Families as Allies

22nd Annual ADHD and Related Concerns Conference
2025-10-23 - 2025-10-24
Gulf Coast Education Initiative Consortium
The Hattiesburg Clinic Connections and Hattiesburg Clinic Psychology & Counseling will draw a targeted audience of approximately 500 professionals and is a popular resource for school administrators, educators (both public and private), parents, counselors, dyslexia therapists, speech-language pathologists, and medical professionals. Sponsoring the conference or retaining exhibitor space will provide your business with an exceptional opportunity to interact with and market to a diverse audience. No other conference draws such a wide variety of participants!
APPLICATIONS DUE JUNE 15, 2025
Register here>>

Out of the Darkness Community Walks | Oxford Walk
2025-10-25 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Chicago)
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Join the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for their Out of the Darkness Community Walks to prevent suicide and support AFSP’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.
Register here>>

Building Strong Foundations: Positive Discipline for Lifelong Success
2025-10-27 11:00 - 11:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Effective discipline is key to helping children develop self-control, make positive choices, and interact respectfully with peers and adults.
Join us for an informative session exploring Positive, Practical, and Proactive strategies rooted in Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Learn how to guide your child in developing essential life skills that will support their success well into adulthood.
Presented by: Patty Gautier, Family & Dissemination Coordinator, REACH MS.
Register here>>

Fall 4 Wellness & Resource Fair
2025-10-29 10:00 - 13:00
Mississippi SHINE Project
You’re invited to the Fall 4 Wellness & Resource Fair, hosted by the Mississippi SHINE Project in collaboration with the Mendenhall Public Library! This seasonal celebration brings together health services, local resources, and community connection—all in one welcoming space.
What to Expect:

Free health and wellness resources

Local vendors and community organizations

Friendly, family-oriented atmosphere

Opportunities to learn, connect, and grow

Date: Wednesday, October 29
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Mendenhall Public Library & Community Center 1630 Simpson Hwy 149, Mendenhall, MS 39114
For more information, contact:
Shanell Williamson – (601) 602-5533
Kathie Ward – (601) 847-2181
Let’s come together to celebrate wellness and community this fall!
Register here>>

Catholic Charities Fall Festival
2025-10-30 17:00 - 19:00
Catholic Charities
Join Catholic Charities for an evening of autumn fun at the Catholic Charities Fall Festival! Celebrate the season with family-friendly activities including face painting, games in the Kids Zone, and plenty of sweet treats. Hosted by Catholic Charities, Inc., Diocese of Jackson, this festive gathering brings the community together for joy, laughter, and connection.
Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025 🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM 📍 Location: 731 S Pear Orchard Rd Ste 51, Ridgeland, MS 39157
Whether you’re bringing little ones or just love the spirit of fall, there’s something for everyone. Admission is free, and all are welcome!
Questions? Call 601-326-3776 or
Email: nyah.whately@ccjackson.org or meseret.ayore@ccjackson.org

Community Health Fair
2025-11-01 09:00 - 13:00
The Association of South Jackson Neighborhoods
The Association of South Jackson Neighborhoods (ASJN) invites you to our Community Health Fair — a vibrant, informative event designed to empower our community with essential healthcare resources and services.
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Peggy Calhoun Community Center 4243 Willowood Blvd, Jackson, MS 39212
Questions? Contact Ernest Ward at 601-201-3020 for more details.

NFF Annual Virtual Conference
2025-11-03 11:00 - 15:00, 2025-11-05 11:00 - 14:30, 2025-11-07 11:00 - 15:00
National Federation of Families
While we won’t meet in person this year, we are in the process of planning an engaging and impactful virtual conference and we look forward to welcoming you to be part of it.
The NFF Conference is the premier event bringing together families, caregivers, the family peer workforce, community leaders, providers, partners, and legislators. Our annual conference generates a large amount of discussion on current challenges and trends pertaining to families and the health of their loved ones, from the perspective of a family-driven approach.
Our annual conference features many great workshops and speakers, joining hundreds of mental health and substance use advocates, family members, and professionals from across the nation as we work to educate and advocate for families and their loved ones.
Register here>>
​

Fall Health & Resource Fairs | Save the Date
2025-11-05
SEMRHI

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative (SEMRHI) has been delivering quality healthcare to communities across the region since 1980. Their commitment ensures that no one is turned away due to inability to pay, with a sliding fee scale available based on family size and income.
You’re invited to SEMRHI’s Fall Health & Resources Fair! Explore local health services, resources, and support—all in one place.
Event Dates & Locations:

Wednesday, November 5 – Covington County (Collins, MS)
Thursday, November 13 – Jefferson Davis County (Bassfield, MS)

Out of the Darkness Community Walks | MS Gulf Coast Walk
2025-11-08 09:00 - 10:00

Holiday 2025 Parent Support Group
2025-11-10 17:00 - 18:30
Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.)
This one-time group is for parents of adoptees and foster parents to connect with others who share similar experiences.
Together, we’ll explore how to navigate both the joys and challenges that can arise during the holiday season.
Participants will gain practical strategies, discover new ways to understand the holidays from their child’s perspective, and receive valuable resources to help support their families throughout this time of year.
This Holiday 2025 Parent Support Group will meet on Zoom, Monday, November 10, 2025 at 6:00 – 7:30pm EST. (5:00 – 6:30 pm CST).
Register here>>

Health & Wellness Resource Fair
2025-11-12 12:30 - 15:00
Yazoo City High School
You’re invited to the Health & Wellness Resource Fair at Yazoo City High School—a free community event focused on health, fitness, and wellness.
Location: 1825 Dr. Martin Luther King Dr., Yazoo City, MS 39194 Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Time: 12:30 PM – 3:00 PM
This fair offers free health screenings and fun activities for all ages. Services include blood pressure checks, glucose testing, BMI assessments, fitness challenges, and access to local community resources.
Hosted by Zina Allen, RN, Director of Student Health Services, this event is a great way to learn about your health and connect with wellness professionals.
Contact Info:

Phone: 662-571-6828

Email: ztallen@yazoocity.k12.ms.us

Fall Health & Resource Fairs | Save the Date
2025-11-13
SEMRHI

Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative (SEMRHI) has been delivering quality healthcare to communities across the region since 1980. Their commitment ensures that no one is turned away due to inability to pay, with a sliding fee scale available based on family size and income.
You’re invited to SEMRHI’s Fall Health & Resources Fair! Explore local health services, resources, and support—all in one place.

Autism Spectrum Disorder Family Resource Fair
2025-11-15 08:30 - 15:30
UMMC Center for Advancement of Youth
Come join us at the Family Friendly Autism Spectrum Disorder Family Resource Fair—a free event designed to support families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Location: Biloxi Visitors Center, 1050 Beach Blvd, Biloxi, MS
Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
Time: 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
This fair brings together trusted organizations, expert resources, and fun activities in a welcoming, family-friendly space. It’s hosted by the UMMC Center for Advancement of Youth, in partnership with the COA Foundation, MCARDD, and SPARK for Autism.
Why Attend?

Learn about autism support services
Connect with professionals and other families
Enjoy a day of learning, sharing, and community

Important Deadlines

Participant Registration: by October 15, 2025
Vendor/Organization Registration: by October 31, 2025

Everyone is welcome and admission is free!
Register here >>

Together for Tomorrow: ﻿Autism & Learning Workshop
2025-11-15 09:00 - 12:00
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Join MSPTI on Saturday, November 15th, for their FREE event, Together for Tomorrow: Autism & Learning Workshop, taking place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Picayune Church of God, located at 2464 Hwy 43 S in Picayune, MS.
Topics covered include:

Understanding autism and developmental delays
Classroom and group management strategies for teachers and church leaders
Supporting parents during challenging moments
Resources available for families in Pearl River County and Mississippi
Testimonies and encouragement from community and church leaders

This event, which is hosted by Picayune Church of God, is open to the public, and childcare will be provided. Light refreshments will be served, and parking will be available on-site.
For more information, contact Lacey Odom at (662) 417-8559 or email laceyodom@aol.com.
Register here>>

Special Education Advisory Panel Meeting Notice
2025-11-19 10:00
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
(MDRS)
The Special Education Advisory Panel will meet via Zoom on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.. You may access the meeting either online or by phone.
You may access the meeting online or by phone.
Join Zoom Meeting Online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83452343575?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 834 5234 3575
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Join Zoom Meeting by Phone:
Dial by your location
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
One tap Mobile
+13092053325,83452343575#, *184280#
Meeting ID: 834 5234 3575
Passcode: [REDACTED]
The Panel will hear public comments at 10:15 a.m.
Written comments may be submitted to Sharon Strong Coon at the
Mississippi Department of Education, P.O. Box 771, Jackson, Mississippi 39205-0771.
Written comments may be submitted to Michelle McClain at the
Mississippi Department of Education, P.O. Box 771, Jackson, Mississippi 39205-0771.
Email: mmcclain@mdek12.org; or call the Parent Hotline Number: 1-877-544-0408.
For more information, or if you need accommodations due to a disability, contact Michelle McClain or Mona Spells Adou at 601-359-3498.

Getting and Keeping the First Job
2025-11-21 10:30 - 11:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Participants will learn why disability self-awareness matters and how families can support youth during career planning. The session covers simple strategies for building resumes, preparing for interviews, and understanding job accommodations. We also highlight how families can guide youth through career exploration and the job search process.
The main message is clear: when families understand the world of work and hold high expectations, they play a powerful role in helping youth with disabilities succeed in employment
Register here>>

Helping Our Kids Thrive: The Power of Families in Social-Emotional Learning
2025-11-24 11:00 - 11:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) helps children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve goals, build positive relationships, and make caring, responsible choices. These lifelong skills begin at home and continue to grow through experiences in school and the community.
Join us for a short and informative session to learn more about SEL and explore how families play a vital role in nurturing healthy emotional development and supporting learning at home, in school, and beyond.
Register here>>

Advocacy Academy (Part 2)
2025-11-24 12:00 - 13:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Having a child with a disability can be challenging. Your child’s IEP and how to monitor it can be confusing. How to be the best advocate for your child, the importance of communication, and how to resolve conflicts are important pieces of this puzzle. Join us for an advocacy academy that will provide you with the tools to understand the special education process.
Register here>>

Mississippi Minority Mental Health Symposiums
2025-12-04 08:00 - 2025-12-05 17:00
Mississippi Minority Mental Health
Join us for two powerful days of connection, learning, and advocacy at the Mississippi Minority Mental Health Symposium 2025. This event is dedicated to amplifying the voices of underrepresented individuals in mental health and advancing equitable, community-driven change throughout Mississippi.
Expect engaging sessions, meaningful dialogue, and opportunities to contribute to the growing movement for minority mental health awareness and action.
Mark your calendar and stay tuned — more details coming soon!
Register here>>

Season of Self-Care
2025-12-05 09:00 - 11:00
Humphreys County High School
Join Humphreys County High School for a festive Season of Self-Care Health Fair on December 5, 2025. This joyful community event focuses on mental wellness, emotional support, and healthy coping skills during the holiday season. Open to students, families, and community members!
Register here>>

Cultivating Relationships: The Power of Early Childhood Systems
2025-12-10 08:30 - 16:30
Mississippi Families for Kids
Join the Mississippi Families for Kids for their Virtual Infant Mental Health Conference on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm.
Register here >>

Advocacy in Action: Exploring the MS Client Assistance Program (CAP)
2025-12-11 11:00 - 12:00
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
The MS Client Assistance Program (CAP) is a statewide, federally mandated program that advocates for and provides information to clients or potential clients of vocational rehabilitation services and centers for Independent Living. Join us to learn about this program.
Register here>>

Virtual Community Engagement & Listening Session
2025-12-16 13:00
National Federation of Families
The National Federation of Families invites you to join them for this Virtual Community Engagement & Listening Session. A group of national experts will be convening in January 2026 to set a foundation for a unified course of action to promote rights and recovery for all people who experience mental health and/or substance use challenges – including families and youth. As we prepare for the summit, we want to ensure that the voices, experiences, and wisdom of the entire recovery and peer community help shape the vision and priorities that emerge from the gathering. While only a small group will be able to attend the in-person summit, your perspective is essential to building a unified national movement for rights, recovery, and peer support.
Register here>>

Special Education Advisory Panel Meeting Notice
2025-12-17 10:00
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
(MDRS)
The Special Education Advisory Panel will meet via Zoom on Wednesday,December 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.. You may access the meeting either online or by phone.
The Zoom link will be sent closer to event time.
The Panel will hear public comments at 10:15 a.m.
Written comments may be submitted to Sharon Strong Coon at the
Mississippi Department of Education, P.O. Box 771, Jackson, Mississippi 39205-0771.
Email: scoon@mdek12.org; or call the Parent Hotline Number: 1-877-544-0408.
For more information, or if you need accommodations due to a disability, contact Sharon Strong Coon or Mona Spells Adou at 601-359-3498.

Tips for Effective IEP Meetings: Before, During and After
2026-01-14 11:30 - 12:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
It’s hard to remember everything you need to know for an IEP meeting. Join us and learn the steps on how to prepare before, during, and after the meeting.
Register here>>

Special Education Advisory Panel Meeting Notice
2026-01-21 10:00 - 12:00
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
(MDRS)
The Special Education Advisory Panel will meet via Zoom on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.. You may access the meeting either online or by phone.
Join Zoom Meeting Online:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83452343575?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 834 5234 3575 Passcode: [REDACTED] Join Zoom Meeting by Phone: Dial by your location
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
One tap Mobile +13092053325,83452343575#, *184280#
Meeting ID: 834 5234 3575
Passcode: [REDACTED]
The Panel will hear public comments at 10:15 a.m.
Written comments may be submitted to Mona Spells-Adou at the Mississippi Department of Education, P.O. Box 771, Jackson, Mississippi 39205-0771. email: “Mona Spells” <MSpells@mdek12.org> or call the Parent Hotline Number: 1-877-544-0408.
For more information, or if you need accommodations due to a disability, contact Sharon Strong Coon or Mona Spells Adou at 601-359-3498.

24th Annual Mississippi Child Welfare Institute Conference (MCWIC)
2026-02-05 - 2026-02-06
Mississippi Child Welfare Institute

The Mississippi Child Welfare Institute would like to invite you to its 24th Annual In-Person Conference (MCWIC).
📅 Dates: Thursday and Friday, February 5–6, 2026
🎯 Theme: Advancing Child Welfare Through Innovation and Resilience
📍 Location: Hilton Jackson, 1001 East County Line Road, Jackson, MS 39211
This year’s conference will offer 9 Continuing Education (CE) hours, including:

Cultural Diversity
Mandated Reporting
Supervision
Professional Ethics
General CEs

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Candace L. Riddley (MCWIC Chair): 601-979-2631
Dr. Angela Savage (MCWIC Co-Chair): 601-979-8896
We look forward to your participation in this impactful event!

Mississippi Child Welfare Institute Conference
2026-02-05 - 2026-02-06
Mississippi Child Welfare Institute
The Mississippi Child Welfare Institute Conference returns February 5–6, 2026, in Jackson, MS. Attendees can earn continuing education hours in areas such as cultural diversity, ethics, mandated reporting, and supervision.
This year’s conference will offer 9 Continuing Education (CE) hours, including:

Cultural Diversity
Mandated Reporting
Supervision
Professional Ethics
General CEs

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Candace L. Riddley (MCWIC Chair): 601-979-2631
Dr. Angela Savage (MCWIC Co-Chair): 601-979-8896
We look forward to your participation in this impactful event!
Register here>>
