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Happy Monday! This week’s Memo highlights education and legal supports, resources for parents and caregivers and parent-serving professionals, professional development and training opportunities, and support for youth. But first, here are some reminders and highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights February Lunch & Learn:   Join us on Thursday , February 12 from 12–12:45PM  for a virtual Lunch & Learn featuring Jesse Kohler of the Center for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice (CTIPP).  This session will highlight practical strategies and resources to help coalitions and community partners advance trauma-informed workplaces across sectors, including nonprofits, schools, courts, local government, and employers. Participants will be introduced to CTIPP’s Trauma-Informed Workplace Toolkit and learn actionable ways to foster healthy organizational culture, staff wellbeing, and trauma-responsive policies. Email Alex English to request an invite at aenglish@resilientga.org . YPN Teen Drug Safety Survey Results:   The Youth Drug Safety Survey , completed by 100 teens and young adults across the state, highlights key gaps and opportunities to inform the Youth Prevention Network’s program focus. Findings highlighted stigma, fear of getting in trouble, and lack of trusted adults as key barriers to youth seeking help, with over one third of respondents reporting they would not know how to respond to a drug overdose. While many participants had received prior drug safety education, youth still perceived substance use as common among their peers and frequently relied on social media for information. Youth also emphasized that trust plays a significant role in decision making and that prevention efforts are most effective when they include real stories from people their age and acknowledge the stress youth experience. These insights are guiding the YPN’s focus on youth informed, skills based, and stigma reducing prevention strategies.  Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of East Georgia  will host the following events: A full-day Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) training  for educators and professionals who work with children in educational settings. The training will take place on February 3, 2026, from 8:30AM – 3:30PM  in Augusta, Georgia, and will focus on building trust, supporting emotional regulation, and responding to challenging behaviors through trauma-responsive, connection-based strategies. Register here! A free Community Resiliency Model (CRM) training  on February 11, 2026, from 10AM – 1PM  in Waynesboro, Georgia. This interactive session introduces six foundational wellness skills that help individuals understand how stress affects the brain and nervous system and build regulation and resilience. The training is open to community members and professionals across sectors, with priority for residents and professionals from Burke, Jefferson, Jenkins, and Screven Counties. Space is limited to 50 participants, and participants will receive a $100 giftcard. Register here! Resilient Coastal Georgia:  Front Porch A.C.T.S. is offering a two-day  ACTS (Trauma Drama) Facilitator Training  for educators, counselors, social workers, caregivers, and others seeking creative, trauma-informed tools to support youth wellbeing. Trauma Drama is an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach that uses improvisation and experiential, play-based activities to promote emotional expression, regulation, resilience, and connection. Led by the only Georgia-based certified providers of the Trauma Drama curriculum, this interactive training equips participants with hands-on curriculum and facilitation strategies that can be integrated into classrooms, school communities, youth-serving organizations, and home settings. The training will take place February 25–26, 2026, from 9:30 AM–3:00 PM   at Front Porch Improv in Savannah.  Resilient Middle Georgia  will host four in-person coalition meetings in 2026, held in  March, May, September, and December on the second Wednesday of the month from 10:30AM – 1:00PM , providing opportunities for deeper connection, shared learning, and cross-sector collaboration. In addition, monthly virtual coalition check-ins will be held during months without in-person meetings on the third Thursday of the month from 10:30 –11:30AM  to support ongoing connection, relationship-building, shared learning, and implementation conversations related to trauma-informed practices. View the 2026 coalition calendar   with all meeting dates and links.  Education Georgia Education Climate  Coalition (GECC) Updates : Georgia schools are integrating Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) with Positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) under broader, statewide prevention efforts. The GaMTSS initiative is a data-driven, multi-level prevention system designed to support the “whole child,” recognizing that academic performance, behavior, and wellbeing are interconnected. Check out the slides here . Legal Supports Appleseed Network Deportation Preparation Manual for Immigrant Families :  The Deportation Preparation Manual is a practical resource designed to help immigrant families plan for the protection of their children and finances in the event of deportation. The manual includes guidance on child custody planning, financial protection, and setting up powers of attorney, and can be explored by topic, tool, or chapter. Users can also answer a few questions to receive a personalized roadmap tailored to their situation.  The complete manual is available as a downloadable PDF and is offered in both English and Spanish.  The Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta  has been a longtime partner of Resilient Georgia, providing invaluable legal guidance and support. PBPA offers free business legal resources and services to Georgia nonprofits,  including a learning center with webcasts, podcasts, articles, and direct legal services for qualifying organizations. This is a great resource for coalitions navigating day-to-day nonprofit legal needs. Parents and Families Family support is key for people with mental illness but caregivers need help too : This NPR article highlights the often-overlooked role of family caregivers as essential partners in supporting individuals with serious mental illness, describing them as the “first and last line of defense” in recovery. It also highlights efforts to better support caregivers, including peer-led education and support networks, caregiver coaching models, and crisis planning tools including 988. Sound It Out Together  is the online home of Sound It Out, a campaign and resource hub designed to help parents and caregivers support their children’s emotional wellbeing through open, honest communication about feelings and mental health. It offers expert-vetted tools, guides, conversation starters, music activities, and a supportive podcast series to make it easier for families to listen, talk, and connect with kids about emotions in healthy ways. The campaign is led by the Ad Council in partnership with Pivotal Ventures and uses creative, culturally relevant strategies—like music and guided activities—to break down barriers around emotional conversations with youth. The website and resources are also fully offered in Spanish.  Professional Development and Training Protective Factors - PCA Georgia:   PCA Georgia supports the statewide implementation of the Strengthening Families Protective Factors Framework,  a research-informed approach to preventing child abuse and neglect by focusing on family and community strengths. The organization provides trainings for parents and professionals, resources for embedding the framework in organizations, and hosts Quarterly Member Networking Meetings via Zoom. These gatherings are open to all staff from family-serving organizations and include guest speakers, mini-trainings, breakout discussions, and opportunities for peer learning and networking. Trainings are offered in-person, online, and self-paced to accommodate a variety of learning needs.   Learn more! 2nd Annual Co-Responder Teams Professional Development Conference:   The Georgia DBHDD Office of Adult Mental Health will host its 2nd Annual Co-Responder Teams Professional Development Conference from February 25–27th  in Peachtree City. The conference is free to attend with required registration and is open to law enforcement, Fire and EMS, behavioral health and criminal justice professionals, community service boards, legislators, and others interested in co-responder models. Registration is open through February 13th. Resources and Workshops for Parenting Practitioners from GGSC Berkeley:   The Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley  offers a science-based workshop series  and family wellbeing workbook   designed to support the well-being of parents and caregivers and the clinicians who serve them. Centering practitioner well-being as essential to effectively supporting families, these resources are designed for educators, social workers, healthcare providers, counselors, and community-based practitioners working with parents and caregivers from preschool through high school.   Youth Virtual Group Therapy for Sexual Trauma Survivors:   This virtual group therapy series from Survivor Counseling  provides a safe and intentional space for female-identifying survivors ages 14 to 17  to receive counseling, build community, and access supportive resources. The program focuses on helping participants find their voice and inner strength, learn healthy ways to cope with stress and triggers, and strengthen self-esteem. The group meets on Zoom for eight weeks starting March 2026 . Insurance and self-pay options are available. Please share with your youth-serving and mental health professionals! THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Happy Monday! This week’s Memo highlights resources and trainings for parents and caregivers, upcoming professional development opportunities and events, and support specifically for rural communities and youth. But first, here are some reminders and highlights from the Resilient Georgia team: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  Job Opportunity: Georgia Schools Student Advocacy Specialist:   Georgia DOE is hiring multiple Student Advocacy Specialists to support student mental and behavioral health. This role coordinates early identification, referrals, tiered supports (MTSS), and partnerships with schools and community providers to improve student well-being, safety, and academic engagement. Please share widely with your networks! 10 Ways Families Can Fight Off the Winter Blues   We hope everyone is staying warm this winter! Here are some tips from Strong4Life  to help families fight off the winter blues: stay active and get sunlight when you can, eat balanced meals, keep routines, limit screen time, check in about feelings, build in fun and gratitude, and stay connected with loved ones. Upcoming Dates! January Round Calls:  This month’s Round Calls are scheduled this week as follows: Round 5:  Monday, January 26th, 2pm  Round 2:  Tuesday, January 27th, 11am              Round 4  Tuesday, January 27th 2pm Round 3:  Thursday, January 29th, 1pm               Round 1  Friday, January 30th, 10am Coalition Highlights Resilient West Central: Join Bloom University , co-lead for Resilient West Central, for a QPR Gatekeeper Training  focused on suicide awareness and prevention. This virtual session on January 28th at 10AM  equips participants with practical skills to recognize warning signs, offer support, and connect individuals to help. Additionally, coalition partner Coweta Family Connection  shared the 5th Annual Nonprofit Summit: Passport to Philanthropy  event that will take place February 12–13th  in Peachtree City. This   two-day event  will bring together more than 100 nonprofit leaders and professionals for high-impact, practical sessions focused on strengthening fundraising and organizational impact, along with meaningful networking opportunities. Widely praised by past attendees as a “must-go” event, the summit is an energizing way to start the year with new ideas and connections. Registration  and   sponsorship opportunities   are now open, and you can email   cowetafamilyconnection@gmail.com   for more information.  Resilient Chattahoochee Valley   is celebrating the relaunch of the Museum PALS (Pre-K Art & Literacy in Schools) program  in partnership with The Columbus Museum and United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley. After a year’s pause, PALS is back in 12 Muscogee County Pre-K classrooms, bringing monthly hands-on sessions that combine artwork exploration, storybook reading, and creative art activities to support early learning, literacy, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Teachers also receive materials and books to continue the learning throughout the month. This initiative builds on early childhood development strategies and strengthens classroom creativity and readiness for future success.    Parents, Caregivers and Families Marriage after Childhood Trauma: Troubled Relationships Can Be Turned Around:  By Dr. Glenn Schiraldi, this article expounds on challenges survivors of childhood trauma may face in their marriages as adults. Read the full article on PACEs Connection here .   Greater Good Parenting Talks - Parents Have Feelings, Too:   Join UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center for a free virtual parenting talk on Wednesday, February 11th at 1:30 PM . This live conversation features psychotherapists and co-authors Hilary Jacobs Hendel  and Juli Fraga  and will explore the emotional realities of parenting using research-backed tools. Based on their book Parents Have Feelings, Too , the session will cover core and inhibitory emotions, the role of attachment styles in parenting, and practical strategies to move from overwhelm toward calm, connection, and compassion. This event is open to parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting families. Register here!   Training for Adoption Competency - Professional Excellence Program:   The TAC program through Georgia State’s Professional Excellence Program has trained more than 120 clinicians, helping strengthen adoption-competent, trauma-informed support for children and families across Georgia. In helping support adoptive families in the state, this training plays an important role in better supporting families throughout the adoption journey. In addition to its impact for families, the training also offers a nice benefit for clinicians’ practices—participants who complete the program are listed in the TAC-certified website, which helps families and referral partners more easily find adoption-competent providers.  Professional Development and Events Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement:  Join this virtual informational session on February 12th at 2PM  to learn about the Endorsement for Culturally Sensitive, Relationship-Focused Practice Promoting Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health® (I/ECMH). This credential validates specialized knowledge, training, and experience in infant and early childhood mental health, ensuring professionals meet established competency standards. The session will cover the Competency Guidelines, Endorsement pathways and categories, and the steps to begin the application process. Register here!   3rd Annual VA Southeast Region Virtual Suicide Prevention Research Conference : This conference on February 25th  will bringing together researchers, clinicians, and partners to explore “Perspectives on Veteran Treatment and Support in Suicide Prevention.”  The conference will feature expert presentations on current and emerging VA suicide prevention interventions, the role of peer specialists, and perspectives on suicide prevention in reproductive health care settings for women Veterans. CEUs will be available across multiple disciplines, and the day will conclude with a showcase of best practices and innovations. Interfaith Children's Movement's 15th Annual Day at the Capitol:   Interfaith Children’s Movement (ICM)  is a statewide, interfaith nonprofit that mobilizes people of faith and goodwill to advocate for policies that help all children in Georgia thrive. In preparation for ICM’s Day at the Capitol on February 10th , ICM invites congregations and community partners to host Have a Heart Parties, gatherings where youth and adults write heartfelt messages to legislators reminding them to “Have a Heart” for children and families. Hosting is simple and flexible, no advocacy experience is needed, and ICM provides a complete Host Packet with step-by-step guidance. All parties should be completed by February 2 so cards can be prepared for legislators. To host or learn more, contact Aliza Ali, Student Advocacy & Engagement Specialist, at aliza.ali@icmgeorgia.org   Rural Health Rural Health Transformation Program First Year Award:   The Georgia Department of Community Health  announced that Georgia has been awarded $218.8 million for the first year of the five-year Rural Health Transformation Program through the GREAT Health Initiative. This funding, awarded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, will support efforts to strengthen rural healthcare systems, improve health outcomes, and introduce greater flexibility and innovation in care delivery across the state. Georgia’s award is one of the largest first-year allotments nationwide.    2026 Georgia Farm Stress Summit:   Save the date for the Georgia Farm Stress Summit on March 12th  in Fort Valley. A pre-conference Rural Mental Health Research Discussion and Farm Tour will take place on March 11th .  Youth Silence the Shame Upcoming Programs :   Silence the Shame  is launching a trauma-informed pilot initiative, Restoring Hope ,  in February to support youth in the Atlanta Metro area who are transitioning out of foster care and the juvenile justice system. The program helps youth navigate adult and behavioral health systems, build understanding of trauma, and learn how to access care, while also offering virtual Parent Cafés for parents and caregivers. Youth receive incentives for completing four training sessions, with transportation assistance available. For more information, you can check out their Interest Meeting recording here  (passcode: H@p6Ok+9). Silence the Shame is also hosting a community resource fair   on  April 18th from 12-3pm  and is seeking vendors and partners to support youth transitioning into adulthood; organizations serving this population are encouraged to share and connect.  Free Your Feels Youth Mental Health Advocacy Toolkit:   The FYF Mental Health Advocacy Toolkit brings together up-to-date tools, data, and resources from trusted organizations to support young people, caregivers, and professionals in advancing mental health advocacy. The toolkit highlights the role of youth as powerful drivers of change and emphasizes advocacy as a continuum, from self-advocacy and peer support to community and policy-level action. The resource focuses on breaking down stigma, increasing awareness, and promoting mental health equity by providing practical guidance and opportunities for engagement.  GCAPP Youth Advisory Council Application 2026-2027:   Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential  is accepting applications for its Youth Advisory Council for the 2026–2027  cycle. The council is open to Georgia residents ages 14–24 who are interested in leadership development, youth advocacy, and advancing adolescent health and well-being at the community and state levels. This is a one-year commitment beginning in March, with activities held through a mix of virtual and in-person meetings. Most meetings will be virtual, and GCAPP will cover all expenses related to in-person activities.   Applications are open through March 31, 2026.  THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

Welcome to the Monday Memo (Tuesday edition!). We hope you had a wonderful, elongated weekend in remembrance of the life and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Today we are highlighting resources related to education as well as a plethora of professional development, training and event opportunities. Before we dive in, here are a few RG highlights: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  Reminder: RG’s "Ignite" Coalition Building Training:  Join us tomorrow January 21st from 9-11am  for the virtual "Ignite" coalition-building training, based on Frances Dunn Butterfoss’s Ignite! We hope at least one representative from your coalition can attend! Email Nikki for an invite at nwarner@resilientga.org . See attached flyer for training details.     New Resources: Georgia PACEs Report Card & Regional Data Profiles:   Developed by Resilient Georgia and Georgia Essentials for Childhood, the Georgia PACEs Report Card highlights how Positive and Adverse Childhood Experiences impact children’s well-being across the state. By providing accessible statewide, regional, and county-level data, the report helps communities understand local needs, recognize the protective power of strong relationships and safe environments, and identify where prevention and support efforts are most needed. Federal Mental Health and Addiction Funding Faces Brief Termination: The Trump administration initially moved to terminate hundreds of federal grants supporting mental health and substance use services, affecting over 2,000 grants totaling approximately $2 billion. These cuts, announced on January 13, 2026, threatened critical services such as overdose prevention, naloxone distribution, peer recovery support, and school-based mental health programs. Experts and advocates warned that the abrupt defunding could shutter recovery centers and undermine safety nets. Following public reporting and widespread concern, the administration reversed its decision, confirming that some funding will be reinstated. Coalition Highlights Resilient Clayton co-lead, Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power and Potential , is hosting a Troup County Community Conversation .  This event will be Saturday, January 31st from 10AM-12PM  at the William Griggs Recreation Center in LaGrange. Parents, caregivers, and youth-serving professionals are invited to join a conversation focused on youth health and well-being. This conversation offers a welcoming space to listen, speak honestly, and be part of solutions that matter. Register here!   Cobb Collaborative  is hosting their Resilient Cobb Summit   on February 5th from 8:30AM-1:30PM . This free, CEU-approved professional development opportunity is designed to strengthen individual and community resilience through evidence-based, strengths-based practice. Participants will gain an expanded toolkit from expert-led workshops and panels, build cross-sector connections to support collaboration, and deepen their ability to center lived experience and community strengths in their work. The summit features a keynote by Dr. Ryan Breshears , Chief Behavioral Health Officer for Wellstar Health System; four breakout sessions covering play and healing, bias in care delivery, community collaboration, and suicide intervention; and a lunch panel on cultivating protective factors by honoring lived experience. CEUs are available for LMFT, LCSW, and Law Enforcement (POST hours). Register here! Resilient North Georgia:   The 2026 Reaching Teens Summit ,  hosted by Wellroot Family Services in collaboration with Resilient Georgia, is a two-day professional development experience designed to equip youth-serving professionals with practical, trauma-informed, and strength-based tools to build meaningful connections with young people. On February 26–27  at the NGUMC Conference Center in Duluth, the summit features keynote speaker Dr. Ken Ginsburg, a nationally recognized expert in adolescent resilience, along with sessions shaped by a multidisciplinary planning committee and youth advisors. Endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, registration is $50 and includes 8 CEUs, lunch, and a Radically Calm t-shirt. Space is limited. Learn more and register here .  Podcasts Ross Gay — Hope Portal, On Being with Krista Tippett Podcast:   In this episode of the On Being Podcast Ross Gay, poet, community gardener, and teacher, discusses the importance of practicing delight and joy alongside the work of repair and justice.  Gay shares how tending joy, gratitude, and everyday moments of beauty can be a sustaining force—especially in challenging times—and something we can practice daily. This episode is part of On Being ’s seven-part Hope Portal  series, offering short, reflective conversations designed to cultivate grounded, reality-based hope through wisdom, poetry, and lived practice.  Education 2026 Georgia Partnership Top Ten Issues to Watch Report : The Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE)  released its annual Top Ten Issues to Watch in 2026  report, highlighting priorities to improve student achievement and guide state policy. The report centers on a “North Star” goal: ensuring 65% of Georgia adults earn a post-secondary credential of value by 2033.  The report introduces the 2026 EdQuest Georgia State Policy Plan , outlining five core priorities through 2028: early care access, research-based K-12 strategies, high-value career pathways, teacher growth and excellence, and shared health and wellness infrastructure. These priorities are organized into three strategic areas:  Investing in Talent:  Expanding early learning access, streamlining career pathways, and supporting teacher quality through residencies, apprenticeships, and leadership opportunities.  Optimizing Local Strategies:  Addressing chronic absenteeism, improving K-3 literacy through reading coaches and tutoring, and expanding school-based community health hubs.  Aligning Priorities and Investments:  Enhancing post-secondary affordability and ROI, advancing rural transformation focused on talent and quality of life, and encouraging political leaders to adopt bipartisan strategies that support economic security and well-being.  Professional Development and Events Upcoming Trainings from the Georgia State Child Welfare Training Collaborative:   The Georgia State Child Welfare Training Collaborative is offering two upcoming virtual learning opportunities for caregivers and professionals. On Thursday, January 22nd (12:00–1:30 PM) , Understanding Rejection in Childhood and Emerging Adulthood  explores how experiences of loss, separation, and rejection can shape identity and belonging for adopted children and youth, with practical insights on fostering healing and resilience. On Thursday, January 29th (10:00–11:30 AM) , the Knowledge to Action Conversation on the Whole Family Approach to Working with Trauma and Resilience  features Ser Familia’s culturally responsive, whole-family approach to reducing mental health stigma and strengthening Latino families. Both sessions offer valuable perspectives and tools to support children, youth, and families.  Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) Facilitator Training  The Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) Facilitator Training, hosted by the Clarke County School District Office of Early Learning, is a comprehensive professional development opportunity for those working with families and caregivers. Held January 27–30th  in Athens, GA, this training draws on decades of research in attachment, neuroscience, and child development. Participants will learn to facilitate the COSP program using video-based  learning, guided reflection, and relationship-centered strategies that support caregivers in understanding children’s needs and strengthening secure attachments. Designed for mental health providers, educators, family support staff, home visitors, and DFCS workers, the $1,200 fee includes all training materials, online resources, and a license to implement COSP with caregivers.  Strolling Thunder 2026: Little Ones & Their Grownups Advocate at the GA Capitol:   GEEARS: Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students   is hosting the ninth annual Strolling Thunder, a kid-friendly advocacy event that brings families from across Georgia together to share their experiences raising young children directly with elected officials. The first part of the event is a required virtual training to help participants prepare for meetings at the Georgia State Capitol and effectively share their stories. There are two identical training options: January 17th from 10-11AM  or January 22nd from 12-1PM . The second part of the event will take place in person on Thursday, January 29th from 8AM – 1PM . Infants through five-year-olds, as well as expectant parents, are welcome. Families will gather at the Freight Room at the Georgia Freight Depot for food, activities, and giveaways before meeting with legislators. Participating families will receive a gift card. Learn more and register here!   HBR Press Webinar: The Emotionally Intelligent Team   On January 26th from 8-9AM , The   AVT Business School   will host a virtual session titled Building Collaborative Groups that Outperform the Rest, featuring social and organizational psychologist Vanessa Urch Druskat . The session will explore how emotional intelligence at the group level supports effective collaboration and high performing teams, with a focus on building shared norms and habits that strengthen team culture. Drawing on thirty years of research, Druskat will present practical strategies for leaders and teams. Registration includes access to the live event and a full recording, and the event is free for HBR subscribers and followers. Learn more and register here!   Bridgespan Webinar: Strategic Planning in Times of Uncertainty   Join this interactive webinar on January 21st from 2–3PM  to learn how nonprofit leaders can approach strategic planning in ways that remain practical, adaptive, and mission focused amid ongoing change. Participants will learn a step-by-step approach to strategic planning, strategies for adapting plans in uncertain environments, and practical tools and templates informed by The Bridgespan Group ’s  work with mission driven organizations to support confident decision making and sustained impact. Register here!   THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM! “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter...The time is always right to do what is right.” -Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Happy New Year, partners! We hope you had a restful and rejuvenating holiday season. Our first Monday Memo of 2026 highlights resources related to advocacy and policy, child wellbeing, education, funding, professional development, and workforce development. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  2026 Youth Prevention Network Training:   In partnership with the CWC Alliance ,  this youth prevention training   equips youth and adult leaders with practical tools for mental wellness, leadership, and prevention advocacy. Youth Prevention Advocates (ages 13–20) receive hands-on training, while Youth Prevention Mentors support and co-facilitate their efforts in schools and communities. Participants are compensated for their time ($15/hour for youth and $20/hour for mentors), with transportation support available. Interested groups can submit the YPN Training Request  to share their input so 2026 scheduling can begin. Please share widely!   Join the Handle with Care Georgia Taskforce:   These monthly calls bring together partners from across the state who are implementing or exploring implementation of the HWC initiative into their school districts. Held virtually one Friday/month from 10–11am, these Zoom meetings provide a space to share successes, address challenges, and collaborate with others working to better support children. Interested participants are encouraged to complete the interest form  to receive a calendar invite and Zoom link.  19th Coalition Launched! Resilient Georgia is proud to announce the launch of Resilient South Central Georgia, marking   the  19th regional coalition  in its growing statewide network. Serving Appling, Candler, Emanuel, Evans, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Tattnall, Toombs, and Wayne Counties, out newest coalition will advance trauma-informed care, resilience-building, and behavioral health support through cross-sector collaboration, education, and ACEs prevention efforts. Led by champions across Georgia Family Connection Partnership and Share Health Southeast GA, Resilient South Central Georgia strengthens our mission to ensure every community has access to the resources needed to help children, families, and communities thrive.  Reminder: RG’s "Ignite" Coalition Building Training:  Join us on January 21st from 9-11am  for the virtual "Ignite" coalition-building training, based on Frances Dunn Butterfoss’s Ignite! We hope at least one representative from your coalition can attend! Email Nikki for an invite at nwarner@resilientga.org . See attached flyer for training details.   Coalition Highlights Resilient Gwinnett:  Join the Gwinnett Coalition Friday, January 16  for an interactive data session  exploring key insights on children, families, and health equity in Gwinnett. Registration is free!  Additionally, Jessica Andrews-Wilson  was named the 2025 International Prevention Specialist of the Year . As Executive Director of GUIDE, Inc .  and a valued board member of Gwinnett Coalition and Resilient Georgia partner, her leadership continues to make a lasting impact. Congrats, Jessica!  Building a Region of Resilience Northwest Georgia  is excited to announce their revamped training series . Empower your team with the Learning Journey ,  a professional video training series that supports a "common language" for understanding the systemic roots of poverty and the biological impact of trauma. The training can be implemented as self-directed study or facilitated with a group. It's great for onboarding and orientation of staff, board, volunteers, and coalition members. Perfect for educators, healthcare workers, social service providers and community leaders, these video-guided workshops offer practical tools to build a more compassionate, trauma-informed region. The curriculum features   four interactive, 90-minute modules  on the following:  Poverty & Trauma 101:  Understand root causes and brain development Self-Care 101 & Systems Change 201:  Prevent burnout and drive organizational shifts    ARCHI  invites partners to its upcoming webinar, Federal Policy, Local Impact: Understanding Georgia’s Health Care Landscape ,  tomorrow, January 13 from 1–2 pm . This webinar will feature experts from Georgia Watch , Georgians for a Healthy Future ,   the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute , and the Georgia Health Initiative,   who will explore how shifting federal policies may impact health coverage, affordability, and equity in Georgia, drawing from GHI’s recent policy paper to help participants navigate an uncertain year ahead. Register here!  Advocacy and Policy Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice Opportunities:   CTIPP is advancing trauma-informed advocacy through several upcoming initiatives, including its first-ever Congressional Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. on March 27, 2026 , which will provide advocates an opportunity for direct engagement w ith federal officials. CTIPP also continues to convene its monthly CTIPP CAN advocacy calls ,  offering community, networking, resource sharing, and practical federal advocacy strategies that support trauma-informed work at all levels. These calls are held on the third Wednesday of every month at 2pm and are open to anyone interested in the trauma-informed movement. This month’s call will be Wednesday, January 21st at 2PM . Register here!   Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies Maternal Health Awareness Day 2026   will be   January 21, from 10am–4pm   at the Georgia State Capitol , hosted by the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia .  This statewide advocacy day brings together mothers, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and advocates for community conversations, powerful speakers, and direct engagement with legislators to advance maternal and infant health policies.   Register here! Child Wellbeing Kempe Center 2025 Impact Report:   The Kempe Center  for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect released an impact report on the work the organization has done between 2024 and 2025. The report highlights work like the school mental health support program (SMSHP) which trains public school educators to provide mental health support to students to impactful advocacy work the organization has done in the capitol. Education Georgia Education Climate Coalition - Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice:   T he Georgia Education Climate Coalition will kick off its first meeting of 2026 on Thursday, January 15, from 12–2 pm   (virtual). The meeting will feature Jeannie Morris from the Office of Whole Child Supports, who will share an overview of the statewide rollout of the Georgia Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (GaMTSS) framework and its role in integrating academic, behavioral, and wellbeing supports for students. Participants will also have time to discuss 2026 legislative priorities and explore opportunities for collaboration and mutual support.   Submit an interest form if you’d like to join the education climate coalition!     Understanding HB 268: Georgia's New School Safety Legislation Webinar:   T his recording offers an overview of Georgia’s new comprehensive school safety law, HB 268. The session features legislative experts who break down key elements of HB 268, outline implementation steps, and discuss how districts can meet compliance requirements while strengthening school safety.  Funding Dobb's Foundation Letters of Inquiry for 2026 Grantmaking Cycle:   The   R. Howard Dobbs Foundation   is now accepting Letters of Inquiry for its next grantmaking cycle, supporting Georgia-based, mission-driven organizations focused on health, education, environment, and special projects. Priority areas include youth mental health and resilience, innovative and equitable education solutions, environmental stewardship, and systems-level efforts, particularly in underserved regions. The LOI’s are due January 26th, with an optional LOI info session on January 13 from 3–4PM , and funding decisions expected in late March. Submit an LOI here!   Professional Development 12th Annual Coastal Georgia Mental Health Symposium - REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS:   The Coastal Georgia Regional Community Collaborative is now accepting presentation proposals for the Coastal Georgia Mental Health Symposium on May 14th at Georgia Southern University–Armstrong Campus . This free event will center on the theme “Connection to Community and Care” and seeks presentations that highlight innovation, collaboration, and impact across the mental health continuum. The proposal submission deadline is March 6th and community members, providers, advocates, and partners are encouraged to submit and share this opportunity widely. Submit a proposal here.   Workforce and Mental Health 11 Workplace Mental Health Reads for Every Organization:   Check out this curated reading list for workplace mental health from Mind Share Partners ,  featuring 11 recommended articles that help leaders stay grounded in the core principles of building mentally healthy, supportive work environments. These reads are great for people leaders, HR professionals, and anyone invested in strengthening mental health at work. J ob Opportunities at Changing Lanes Intervention Human Services (CLIHS):   CLIHS has several job opportunities across behavioral health and human services open. Positions include a Remote Billing Specialist  with experience in mental health and related systems, Behavior Technicians/Registered Behavior Therapists serving clinics, homes, and daycares across multiple Georgia communities, and part-time, fully licensed Mental Health Counselors  with options for in-person or remote work. Interested applicants can visit this webpage  to view openings and submit an application.  THANK YOU FROM THE RESILIENT GEORGIA TEAM!

This is our final Monday Memo of 2025! As we head into the holiday season, we’ll be pausing our memo and will resume on January 12th.   This edition is filled with a multitude of inspiring coalition spotlights, upcoming trainings, and resources supporting rural communities and youth across Georgia. We’re grateful for the dedication, collaboration, and care you’ve shared throughout the year, and we hope this season brings you moments of rest, reflection, and joy. Before we dive in, here are a few reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights 2025 Regional Coalition Summary Report:     We recently published the updated 2025 Regional Coalition Summary Report  that highlights the powerful work of 19 regional coalitions serving 146 counties across Georgia. Together, these coalitions are reducing mental health stigma, preventing and healing childhood adversity, advancing trauma-informed awareness and care, and promoting resilience for children and families. Explore the report to learn more about our collective regional impact. Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026!   This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  Managing Holiday Stress Awareness Toolkit:   Free your Feels ,  a youth mental health awareness campaign launched by Voices for Georgia’s Children  and Georgia DBHDD , released their newest toolkit for the holiday season. The toolkit includes resources to cope with holiday seasonal stress and tips for adults, parents & caregivers, teens, and educators & professionals. Thank you to everyone who filled out our end-of-year survey! Partners reported a clear understanding of the statewide vision and priorities, view RG as a trusted convener, and value the technical assistance and leadership approach. The feedback also highlighted opportunities to streamline reporting, support leader wellbeing, and make touchpoints even more meaningful and action-oriented. We have already put some of this feedback into action by shaping our   2026 calendar  and meeting schedule, combining Coalition Connections and Peer-to-Peer Network meetings into three Peer Connections in April, July, and October, offering another optional cohort of PART, an in-person Mindful Self-Compassion Retreat, and virtual Ignite Coalition Building and Evaluation Workshops. As we move into 2026, we remain committed to listening, streamlining, and refining our supports in ways that honor your time and help you build capacity and maintain your personal wellbeing. NEW! 2026 Conference List:   We’re sharing a curated list of  2026 conferences  focused on mental health, trauma-informed care, and child and family wellbeing. We’ll continue to update our list and share as new details are confirmed. Coalition Highlights Resilient Communities of East Georgia:  RCEG’s partner, Child Enrichment , is hosting a  Coffee & Conversation  with newly appointed Chief Juvenile Court Judge Tianna Bias, creating an open and welcoming space for community members to learn how the juvenile court system impacts the lives of young people and to explore resources available to support children and families. The event will take place Wednesday, January 7th from 8–9:30AM  at Child Enrichment. Additionally, they are also seeking  Brand Ambassadors to represent the organization at community events and share its mission. This is an opportunity to gain experience in outreach, child development, and trauma-informed care while supporting child advocacy efforts. Cobb Collaborative , lead partner for Resilient GA Northwest Metro ,  is in the midst of planning their annual Resiliency Week   February 2nd-7th.  Events include an in-person GSU Child Welfare Training, a partner breakfast, a film screening on "Resilience", the 5th annual Resilient Cobb Summit , a Basics Playground Palooza, and a Wellness Walk!    Resilient WEST:   United Way of West Georgia  is seeking a Program Director for the Troup County Trauma-Responsive Community Collaborative . Check out the job description and learn how to apply here . Please send a resume and cover letter including three things you bring to this work to sharon.alford@local.unitedway.org .  Resilient Clayton: We’re excited to celebrate Shay Peoples  of Resilient Clayton, who has been accepted into the  2026 cohort of Leadership Clayton ! This program develops leaders through immersive learning focused on community leadership, civic engagement, and regional impact. Shay’s selection reflects their commitment to strengthening Clayton County through collaboration, service, and systems-level change, and we’re proud to see Resilient Clayton represented in this influential leadership space. Resilient North Georgia : Wellroot Family Services, lead for RNG, is hosting their 2026 Reaching Teens Summit   on February 26–27  at the North Georgia Conference Center in Duluth. Backed by the American Academy of Pediatrics and led by Dr. Ken Ginsburg, this two-day, trauma-informed conference brings together educators, clinicians, social workers, coalition leaders, and youth-serving professionals to build transformational relationships with youth. The $50 conference pass includes access to the keynote training, interactive breakout sessions, 8 CEUs, lunch, and a “Radically Calm” t-shirt. Breakout sessions will highlight community-led work, and youth-serving partners or coalition leaders interested in presenting are encouraged to reach out to Christina Lennon at clennon@wellroot.org .   Register here! Funding Blank Foundation awards $25M to support new mental health strategy: The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation  announced it has committed $25 million this year to nonprofits that support mental health and well-being for youth and their families. For the next 10 years, the foundation's grants for its mental health and well-being program division will focus on three areas: establishing strong emotional bonds between parents and their infants; developing resilient children with a sense of belonging; and helping teens have a healthy relationship with digital technology. Training New Training Offerings from Georgia Center! The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy  is offering low-cost trainings in January and February, ranging from $20–$30. Upcoming trainings include Connections Matter, Courage to Care (a child sexual abuse prevention training replacing the Darkness to Light curriculum), and a Human Trafficking Prevention training.   For training dates, details, and registration, click here.    Changing Lanes Intervention Human Services  is an Approved Continuing Education Provider (ACEP) by the Board of Behavior Analysis, with CEUs focused on mental health, intervention, self-care and supervision. They provide various courses that can help behavioral health professionals sharpen skills or expand your knowledge with techniques for bettering communication and increasing motivation in relationships (beneficial for parents). The Behavior Coach Certification 8-week course includes one-on-one support and personalized curriculum. They offer CEUs to Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), as well as Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs); and offer professional development units to Registered Behavior Therapists (RBTs). Other professionals, community members, and parents are also welcome to explore training opportunities through CLIHS.   FREE Upcoming ASIST Suicide Intervention Training!   The VFW in Fairburn is partnering with Engage Life’s Choices  to offer a free, two-day ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training)  workshop on January 5–6, 2026. This training is open to anyone age 16+ who wants to help prevent suicide. This evidence-based, globally recognized training equips participants to recognize suicide risk, engage in life-saving conversations, and help keep people safe using practical tools and real-time practice. Led by highly experienced ASIST-certified trainers, this workshop strengthens the circle of safety and helps build suicide-safer communities across Georgia. For questions please reach out to admin@elc4training.org .   Register   here!   Rural Mental Health Alcohol Use Disorder Among Women In Rural America    Rural Minds  released a recorded webinar on alcohol use disorder among women in rural America. Hosted by various doctors, professors, and individuals with personal accounts, this series highlights the unique challenges women in rural America face related to alcohol use disorder. The holidays can be especially difficult for folks that struggle with substance use, so please share as you see fit!  Youth and Young Adult Become a Georgia Teen Institute Staff Member! Our partners at GUIDE, Inc. are now accepting staff applications for Georgia Teen Institute (GTI) 2026 , a transformative summer leadership program taking place in June.  Volunteers ages 15 and older are needed to serve as Youth, Young Adult, and Adult Staff,  supporting youth-led action teams from across Georgia as they build leadership, communication, and prevention-focused skills while creating positive community change.   Apply by January 9 at 11:59 pm EST   to be part of an engaging, impactful, and unforgettable experience. Please share with the youth and young adults in your network!

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights child and youth wellbeing, professional development and resources for healthcare professionals, as well as workplace wellbeing. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights NEW! 2025 Regional Coalition Summary Report:    We recently published the updated 2025 Regional Coalition Summary Report  that highlights the powerful work of 19 regional coalitions serving 146 counties across Georgia. Together, these coalitions are reducing mental health stigma, preventing and healing childhood adversity, advancing trauma-informed awareness and care, and promoting resilience for children and families. Explore the report to learn more about our collective regional impact. Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  2026 Youth Prevention Network Training:   In partnership with the CWC Alliance ,  this youth prevention training   equips youth and adult leaders with practical tools for mental wellness, leadership, and prevention advocacy. Youth Prevention Advocates (ages 13–20) receive hands-on training, while Youth Prevention Mentors support and co-facilitate their efforts in schools and communities. Participants are compensated for their time ($15/hour for youth and $20/hour for mentors), with transportation support available. Interested groups can submit the YPN Training Request  to share their input so 2026 scheduling can begin. Please share widely!   New Power of Healing Blog!   “ Thank You, Cancer: A Story of Breaking Down and Breaking Through”  by Kayleigh Heard :  In the final blog of our Power of Healing Series, Kayleigh shares her rare cancer diagnosis and how it transformed her understanding of resilience, body acceptance, and self-advocacy. After years of dismissed symptoms, traumatic treatment, and life-altering decisions, she finds strength in vulnerability and gratitude for the body that kept her alive. Her journey highlights how facing mortality can rebuild life with authenticity and courage.  Coalition Highlights Building a Region of Resilience Northwest Georgia:   Building a Region of Resilience of NWGA published a newsletter for November 2025 , highlighting the work the coalition is doing, upcoming and past events, resources for growth, and toolkits. Additionally, in October, 68 regional partners gathered for their “ From Awareness to Action in Trauma-Informed Care” Regional Summit.  Coordinated by Georgia Family Connection Coordinators in Northwest Georgia, the event strengthened understanding of trauma-informed practices and sparked interest in continued training and community-wide action across multiple counties. Thank you BRRNWGA for all you do! Resilient Coastal Georgia:   Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition and Resilient Coastal Georgia hosted a Handle with Care recognition ceremony  honoring first responders on November 13th. First responders were honored for their work and commitment for helping children exposed to trauma after training with the  Handle with Care (HWC)  program. This program connects first responders, schools, and community organizations to ensure children who experience traumatic events are met with compassion and support. If your region would like to learn more about implementing HWC into your community,  join our statewide taskforce! We host monthly support meetings for the HWC initiative.  Child Wellbeing Voices for Georgia's Children 2025: A Year in Review:   Voices for Georgia’s Children has published their 2025 year in review! This report highlights the impact the organization has had in the last year, like successfully advocating for expanding school social workers budgets in the FY26 to their path forward like conducting groundbreaking research. Read through the comprehensive guide here .  Child care crisis deepens as funding slashed for poor families:   The Hechinger Report outlines childcare funding problems across the nation as federal dollars are cutting childcare programs. The article highlights states like Arkansas, Colorado and more who have had significant cuts to childcare assistance programs, reducing low-income families’ ability to utilize such programs. Read the full article here .  Integrating Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health into the CCBHC Model: A Toolkit for Action   A  toolkit from ZERO TO THREE on integrating infant and early childhood mental health into the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC) model. The toolkit features an introduction into the topic and a guide for integrating and implementing CCBHC services. Read the guide   here .   Education Parents sound alarm over state of mental health help in Fayette County Public Schools:  Parents recently raised concerns about gaps in mental health supports within Fayette County Public Schools, underscoring the need for stronger, more accessible school-based behavioral health services. This conversation reflects the ongoing work of the School Based Behavioral Health Collaborative, which includes partners such as Fayette Factor, GA Appleseed, The Carter Center, and VOICEs for Georgia’s Children. Leaders like Dawn (Fayette Factor and co-lead of Resilient West Central GA) work alongside families, schools, and policymakers to advance trauma-informed, evidence-based supports that help students thrive both academically and emotionally. Healthcare SCERTS Model Trainings by Georgia Mental Health Access in Pediatrics | Eventbrite:   This free training series introduces the  Social, Communication, Emotional Regulation, Transactional Support (SCERTS) model . This model is an evidence-based and relationship-based approach for children and adolescents with autism. The trainings are  January 22 and March 19 at 12PM.   Providers will participate in Level 1 introductory and Level 2 advanced training. Impact of Federal Policy Changes to Georgia's Health Care Landscape : Georgia Health Initiative  reports on the impact of the federal ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ on Georgia’s healthcare landscape. Some impacts the report mentions are  up to 460,000 Georgia Access Enrollees losing insurance, $5.4 billion in federal SDP cuts, and 46,500 lost jobs. Read the full report   here .  Georgetown CCF Data – Children's Health Care Report Card:   This is a child and maternal health report which reports on national trends in child health. The site features interactive data visualizations on health insurance, research and reports, fact sheets, and webinars on child and maternal health trends and policy solutions.   Workplace Wellbeing A practical guide on how to secure leadership buy-in and budget for workplace mental health:   Mindshare Partners shares a guide for HR professionals to navigate getting leadership to invest in workplace mental health. This comprehensive guide walks user through tying mental health to core business priorities.  Workplace Mental Health Trends 2025: Key Insights & Future Outlook:   Another resource from Mindshare Partners  includes key insights into 2025 workplace mental health trends. Leave from work related to mental health is up 300% and in 2025 federal cuts and disruptions to resources like worker safety protections and Medicaid as well as increasing adoption to AI all left workers with fear and anxiety. Read the full article here .

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights seasonal resources, education, rural mental health, suicide prevention, youth, as well as a variety of professional development opportunities. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights Regional Coalition Events Reminder:  Please submit your scheduled coalition events for 2026! This calendar is housed on the RG website and is a great way to showcase upcoming trainings, summits, and partner activities across the state. As a reminder, please submit your coalition events here.   We appreciate your support in keeping this webpage up-to-date!  2026 Youth Prevention Network Training:   In partnership with the CWC Alliance ,  this youth prevention training   equips youth and adult leaders with practical tools for mental wellness, leadership, and prevention advocacy. Youth Prevention Advocates (ages 13–20) receive hands-on training, while Youth Prevention Mentors support and co-facilitate their efforts in schools and communities. Participants are compensated for their time ($15/hour for youth and $20/hour for mentors), with transportation support available. Interested groups can submit the YPN Training Request  to share their input so 2026 scheduling can begin. Please share widely!   Grant Support from Teresa Raetz at Transcend Advisory Group:   In a recent blog post, Building Grant-Ready Organizations Through Trauma- and Resilience-Informed Practices ,  we shared how Dr. Teresa Raetz is helping coalitions become “grant-ready” by embedding trauma- and resilience-informed practices into organizational culture. Teresa also offers coalition partners customized grant-prospecting support using her tool Instrumentl, generating tailored lists of potential funding opportunities based on each coalition’s unique focus areas. Teresa created a short video overview of this process, using past work for partners like Vashti Center and Resilient Communities of East GA as examples. For more information about her services, you can email her directly at traetz@transcendadvisorygroup.com .  South Georgia Healthy Start   is excited to announce a new referral partnership with the Georgia Fund for Perinatal Mental Health through PSI GA, which offers eligible Georgia residents 10 free telehealth therapy sessions with a licensed perinatal mental health specialist, plus free virtual support groups. Applications open at noon on the 1st of each month ,  but case managers can begin referrals now for pregnant and postpartum individuals or those who have experienced a perinatal loss within the past year. (Spanish flyer here)   Coalition Highlights The Vashti Center : Our co-lead for  Resilient Communities of Southwest Georgia  has begun the search for its next Executive Director , an important milestone as the organization prepares for its next chapter of growth and impact. The Board has shared a detailed Leadership Profile  outlining the role and qualities they’re seeking in their next leader.   We encourage our network to share this opportunity widely to help identify strong, mission-aligned candidates! Resilient West Central Georgia :   RWCG is hosting their monthly coalition meeting centered on building a more resilient, trauma-informed community on December 18 from 11:30AM-12:30PM !  Join the Zoom   here . Additionally, RWCG co-lead, Bloom Fosters, is hosting a virtual  Strengthening Resilience  training tomorrow December 9th at 10am. Register here! Seasonal Highlights  The “Happiest” Time of The Year: Tips for Managing Holiday Stress: NAMI    This resource explores how to protect one’s mental health during the holidays, like finding time to decompress and accept imperfections. Furthermore, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Mental Health America  come pocket guides to dealing with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Read through the guides here on how to support yourself and others with SAD: Beating the Winter Blues   Life with Seasonal Affective Disorder   YAC Holiday Headspace Toolkit 2025:   The Silence the Shame  Youth Advisory Council (YAC) created a Holiday Headspace Toolkit to help young people manage the emotional ups and downs of the season. Developed through youth-led conversations and collaboration, the toolkit offers practical self-care tips, mindfulness activities, creative expression ideas, reflections, affirmations, and three podcast episodes focused on holiday mental wellness. This project reflects YAC’s mission to elevate youth voices and promote mental health literacy. They invite you to explore and share the toolkit to support ongoing, year-round conversations about youth mental health.    Education Reshaping Reading Instruction In U.S. Public Schools to Support the 60% of Children in America who are Coping with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Potentially Life-Long Traumas   A growing body of research shows that more than 60% of U.S. children are coping with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), yet current “Science of Reading” laws in 42 states fail to account for the profound impact trauma has on learning. National data reveals worsening child health, rising mortality, and increasing exposure to violence, poverty, and environmental stressors—conditions that significantly shape children’s cognitive, emotional, and literacy development. To support child well-being and improve learning outcomes, schools must adopt trauma-informed, relationship-centered literacy practices that build resilience and honor the complex realities children bring into the classroom. Read more   here .  Professional Development Human Trafficking Awareness Seminars   January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month and our partner DeAndre Marshall hosts trainings and events on human trafficking/exploitation. Marshall educates parents and youth on recognizing signs of human trafficking/exploitation, how to protect oneself, and how to advocate for change. DeAndre Marshall led one of our first Lunch and Learns in 2022.  Check out the recording here and learn more about her work   here .  Powerful Evidence: Evaluation for Non-Evaluators — Community Evaluation Solutions:   Sign up for a course on evaluation, geared towards non-evaluators. This course is $99 and includes 7 modules, 5+ hours of guided content, and 8+ page workbook for those interested in practical insights and strategies on collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and sharing evidence to support your organization’s impact and inform strategic decision-making. Learn more here .  What’s Going on with Health Coverage—And Can It Be More Affordable?:   From the Robert W. Johnson Foundation  for a virtual briefing exploring current healthcare coverage trends and considerations for policymakers in 2026. This free virtual event is on   December 18 at 12 PM EST , register here .  Early Childhood Changemakers Summit - GEEARS   Georgia Early Education Alliance for Ready Students is hosting its inaugural Early Childhood Changemakers Summit on December 14–15 in Macon.   The event will gather parents, caregivers, and community leaders from across Georgia for two days of connection, strategy-building, and inspiration focused on strengthening early learning, health, and family systems. The summit includes a mixer and dinner on December 14, followed by a full convening on December 15. Learn more and register here! Rural Mental Health Workforce Solutions Jam | The Future of Rural Behavioral Health - The College for Behavioral Health Leadership:   This webinar co-hosted by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing will explore the future of rural behavioral health, scalable solutions, and partnerships within communities to support the rural behavioral health workforce on December 16 from 1-2 PM.   Learn more and register   here .  Rural mental health resources | Mental Health America:   This comprehensive resource from Mental Health America  explores backgrounds of the mental health challenges rural areas face, treatment and support, youth mental health in rural areas as well as farming and agricultural mental health, and many extra resources for supporting rural mental health. Suicide Prevention  Trends and Unseen Risks in AAAI Youth Suicide— Lotus Project:   Join the  Lotus Project  on December 16 from 12-1:30 PM  for a free webinar on trends and unseen risks in Asian American and Asian Immigrant youth (AAAI). This webinar will highlight incorporating culturally responsive prevention and suicide intervention strategies for AAAI youth. Learn more and register here .  The acute suicide crisis among veterinarians: 'You're always going to be failing somebody':   This BBC article uncovers the high suicide rates among veterinarians. Veterinarians have a high suicide rate compared to the rest of the population and experience high work-related stress, anxiety, or depression. Read the full article uncovering this mental health crisis here .  Youth Supporting young minds | Mental Health America:   From Mental Health America  comes a helpful resource on supporting youth mental health. This kit includes resources and tools for helping youth with their mental health, build resilience, equip adults to encourage advocacy and leadership for youth, as well as a space for hearing young people. Navigate the site here   to access printables, graphics, and other resources for youth mental health. Grounding Youth Well-Being in Community Context - The Annie E. Casey Foundation:   The Annie E. Casey Foundation  has shared a new action guide from Penn State for local coalitions to learn how to integrate the voices, values, and histories of their communities into the work they do in order to improve public systems for youth and families. This free guide   explores strong examples of relevant work in states supporting children and families in communities and how to apply these lessons in your own community.

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights child development, education, JEDI resources, as well as a variety of professional development and job opportunities. Please note: We will be pausing the Monday Memo next week following the Thanksgiving holiday. We hope everyone enjoys a restful and restorative break. The Memo will resume on Monday, December 8. We wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!  Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights Thank you to everyone who joined us for our   General Meeting Showcase on Youth Mental Health  earlier this month!  We’re grateful to our regional partners for sharing their incredible youth-focused initiatives. For anyone who missed the session—or would like to revisit the content—you can now access the recording, slide deck, and follow-up resource document using the links below. We hope these materials support your ongoing efforts to uplift youth, strengthen partnerships, and foster resilience across Georgia.  General Meeting Recording General Meeting Slides General Meeting Follow-Up Resource Document November Power of Healing Blog: The Day My Heart Spoke: A Journey from Burnout to Healing  by Dr. Shannon Hervey : In this month’s Power of Healing blog,  Dr. Shannon Hervey from Gwinnett Coalition reflects on how burnout and a sudden health crisis forced her to slow down, set boundaries, and rediscover rest. Her story is a powerful reminder that true resilience begins with caring for ourselves. As we enter the holiday season, we hope everyone takes time to rest, recharge, and care for their well-being. Emory Biokind Analytics Partnership Interest:  Emory Biokind  is a student-run organization that partners with Georgia-based healthcare nonprofits to support their mission through free data analysis services. Their team works with partners to transform raw data into meaningful insights that help organizations communicate their impact, identify emerging needs, or strengthen programs.  If your organization collects data and would be interested in collaborating, please reach out to the nonprofit coordinators, Arwen Chang and Sammy McClintock, at arwen.chang@emory.edu  and sammy.mcclintock@emory.edu . New Resource: Food Insecurity Guide: We’re excited to share our newly developed Food Insecurity Resource Guide , created to help partners quickly identify supports, programs, and strategies that address food access challenges in communities throughout the holiday season. This tool offers practical information and easy-to-use links to connect families with nutritious, reliable food options. Feel free to share widely with your networks! Please also consider donating to your local food banks during this time. Coalition Highlights Resilient Chattahoochee Valley   c elebrates the certification of three new Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® trainers —Jarvis Hamilton, Christina Young, and Imani Jones. CRM is a skills-based approach that helps individuals and communities manage stress, reduce burnout, and strengthen resilience by understanding the body’s nervous system. These trainers are now equipped to bring practical wellness tools to educators, first responders, families, and organizations across the region. Thank you for making this a priority, RCV! Resilient Northwest Metro Coalition (Previously Cobb Collaborative):  Cobb Collaborative’s coalition has expanded into Cherokee and Douglas and has rebranded to Resilient Northwest Metro! Check out their new blog, Unmasking the Stigma: Thunderbolts Gritty Look at Trauma & Healing   which explores how Marvel’s “Thunderbolts” tackles mental health and trauma in a raw, human way—showing characters who struggle with depression, PTSD, addiction, and shame. The film humanizes their healing journey, emphasizing connection, compassion, and collective support as real paths to recovery.  Resilient Northeast Georgia :  The Athens Area Community Foundation  is offering  two free Community Resiliency Model (CRM) trainings on January 7th from 11AM–1PM and January 21st from 2PM–4PM . Additionally, check out their Trauma 101 Webinar   here  or Trauma-Informed Toolkit here . Child Development Supporting Young Children Affected by Family Separation Policies | ZERO TO THREE:   From Zero to Three  is a comprehensive resource on supporting young children affected by ongoing family separation policies. The guide goes through latest statistics, news trauma-informed resources, and other helpful resources for childcare professionals. Read through the toolkit   here .  Connecting Early Childhood Development to Climate Change - YouTube:   This webinar from Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University  focuses on early childhood development in regard to climate change.  Watch the webinar here .  A Guide to Communicating About Early Childhood Development:   Additionally, The Center on the Developing Child  developed a resource on communicating about early childhood development. This toolkit draws together a wide variety of resources around early childhood development while highlighting social issues like systemic racism and climate change. Look through the full resource here .  Education Maximizing Opportunity Amid Evolving Federal & State Roles in Education:   The Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education (GPEE) is hosting a free event on December 11th from 9:30 AM-12 PM   that will explore the landscape of education governance, funding, accountability, and innovation in the Georgia education system. Learn more and register here .  Interpersonal Violence and Support Nia Project | Emory School of Medicine:   Emory University's  Nia project received an award for program extension! The Nia Project offers trauma-informed culturally-responsive free care that empowers economically marginalized women with a history of interpersonal abuse and suicidal behavior to be resilient, heal, find purpose, and engage in their communities. Read the full story   here .  JEDI Only Solidarity Can Defeat Division:   A recent blog post from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation  highlights cross-racial and cross-movement solidarity. Authors Trevor Smith and Savannah Romero speak about the coalition they founded, the Black Liberation-Indigenous Sovereignty (BLIS Collective), which envisions a space to build solidarity, collective power, and community. Read the full story here .  Podcast: Understanding Racism’s Impact on Child Development : From the Center on the Developing Child’s podcast Brain Architects   “Understanding Racism’s Impact on Child Development- Working Toward Fairness of Place in the United States” features key researchers who explore how racism impacts a young child’s development and how racism contributes to inequity in access for places children live, grow, play and learn. List here .   Job Opportunities University of Georgia | Social Media and Marketing Specialist:   Apply to be social media and marketing specialist with the University of Georgia! The specialist will spearhead efforts to plan, create, and manage digital and print marketing content, social media campaigns, and work with program and community parents. Read the full job description and apply   here . University of Georgia | Outreach and Recruitment Coordinator:   Apply to be an outreach and recruitment coordinator at the University of Georgia! The coordinator will work on developing and strengthening relationships with community organizations, agencies, and leaders who connect couples to ECG workshops and services. Read the full job description and apply   here .   Professional Development The Strengths Small and Midsize Nonprofits Build on to Create a Resilient Funding Strategy | Bridgespan:   An article from Bridgespan highlights ways smaller sized nonprofits can utilize their strengths and assets to develop strong funding strategies which are resilient. Explore this resource here ! Additionally, Bridgespan is hosting a webinar on the same topic on December 9 at 2 PM.  Sign up here .

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights addiction & recovery, parents & caregivers, pets & mental health, professional development, workforce, and youth resources. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights Thank you to everyone who joined us for last week’s General Meeting Showcase on Youth Mental Health!   Stay tuned — the meeting recording and resources will be available soon. NEW Southeast Coalition Leads!  Resilient Communities of Marshland Georgia   has launched under new leadership to strengthen trauma-informed care and mental health support across Bulloch, Camden, Glynn, Liberty, Long, and McIntosh counties. Now guided by Family Connection Region 12 in partnership with Safe Harbor Center, coalition efforts will include training in the Community Resiliency Model, Connections Matter, and Mental Health First Aid, as well as annual county summits and a youth advisory board. Welcome aboard, RCMG! Workforce Resources: Know How to Improve Mental Health Workforce in Georgia : Resilient Georgia’s Workforce Resource page is a one-stop hub for strengthening Georgia’s behavioral health workforce. The site features tools, training opportunities, data dashboards, funding and loan repayment options, and policy resources to support recruitment, retention, and professional growth. Explore statewide and national strategies designed to build a sustainable, well-trained mental health workforce.  Resource: Updated CEU Approval Guide  :  This resource developed by RG provides an overview of how to secure CEU approval for various professional development events offered by your coalitions. It outlines the preparation steps needed to apply and approval processes for multiple authorizing organizations, including the State Bar of Georgia (CLEs), DECAL, GAMFT, POST, GSCSW, LPCA, NASW, NBCC, and the University of Georgia. Check it out and learn how to offer CEUs for trainings! Coalition Highlights Resilient Gwinnett  Join the next Gwinnett Coalition All Call on November 24th from 4–5 PM as they explore the current administration’s “Big Beautiful Bill” and its impact on the nonprofit sector. Zoom calendar link .  Save the date ! The Resilient Gwinnett Summit will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026 . More information coming soon.  Addiction and Recovery Changing Lanes Intervention Human Services (CLIHS) offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach to addiction recovery through its 1 2–14 week outpatient relapse prevention program  approved by the Georgia Department of Community Health. The program combines therapy, physical activities, and family support to empower individuals ages 12 and older toward long-term change. CLIHS also accommodates participants with co-occurring mental health disorders or disabilities , and Spanish interpretation services are available.   Parents and Caregivers Raising Great Children After Your Difficult Childhood | PACEsConnection:   This blog post from Dr. Schiraldi features key principles and skills for parents who have experienced adverse childhood experiences themselves and are keen to protect their children from the same experiences. Read the full post here  and please share widely with your networks of parents and caregivers! Mattering in Early Childhood: Building a Strong Foundation for Life:   From the   Harvard's Center on the Developing Child is a new resource on how mattering impacts children’s lifelong health and well-being and provides tups for promoting a sense of mattering in young children. Download the resource here .   Pets and Mental Health Pets and mental health resource center | Mental Health America:  This is a resource hub from Mental Health America and the Human Animal Bond Research Institute  on how animals may have a powerful and healing role in your mental health. This resource page provides centralized information and tools on pet-related therapy. Access the page   here .   Ahimsa House   is a nonprofit of Georgia that helps survivors of domestic violence and their pets by offering emergency shelter, basic and emergency vet care, a warm hotline with resource referrals, transportation, and more. Our lead coalition partners at the Waycross Family Justice Center have utilized this incredible resource to support their clients. Learn more about Ahimsa House here .  Professional Development 2025 Fall Perinatal Learning Series - Black Mamas Matter Alliance:   Registration is open for the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA)  fall perinatal learning series throughout the month of November. This is a six-part virtual and interactive training for participants to learn evidence-based insights, practical tools, and strategies for working to improve Black maternal health outcomes. Sessions offer CE credits and folks can register   here .    Please share with your networks! Atlanta Nonprofits: Build Data Skills, Capacity, and Fundraising Power - at No Cost   Join a cohort of Atlanta nonprofits interested in building capacity, grants, and strengthening nonprofit development. UpMetrics  is a platform that helps organizations collect, analyze, and share data to better understand and communicate their social impact. Participants will receive tools and training on navigating challenges nonprofits are facing currently, workshops for sustainability and success, and help network for funding connections. Learn more and join the interest list   here .  Workforce Carter Center Mental Health In The Workforce Event:  J oin the  Carter Center  for an evening of workplace mental health programming on December 8 from 6-8 PM . This evening program will feature keynote speakers focused on mental health. Learn more and register for the free event here .  Motivo Report: From 57% to 54%: More  Therapists Crossing the Finish  Line, But Not Nearly Enough : Motivo Health is a digital platform that connects licensed supervisors with associate-level therapists, supporting behavioral health organizations in managing clinical supervision, licensure compliance, and workforce growth. Motivo has also released a research report examining the national therapist shortage, highlighting community-level impacts of the behavioral health crisis, the gap between social work graduates and licensure attainment, and strategies to strengthen the licensure pipeline. Read the report here .  Youth Grief & Youth Homelessness Awareness Toolkit:   This new Free Your Feels resource is a grief and youth homelessness awareness resource toolkit with separate sections for youth, parents/caregivers, educators & professionals, and the public. Read through this toolkit here  to learn more about grief and youth homelessness and action steps on how to support this population.

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights ACEs and resiliency building resources, maternal and women’s health resources, professional development opportunities, and youth support. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights NMHWAC Cohort 6 - Please share with recent MH graduates!   Applications are open for Cohort 6 of the National Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Collaborative (NMHWAC) ,  a partnership between the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Kaiser Permanente, and RG. This program offers post-master’s candidates up to $10,000 in milestone-based incentives , including stipends and professional development support. Eligible applicants are early-career clinicians pursuing licensure and committed to serving under-resourced communities.   Apply here   by November 16th. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to NMHWAC@thenationalcouncil.org .  General Meeting Regional Showcase: This Thursday November 13th at 11am!  This showcase, Building Resilient Futures: Youth Mental Health in Action , focuses on supporting Youth Mental Health efforts statewide.  Join us this week on Zoom to hear from six Resilient Georgia Regional Coalitions and their innovative youth mental health initiatives. Discover how local partnerships and creative strategies are strengthening well-being and resilience in Georgia’s communities. To request an invite, please email Alex English at aenglish@resilientga.org . See you there! Action-Item:   Parent to Parent Community Needs Assessment Survey:   Parent to Parent of Georgia   is developing a 3-year strategic plan and invites your input through a short 10–12 minute Community Needs Assessment Survey . Your anonymous feedback will help strengthen support for families and individuals with disabilities or special health care needs across Georgia. Please complete the survey and share widely with your partners serving children and families!  Coalition Highlights Resilient Coastal Georgia    is hosting a ceremony honoring first responders this Thursday November 13th from 10 AM-12 PM   for their participation in the Handle with Care initiative . Handle with Care (HWC)   i s a program where law enforcement informs a child’s school if a student was present during a traumatic event, like domestic violence or an accident. Learn more about the program here  and register for the ceremony   here . Additionally, RCG is the newest coalition with a resource guide developed by Resilient Georgia ! This comprehensive guide includes child and family behavioral health state and local resources with service descriptions and contact information for the counties. View the RCG guide here .  If your coalition is interested in a resource guide, please contact Nikki at nwarner@resilientga.org .  Resilient Communities of East Georgia  Child Enrichment   recently hosted its quarterly  My Loved One & Me  event in partnership with The Basics—an afternoon dedicated to creativity, connection, and quality time with little ones. Families celebrated the season with pumpkin painting and playful moments that encouraged slowing down and making memories together. This free community event will return on December 16th at 10:30AM , and all are welcome to join the fun! Sign up here . ACEs and Resilient Development  Creative Resilience | iHeart:  Hosted by Dr. Briana Woods-Jaeger of Emory University, Creative Resilience is a podcast on mental health and well-being for youth, families, communities, and society. Episodes highlight research, lived experiences, and inspirations from academics, artists, and community leaders. Listen to the podcast here . Resources | ACEs Aware – Take action. Save lives.:   ACES aware  has resources for clinicians on ACE screening and clinical responses. Resources are organized by type, topic, and stages. Read more   here .  Mattering in Early Childhood: Building a Strong Foundation for Life: This is a resource from Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child on how mattering affects children’s lifelong health and well-being and tips for promoting a sense of mattering in young children.  Legal Advocacy Volunteer Opportunities:   Pro Bono Partnerships of Atlanta  is seeking volunteer transactional lawyers. Opportunities range from healthcare to intellectual property areas.  Learn more here !  Maternal and Women's Health Maternal Health Awareness Day 2026:  Join Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies  for Maternal Health Awareness Day on January 21 from 10 AM-4 PM . This event brings together advocates, community leaders, and more to push lawmakers at the Capitol for real change in maternal health policy. Register here .  Georgia expectant mothers find time is not on their side for prenatal care:   This AJC article  uncovers the vast disparity in care for Georgia mothers, particularly those in rural areas, with 80 of 159 counties lacking a full-time OB-GYN, and ongoing rural hospital closures forcing many women to travel long distances for prenatal care. Recent data show rising rates of late or inadequate prenatal care, though infant mortality rates have slightly improved. State leaders have expanded Medicaid postpartum coverage to one year, extended TANF benefits to pregnant women, and are exploring ways to use local public health departments to provide prenatal visits. These efforts aim to reduce disparities and ensure safer, more accessible care for mothers and babies across Georgia. Read the full article here .  REPORT & TOOLKIT: Trauma-Informed Women's Health:  This new toolkit from the Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice   explores how the healthcare system can promote trauma-informed policies and practices to better address disparities and challenges impacting women’s health.  It offers resources for advocates and change agents to advance healing-centered approaches that honor lived experience and support recovery and well-being.  Professional Development Webinar | From Connection to Care: How Integrating Social Health Improves Mental Health Outcomes:   Join this webinar on November 17th at 1:30 PM EST  on social health hosted by Talkspace and Wisdo Health .  The webinar will discuss various topics like how social health improves treatment initiation and how social health platforms can enable referrals to therapy and services. Learn more here .   Youth Mental Health America  published their 2025 Supporting Young Minds resources .  This guide includes resources and tools created to help youth combat feelings of hopelessness, build resiliency, and inform adults how to advocate for youth. Please share widely!  She Soars Youth Resource Guide   created by the nonprofit She Soars   is a resource guide developed by young people for young people. The guide intends to connect peers with mental and emotional health resources in Metro Atlanta and nationally. Check out the guide here . Please share widely with your families, youth-serving professionals, and educators!

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights education, infant and early childhood mental health, mental health and crisis support, and professional development opportunities. Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights Final Peer Network Call of the Year – November 4th at 2 PM! Don’t miss our last Peer Network Call of 2025 tomorrow Tuesday, November 4th at 2 PM , as we continue our series on Coalition Building and Evaluation. Join us to connect, learn, and close out the year with inspiration and shared insight! This session will focus Vision & Leadership and Evaluation & Operational Excellence. NMHWAC Cohort 6 - Please share with recent MH graduates!   Applications are open for Cohort 6 of the National Mental Health Workforce Accelerator Collaborative (NMHWAC) , a partnership between the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, Kaiser Permanente, and RG. This program offers post-master’s candidates up to $10,000 in milestone-based incentives , including stipends and professional development support. Eligible applicants are early-career clinicians pursuing licensure and committed to serving under-resourced communities. The application is open now until November 16th . If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to NMHWAC@thenationalcouncil.org .  Save the Date for Our Next General Meeting Regional Showcase :   Building Resilient Futures Youth Mental Health in Action: Join us on Thursday, November 13, from 11AM – 12:30PM  on Zoom for our next Regional Showcase centered on supporting Youth Mental Health. We will spotlight six Resilient Georgia Regional Coalitions and their innovative youth mental health initiatives. Discover how local partnerships and creative strategies are strengthening well-being and resilience in Georgia’s communities. To request an invite, please email Alex English at aenglish@resilientga.org . Learn more about our speakers here! Action-Item! Suicide Prevention Training for Faith Communities: She Soars , in partnership with the   Emory Rollins School of Public Health ,  is conducting a survey and needs assessment for faith leaders  as part of the new “Pray And” Initiative. This initiative—launched in collaboration with the Metro Atlanta Ministerial Alliance (MAMA) and Soul Shop Movement —offers free education, training, and program support to help clergy and faith-based leaders recognize, discuss, and respond to mental health and crisis needs within their congregations and communities.  Faith leaders are invited to take the brief 3–5 minute survey  by November 11th. Please share widely with your faith communities!  U.S. Child Poverty Triples to 13%:  A recent report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation  highlights the growing urgency of food insecurity and poverty nationwide. The analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data from the annual Supplemental Poverty Measure — slated for discontinuation by the current administration — found that more than 1 in 8 children (13%) lived in poverty in 2024. Without the support of government programs and policies, the child poverty rate would nearly double. Notably, 61% (5.9 million) of children living in poverty had at least one employed parent,  reflecting the challenges working families face in meeting basic needs. As you consider the lack of SNAP benefit availability in November, your coalitions may be hearing from partners about food and nutrition trauma. For families in need of assistance, the following resources can help . Please also consider donating to and stocking your local food banks during this difficult time.   Our Food Banks – Feeding Georgia   Atlanta Community Food Bank    Second Harvest of South Georgia    Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia   Coalition Highlights Cobb Collaborative:   The coalition’s last virtual Capacity Catalyst   workshop of 2025 will be this Thursday, November 6th from 3p-4p.  The workshop presenter is Robert Carnes, Marketing Director with Green Mellen , who will be exploring how storytelling can amplify your impact as a nonprofit while gaining practical tips on how to connect your mission to your audience through your impactful work. Registrants will receive a recording of the presentation, with live participation encouraged. Use the link here  to learn more and sign up.    Resilient Gwinnett:   Resilient Gwinnett recently hired two interns, Kayla (Georgia State University) and Libby (University of Georgia), who are both are currently pursuing degrees in social work. They are actively contributing to several initiatives under Resilient Gwinnett, including one key project developing the Resilient Gwinnett Youth Advisory Council.   Education School Safety Law - HB 268 - Georgia Appleseed Center for Law & Justice:   Georgia Appleseed published a helpful guide on the latest House Bill 268. This resource breaks down the main changes from the bill for parents, educators, and advocates trying to understand how this law impacts your school or child. Read here .   Georgia Appleseed, GSU explore the economic and social impact of high school students not graduating – WABE:  Featured on “Closer Look,” is a new report by Georgia Appleseed on the long-term economic and social benefits of keeping students in school. This report utilizes data from the class of 2022 in Georgia and examines what factors increase students likelihood of dropping out of high school. Listen to the story here  or read the full report here .      Homeless Students–Humankind on Public Radio – Apple Podcasts:   From Humankind on Public Radio comes an episode highlighting an inner city high school student from boston who launged a series of citywide clothing drives motivated by the needs of fellow students who are homeless or displaced. Listen to the podcast here .   Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Financing Policy Project | ZERO TO THREE:   From ZERO TO THREE comes the Infant and Early Childhood mental Health Financing Policy Project. This project aimed to support states to develop policy and financing strategies which increase access to and utilization of mental health supports and services for young children and their caregivers. Learn more about the project and resources created   here .   ZERO TO THREE is also hosting a webinar showcasing their latest toolkit “Integrating Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health into Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics.” Join the webinar to learn more about the toolkit and also hear from representatives from the National Council for Mental Health Wellbeing and state IECMH teams. Mental Health and Crisis Support The State of Mental Health in America:   This report from Mental Health America provides state-level rankings on mental health and latest national data on mental health conditions. Read the full report   here .  A new Support and Crisis Line Infographic   i s now available to save, post, or share. It lists key hotlines for crisis situations, assault and abuse, and ongoing mental health support—offering a quick way to find help or help someone else. Download and share to keep these vital resources close at hand.    FREE 988 Training Modules:   From 988 Georgia comes a series of free training modules to help strengthen skills in mental health support, crisis intervention, and responsible reporting. Learn more and register here . Professional Development Partnerships in Education and Resilience (PEAR):   Educators, counselors, and youth-serving professionals are invited to join “Increase Mental Wellness and Resilience through Developmental CBT Strategies” , the first in a three-part, credit-bearing workshop series from PEAR. Taking place Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 1–4 PM ET , this interactive session will equip participants with practical, developmentally appropriate CBT techniques to help youth manage stress, build coping skills, and strengthen resilience—while also supporting their own wellness. Early-bird registration is $250 through December 1.  Circles of Security Parenting Facilitator Training:   This is a training to learn how to facilitate the Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) Program for parents and caregivers. The COSP program is aimed to support families to recognize unhelpful intergenerational patterns and help understand children’s needs. Virtually offered from December 8-12 from 6:30 AM-8:30 AM PST and costs $1000. Learn more and register   here .

Welcome to your weekly Monday Memo. This week’s edition highlights ACEs research, JEDI resources, nonprofit and healthcare professional development, and a youth-focused opportunity.  Before we dive in, here are some reminders and highlights from the RG Team: RG Highlights NEW! Regional Coalition Microsite:   We’re excited to announce the launch of the Resilient Georgia Regional Coalition website!  The site now features a coalition leader login portal  with access to internal resources, coalition building videos , and a searchable Monday Memo Archive to easily find past opportunities. Explore the new site and please share widely with your networks!  Upcoming Dates: October Coalition Connection Calls-Happening This Week! Join us for this month’s Coalition Connection Calls as we gather your feedback and reflect on Resilient Georgia’s current processes and procedures to help shape our 2026 planning and meeting schedule. Your insights are invaluable—please attend and make sure your voice is heard! Tuesday October 28th at 2pm: Rounds 2, 4, and 5 Thursday October 30th at 1pm: Rounds 1 and 3 Final Peer Network Call of the Year – November 4th at 2 PM! Don’t miss our last Peer Network Call of 2025 on Tuesday, November 4th at 2 PM , as we continue our series on Coalition Building and Evaluation. Join us to connect, learn, and close out the year with inspiration and shared insight! This session will focus on two key themes: Vision & Leadership – Exploring who’s at the table, the role of committees, leadership strengths, and how strategic vision and collaboration sustain coalition work.  Evaluation & Operational Excellence – Reflecting on highlights and challenges, integrating evaluation into coalition planning, and strengthening capacity, efficiency, and effectiveness. Coalition Highlights Resilient West Central: Coalition Lauch Meeting!   Resilient West Central Georgia is a Round 5 regional partnership serving Butts, Henry, Fayette, Lamar, Pike, Rockdale, Spalding, and Upson counties. The coalition is hosting a  Virtual Launch Meeting  on  October 28th from 11AM– 12PM . Join to learn more about the work the coalition is planning on doing and connect with peers and share with your partners in those counties! Register here.   Resilient Clayton & GCAPP : Our coalition partner, The Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Power & Potential, is hosting a special “Let’s Talk Month: Fatherhood Edition” webinar this Wednesday, October 29th from 7–8PM. This virtual event will focus on the vital role fathers play in fostering open communication, connection, and wellbeing within families. Participants will gain practical tools and resources to support meaningful conversations with youth.   Register   here .  Resilient North Georgia , led by Wellroot Family Services, is featured on Fostering Resilience  for their work with the Reaching Teens Trauma-Sensitive Model —an evidence-based framework that equips professionals to build trust, strengthen relationships, and foster resilience in youth. The model emphasizes empathy, communication, and trauma-informed approaches to help young people feel safe, seen, and supported. Each training session is worth 1.5 CEU credit hour and has different training focuses. Upcoming virtual trainings are November 20th and December 4th.   Additionally, they are offering “Deep Dive Trainings” on October 29, November 11, and December 9 from 12-1:30 PM .  The Reaching Teens training is a prerequisite  to these sessions. Register here  for one or all sessions.  ACEs Childhood Stress Strongly Linked to Chronic Disease in Adulthood, Duke Researchers Find | Trinity College of Arts & Sciences:   Research from Duke University has found a strong link between higher stress in children and adverse health conditions for them later  in life. Researchers found that a child’s stress levels in an indicator of their cardio and metabolic health in adulthood. Read the article about the research   here . The Impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) -   Therapy for Black Girls Podcast  on iHeart Radio hosted a recent episode  on the impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The podcast covers  the long-term impacts of ACEs with Dr. Nadine Burke Harris,  California's first Surgeon General. Listen to the episode   here .   Healthcare The   American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Center for Relational Health and Trauma-Informed Care,   in partnership with the CDC, UCLA, and UMass Chan Medical School, is  recruiting pediatricians and pediatric subspecialists for a new cohort of the Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) Champion Program. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of pediatric providers to deliver trauma-informed care to children and families. Selected TIC Champions will serve as subject matter experts, train and support clinical teams, and guide the implementation of trauma-informed practices in healthcare settings.   Applications are due November 9, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT .   JEDI Hispanic Federation's 2025 Policy Priorities - Hispanic Federation:   From the Hispanic Federation is a report on policy priorities for state and federal legislation that addresses concerns from the Latino communities. With input from over 780 non-profit organizations, the policy report covers subject areas from the economy to voting rights to more. Read the report here .  The Latino Data Hub  is a tool for understanding and accessing information on the American Latino community. Use this data discovery tool and learn about various statistics like employment rates, educational attainment, income and poverty and more. Access the tool   here .  From Insights to Actions: Advancing Trauma-Informed Care for Asian American and Asian Immigrant (AAAI) Children and Families Workshop Recap:  The Lotus Project  hosted a workshop on trends and insights for trauma-informed care and prevention for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) earlier this fall. Watch a series of recordings from the workshop and hear from local AAPI focused agencies and mental health professionals here .  Nonprofit Resources Share Your Story: Federal Government Shutdown | National Council of    Nonprofits:   As nonprofits are being affected by the federal government shutdown, the  National Council of Nonprofits invites organizations to share the impacts of the shutdown on their organizations. Submit your story   here .  Meeting the Moment and Nurturing Possibility with Trust-Based Philanthropy:   On October 28 at 2 PM  EST , Gary Steuer of the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation   will share about innovative strategies his foundation used to strengthen Denver’s arts and culture infrastructure. This is a part of a conversation series featuring funders who are demonstrating trust-based philanthropy. Future meetings will be November 18th and December 11th at 2pm EST.   Register here . How Government Funding Disruptions Affected Nonprofits in Early 2025 | Urban Institute: A research report from Urban Institute  used data from the 2025 National Survey of Nonprofit Trends and Impacts and found that a third of nonprofits reported experiencing federal, state, or local government funding disruptions and these organizations were more likely to report reductions in staff, programming, and future hiring. The report investigates how prevalent government funding disruptions were for nonprofits, the impacts of such disruptions, and more. Youth Opportunity for Youth to Join Focus Groups on Opioid  Prevention Campaigns:    Voices for Georgia’s Children , i n partnership with GUIDE, Inc. , is hosting virtual focus groups with youth ages 12–18 across Georgia to gather their perspectives on opioid awareness campaigns. Running through December 2025 , these sessions aim to learn what messages and approaches resonate with young people and how prevention efforts can be improved. Insights will be shared with policymakers and advocates to ensure youth voices shape future opioid awareness campaigns. Partners are encouraged to help recruit youth participants through direct outreach methods. Please share widely with the youth you serve! Youth can register here by November 7th!