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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: Youth Development at CADCA | | |
Earlier this year, Community Advocates Public Policy Institute's Milwaukee County AODA prevention funds allowed the opportunity to provide scholarships to the youth of Neu-Life Community Development to attend the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America’s (CADCA) National Leadership Forum. The forum equips coalitions with the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to create positive change in their communities.
The youth attendees had the following to say:
• “I learned that Breaking the Stigma around Mental Health starts with and includes: 1. Being culturally aware, relevant, sensitive. 2. Representation for our young people should never be the final goal; instead, it should be merely one step toward equity. 3. Emotional and physical safety. 4. Being seen, heard, and also being validated matters most.”
• "My experience at Capitol Hill was a fun experience. I’m not going to lie, I was little nervous but I got through it. I got to speak with Gwen Moore - I loved her, she very funny and welcoming, and we talked about our Black History event that is happening at the end of February."
• “I feel like what they are doing is needed in some schools. I feel like it would better help with education system.”
Supporting Milwaukee youth in attending CADCA’s National Leadership Forum is an investment in the next generation of changemakers. By creating space for them to learn, lead, and be heard, we are not only empowering young people, but we are helping to share a healthier, more equitable future for our communities and nurturing a thriving Milwaukee.
| | 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 Alcohol Policy Project (WisAPP) | | |
Medical College of Wisconsin’s Comprehensive Injury Center is giving special attention to preventing excessive alcohol use to improve public health, safety, and our state’s economy through their Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project (WisAPP). They focus on strategies to reduce excessive alcohol use by working with coalitions and local health departments as well as civic, religious, health care, local government, and state government agencies to make positive change.
| | The Relationship Between Alcohol-Related Content on Social Media and Alcohol Outcomes in Young Adults: A Scoping Review | | |
The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism's (NIAAA) Alcohol Research Current Reviews published it's findings on the relationship between alcohol-related content on social media and alcohol outcomes in young adults.
Alcohol-related content is everywhere on young people’s social media feeds and has been linked to increased consumption among young adults. The content typically highlights themes of social bonding, connectedness, and the normalization of drinking behaviors through individual users, alcohol companies/brands, and social media influencers. Teens and young adults may construct online identities by posting alcohol related content that reflects a desired social status, and studies show the more often young people who drink heavily are exposed to and post alcohol related content, the more likely they are to develop an online and office “drinker identity.”
Overall, young people are increasingly using social media to express values and shape an identity around alcohol use, often reinforcing and normalizing risky drinking behaviors among peers. By identifying how alcohol-related content contributes to social influence and identity formation, the authors hope this study will help researchers more effectively pinpoint characteristics of at-risk populations and inform targeted prevention strategies.
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Motivational Interviewing for Edible THC
Wednesday, April 23
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The NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, is hosting a webinar on Motivational Interviewing for Edible THC.
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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Compassion for Self and Others in Working with Complex Trauma
Wednesday, April 23
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Milwaukee Comprehensive Care Collaborative (MC3) is hosting their April Change Agent Meeting. Many people seeking behavioral health services have both mental health and substance abuse issues, as well as other complex needs. This webinar is an introduction to the theory of Jacques Lacan for an exploration of the psychological needs of children and how human service providers can support clients as well as themselves within the mental health profession.
This virtual meeting is scheduled from 1 to 3:30 p.m. on April 23. No RSVP required. At the time of the meeting, use the link below and fill out the requested information.
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IMMENSE Wellness
Saturday, April 26
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IMMENSE Wellness was created to inform and support men of color as they explore their respective careers and personal aspirations. Attendees will enjoy a half-day of workshops that will strengthen them emotionally, physically, mentally, and financially while developing meaningful connections with other professionals and entrepreneurs.
Registration is required and is $60. All attendees will receive continental breakfast and lunch and have access to assorted beverages throughout the morning and afternoon. Attendees will also receive a unique swag bag and be entered into a raffle for special prizes.
The event will be held at ThriveOn King, 2153 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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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 hosted by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. on April 30.
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No Menthol Sunday Brunch
Wednesday, April 30
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Join the Wisconsin African American Tobacco Prevention Network and the Wisconsin Tobacco Prevention & Poverty Network for Wisconsin’s No Menthol Sunday Kick-off Brunch! No Menthol Sunday is a time to educate congregants, youth and community members about the harmful health risks of menthol and other flavored tobacco products. Menthol is a product that has historically been targeted towards African Americans and other communities of color.
The Brunch will be held at Greater New Birth Church, 8237 W. Silver Spring Dr., Milwaukee on April 30 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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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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Affinity Groups
Saturday, May 3
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Affinity Groups are specifically designed for individuals who have lost a loved one due to substance use. The group provides a safe and compassionate space for those navigating the complex grief associated with substance-related deaths. It’s a safe, compassionate space where you can share your journey, find comfort, and connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through.
The Affinity Groups are sponsored by MIlwaukee County Behavioral Health Services and faciliated by Tarsha Wiggins, LCSW, CADC, Certified Grief Informed Therapist.
Affinity Group is held twice a month at two different locations. The next session is Saturday, May 3 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. at Mitchell Street Library’s Community Room, 906 W. Historic Mitchell St., Milwaukee.
Please contact Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Services at
414-257-6995 with any questions.
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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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Rise & Recover
Tuesday, May 6
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Join the Milwaukee County Overdose Prevention Team at the Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center for a day of mental health awareness and community support. Celebrate recovery, learn about overdose prevention, and experience demonstrations on how to use Narcan and fentanyl test strips. There will be food, music, and an opportunity to connect with local resources dedicated to supporting mental health and addiction recovery.
The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6.
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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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Verbal De-Escalation Techniques
Tuesday, May 13
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During this virtual workshop, 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 hosted by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on May 13 via Zoom.
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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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QPR Question Persuade Refer Suicide Prevention Training
Wednesday, May 14
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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.
There are two sessions offered by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute scheduled on Wednesday, May 14:
- 9 to 10:30 a.m.
- 1 to 2:30 p.m.
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Youth Mental Health First Aid
Friday, May 16
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Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who might be experiencing a mental health challenge or is in crisis.
Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
This session offered by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on May 16 and will be held via Zoom. Please register by May 12 at noon.
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MindfulMe Annual Mental Health Resource Fair
Saturday, May 17
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Birch & Banyan Coffee will be hosting it’s 2nd annual Mental Health Resource Fair located at 150 E. Capitol Dr., Hartland. They have an incredible list of 32 organizations participating. The hope is to help take away the stigma of mental health conversations. Many of us could use a little help in the day, whether it’s an intensive treatment program, taking more time for self-care, or anything in between. Come learn about resources in the community help yourself and your loved ones.
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Washington Park Community Health & Wellness Fair
Saturday, May 17
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Live healthier and safer while having fun at the Washington Park Community Health and Wellness Fair. Stop by for health workshops and screenings, stress and anxiety management, mental health providers, and much more.
Attendees will receive information to give you and your family the opportunity to live healthier, better, and happier!
This event will be held at the Urban Ecology Center, 1859 N. 40th St., Milwaukee from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 17.
For more information, contact the Urban Ecology Center at 414-344-5460.
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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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ECOM Workshop: Mental Health
Wednesday, May 21
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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.
May’s topic is Mental Health.
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, May 16. This ECOM Workshop will be held at Community Advocates at 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee.
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Adult Mental Health First Aid
Wednesday, May 28
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Adult Mental Health First Aid Training provides adults with the tools to assist other adults who may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a crisis. It teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. This training delivered by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may need help connecting to appropriate care.
This training will be held via Zoom from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on May 28. Please register by May 20.
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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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PTTC Alcohol Awareness Toolkit
For National Alcohol Awareness Month, the Prevention Technology Transfer Center Network (PTTC) is helping you raise awareness in your community about alcohol-related harms with their Alcohol Awareness Toolkit. Access and share their social media templates, op-eds, and worksheets to encourage engagement from prevention and public health stakeholders to educate and inform decision makers about effective alcohol policies. Click here to get started.
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Wisconsin Poison Center - Edible Awareness
The Wisconsin Poison Center has shared an awareness guide on cannabis edible. In recent years, calls about child cannabis poisonings at the Wisconsin Poison Center have increased. This guide includes what to watch out for, preveniton strategies, and how to safely store products. If your child has ingested cannabis, or if you or somone you know is showing signs they have used too much cannabis, call 1-800-222-1222. Click here to read more.
| | Los Recursos Familial en Español | | |
¡Los materiales del Mes de la Salud Mental en español ya están aquí!
¡Mental Health America se complace en annuciar que sus guías de planificación y acci ó n del Mes de la Salud Mental 2025 ya están disponibles en español! Al descargar las guías gratuitas, los hispanohablantes podrán planificar actividades efectivas para el Mes de la Salud Mental, hacerse cargo del bienestar mental personal y ayudar a generar un impacto a mayor escala. Compruébalo aquí.
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Mi Arco Iris Programa
El Programa Mi Arco Iris es un programa psicoeducativo bilingüe para niños de 6 a 12 años que presencian violencia doméstica. Durante su participación en el programa, los niños participan en actividades que los animan a explorar sus sentimientos, aprender a controlar su ira, desarrollar planes de seguridad, aprender métodos de relajación para el estrés y desarrollar un sistema de apoyo con otros niños. Para más información, comuníquese con UMOS al 414-389-6500.
| | Family Resources in English | | |
Empowering Mothers and Nurturing Futures
The City of Milwaukee Health Department is working with Froedert & the Medical College of Wisconsin to introduce the Maternal Mobile Clinic. The Maternal Mobile Clinic provides convenient and compassionate care directly into our communities. Services include prenatal exams, postpartum exams, family planning, vaccine administration, STI screening, and more. Click here to learn more, schedule a visit, and check out hours and locations.
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Fathers Making Progress
Fathers Making Progress started as an independently funded movement almost 20 years ago on the Northside of Milwaukee. With the goal of inspiring and empowering fathers ending negative generational cycles and building new ones, their programs have consistently transformed the community. One of the programs, Fathers Building Fathers, is a free class for young dads (ages 18 to 27) to learn best practice parenting techniques, share what works for them, and be part of a supportive circle. Learn more about Fathers Making Progress here.
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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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