochee Technical College in Acworth, Georgia. This statewide event brings together child care professionals, educators, advocates, policymakers, and community partners for an interactive experience focused on innovation in early learning. Attendees can explore an Innovation Expo Hall featuring exhibitors, demonstrations, and resources, participate in learning sessions, network with industry leaders, and discover new tools and partnerships to support the future of child care in Georgia. PBPA’s Legal Bootcamp for Emerging Nonprofit Leaders: Applications are open through August 31 for ProBono Partnerhsip of Atlanta’s Legal Bootcamp, an interactive training program designed for new executive directors of emerging Georgia nonprofits serving low-income or disadvantaged communities. The four-session program, held in Atlanta from September-November 2026, provides practical guidance on nonprofit governance, legal compliance, fundraising, risk management, board development, and organizational capacity building. Participants will also have opportunities to network with peers and develop an action plan to strengthen their organizations. Apply Now! The Georgia Home Visiting Institute Conference: This conference on August 18 from 8:30 AM-4PM in Athens will bring together home visiting professionals, program leaders, state agency staff, and community partners to explore best practices, emerging trends, and innovative strategies for supporting children and families. This year's program features sessions on workforce resilience, AI in home visiting, father engagement, early childhood emotional regulation, autism supports, and other evidence-based approaches to strengthening family services. Conference: Prescription for Prevention: Opioid Misuse in Rural Georgia: This free conference will be held on September 18, at Mercer University’s Macon Campus and is designed for physicians, healthcare professionals, counselors, social workers, and advocates. Hosted in partnership with CWC Alliance, Mercer University School of Medicine, and the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center, the event will feature expert presentations on opioid misuse prevention, youth substance use disorder treatment, the physiology of addiction, stigma and family impacts, and youth prevention initiatives. Continuing education credits will be available for eligible healthcare and behavioral health professionals. Register here! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! It’s hard to believe summer is already coming to an end. This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including BACK TO SCHOOL resources and events, professional development and training opportunities and resources for youth. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Staff Announcement: Alex’s Promotion! We’re excited to share that, effective next month, Alex will step into the role of a Regional Coalition Program Manager at Resilient Georgia. In this position, Alex will continue supporting and strengthening our regional coalition network while helping advance collaborative, community-driven efforts to build resilience across Georgia. Please join us in congratulating Alex on a well-deserved promotion and wish her success in her new role! Advocacy Alert: Protect CDC Injury Center Funding! The CDC Injury Center plays a critical role in preventing violence across the country, including domestic violence and child abuse. According to information shared through Safe States, proposed federal budget cuts could threaten the Center’s funding, and advocates are encouraging stakeholders to engage with their elected representatives during the August congressional recess. Safe States has developed resources and action tools to support advocacy efforts. Take action here! Call for Authors: Resilient Futures Blog Series: Resilient Georgia is seeking authors for its 2026–2027 Resilient Futures blog campaign, a statewide series focused on youth mental health and well-being. Youth ages 14–26, parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, researchers, and community leaders are invited to share personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based approaches that help young people build resilience and thrive. For more information, contact nwarner@resilientga.org. Reducing Burnout Through Trauma-Informed Care and Human Connection: As organizations continue to navigate workforce stress, burnout, and rapid technological change, experts emphasize the importance of fostering workplace cultures grounded in trauma-informed care and human connection. In the webinar recording featuring Dr. Sadie Elisseou, viewers can explore strategies for supporting well-being, reducing burnout, and creating psychologically safe environments where employees can thrive. Additionally, this LinkedIn article "The Competitive Advantage Organizations Can't Afford to Lose" highlights how strong workplace relationships improve engagement, resilience, retention, and innovation. Organizations interested in advancing workplace mental health may also explore the Carter Center's upcoming Employer Symposium for Workplace Mental Health on August 20th from 10AM–3PM. Coalition Highlights FREE Connections Matter Training: Join Resilient Communities of East Georgia on August 7 from 10:00 AM–1:00 PM at Child Enrichment in Augusta for a free Connections Matter Training designed for professionals and community partners who serve children, youth, and families. Participants will learn practical, trauma-informed strategies to strengthen relationships, build resilience, and prevent adversity, while earning CEUs for LPCs, Social Workers, and LMFTs. Attendees will also receive a complimentary lunch and a $100 participation incentive sponsored by the Red Cross. Resilient WEST: Register for a virtual Community Resiliency Model (CRM) Training on August 26, from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. This interactive training introduces practical, science-based skills to help individuals manage stress, build resilience, and understand how trauma affects the nervous system. Participants will learn six foundational wellness skills, explore the concept of the Resilient Zone, and gain practical tools they can immediately use to support youth and strengthen trauma-informed resilience-focused communities. The training is open to individuals from all sectors, and no clinical background is required. For questions, contact Bridgette Stewart at bstewart@westga.edu. ACES Economic Burden of Health Conditions Associated With Adverse Childhood Experiences: A study found that 63% of U.S. adults have experienced at least one ACE, with ACE-related health conditions generating an estimated $14.1 trillion in annual economic costs. This includes $183 billion in direct medical expenses and $13.9 trillion in lost healthy life-years, averaging $88,000 per affected adult each year and $2.4 million over a lifetime. Adults with 4+ ACEs, representing 22% of the population, accounted for 58% of the total economic burden. The findings underscore the significant long-term health and financial impacts of childhood adversity and highlight the importance of investing in prevention and early intervention strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs. Professional Development and Events Trauma-Informed Lactation Care, offered by Leah’s Pantry, is a two-part virtual training designed for lactation consultants, WIC staff, educators, and maternal health professionals. Participants will learn how to provide compassionate, trauma-informed support that recognizes the impact of adversity, trauma, and medical distrust on lactation experiences. Using evidence-based research, reflective activities, and a strengths-based approach, the training helps providers build relational skills that reduce distress, support client autonomy, and foster trust. The series will be held virtually on September 17 and 24, from 1–3PM EST. Registration is $75. Learn more and register at Leah’s Pantry. Georgia Democracy Resilience Network's Community Engagement Training: This Building Local Civic Resilience event will take place on August 8th from 9AM–12PM at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce in Atlanta. This community engagement training will provide civic, community, and faith leaders with tools to promote civility, navigate difficult conversations, and address division within their communities. As election season approaches, participants will explore proactive strategies to reduce tensions and strengthen trust across neighborhoods, congregations, and local organizations. Register here! Georgia 2Gen Summit – Registration Now Open: Join practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders from across Georgia and the nation at the Georgia 2Gen Summit on September 15–16, at the Atlanta Evergreen Conference Center. This two-day event will showcase innovative whole-family (2Gen) approaches that address systemic challenges and improve outcomes for children and families. Participants will learn from national experts through keynotes, panels, interactive breakout sessions, and a special pre-conference 2Gen Academy workshop. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain practical strategies, explore promising practices, and strengthen partnerships with colleagues committed to advancing family well-being. Register here! Back to School Preparing Kids to Go Back to School: This Strong4Life resource offers practical tips to help families support children's health and well-being as they prepare for a new school year. It provides guidance on starting open conversations, acknowledging back-to-school emotions, establishing healthy routines, managing anxiety, and building resilience to help children successfully navigate the transition back to school. The State of Child Health and Well-Being in Georgia 2026: Join the Emory Center for Child Health Policy on August 12 at 12:00 PM for a webinar highlighting findings from its annual statewide poll of Georgia parents. Experts and advocates will discuss how key issues, including mental health, cell phone use, and food insecurity, are affecting children's health and well-being, while sharing recommendations to help improve outcomes for children across Georgia. Register here! A Conversation with Georgia's State School Superintendent Candidates: Attend the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education's Critical Issues Forum on August 13 from 9:30 AM–12PM at The Gathering Spot ATL. This forum will feature Democratic candidate Dr. Lydia Powell and incumbent Republican State School Superintendent Richard Woods as they discuss their visions for Georgia public education and address key education issues facing the state in 2027. Moderated by Donna Lowry of Georgia Public Broadcasting, the event will include a panel of education leaders and provide attendees with an opportunity to hear the candidates' priorities and perspectives on the future of education in Georgia. Providing Suicide-Focused Care in K–12 Schools: Join this webinar on July 30 at 3:00 PM to learn practical strategies for developing, implementing, and sustaining suicide-focused interventions in K–12 schools. The session will explore topics including staff training, supervision, informed consent, strengthening mental health infrastructure in rural and under-resourced schools, and best practices for follow-up, referrals, and documentation to support students at risk. Georgia School Cellphone Policies: From Policy to Practice: In partnership with The Georgia DOE, the second annual statewide conference will be held on August 13th from 9:30 AM–3PM at the R. Randall Rollins Building in Atlanta. The conference will bring together educators, policymakers, researchers, students, parents, and community leaders to discuss emerging research, implementation strategies, and practical resources for school cellphone policies, while promoting cross-sector collaboration to support student learning, well-being, and school engagement. Register here! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including many funding and professional development and training opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights New Regional Data Profiles Available: Resilient Georgia has released two new Regional Data Profiles, featuring local PACEs (Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences) data to help communities better understand factors impacting child and family well-being. We now have developed profiles for Coastal Georgia, Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia, Resilient Gwinnett, Resilient WEST, West-Central, Northwest Georgia, and Waycross Area/Southeast GA. Resilient Georgia Trainer Information Survey: The Resilient Georgia Education & Training Committee is creating a statewide trainer directory and invites individuals who provide trainings on resilience, trauma-informed practices, behavioral health, prevention, recovery, and related topics to complete the Resilient Georgia Trainer Information Survey. Responses will help identify expertise, training opportunities, and resource gaps across Georgia. Please complete the survey by August 17th for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card! For BIPOC Mental Health Month, Mental Health America is hosting a free webinar,“Starting Culturally Affirming Therapy: A Guide for BIPOC Individuals,” on July 22 at 1PM. This live panel discussion featuring BIPOC therapists will explore how therapy can support personal and generational healing, offer guidance on finding culturally responsive providers, explain what to expect in therapy sessions, and highlight approaches such as somatic work, community healing, and narrative therapy. The APA Stress in America™ 2025: A Crisis of Connection highlights growing concerns about loneliness and social disconnection among U.S. adults. More than 6/10 adults reported that societal division is a significant source of stress, and about half said they often feel isolated, left out, or lacking companionship. Loneliness affects both mental and physical well-being and many people feel they need more emotional support than they are receiving. If you or someone you know may need additional support, this article offers guidance on recognizing when professional mental health support may be helpful and how to take the next step. Coalition Peer Connection Call: In July we will not have typical update calls, instead, all coalitions are encouraged to join our Peer Connection call tomorrow July 21st at 2pm. Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of East Georgia: The Resilient Teens Summit will take place on August 29 from 10AM to 4PM at the Columbia County Exhibition Center. Designed for teens, the summit will feature a day of learning, connection, and activities focused on building resilience and supporting youth well-being. Registration is $15 per person and includes lunch, snacks, beverages, promotional items, and a summit t-shirt. Resilient Southeast Georgia (Waycross Partnership): Attend a free Connections Matter training on August 11 from 11AM to 2PM at the Waycross Family Justice Center. This interactive training, presented through a collaboration between Prevent Child Abuse Georgia and the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, helps participants understand trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), resilience, and brain development while providing practical strategies to strengthen personal and community resilience and better support individuals affected by trauma. Register here! Resilient Northwest Metro: Cobb Collaborative’s Capacity Catalyst Training will take place on July 24, from 11:30AM to 1PM at the Cobb Chamber of Commerce. As part of the 2026 Nonprofit Capacity-Building Training Series, the workshop will focus on building sustainable monthly giving programs to help nonprofits generate reliable revenue, improve donor retention, and increase long-term donor engagement. Facilitated by Ronald Pruitt, CEO and Founder of 4aGoodCause, the session will provide practical fundraising strategies, and lunch will be provided. Register here! Literacy The Campaign for Grade-Level Reading’s seventh annual virtual gathering will take place July 27–31 bringing together education leaders, practitioners, advocates, and community partners for a week of learning, collaboration, and discussion focused on improving children’s early school success. Centered on the theme “Focus on the Gaps,” the event will explore challenges and solutions related to literacy, chronic absenteeism, family support, education policy, and equitable opportunities for children. The week will feature national plenary sessions on topics including the impact of artificial intelligence on learning, third-grade reading success, the science of reading, supporting working families, and strengthening community-driven efforts to help children thrive. Professional Development Georgia State Child Welfare Training Collaborative: Knowledge to Action Conversation on Youth-Led Solutions for Change: Join the conversation on July 30 from 10–11:30 AM to explore how youth leadership, mentorship, nutrition, and physical activity support youth well-being and positive development. Hosted by HealthMPowers, the session will highlight the Girls Empowering Movement (GEM), a youth-led initiative that empowers middle school girls to create wellness solutions in their schools and communities. Participants will gain insights into engaging young people as leaders and partners and learn from examples of youth-driven approaches that promote connection, confidence, and thriving. Poverty Simulation Opportunity from Georgia State University School of Social Work: This interactive simulation provides participants with an opportunity to experience the challenges faced by individuals and families navigating economic hardship. Participants gain a trauma-informed understanding of the systemic barriers and difficult decisions experienced by families living in poverty. The experience includes guided reflection and discussion to encourage community solutions. Organizations interested in bringing the simulation to their community can contact the Georgia State University School of Social Work at cwtc@gsu.edu or call 470-279-1785. Respectful Ways ATN Certification: Many programs describe themselves as trauma-informed, but Respectful Ways has earned certification through the Attachment and Trauma Network (ATN)—a rigorous external review process rather than a self-designated label. This certification reflects a commitment to meeting established trauma-informed standards and creating environments that support safety, connection, and resilience. For organizations dedicated to implementing trauma-informed practices with integrity, ATN certification offers an added level of accountability and credibility. Learn more at Respectful Ways. Funding The MOORE Equity in Mental Health Community Grants Program, established by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Foundation and the APA Division of Diversity and Health Equity, provides $10,000 over a two-year period to support community organizations improving the mental health of young people of color. Funding supports innovative programs that address mental health and substance use disparities, increase awareness, expand equitable access to care, and enhance culturally and linguistically appropriate services. The annual application period is open from July 1 through August 31. William T. Grant Foundation’s Research Grants on Reducing Inequality: This funding opportunity supports research that examines and advances programs, policies, and practices designed to reduce inequities among young people ages 5–25 in the United States. Funded projects may focus on reducing disparities in academic, social, behavioral, or economic outcomes related to race, ethnicity, economic status, LGBTQ+ identity, language background, or immigrant origins. The program supports both descriptive studies that explore how interventions address inequality and intervention studies that evaluate the effectiveness of programs or policies. Major Research Grants provide $100,000–$600,000 over 2–3 years, while Officers’ Research Grants provide $25,000–$50,000 over 1–2 years. Applications are due July 29 at 3:00 PM. The ACM Lifting Lives® Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations using music-based therapeutic interventions to improve mental, physical, and emotional health outcomes. The 2026 grant cycle focuses on healing through music and prioritizes programs providing clinical music therapy in healthcare settings, therapeutic music-based interventions for communities such as students, military members, and veterans, and mental health services for individuals working in the music industry. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charities, with awards ranging from approximately $5,000 to $20,000. The 20th Anniversary Grant Cycle is open from July 1 through August 7, at 5:00 PM CT. Morgan Stanley's Children’s Mental Health Innovation Awards: This funding opportunity supports innovative solutions that improve children’s mental health across the United States by providing resources, capital, and capacity-building support to nonprofit organizations. Eligible applicants are U.S.-based 501(c)(3) public charities with annual revenues under $5 million. The program offers two award categories: Innovation Awards of $100,000 for eligible nonprofits and Next Gen Innovation Awards ranging from $25,000–$50,000 for organizations founded and/or led by leaders under age 32 that have been operating for more than two years. Up to $550,000 in total grants will be awarded, and selected applicants may participate in a Leadership Learning Series. Applications are due July 24. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including mental health resources and support for youth, workplaces, and rural communities, as well as a variety of professional development and funding opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Handle With Care Info Session: Handle with Care is a trauma-informed communication protocol that notifies schools when a child has been present at the scene of a potentially traumatic event. This confidential notification helps schools provide timely emotional check-ins, academic adjustments, and access to mental health supports, ensuring children feel safe, seen, and ready to learn. Join a Handle With Care (HWC) Webinar this Wednesday July 15, from 1–2PM to learn how the HWC model helps schools, law enforcement, and community partners work together to support children who have experienced trauma. The webinar will highlight how this trauma-informed approach promotes student well-being, strengthens community collaboration, and helps children remain supported and engaged in learning following adverse experiences. For more information, contact Jennifer Kramer at jk@mylifemypower.org. Change Makers Leadership Institute: Strengthening Georgia’s Resilience Infrastructure: Across Georgia, coalitions are doing extraordinary work, building trauma‑responsive systems, expanding prevention pathways, and deepening community partnerships. The Change Makers Leadership Institute (CMLI) was created by Gabrielle Stewart to support you in that work. CMLI supports community partners through trauma-informed, equity-centered consulting that strengthens collaboration, emotional safety, leadership development, and systems change. Using practical, coalition-friendly tools, CMLI helps coalition leaders and organizations navigate strategic planning, onboard new leaders, and deepen multi-county engagement to build a stronger statewide resilience network. To learn more, contact Gabrielle Stewart at GabrielleCMLI@pm.me. Call for Authors: Resilient Futures Blog Series: Resilient Georgia is seeking authors for its 2026–2027 Resilient Futures blog campaign, a statewide series focused on youth mental health and well-being. Youth ages 14–26, parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, researchers, and community leaders are invited to share personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based approaches that help young people build resilience and thrive. For more information, contact nwarner@resilientga.org. Coalition Peer Connection Call: In July we will not have typical update calls, instead, all coalitions are encouraged to join our Peer Connection call Tuesday July 21st at 2pm. Coalition Highlights Hosted by Resilient Gwinnett, two upcoming professional development opportunities are available for nonprofit professionals. On Wednesday, July 29, from 3:00–4:00 PM via Zoom, join the National Council of Nonprofits (NCN) Fundraising Platform Discussion to explore ethical online fundraising practices, including transparency, donor relationships, data ownership, and accountability. Then, on Tuesday, August 25, from 8:30–11:30 AM at the Lawrenceville Arts Center, attend the L&D Series: Peace Index for Nonprofits, an interactive workshop that helps participants assess personal well-being, build resilience, and develop practical strategies for sustainable growth through the Peace Index framework and a personalized assessment. Resilient Coastal Georgia: Registration is now open for the 8-week, virtual Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) Course offered by The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire. This evidence-based course will be held Tuesdays from August 4–September 22, 2026, from 10AM-12PM, and is designed for adults seeking to build emotional resilience, manage stress, reduce self-criticism, and strengthen healthy relationships. The course is facilitated by Vira Salzburn, an MSC Trained Teacher who uses a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach. The registration fee is $250, with limited scholarships available. Learn more and register here! Funding Imagine Award – Funding Opportunity for Early Childhood Leaders: Applications are now open through August 28, 2026 for the Imagine Award from the Promise Fund, which provides $20,000 in flexible funding and a six-month cohort-based learning experience for community-centered early childhood leaders. The award supports individuals with bold, equity-focused ideas that are ready for pilot testing and designed to improve outcomes for children and families. Participants will receive support to launch and evaluate a real-world pilot, strengthen their impact model, build partnerships, and connect with fellow innovators. Free workshops are also available to help applicants develop strong pilot proposals. FY 2026 Legal Assistance for Victims Program NOFO: The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) is accepting applications for the Legal Assistance for Victims (LAV) Grant Program, which supports projects that expand access to comprehensive legal services for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Eligible applicants include tribal governments, nonprofit organizations, law schools, and other qualifying entities. Applications must include partnerships with both a victim services organization and a legal services provider with expertise in representing survivors. The funding opportunity includes two categories: Legal Assistance for Victims (LAV) and the LAV Expanding Legal Services Initiative. Applications are due in two steps: the SF-424 must be submitted through Grants.gov by July 31, at 11:59 PM, followed by the full application in JustGrants by August 4, at 4:59 PM. Mental Health in the Workplace Join Coverage and Culture: Employer Symposium for Workplace Mental Health on August 20, 2026, from 10AM–3PM at The Carter Center.This symposium will bring together business leaders, HR professionals, and benefits administrators to explore strategies for improving workplace mental health through equitable health coverage, mental health parity, and supportive workplace cultures. Participants will gain practical guidance on strengthening employee benefits, reducing stigma, increasing access to mental health and substance use services, and fostering healthier, more resilient workplaces. To learn more about the state of mental health in Georgia check out this article from AJC and share RG’s Trauma-Informed Business resource. Professional Development and Events (AAAI) Youth Webinar Series– Caring for Youth & Families Impacted by Suicide: Join this webinar hosted by the Lotus Project July 22, from 12–1:30PM PST via Zoom. This free webinar will explore culturally informed approaches to supporting AAAI youth, families, and communities affected by suicide loss, with a focus on grief, healing, postvention, and improving access to support services. Participants will gain practical strategies for addressing cultural and systemic barriers to care while learning from experts in mental health, suicide prevention, and community advocacy. Join GEEARS' Annual Fundraising Luncheon on September 17, from 11:30 AM –1:30 PM at Zoo Atlanta to celebrate and support early childhood education in Georgia. The event will bring together community leaders, educators, advocates, policymakers, and philanthropic partners to highlight the importance of investing in young children and families. Attendees will hear from keynote speaker and Olympic bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor, celebrate outstanding early childhood champions, and learn how strong early childhood systems strengthen families, communities, and Georgia's future. Sponsorship opportunities are also available to support Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students' mission. ZERO TO THREE 2026 LEARN Conference: This conference on October 27–29, in Portland, Oregon, will bring together educators, mental health leaders, researchers, advocates, and policymakers to explore the latest research, innovative practices, and strategies that support young children and their families. Attendees will have opportunities for professional development, networking, expert-led sessions on key early childhood topics, and continuing education credits. The 2026 Georgia 2Gen Summit will be September 15–16th, at the Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Hosted by the Georgia Children’s Cabinet in partnership with the UGA's Carl Vinson Institute of Government, the summit will bring together service providers, policymakers, community leaders, philanthropic partners, and parent advocates to strengthen collaboration and advance two-generation (2Gen) approaches across Georgia. Participants will gain practical tools for implementing and evaluating 2Gen strategies, learn from successful initiatives across the state, and build partnerships to improve outcomes for children and families. Rural Health Rural Minds offers two webinar resources focused on strengthening mental health support in rural communities. The Rural Mental Health Connections Webinar Series addresses challenges such as stress, isolation, stigma, and limited access to care for farmers and rural residents, while How Family Physicians Can Help Address the Mental Health Crisis in Rural Communities highlights practical ways family physicians can identify needs, reduce stigma, connect patients to resources, and improve access to mental health care in underserved areas. Please check it out and share with your rural communities! Youth Respectful Ways: A Tool for Therapists on the Move: Behavioral health therapists are using Respectful Ways in clinics and as they rotate between schools. Because the program travels with the practitioner, it gives therapists a consistent trauma-informed framework to use across very different settings. That continuity is good for the clinician and even better for the students and clients who see them in more than one place. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! We hope you enjoyed your holiday weekend celebrating the 4th of July. This week features a variety of resources and opportunities focused on funding, professional development, education, youth mental health, and more. Before we dive in, here are a few highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Resilient Georgia’s 2024–2025 Impact Report highlights a year of meaningful growth and collective impact, made possible through collaboration, shared learning, and strong partnerships across the state. Over the past year, the network expanded to all 159 counties, engaged more than 900 partners across 14 sectors, and advanced new workforce initiatives, evaluation efforts, and trauma-informed resources. Call for Authors: Resilient Futures Blog Series RG is seeking guest contributors for its 2026–2027 Resilient Futures blog campaign, a statewide series focused on youth mental health and well-being. Youth ages 14–26, parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, advocates, researchers, and community leaders are invited to share personal stories, professional insights, and evidence-based approaches that help young people build resilience and thrive. For more information, contact nwarner@resilientga.org. July is BIPOC Mental Health Month, a time to uplift the unique mental health experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color while acknowledging ongoing disparities in access to care. This awareness month emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive support and open conversations—especially for groups like Black men, who often face compounded barriers such as stigma, mistrust, and limited access to effective treatment. You can learn more through this resource: Black Men Matter – Examining Mental Health Issues among Black Men, which highlights how historical trauma, systemic inequities, and mental health stigma continue to impact Black men’s well-being, and underscores the need for culturally relevant care, increased access to services, and community-centered approaches to healing. Grady Health Foundation’s “Talk With Me Baby” program was recently featured on PBS, highlighting the impact of this innovative, evidence-based initiative that supports early childhood development and healthy parent-child interactions. Resilient Georgia is proud that Board Chair Emeritus Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald helped build and champion the program during her tenure as Georgia’s Department of Public Health Commissioner and State Health Officer. This recognition underscores the importance of investing in prevention, strong community partnerships, and proven approaches that improve child well-being and strengthen resilience across Georgia. Congratulations to the Grady and Rollins teams, and all who have contributed to the program’s success! Coalition Highlights Resilient Northeast Georgia offers a free Trauma & Resilience Toolkit featuring downloadable resources, educational materials, and social media content to help raise awareness about trauma, ACEs, and resilience. The coalition is also sharing a job opportunity to join the Athens Area Community Foundation team as a Community Leadership Manager, helping strengthen partnerships and community impact efforts across Northeast Georgia. Additionally, RNEGA is hosting a virtual Connections Matter training facilitated by RG’s Nikki Warner on July 31st from 9am-noon. Register here! The Waycross Resilient Georgia Partnership led by the Magnolia House and Waycross Family Justice Center has officially rebranded as Resilient Southeast Georgia, a name that more accurately reflects the coalition’s regional reach and impact across Bacon, Brantley, Charlton, Coffee, Pierce, and Ware counties. While the name has changed, the coalition remains committed to advancing trauma-informed practices, strengthening community resilience, and improving health and well-being throughout Waycross and surrounding regions in Southeast Georgia. Funding Economic Opportunity Grant Program | Nasdaq: The Nasdaq Philanthropic Foundation’s Economic Opportunity Grant Program supports organizations working to expand economic opportunity by increasing access to resources, capital, and wealth-building pathways, particularly in underserved communities. Funding is available for initiatives focused on areas such as financial literacy, rural wealth building, access to capital, and community ownership models, with an emphasis on measurable impact and scalability. Grants typically support one-year projects, with potential for multi-year funding. Applications are due July 31, 2026. 2026 FARE Fund | America's Healthy Food Financing Initiative: The America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) is accepting applications for its Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund, which supports projects that increase access to affordable, nutritious food in underserved communities. Funding is available for planning and implementation efforts, with priority given to projects serving low-income or rural areas, creating quality jobs, and supporting women- and BIPOC-led businesses. Funding Inquiry Forms are due July 31, 2026, with eligible applicants invited to submit full applications by October 30, 2026. GREAT Health Telehealth Enhancements Grant Opportunity: The Georgia Department of Community Health is accepting applications through July 15, 2026 for the fourth round of its GREAT Health Program’s Telehealth Enhancements funding opportunity. Up to $10 million is available to support rural hospitals, healthcare providers, and community organizations serving Georgia’s eligible rural counties. Grants will fund innovative telehealth projects that expand access to care, strengthen healthcare coordination, increase collaboration among healthcare and behavioral health partners, and build sustainable, patient-centered healthcare systems. Education & Elections Better Future for Georgia: 2026 Election Issues Guide: The Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) has released its Better Future for Georgia Election Issues Guide, a nonpartisan resource that highlights the connection between public education, workforce readiness, and Georgia’s long-term economic success. The guide outlines key issues facing students and schools and encourages voters to engage with candidates on topics such as educational achievement, teacher recruitment and retention, and career pathway opportunities. Professional Development NAMI Gwinnett Webinar: Breaking the Silence: Why Minority Mental Health Matters Join the Spotlight On Series hosted by NAMI Gwinnett for a free virtual session, “Breaking the Silence: Why Minority Mental Health Matters,” on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 7–8PM (Zoom). This one-hour webinar will feature Dr. Wendell Fields—an experienced leader in mental health, suicide prevention, and peer support—who brings over 30 years of expertise and serves with the Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network and NAMI Georgia Board. Free Mindful Self-Compassion Mid-Year Renewal Retreat – July 25: The Center for Mindful Self-Compassion (CMSC) is offering a free online Renewal Retreat on Saturday July 25th themed “Renewal: Belonging to Ourselves and Each Other.” Participants can attend one or both retreat sessions and explore practices that cultivate mindfulness, self-kindness, connection, and resilience during times of stress and uncertainty. The event features renowned self-compassion experts, including MSC co-founders Kristin Neff and Chris Germer, along with teachers from around the world. The retreat is free and open to all, with replay access available for seven days after the event. Become a Georgia Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network is accepting applications for Georgia Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training cohorts through July 17th at 5PM. Virtual trainings will be held August 17–21 (Cohort 117) and September 14–18 (Cohort 118). CPSs use their lived experience to support recovery, inspire hope, and help others across Georgia. Interested individuals can apply through the program application and take the next step toward becoming a peer leader. Apply now! Youth Mental Health Are we using screens as a scapegoat for teen mental health? A recent NPR TED Radio Hour explores whether screens and social media are being blamed for rising youth mental health concerns. The discussion highlights research suggesting that while technology can contribute to challenges for some youth, factors such as family stress, school pressures, economic hardship, and broader social conditions may play a larger role in shaping mental health outcomes. The episode encourages a nuanced conversation about supporting young people by addressing the full range of influences on their well-being rather than focusing solely on screen time. Emory Addiction Center expands adolescent services as child overdoses see slight uptick – WABE: Emory Healthcare has expanded its adolescent addiction services with a new 7,000-square-foot outpatient treatment center serving youth and young adults. The expansion strengthens prevention, screening, early intervention, and treatment for substance use disorders, particularly as Georgia has seen an increase in overdose-related emergency room visits among children ages 10–14. Through a partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the initiative also improves referral pathways and access to specialized care for young people and their families. Respectful Ways Beyond the Classroom: Respectful Ways is not only for schools. The courses are in active use in residential group homes, where consistent trauma-informed support matters just as much as it does in a classroom. The same shared language that steadies a school building helps create stability and trust in residential care, giving staff and young people a common foundation to lean on. Check it out and share with your partners! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including early childhood, education, healthcare, as well as professional development and funding opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Thank you to everyone who joined our June Lunch & Learn on Mental Health Parity. We’re grateful to Sarah Phillips with The Carter Center for sharing insights on how parity policies affect behavioral health access across Georgia. Participants explored how, despite existing federal and state laws, many individuals still face barriers such as coverage limitations, prior authorization, and network challenges. Resources from the session—including the recording, slide deck, and partner tools like the Communications Toolkit and the Dashboard are available, along with an opportunity to continue the conversation at The Carter Center’s upcoming “Coverage and Culture” symposium on Workplace Mental Health on August 20 in Atlanta. We also encourage you to complete the brief survey to help shape future sessions. Changing Lanes Intervention Human Services (CLI) is launching recruitment and training for anyone interested in becoming a Registered Behavior Technician, or Behavior Coach. Anyone who would like to learn about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or about mental health counseling jobs and training opportunities in the field can text "ABA" or ¨Jobs¨ to 770-256-3977. For more information about CLI, please visit their website. The site contains updated information about all of our behavioral and mental health services, including information for Spanish speakers. Georgia Essentials for Childhood has launched the Family Well-Being Messaging Library, a centralized collection of tools, trainings, podcasts, webinars, educational resources, and more designed to support organizations and professionals in promoting child and family well-being. Grounded in a strengths-based, whole-family approach, the library advances shared language and messaging practices that help create the conditions for safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments where children and families can thrive. Check it out and share widely! Participants Wanted! A new research opportunity led by Dr. Robin Brooks, Associate Professor at the University of Pittsburgh, is seeking participants in the Atlanta metro area for an IRB-approved study on grief and emotional wellness in Black communities. The study explores experiences of loss and bereavement, with current recruitment focused on Black men in their 20s-30s who have experienced the death of a close family member. Participation involves a confidential 1–2 hour interview, and participants will receive a $20 Visa gift card. Connect directly at rob88@pitt.edu. Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia: June is Men’s Health Month, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the physical and mental health challenges facing men and boys. The Vashti Center wrote a blog focusing on the importance of shared responsibility, education, and community support in improving men’s well-being. Mental health remains a critical concern, with men nearly four times more likely than women to die by suicide and many delaying or avoiding treatment due to stigma and cultural expectations surrounding masculinity. Raising awareness, encouraging open conversations, and connecting men to resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and local mental health services can help reduce stigma and promote earlier support. Resilient Communities of Marshland Georgia invite you to join a free Connections Matter Community Training on July 8 from 12:00–3:00 PM in Brunswick. This interactive training facilitated by Resilient Georgia’s Nikki Warner helps folks understand trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), resilience, and child brain development while exploring practical strategies to strengthen individual and community well-being and support those affected by traumaOpen to all community members, particularly those working with children and families, the training includes lunch, a $100 gift card for attendees who complete the full session sponsored by the Red Cross. Early Childhood Practical Certificate in Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation: The Georgetown Thrive Center hosted a webinar on what effective Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) truly looks like, emphasizing that while interventions like art, play, and gym therapy are valuable, they are not the same as consultation. To support the field, they’ve released a recording, slides, and a toolkit from the session. Recognizing the ongoing challenge of finding qualified consultants—and that training programs take time while teachers need immediate support—Georgetown is now offering virtual IECMHC services with flexible options, immediate availability, and no hiring or waitlists, providing an accessible, cost-effective way for childcare programs to connect staff with qualified mental health consultation. Education Georgia is leading the nation in school safety The Georgia DOE has introduced Aligning Student Supports for Safer Schools, a first-of-its-kind resource that integrates BTAM with Georgia’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (GaMTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Developed in partnership with national experts, the guide offers practical strategies to help schools identify early warning signs, coordinate responses, and connect students with appropriate supports before concerns escalate. Through tools such as a fictional case study, the resource demonstrates how aligning prevention, intervention, and student support systems can strengthen school safety, improve climate, and promote student well-being. Have You Heard of Respectful Ways? Respectful Ways is a trauma-informed social and emotional learning program designed for PreK–12 schools and their surrounding communities, providing educators and counselors with a shared language and practical tools to support both everyday student challenges and more complex behavioral needs, with the goal of creating classrooms where every student feels safe, seen, and ready to learn. In addition to its core programming, Respectful Ways offers professional development grounded in real-world scenarios, equipping teachers, school staff, and community partners with strategies to strengthen trauma-informed practices and support student wellbeing. Funding The Atlanta United Community Fund (AUCF) is accepting Letters of Intent (LOIs) through June 30 for the next phase of its GA 100 initiative, which aims to build or upgrade 100 soccer pitches in under-resourced communities across Georgia. Eligible organizations can receive matching grants of up to $100,000 per field to develop mini or full-sized soccer pitches, with funding intended to help close final project funding gaps. Projects must focus solely on pitch construction and demonstrate that most project funding has already been secured. Organizations with approved LOIs will be invited to submit a full application in mid-July, with award recipients announced by November 30, 2026. The Promise Neighborhoods Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on behalf of the U.S. Department of Education, is offering approximately $52 million in discretionary grant funding to improve academic and developmental outcomes for children and youth in distressed communities. Implementation grants ranging from $4 million to $6 million over a 60-month project period will support comprehensive, community-based services that promote school readiness, academic success, high school graduation, and access to high-quality supports. Eligible projects must serve high-poverty neighborhoods and schools with significant needs, while ensuring services are accessible to children with disabilities and English learners. Approximately nine implementation grants are expected to be awarded. A Notice of Intent to Apply is due June 22 and full applications due August 6, 2026. Healthcare AAP Trauma-Informed Pediatric Care and Resilience Promotion ECHO Registration: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is offering a revised Trauma-Informed Pediatric Care and Resilience ECHO series for primary care providers and pediatric healthcare professionals. This virtual training helps participants develop practical skills to recognize and respond to child trauma, facilitate supportive conversations with children and families, and promote resilience in pediatric care. Participants can choose from the following cohorts held on Tuesdays: July 14–August 25 or September 8–October 20, 2026, from 2:00–3:00PM CT. Professional Development Creating Stability for Children and Caregivers: Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child is hosting the Strengthening Stability: Actionable Strategies to Support Young Children and Caregivers webinar on July 2 from 12–1PM ET to explore how stability across areas such as housing, employment, health care, education, and community support influences healthy child development. Panelists will discuss practical strategies and evidence-based frameworks that organizations and communities can use to strengthen family stability, promote economic mobility, and improve outcomes for young children and caregivers. The Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention will take place on September 16, 2026, in Peachtree City, Georgia, bringing together professionals from across the state to explore strategies for preventing, intervening in, and treating child maltreatment. Hosted by PCA Georgia, Stephanie V. Blank Center for Safe and Healthy Children, and Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, the conference theme, "Collective Care in the Storm," focuses on strengthening families, building community resilience, and promoting child abuse prevention through collaboration and shared responsibility. Attendees can participate in workshops, networking opportunities, and discussions on innovative, family-centered approaches that support healing and resilience in communities. Register here! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday, partners! This week we are highlighting a range of resources, including children’s mental health and prevention resources, resources for nonprofits, and professional development opportunities. Please Note: Our Monday Memo will be paused the week of June 22 and resume on June 29th! Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG team: RG Highlights Youth Voice Matters to Resilient Georgia! Resilient Georgia is inviting young people ages 16–26 to share their perspectives on youth mental health in a peer-led, interactive virtual session. Participants will have the chance to speak up, connect with peers, and help shape statewide support for mental health. Sessions are on Zoom, limited to 10 participants each, and those who complete a session will receive a $50 gift card. Registration under 18 requires a guardian’s signature, and spots are first-come, first-served. Please share widely! Register here! Handle With Care is a trauma-informed communication protocol that notifies schools when a child has been present at the scene of a potentially traumatic event. This early, confidential notification helps schools provide timely emotional check-ins, academic adjustments, and access to mental health supports, ensuring children feel safe, seen, and ready to learn. Through partnerships led by Resilient Georgia and the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy, We are also assisting Handle With Care National in convening a virtual info session June 25th at 1pm. Please email Nikki at nwarner@resilientga.org to request an invite. Below are some helpful HWC resources to learn more: Indiana Department of Health - Handle With Care Learn about Handle with Care Video Getting Started with Handle with Care Everything You Need to Know About Handle with Care Programs | Frontline Education West Virginia Center for Children's Justice - Home Handle With Care Online Trainings Upcoming Dates! June Round Calls are scheduled this month as follows: Round 5: Monday, June 22nd 2pm Round 2: Tuesday, June 23rd 11am Round 3: Thursday June 25th 1pm Round 4: Tuesday June 23rd 2pm Round 1: Friday June 26th 10am Coalition Highlights From Redlining to Health Equity: Atlanta’s Past, Present, and Path Forward is ARCHI’s breakfast conversation taking place on August 7 from 8:30 – 10:30 AM in Atlanta that will explore how historic redlining policies continue to influence health outcomes, access to resources, and health equity across the city. The event will feature a presentation on Atlanta’s history of redlining, followed by a panel discussion with leaders from healthcare, faith, civic, and community sectors examining the lasting impacts of these policies and current efforts to address health disparities. Designed for community leaders, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and residents, the event aims to foster dialogue on how cross-sector collaboration can advance equitable health outcomes and strengthen communities. Resilient Communities of East Georgia (RCEG) is seeking input from Medicaid providers serving young children across its 14-county region through an upcoming listening session. In partnership with Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students (GEEARS), this session will explore how Medicaid is meeting the needs of children, families, and providers, while identifying key areas for additional support and education. Providers are encouraged to share their priorities and participate by completing the interest form to help shape resources that better serve the community. Children's Mental Health Children's EHR Tracking Tool: Recent research and policy developments in Georgia are strengthening accountability for children’s access to care by focusing on outcomes rather than systems alone. A new study from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory highlights an Electronic Health Record (EHR) surveillance tool that provides near real-time insight into whether children actually receive recommended services—such as mental health follow-up—and identifies where gaps occur. Complementing this, the 11th Circuit Court’s decision in L.W. v. DCH Commissioner affirms that Medicaid’s EPSDT mandate requires children to receive care sufficient to meet their needs, regardless of whether policies appear reasonable on paper. Together, these advancements provide families, providers, and advocates with stronger tools to ensure children receive timely, appropriate care—shifting the focus from coverage and promises to real access and impact. Local Interagency Planning Teams (LIPTs) are community-based groups of agencies, providers, and partners who work together to coordinate behavioral health and support services for children, youth, and families. Supported by Mindworks Georgia, these teams bring together schools, healthcare providers, and social services to improve communication, reduce gaps or duplication in services, and connect families to the care they need—especially for youth with mental health or substance use challenges. Their goal is to ensure families can access coordinated, community-based supports and avoid more intensive interventions when possible. Wings for Kids is a nonprofit organization that helps children develop the social and emotional skills needed to succeed in school and thrive in life. Through afterschool programs, educator training, and social-emotional learning (SEL) resources, the organization creates supportive environments where children can build important life skills and strengthen their well-being. In addition to direct programming, Wings for Kids provides digital tools, professional learning opportunities, and practical SEL resources for schools and community organizations. The organization reports strong outcomes, including high student attendance, improved social-emotional competencies among participants, and strong staff retention, with its afterschool SEL model validated through a randomized controlled trial. Nonprofit Resources Resurgens Impact Consulting is a nonprofit-focused grant consulting firm that partners with mission-driven organizations to secure funding and expand their impact. Through services such as grant research, proposal writing, and strategic funding development, they help organizations identify aligned opportunities, build competitive applications, and create sustainable grant-seeking systems. Their collaborative, full-service approach allows nonprofits to strengthen internal capacity, navigate complex funding landscapes, and focus more on delivering meaningful programs and community impact. Learn more here. If you would like to request a connection, please email Nikki at nwarner@resilientga.org. Prevention Resources The 2025 report “Preventing and Responding to Child Sexual Abuse in Youth-Serving Organizations” provides a comprehensive, prevention-focused framework for creating safer environments for young people in youth-serving organizations. It outlines eight key priorities, including protecting higher-risk youth populations through culturally responsive practices, strengthening organizational policies and safety culture, clearly distinguishing between healthy and harmful youth sexual behavior, and building a carefully screened and well-trained workforce. The report also emphasizes establishing clear behavioral expectations and active supervision, creating safe physical and digital environments, and ensuring ongoing education for staff, youth, and families about boundaries, consent, and reporting responsibilities. Finally, it stresses the importance of immediate and coordinated responses to incidents, including mandatory reporting, victim support, and internal review processes. Overall, the report frames child protection as a shared, evolving responsibility that requires consistent systems, accountability, and continuous improvement across all levels of an organization. The CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) is investing more than $12.4 million in Georgia to support statewide and community-based efforts to prevent overdose, suicide, violence, and adverse childhood experiences. These funds strengthen initiatives such as substance use prevention coalitions, suicide prevention programs, violence prevention strategies, and injury surveillance systems, while also supporting research and partnerships with organizations like Emory University. Together, these investments help communities use data-driven approaches to improve public health, enhance prevention efforts, and build safer, healthier environments across Georgia. Learn more about the impact here. Professional Development The Trauma Resource Institute’s International Conference & 20th Anniversary Celebration will take place October 2–4, 2026 and will be offered both in-person and virtually. This three-day global gathering brings together educators, practitioners, researchers, and community partners from across the U.S. and more than 77 countries to reflect on the organization’s impact and strengthen connections across its network. Centered on the theme “Rooted in Well-Being, Planted in Community, Cultivated by Hope,” the conference will highlight real-world applications of trauma-informed approaches, emerging research, innovative programs, and interactive learning opportunities. It is designed to foster collaboration, share practical tools, and inspire continued global work in trauma recovery and community well-being. 2026 Autism in Rural Georgia Conference: The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center, in partnership with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Mercer University School of Medicine, is hosting the Autism in Rural Georgia Conference on July 9–10 in Macon. This free, two-day event offers healthcare providers and community partners valuable training on autism detection, developmental milestones, school-based services, and supports for young adults, along with interactive sessions on medication management, crisis response, and social concerns. The conference provides an opportunity to build knowledge, strengthen care strategies, and better support children and families in rural communities. THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!