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In this Issue:
- News
- Events & Webinars
- Community Resources
- Los Recursos Familial en Español
- Family Resources in English
- Job Opportunities
| | Spotlight On: April is Alcohol Awareness Month | | |
As April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, it’s a meaningful opportunity to reflect on how alcohol affects individuals, families, and communities - and to open up conversations that are often avoided. Whether it's exploring your own relationship with alcohol, supporting someone you care about, or advocating for community wellness, awareness is the first step toward change. To support these efforts, the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a powerful Alcohol Awareness Month Digital Toolkit. The toolkit is full of helpful materials, including educational handouts, conversation starters, and social media graphics, that make it easier to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote healthier choices around alcohol use.
We encourage you to explore the toolkit and consider how you or your organization can participate in sharing knowledge and support his month, Even small steps - like sharing a resource online or initiating a conversation - can make a big impact.
| | Share Your News in the Prevention Journal | | |
Calling all Community Partners: Do you have upcoming events, news to share, or job openings? Email the information to prevention@communityadvocates.net to be featured in upcoming Prevention Journals sent to over 1,000 friends, colleagues, and social service providers every other week.
| | Wisconsin Self-Harm Data Dashboard | | |
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has developed a Self-Harm Data Dashboard, an interactive tool designed to track and analyze trends related to self-harm incidents across the state. This resource provides up-to-date statistics, offering insights into demographics, methods, and geographical patterns of self-harm, allowing policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community organizations to identify areas of greatest need.
The dashboard also supports public health initiatives by helping stakeholders craft targeted prevention strategies, allocate resources more effectively, and assess the impact of existing programs. Suicide prevention advocates stress the importance of using data-driven approaches to improve mental health interventions and ensure that support reaches those who need it most. The availability of this tool marks a significant step forward in Wisconsin’s efforts to address self-harm and suicide prevention through transparency and informed decision-making.
In additional to the latest statistics, the dashboard provides resources to learn more about self-harm, including how to identify and respond to it, crisis services and suicide prevention in Wisconsin, and their Injury and Violence Prevention Program.
| | 2025 HOPES Award Nominations are Open | | |
The HOPES Award is presented annually at the Prevent Suicide Wisconsin Conference to an individual or organization who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to suicide prevention in Wisconsin. The HOPES Award is dedicated to Helping Others Prevent and Educate about Suicide, a group of suicide loss survivors who spearheaded Wisconsin’s suicide prevention efforts for 19 years.
Any interested party may nominate an individual or organization whose primary suicide prevention efforts have impacted residents of Wisconsin. The awardee must be able to attend (online) the PSW Conference on May 16. The individual or a representative from a group receiving the award will receive one complimentary conference registration. The nomination deadline is Friday, April 11.
| | Cuts to FDA and CDC Tobacco Programs Will Benefit Commercial Tobacco Industry at the Expense of Kids and Lives | | |
Public health advocates are sounding the alarm over proposed funding cuts to the FDA and CDC’s tobacco control programs, warning that these reductions could have devastating consequences for commercial tobacco prevention efforts. According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, slashing these budgets would weaken programs aimed at reducing youth smoking and vaping rates, limiting critical public education campaigns and enforcement actions against illegal commercial tobacco marketing.
With nearly half a million Americans dying from tobacco-related illnesses each year, continued investment in prevention programs is vital. The concern is that these cuts will ultimately benefit the commercial tobacco industry while putting millions of lives—especially young people—at greater risk of addiction and long-term health consequences. Advocates are urging policymakers to reconsider these reductions and prioritize funding for programs that protect public health.
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Advocacy Skills for Underserved Communities
Wednesday, April 9
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Counselors entering behavioral health often report feeling unprepared for their day-to-day work. Community treatment programs and behavioral health centers have come to accept that the technical skills of "how to be a counselor" in today’s environment are the training responsibility of the hiring organization. As the Affordable Care Act expansion continues, more underserved communities with higher acuity and fewer resources are filling caseloads, and their needs continue to go unmet because the counseling workforce has not been trained on how to advocate properly for patients who qualify for more services than they are receiving.
In this presentation, participants will learn the importance of advocacy skills and how to adjust caseload management expectations to support the unmet needs of underserved communities. The webinar is scheduled from 2 to 3:30 p.m.via Zoom on April 9.
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Teaching Cannabis Awareness and Prevention Conference
Wednesday, April 9, and Thursday, April 10
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Stanford Medicine is hosting their 6th Annual Teaching Cannabis (and Other Drugs) Awareness and Prevention Virtual Conference for anyone working with youth to learn about the latest research on youth and their use of cannabis and other drugs. The virtual conference is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 9 and 10.
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QPR Question Persuade Refer Suicide Prevention Training
Thursday, April 10
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We can all save lives.
The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. The signs of crisis are all around us. We believe that quality education empowers all people, regardless of their background, to make a positive difference in the life of someone they know.
This interactive introduction to suicide awareness and prevention will also cover statistics and intervention strategies. This session from Community Advocates Public Policy Institute will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on April 10.
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The Intersection of Eating Disorders and Substance Use Disorders: Assessment and Intervention
Tuesday, April 15
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Eating disorders and substance use disorders affect millions of Americans. According to a systemic review and meta-analysis, approximately one in five individuals with an eating disorder (ED) also has a substance use disorder (SUD) at some point in their lives. This webinar, hosted by Rogers Behavioral Health, will provide illustrative clinical presentations to demonstrate how eating disorder and substance use disorder symptoms may co-occur and interact. Participants will learn how to identify at least two ways to assess eating and/or substance use problems, recognize at least two ways to adapt evidence-based interventions to address co-occurring eating and substance use disorder symptoms, and describe at least two perspectives on at least one emerging and/or controversial topic in the field.
This webinar is scheduled from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. on April 15.
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Strengthening Collaborative Partnerships: Advancing Prevention Through Shared Risk and Protective Factors
Tuesday, April 15
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The Great Lakes Prevention Technology Transfer Center Network (PTTC) is hosting this webinar for advanced prevention providers with experience in the identification or an addressing shared risk and protective factors.
This 2-hour training will provide an in-depth dive into how prevention providers can identify and act on shared risk and protective factors in their community through strong, collaborative partnerships. This interactive session will blend training content with peer sharing to help participants identify action steps to strengthen their partnerships and prevention efforts.
This webinar is scheduled from 12 noon to 2 p.m. via Zoom on April 15.
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ECOM Workshop: W2, FoodShare, FSET, and SSI
Wednesday, April 16
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The Empowerment Coalition of Milwaukee (ECOM) is a monthly gathering of social services professionals, advocates, and consumers organized by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute. ECOM explores topics that are vital to Milwaukee’s human services professionals. Each session features multiple presentations from experts and opportunities to share resources.
This month’s topic is W2, FoodShare, FSET, and SSI.
Fee is $5 for light refreshments and materials and can be paid via credit card. Registrations are not refundable. Kindly make sure to RSVP by Friday, March 14. This ECOM Workshop will be held at Community Advocates at 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee.
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Motivational Interviewing for Edible THC
Wednesday, April 23
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Many states have legalized the recreational use of THC flooding the market with products that are not regulated. Such products can look harmless and even considered to be marketed towards children. Coupled with the popular opinion that THC is a harmless drug, many clinicians are now having to treat clients living with Marijuana Use Disorder. This presentation will provide a discussion about the variance in substances found in edible products as well as identify how these products can be harmful for recreational use. Those attending this presentation will identify how to assess a client's readiness to change THC use. Participants will also identify how to apply Motivational Interviewing for those living with Marijuana Use Disorder.
This webinar is scheduled from from 2 to 3:30 p.m. via Zoom on April 23.
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National Drug Take Back Day
Saturday, April 26
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Safe & Sound is organizing two Drug Take Back Day events for community members who need to safely dispose of old or unused prescription drugs. Keep your home and community safe by getting rid of unwanted medication the right way!
Bring your old or unused medication to one of these locations on April 26:
- Walmart Super Center, 401 E. Capitol Dr., Milwaukee, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Planned Parenthood, 5380 W. Fond du Lac Ave., Milwaukee, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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M.O.M.S. – Mothers of Milwaukee Symposium
Saturday, April 26
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Join First Lady Dominque Johnson for a transformational symposium that brings together women from diverse backgrounds to explore the challenges and joys of womanhood, with a special focus on the intersection of motherhood. This event is part of the "I’m a Woman First!" Second Annual M.O.M.s Event.
This event celebrates women as individuals with their own dreams, passions, and identities before motherhood. Attendees will engage in insightful discussions on self-care, personal growth, and prioritizing mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Speakers will emphasize the importance of maintaining a sense of self beyond caregiving, embracing imperfection, and seeking balance. Through workshops, panels, and shared experiences, this symposium fosters a supportive community that uplifts and empowers women.
This event is free and open to the public. It will be held at Abundant Faith Church of Integrity, 7830 Good Hope Road, Milwaukee, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 26.
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Resilience and Thriving: The Secret Power of Stress
Wednesday, April 30
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How well do you cope with stress? And can stress ever be good for you? Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is offering Resilience and Thriving, a two-hour webinar in which participants will be able to identify early warning signs of stress, types of stress, and effects of stress. Participants will learn specific skills to cope well with and thrive from stress, and understand positive and negative coping styles, plus their personal coping style! This session is open t o everyone and is offered free of charge.
This session is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. on April 30.
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Grab & Go
Wednesday, April 30
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Join Milwaukee County, Wraparound Milwaukee, and Owen’s Place for a Grab & Go event to pick up resources and supplies! Here you’ll find information on available programs and community resources, prevention materials, books, magazines, gun locks and pill disposal kits, various sized clothing and a variety or other items.
Please bring a bag or two. This free event is being held from 3 to 5 p.m. on April 30 at Owen’s Place, 4610 W. Fond du Lac Ave., Milwaukee.
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The POWER of YOU!
Saturday, May 3
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Join the Grace Healing and Wellness Center for a day dedicated to empowering yourself through self-care. Learn tips and tricks to boost your mental and physical well-being. From mindfulness practices to healthy habits, this event will help you harness the superpower of self-care. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to invest in yourself and prioritize your health.
The POWER of YOU is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Fruition MKE, 825 N. 27th St., Milwaukee, on May 3.
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Mental Health and Wellness Powwow
Saturday, May 3
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The Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center (GLIIHC) is hosting their 4th annual Honoring the Heartbeat Mental Health and Wellness Powwow to celebrate mental health, wellness, cultural resilience, and breaking the stigma around seeking help. The event will be held on Saturday, May 3, at the Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park from 12 noon to 8 p.m.
For the event, GLIIHC is looking for community organizations to provide tabling information about their services to the Milwaukee community. Community Organizations are asked to provide information about how their program and/or organization can support the mental health and wellness of attendees and how community members can access services.
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2025 Opioids, Stimulants, and Trauma Summit
Tuesday May 6 - Thursday, May 8
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You are invited to join the Wisconsin Department of Health and Services – Division of Care and Treatment Services to learn strategies to save lives and build healthy communities. The Opioids, Stimulants, and Trauma Summit is an annual event that highlights prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery strategies related to opioids, stimulants, and trauma. This event is tailored for professionals spanning diverse fields, including corrections agents, counselors, doctors, educators, mental health service providers, nurses, pharmacists, peer specialists, recovery coaches, and social workers. It will be held virtually and in-person at Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells, on May 6 through May 8.
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National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day
Thursday, May 8
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Join Wraparound Milwaukee – Children’s Community Mental Health Services for an afternoon of resources and activities for youth and families. The event will have free food, music, and more!
The event is scheduled from 3 to 6 p.m. at Owen’s Place at 4610 W. Fond du Lac Ave., on Thursday, May 8.
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15th Annual Prevent Suicide Wisconsin Conference
Tuesday, May 13 through Friday, May 16
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Join Prevent Suicide Wisconsin for the 15th Annual Conference, a vital gathering dedicated to suicide prevention, education, and advocacy. This year's conference brings together experts, community leaders, and individuals with lived experience to share resources, strategies, and hope. Whether you're a mental health professional, educator, advocate, or someone passionate about creating change, this event offers valuable insights and connections.
The pre-conference in-person gathering is scheduled for May 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at ThriveOn King, 2153 N. Dr. MLK Jr. Drive, Milwaukee. The virtual conference, with keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and lived experience panel, will be held May 14-16 from 8 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
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Wisconsin Public Health Association Annual Conference
Tuesday, May 20 - Thursday, May 22
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Join over 500 public health “trailblazers” at WPHA’s 2025 Annual Conference. Featuring engaging speakers, diverse educational sessions, and opportunities to fill your cup personally and professionally, the conference aims to navigate the trail to better public health in Wisconsin. The conference objectives are to cultivate innovation and creativity to bring joy and belonging into public health, build a foundation and create space for the next generation of leaders in a community-centered, changing public landscape, and prioritize community-led solutions and opportunities to create collective messaging, build trust, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and advance health outcomes.
The conference will be held at the Baird Center, 400 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, from Tuesday, May 20 to Thursday, May 22.
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2025 Wisconsin Harm Reduction Conference
Wednesday, July 16, and Thursday, July 17
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The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has opened registration for the 2025 Wisconsin Harm Reduction Conference at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells, with a virtual option. The conference aims to provide safe spaces for the exchange of ideas and cutting-edge practices that reduce harms associated with drug use, create networking opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds committed to program and policy change and reform, promote the delivery of harm reduction services in Wisconsin and Tribal nations that engage people who use drugs to support connection, safety, and improved quality of life, and provide the opportunity to discuss the benefits of harm reduction, best practices, resources, policies, and areas needing development and support. The conference will be held on July 16 and 17.
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Hey, there,
-- do you have:
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Job openings?
- Upcoming events?
- News to share?
- Suggestions?
Forward the information to Prevention@CommunityAdvocates.net.
Thank you for your service to Milwaukee!
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Take Back My Meds
Protect Lake Michigan and combat the opioid crisis by safely disposing your unused prescription medicine at one of the free drop boxes. Seventy percent of opioid addictions start at home – very often from unused medicine that is left in medicine cabinets. Flushing unused medicine down the toilet or placing it in the trash only sends it to Lake Michigan and our waterways – the source of our drinking water – because waste treatment systems are not designed to break down medicine. Luckily, on any day of the year, you can use a free drop box. Click here to find the nearest location to you.
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Mental Health Month Action Guide 2025
More than 75 years ago, Mental Health America founded Mental Health Month, and this year, they’re not just talking about mental health, they’re going to turn awareness into action. MHA has packed their website with everything you need to be part of the action. Take charge of your mental well-being and help make an impact on a larger scale with the new Action Guide – entirely free and available online. Click here to learn more.
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The Center for Suicide Awareness
The Center for Suicide Awareness is a resource dedicated to fostering understanding, empathy, and support around mental health and suicide prevention. Their HOPELINE text service (741741) offers free, 24/7 emotional support. They also provide crisis intervention, training, and outreach to foster awareness and connection. Click here to learn more.
| | Los Recursos Familial en Español | | |
¡Estoy tan estresado! hoja informativa
¿Te sientes abrumado? Lee esta hoja informativa para saber si se trata de estrés o ansiedad y qué puedes hacer para sobrellevar este sentimiento. Descarguelo aqui.
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Asistencia Energética
¡Community Advocates está aquí para ayudarlo con sus facturas de calefacción y necesidades de climatización este invierno! Los residentes del condado de Milwaukee pueden verificar su elegibilidad, programar una cita o presentar una solicitud en keepwarmmke.org o al 414-270-4-MKE (4653).
Community Advocates también da la bienvenida a clientes sin cita previa de 8 a. m. a 5 p. m. De lunes a viernes en nuestras oficinas del centro de Milwaukee en 728 N. James Lovell Street. El Programa de Asistencia Energética del Condado de Milwaukee es un programa Home Energy Plus del estado de Wisconsin.
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Programa de intervención familiar (FIP)
Objetivo del programa de intervención familiar es eliminar importantes barreras que impiden latinos y afroamericanos individuos y familias de buscar servicios de asesoría tradicional. Este programa de manejo de caso intensivo, basado en el hogar, enfoque familiar ofrece servicios de apoyo a las familias que luchan con el impacto de la adicción a la sustancia y la violencia doméstica. Servicios son proporcionados sin costo a la familia. Para obtener más información sobre el programa de intervención familiar, por favor llame a 414-270-4600. Aprende más.
| | Family Resources in English | | |
Family Strengthening Month
April is Family Strengthening Month and organizations across Wisconsin are coming togehter to raise awarness, connect parents and caregivers, and share info on ways to develop positive, healthy family relationships. The Random Acts of Connection toolkit is free to download here.
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Wisconsin Family Health Data
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has released their latest reports on Family Health Data. Here you will find maternal, infant, child, and adolescent health data and reports as well as a guide for using the Wisconsin Interactive Statistics on Health (WISH) to show you how to do your own data queries on a wide-range of health indicators in our state and communities. Check out the Family Health Data page here.
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The Dad Doula Program
The City of Milwaukee Health Department is partnering with The Dad Doula Program to offer free parenting sessions to fathers and Non-Birthing Partners. These monthly sessions are designed to provide education, support, and community resources to help parents navigate the journey into parenthood – and build a brighter future for their families. Classes are held the 1st and 2nd Saturday of each month, through September 2025. For more information, contact Joshua Liston-Zawadi at info@consciouscommunitycurators.com or 414-502-8606.
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Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery
Are you worried about your drinking or other drug use? You aren’t alone. The Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery (POWER) is here to help. The Milwaukee Women’s Center’s POWER provides FREE day treatment for women struggling with alcohol and other drug issues. Click here to learn more or call 414-270-4600 to get help.
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