In this Issue:

• News
• Events & Webinars
• Community Resources
• Los Recursos Familial en Español
• Family Resources in English
• Job Opportunities

Spotlight On:

International Overdose Awareness Day Remembrance Events

Support Loved Ones and Survivors

Impacted by Overdose

Veterans Park | Saturday, August 31 | 9 am-5 pm

For more than 20 years, International Overdose Awareness Day events have been held around the world to raise awareness of overdose, a public health crisis trampling through our communities. With a mission to reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and create change that reduces the harm associated with drug use, organizations, advocates and community members gather on August 31.

According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, there were an estimated 107,543 drug overdose deaths in the United States during 2023. Of those fatal overdoses, 668 were in Milwaukee County.

The RISE Drug Free MKE community coalition is a proud title sponsor for Healing Starts Today’s Rhythm & Soles 5K Walk/Run honoring International Overdose Awareness Day on Saturday, August 31, at Veterans Park, 1010 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee, for friends and family members of those lost to overdose, as well as those who have survived overdose.

The event provides a safe, healing space to remember, to heal, and to commit to preventing another overdose from stealing a loved one’s life. Rhythm and Soles 5K Walk/Run is a victory lap for everyone who has overcome life obstacles and aims to encourage the community to continue taking steps toward their goals.

Activities include:

• Grief support, testimonials, and tributes
• Free Narcan and training
• Yoga and meditation
• Children’s corner
• Free music and food
• Raffles and games
• Local resources

Resources will be available from: Celebrate Recovery, Community Medical Services, Legal Action of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Fire Department/MORI, Nar-Anon Moms, Nystrom & Associates, Pathfinders, The Phoenix, Rogers Behavioral Health, Safe & Sound, Samad’s House, UMOS, Vin Baker Recovery, Vivent Health, Wauwatosa Health Department, Wisconsin Community Services, and Healing Starts Today. RISE Drug Free MKE is supported by Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Services.

Shuttles between Veterans Park, Washington Park (Senior Center north lot) and Mitchell Park (behind the Domes) will be available every half hour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details, go to RISEdrugfreemke.org.

Participation is free and all are welcome to enjoy this family-friendly event. In-person registration begins at 9 a.m. For details and to register, go to healingstartstoday.com.

Additional International Overdose Awareness Day Observances in Milwaukee

In addition to the Veterans Park events, these community observances will be held:

• A memorial tree will be placed in the Milwaukee City Hall Rotunda from August 26 to September 5. Friends and families of loved ones lost to overdose are welcome to stop by, write their loved one’s name on a ribbon, and place it on the tree to honor their loss.
• The Hoan Bridge will light up with 668 purple lights on August 31 to honor the lives lost to overdose in Milwaukee County in 2023. To learn more about lighting Milwaukee’s iconic bridge, go to LightTheHoan.org.

News

Help Make Milwaukee Healthier:

Community Health Needs Assessment

The City of Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) is helping conduct an important survey and is counting on community input to guide its work. The information gathered from the survey will shape local health strategies and prioritize local health efforts over the next three years.

The survey is for Milwaukee County residents aged 18 and older, and only takes about 10 minutes to complete. It's open until September 1, 2024, at healthymke.com/chna.

Everyone who completes the survey and shares their contact information will be entered into a prize drawing. Prizes include: concert tickets (Lil' Wayne or Grupo Frontera), premium Brewers tickets, Amazon gift cards, and local experiences (like Betty Brinn and Milwaukee Art Museum visits).

This survey is part of the 2024/25 Shared Milwaukee County Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). It’s a team effort by the Milwaukee Health Care Partnership (MHCP), a group made up of local health organizations to understand our community’s needs better.

Improving Behavioral Health Services for Milwaukee's Latinx Residents

Community Advocates Public Policy Institute's team members attended the National Latino Behavioral Health Association Conference this past weekend in San Antonio, Texas. This was an opportunity to for staff to engage, network, and learn more about how to better serve our Latinx population here in Milwaukee. This opportunity was timely as PPI just received Milwaukee County's Better Ways to Cope funding, which will expand Spanish-language mental health programming.  

Cecilia Tenorio, PPI's Mental Health & Wellness Coordinator, said, "I felt so grateful to be a part of a learning space with behavioral health professionals that encouraged us to reimagine mental health work by sharing our access to power and knowledge, and more importantly, by accessing the medicine we all carry within us. We often talk about generational trauma in marginalized communities but we also carry generational resilience, hope and ancestral ways of healing. The Latino Behavioral Health Conference offered spaces and reminders to tap into facets of our cultura that can help us empower and reimagine the ways in which we heal ourselves and offer healing to the communities we serve."

Partner Feedback Sought for Maternal and Child Health Needs Assessment

This survey, from DHS's Maternal and Child Health Program, is an opportunity for Wisconsin organizations to influence the priorities and focus of maternal and child health programs in the state. This is part of a comprehensive, statewide assessment conducted every five years as part of our federal funding. 

The confidential, 15-minute survey covers a range of topics, including prenatal care, access to health care services, maternal mental health, child and infant health, birth outcomes, and community resources. Through the survey, DHS will identify current community strengths, partnerships, and areas where people need more support to improve the health of our maternal and child populations. The survey is available in English, Hmong, and Spanish and will be open until September 30, 2024. 

VitalCog Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

Schedule Your Organization's Session to Support Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September 

VitalCog trains organizations to proactively address the early warning signs of suicide in the workplace. This two-hour training gives participants the skills and tools to appreciate the critical need for suicide prevention while creating a forum for dialogue and critical thinking about workplace mental health challenges, and by promoting help-seeking and help-giving.

VitalCog workshops are best conducted in the workplace for groups of 7 to 25, with human resources staff present to discuss available services for employees.

To learn more and schedule a training, email Community Advocates Public Policy Institute Trainer Rita Liesiefsky.

This webinar discusses the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ efforts on student mental health, as well as new research and tools you can use for transforming your school environment. Using both a macro and micro lens, participants will be guided through the process of creating an LGBTQ+ Support Action Plan for your school with strategies for how you can start implementing now to make a difference in improving the mental wellbeing of their LGBTQ+ students. This webinar from the LGBTQ+ Behavioral Health Equity Center of Excellence will be held from 12 to 1 p.m. on August 28.

This session, hosted by the Northeast & Caribbean PTTC, will explore reasons to involve an evaluator early on in your strategic planning process, pros and cons of working with internal vs. external evaluators, places to find expert an evaluator whose skills match your programmatic needs, and tips for working well with your evaluator and minimizing evaluation costs. It will be held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. on August 29.

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 two-hour interactive introduction to suicide awareness and prevention will also cover statistics and intervention strategies. In September, Community Advocates Public Policy Institute's QPR workshops will be held on the following dates:

• September 4, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
• September 11, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
• September 13, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

This four-day event will bring together health care professionals, community-based organizations, and suicide prevention advocates to share information about evidence-based suicide prevention practices, including those intended to eliminate racial disparities in suicide locally and across Wisconsin.

September 6 will include a keynote and facilitated action-planning by Brandon J. Johnson, MHS, MCHES, Creator, The Black Mental Wellness Lounge. September 9-11 will be a Masterclass in Meaning-Focused Grief Therapy, led by Dr. Robert A. Neimeyer and Dr. Carolyn Ng, intended to give helping professionals of all disciplines the conceptual and practical tools they require to work alongside clients struggling with painful, preoccupying and protracted grief, as they strive to find significance in the face of devastating bereavement. 

This conference is hosted by Prevent Suicide Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee County Behavioral Health, and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Sessions will be held at ThriveOn King Building, 2153 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Milwaukee. 

Wisconsin Voices for Recovery is organizing this rally at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison to support those in recovery. Activities include speakers, free pizza and refreshments, resources, a live DJ and dancing, kids’ activities, and a hobby/wellness zone. 

MC3 is partnering with Charles E. Kubly Foundation to present the impactful documentary "My Ascension," at 1 p.m. on September 10 at the Oriental Theatre, 2230 N. Farwell Ave., Milwaukee. Resources will be available along with a panel discussion after the film. This event is free but registration is required.

About "My Ascension": A suicide attempt left 16-year-old varsity cheerleader, Emma Benoit, paralyzed, but propelled her on a mission to use her painful experience to help others find hope, while shining more light on the suicide epidemic that is taking the lives of 20 young people every day in the United States.

"My Ascension" is a feature-length documentary that chronicles Emma's inspiring journey and quest to walk again; as she works to bring Hope Squad, a school-based suicide prevention program, to Louisiana. The film also highlights the stories of two remarkable young people who tragically did not survive their attempts, and we learn first-hand from their families, friends, school officials, and suicide prevention experts about the devastating effects of suicide.

If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text the Crisis Text Line - HELLO to 741741.

During this virtual workshop from Community Advocates Public Policy Institute, you will learn how to increase safety by utilizing verbal de-escalation techniques. Participants will explore foundational information on how to reduce the level of conflict through self-knowledge, understand how past experiences influence current behavior, and practice de-escalation. This session will be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on September 11 via Zoom. 

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. This month's topic is Utility Services and Energy Assistance and will be held in person from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on September 18. Location TBD.



Fee is $5 for light refreshments and materials and can be paid via credit card. Kindly make sure to RSVP by September 13. 

STRYV365 is organizing its third annual Trauma Symposium to bring together educators, clinicians, and community members to discuss effective ways to help youth cope with trauma. This free event will be held from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on September 20 at Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra, 325 W. Walnut St., Milwaukee.

During the 2024 Mental Health America, Sept. 19-21, you can unite with thousands of mental health advocates from across the globe for three days of empowerment, innovation, and connection. The MHA conference, held in person in Washington, D.C., and online, offers a welcoming space for sharing personal stories and is open to anyone passionate about mental health. 

Safe & Sound, the Milwaukee County Department of Health and Human Services, and Milwaukee Academy of Science are organizing this free, safe space for youth ages 12-18 to discuss "better ways to cope" than by misusing opioids. It’ll be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on September 20 at 2000 W. Kilbourn Ave., Milwaukee. Refreshments will be served and parents are welcome to join the conversation. Contact Bridget Whitaker at 414-207-2117 or bridget@safesound.org with questions.

The 2024 Alcohol Policy Seminar (APS) is a training and networking opportunity for communities working to reduce excessive alcohol use, which is Wisconsin’s most persistent public health challenge. Alcohol-related problems continue to grow, including disease, injuries, domestic violence, underage drinking, and motor vehicle crashes and other harms. It’ll be held on October 7 and 8 in Oshkosh.

The Self-Determination Conference is one of Wisconsin’s biggest events for people with disabilities and the people who support them. Last year, over 800 people attended the conference. Your support will help provide scholarships, interpreter and translation services, technology and a high-quality in-person experience. Please help the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities continue to empower Self-Advocacy and Self-Direction in Wisconsin. The conference will be held from October 21 through October 23 at Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells. 

Hey, there,

-- do you have:



• Job openings?
• Upcoming events?
• News to share?
• Suggestions?

Forward the information to Prevention@CommunityAdvocates.net.

Thank you for your service to Milwaukee!

2023 Wisconsin YRBS Released

The Department of Public Instruction released the 2023 Youth Risk Behavioral Survey Summary Report showing Wisconsin students continue to deal with unprecedented mental health challenges while having fewer supports at school and at home. Get the report.

Milwaukee Health Care Partnership 2024-25 Priorities

Each year, the Milwaukee Health Care Partnership (MHCP) provides a synopsis of activities its members will collectively sponsor, participate in and monitor under the consortium’s four priorities: coverage, access, care coordination and community health. MHCP's FY2024-25 Plan Priorities reflect the sponsored and supported initiatives that MHCP work teams will focus on, as well as the community partners integral to those efforts. Read the plan.

National Recovery Month Toolkit

During September, check out SAMHSA's National Recovery Month toolkit and use and share the information and tools available, many of which are offered in Spanish language including social media messages, shareable graphics, and other resources you can use on your language platforms. Access the toolkit.

Línea Nacional de Ayuda de SAMHSA

La Línea Nacional de Ayuda de SAMHSA (1-800-662-4357) es un servicio gratuito, confidencial, disponible las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana, los 365 días del año. Esta línea telefónica es un servicio de información (en inglés y español) para personas y familias que enfrentan trastornos mentales o de uso de sustancias. Visite también el localizador de tratamientos.

Healthy MKE

De Milwaukee Health Care Partnership y Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services, el sitio web Healthy MKE ofrece una única fuente de información para los servicios públicos y privados en el condado de Milwaukee, donde los proveedores y los miembros de la comunidad pueden obtener la información que necesitan para ayudarse a sí mismos o a otros. Accede a ellos aquí.

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.

SAMHSA’s National Helpline

SAMHSA’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. Visit findtreatment.gov for information on treatment for mental and substance use disorders.

Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery

Are you worried about your drinking or 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.

Family Intervention Program (FIP)

Struggling with drug and alcohol use can make you feel alone. Not being able to find a counselor who understands your unique treatment needs can make things even harder. The Family Intervention Program is a no-cost, bilingual English and Spanish drug and alcohol treatment program specifically designed for Black and Latinx individuals and families in Milwaukee. To learn more about the Milwaukee Women’s Center’s Family Intervention Program, please call 414-270-4600 or click this link.

Job Opportunities

• Jim Luther New Hope Center: Food Pantry Manager, Bilingual English/Spanish (Full Time / Part Time)
• Kids Matter Inc.: Outreach/Team Support
• Milwaukee Christian Center: Initiative Community Organizer, Bilingual English/Spanish
• Next Door Milwaukee: Early Head Start Teacher
• Next Door Milwaukee: Head Start Teacher
• Next Door Milwaukee: Literacy Program Specialist
• Next Door Milwaukee: Monitoring and Compliance Manager
• Next Door Milwaukee: Parent Educator
• Next Door Milwaukee: Special Instructional Assistant
• Next Door Milwaukee: Student Support Coordinator
• Oak Creek Health Department: Public Health Nurse
• Pathfinders: Back-Up Youth and Family Advocate (Part Time)
• Pathfinders: Drop-In Center Therapist
• Pathfinders: Trauma Specialist
• Safe & Sound: Neighborhood Organizer
• Sirona Recovery: Milwaukee County CCS Therapist
• Sirona Recovery: Ozaukee County Program Coordinator-TAD and Youth Programs
• Sirona Recovery: Recovery Support Coordinator
• Wisconsin Primary Health Care Association: Chief Executive Officer

This newsletter was created and delivered to you thanks to the financial support of Milwaukee County Department of Health & Human Services Behavioral Health Services and other funders.

Community Advocates Public Policy Institute | 414-270-2950 

ppi.communityadvocates.net