Issue 11-2 | January 24, 2022
News
Spotlight On:
The “One Thing” to Improve Children’s Mental Health
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During this time of stress and strain, the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health is making social connectedness the “one thing” that we can do to best improve children’s well-being. That big takeaway is highlighted in the Office’s Annual Report for 2021, which covers the work of the staff and partners, data on Wisconsin youth mental health and well-being, and next steps. After reviewing the data and hearing from partners and those with lived experience, it was determined that social connectedness is essential to building life skills that allow each person to build and maintain strong relationships. As they put it, “Youth are socially connected when they are actively engaged in positive relationships where they feel they belong, are safe, cared for, valued, and supported.” You can read the entire report on the Office’s website, where you’ll also find resources, data, and trainings.
Webinars & Events
Sustainability: Don’t Leave Your Change to Chance
Wednesday, January 26
The Southeast PTTC is hosting a webinar on sustainability in prevention planning. Presenter Nicole M. Augustine, a public health professional and social justice advocate, will discuss defining sustainability as a cross cutting concept in prevention, identifying the three pillars of sustainability and taking action steps for trainees. This training will help maintain the human, social and material resources needed to achieve long-term goals for community change. The training is virtual and will be held Wednesday, January 26, at 12 p.m. To register for this webinar, click here.
Permission to Feel with Marc Brackett
Wednesday, January 26
REDgen and the University School of Milwaukee will be hosting Marc Brackett, founder of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and author of Permission to Feel. He will discuss elements from his book in order to help adults support children and themselves in achieving academic and life success. This event is free and will be held in person at University School of Milwaukee on Wednesday, January 26, from 7-8:15 p.m. Click here to register.
Rebecca Bender Virtual Training on Human Trafficking
Monday, January 24 - Thursday, January 27
Join a free human trafficking virtual training opportunity facilitated by a national human trafficking expert, Rebecca Bender. The training will focus on human trafficking and provide a presentation for therapists, social workers, law enforcement, and other professionals. The trainings will be held the week of January 24-27, with a large group session on the final day. For more information, click here. To register, click here.
Free Virtual Art Therapy
Saturday, February 5
The House of Kings & Priests and MCSAP invite you to virtual art therapy so you can enjoy a relaxing virtual paining session in the comfort of your own home! Free art supplies are available to be picked up at The House of Kings & Priests at 4718 W. Garfield Ave, Milwaukee. The session will be held on Saturday, February 5, at 5 p.m. Click here to register online for supplies and pick up times.
Opioid Epidemic Virtual Town Hall Meeting
Wednesday, February 9
Join Secretary Kevin A. Carr, from the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, in a virtual town hall meeting to discuss the opioid epidemic. This meeting will host a number of experts who will provide an overview of the opioid crisis in Wisconsin and throughout the DOC, and discuss the efforts taken to combat this issue. The virtual town hall meeting will be held Wednesday, February 9, at 11:30 a.m. Registration is required. Click here for more information on how to register for this upcoming meeting.
Virtual QPR Question, Persuade, Refer Training
Wednesday, February 9
QPR Question, Persuade, Refer's 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. Community Advocates will offer this introductory session via Zoom at no cost. The training will be held on Wednesday, February 9, from 1 - 3 p. m. It's open to Milwaukee County residents and those who work with them. Click here to register.
Virtual MHFA-Adult Training
Wednesday, February 16
Mental Health First Aid-Adult teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in adults. This training will give you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is offering a virtual MHFA-Adult session on Wednesday, February 16, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It's free and open to those who live or work in Milwaukee County. Click here for details and to register.
Prevent Suicide Wisconsin ’22 Conference
Proposal Extended Deadline
Monday, February 28
Mental Health America of Wisconsin and the PSW Conference planning committee are accepting presentation proposals for the 2022 Prevent Suicide Wisconsin conference. Proposal requirements must demonstrate evidence-based practices, enhance practical skills, support recovery, and energize people. Submit your proposals by Monday, February 28, 2022. Click here for more information.
Resources
Statewide Peer-Run Warmline Grant Opportunity
The WDHS Division of Care and Treatment Services is providing a grant opportunity for statewide peer-run organizations that is now available. This grant will help employ certified peer specialists to provide peer support over the phone to people experiencing increased stress or symptoms related to mental health and substance use concerns. Applications and proposals are due by 2 p.m. February 25. For more information on this grant, click here.
Family Resources
Five for Families
The Wisconsin Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Board offers the Five for Families website, which contains tips and resources for parents who are feeling challenged. The Five for Families strategies build on family strengths to create a more connected, less stressed family.

Hay 5 fortalezas que hacen que una familia sea fuerte. Si bien cada familia tiene dificultades, también tiene fortalezas a las que pueden recurrir durante los momentos complicados. Comprender cómo desarrollar las fortalezas de su familia en cinco áreas esenciales puede ayudarlo a sentirse más confiado, menos estresado y mejor conectado con sus hijos.
Job Opportunities
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Forward the information to Prevention@CommunityAdvocates.net. Thank you for your service to Milwaukee!
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