Families as Allies

2nd Annual Disaster Preparedness Fair
2025-08-22 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
Mississippi Urban League
The Mississippi Urban League invites you to the 2nd Annual Disaster Preparedness Fair on August 22, 2025. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Jackson Medical Mall, Center Court, located at 350 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave in Jackson, MS. Families and individuals can learn how to prepare for emergencies and natural disasters. Community partners will provide free resources, tools, and information to help you stay safe. United Way, Entergy, Lutheran Disaster Response, and other local organizations support this event.

Explore, Connect, Bloom — Virtual Training Series
2025-08-19 10:30 - 11:30
MSPTI’
Join MSPTI for an empowering two-part virtual training experience designed to support and connect families, caregivers, and professionals who engage with neurodivergent individuals. Led by Andrea Hardin, these interactive sessions will provide tools, insight, and opportunities to bloom through community and learning.
What to Expect:

Practical strategies for navigating neurodivergence
Networking and shared learning opportunities
Q&A with Andrea Hardin

Location: Online (link provided upon registration)
Register here>>

Back-to-School Bash at Northpark
2025-08-16 11:00 - 13:00
Northpark
Kick off the school year with a fun-filled, family-friendly event! Join us at Northpark for a FREE Back-to-School Bash packed with excitement and resources for the whole community.
What to Expect:• Free school supplies (while supplies last)• Health screenings & wellness info• Live DJ & upbeat music• Interactive vendor booths• Kids’ crafts & activities• Giveaways, prizes & snacks• Back-to-school sales in select stores• Photo ops & fun surprises!
This is the perfect way to prepare for the new school year while having a blast with the whole family. Don’t miss it!

Transition 101: Education, Independence and Employment
2025-08-16 10:00 - 14:00
MSPTI
Join MSPTI and LIFE of MS on Saturday, August 16th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for our training, Transition 101: Education, Independence, and Employment!
Transitions aren’t always easy. Join us and learn how to navigate the process, what happens at each step, and where to find services and support.

The target audience will be:
Parents of youth with disabilities
Self-advocates
People who support them

Presenters:

Leslie Junkin, MSPTI Project Director
Desmeon Thomas, Community Liaison

No Cost to attend!!
Please register so we can prepare materials!
Contact Leslie Junkin for more information at leslie@mspti.org or 662-251-5599.
Reghister here>>

Bringing Everyone Together Around Wraparound Research
2025-08-15 12:00 - 12:45
Families as Allies

Families as Allies invites you to a virtual meeting on Friday, August 15, from 12:00 to 12:45 PM. We will discuss collaborating on a proposal to the Patient-Centered Outcome Research Institute (PCORI).
The goal is simple: make sure wraparound research focuses on what matters most to families, youth, and partners. These partners include researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and payers.
Everyone is welcome. Families who have used wraparound, or are using it now, are especially encouraged to attend.
Registration is required so we can hear from all groups that can help shape this important work.

Register here>>

Board of Mental Health Meeting
2025-08-15 09:00
Department of Mental Health

The Department of Mental Health Regular Board meeting will be held on August 15, at 9:00 am.
Click here for notice information.

Meeting Location

239 North Lamar Street
Robert E. Lee Building
Jackson MS 39201
Contact Information
Suzanne Marler
6013596260
suzanne.marler@dmh.ms.gov

Mississippi Behavioral Health Planning and Advisory Council
2025-08-14 10:00 - 11:00
Department of Mental Health
Federal law specifies the duties of the Joint Mental Health Planning Councils.
>Duties include:

To review the Mental Health Block Grant Plan and to make recommendations;
To serve as an advocate for adults with serious mental illness, children with a serious emotional disturbance, and other individuals with mental illnesses; and
To monitor, review, and evaluate, not less than once yearly, the allocation and adequacy of mental health services within the State.

Meeting Location-in person
Mississippi State Hospital – Building 56

Explore, Connect, Bloom — Virtual Training Series
2025-08-13 18:00 - 19:00
MSPTI’
Join MSPTI for an empowering two-part virtual training experience designed to support and connect families, caregivers, and professionals who engage with neurodivergent individuals. Led by Andrea Hardin, these interactive sessions will provide tools, insight, and opportunities to bloom through community and learning.
Session Dates:

Wednesday, August 13 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday, August 19 | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

What to Expect:

Practical strategies for navigating neurodivergence
Networking and shared learning opportunities
Q&A with Andrea Hardin

Location: Online (link provided upon registration)
Register here>>

Supportive Coaching for Parents Supporting Other Parents
2025-08-13 12:00 - 13:00
For any parents supporting other parents in any system. Parent peer support specialists, parent consultants, parent educators, and parents who have completed parent peer support training are strongly encouraged to attend. We will discuss current trends in parent peer support, national standards for parent peer support, continuing education opportunities, and local and state issues affecting parent peer support. The group also provides support and coaching for any specific issues participants share. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 12 noon. We ask that anyone attending respect the confidentiality of the group.
Register here >>

Community Day Party
2025-08-10 14:00 - 18:00
Riverside Collective x JXN United
Join Riverside Collective and JXN United for an exciting Community Day Party filled with music, local flavor, and family fun! Expect a live DJ, good vibes, a diverse vendor and nonprofit market, and free book giveaways. This free community event is all about connection, celebration, and supporting local Jackson businesses.
Highlights:• DJ & Community Vibes All Afternoon• Local Vendor + Nonprofit Market• Book Giveaways• Family-Friendly Fun

The Big Leap Hop On In!
2025-08-09 08:00 - 16:30
Mississippi Lift
Join the Mississippi Department of Education Office of Early Childhood for The Big Leap: Hop On In!—a one-day conference dedicated to strengthening family engagement and transition practices for early childhood educators and families.
This engaging event will feature a dynamic keynote speaker, interactive breakout sessions, and valuable resources from state and community partners. Participants will explore best practices, innovative strategies, and meaningful tools to support families through every stage of a child’s early development.
Register here>>

Mississippi LIFT 2025 Family Engagement and Transition Conference
2025-08-09 08:00 - 16:30
Mississippi Department of Education
The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) and other key organizations, invites your organization to participate as a vendor at the Mississippi LIFT 2025 Family Engagement and Transition Conference.
This one-day statewide event brings together:

Early childhood professionals
Families
Educators
Community leaders

All with a shared goal: to explore best practices in family engagement and early learning transitions.
Why You Should Participate:
As a vendor, you’ll have the chance to:

Share resources and tools that support families and educators
Connect with a statewide audience focused on early childhood success
Promote your services, programs, or products aligned with family empowerment

Details:

Vendor tables are FREE and include one standard table per organization
Door prize donations are encouraged to add fun and engagement
Space is limited — please confirm your interest by Friday, July 25, 2025

How to Register:
To sign up as a vendor or request more information, contact:Email: sgiles@mdek12.orgPhone: 601-359-2932

Meet the Teacher
2025-08-05 17:00 - 19:00
Bettie E. Woolfolk Middle School
Step right up for an exciting evening at Bettie E. Woolfolk Middle School’s “Meet the Teacher” Extravaganza! Families are invited to join us under the big top for a fun-filled, circus-themed event where you’ll have the chance to:
Meet your child’s teachersLearn about classroom expectationsAsk questions and connect with staffEnjoy a welcoming and festive atmosphere
This event is an excellent opportunity to support your student’s success and build strong partnerships between home and school. Don’t miss it—we can’t wait to see you there!

JeVonne Keller McCoy Elementary
2025-08-05 16:00 - 18:00
JeVonne Keller McCoy Elementary
Get ready for a warm welcome at JeVonne Keller McCoy Elementary’s Meet the Teacher Night on August 5, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This back-to-school kickoff event allows families to connect with teachers, learn more about the academic year ahead, and receive helpful school resources. Hosted at 1835 School Drive, Yazoo City, MS, the event will feature Principal Lakecia Martin sharing insights into the school’s goals and exciting updates. Whether you’re a returning family or new to the district, we can’t wait to meet you!

Thomas Edwards Sr High School Open House
2025-08-04 16:00 - 18:00
Thomas Edward Sr. High School
Join Thomas Edward Sr. High School as they kick off the school year! Come meet the teachers, pick up your class schedule, and get answers to any questions you may have. This is a great opportunity to connect and prepare for a successful school year!

Back to School Wellness Event
2025-08-02 10:00 - 16:00
Lupus Mississippi South Support Group
The Lupus Mississippi South Support Group invites you to join them for their Back to School Wellness Event—a day of fun, support, and preparation as families get ready for a new school year!
Enjoy a day filled with community resources, educational tools, and health-focused activities to help your family start the school year strong and empowered.
This event is free and open to the public. Come out and support wellness, education, and community unity!

Back to School Supply Give-a-way
2025-08-02 10:00
Louise – King Chapter No. 727
You are invited to a Back-to-School Supply Giveaway on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Friendship Park & Field (1009 Rebecca Avenue, Hattiesburg, MS). The event begins at 10:00 AM and is free to the public.
Students in K–12th grade can receive free school supplies, shoes, and haircuts (limited barber services available). There will also be a Fun Zone with music, games, and refreshments in the park and pavilion area.
Important Details:

First come, first served while supplies last
Students must be present to receive supplies, shoes, and haircuts
Open to currently enrolled K–12 students only

Come enjoy a fun day with the community and help students start the school year prepared and confident!
Special thanks to all our donors and partners, including Molina Healthcare, RNR Wheels & Tires, Craft Auto Sales, Vision Venue, PRVNIC, and many more.

Youth Justice Summit
2025-08-02 09:00 - 14:00
Hinds County Children’s Coalition
The Youth Justice Summit brings together community leaders, young voices, and changemakers for a powerful day of advocacy, education, and action.
Highlights Include:

Keynote Speaker: Xavier McElrath-Bey
Special Guest: Hon. Carlyn Hicks
Hosted by: Maisie Brown
Power Panels, Breakout Sessions, Talent Showcase, Door Prizes & More!

This summit is a platform for youth and adults to explore real solutions to justice system challenges, celebrate youth talent, and engage in conversations that inspire lasting impact.
FREE Registration is required!Vendor slots available — scan the QR code to register.
Register here>>

11th Annual Disability Law Conference & CLE
2025-07-31 08:30 - 16:30
Mississippi College School of Law
Join legal professionals, advocates, and community leaders for the 11th Annual Disability Law Conference and Continuing Legal Education (CLE), hosted by Disability Rights Mississippi. This year’s event will focus on key issues impacting individuals with disabilities in Mississippi, covering topics such as housing access, special education, mental health services, and more.
Register here>>

Special Education Boot Camp
2025-07-29 09:30 - 23:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
This July, join the Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project at the Harrison County Advocacy Center in Gulfport, MS, for their Special Education Boot Camps.
July 29th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
REGISTER HERE!!
Topics will include:

Advocacy
Communication/Documentation
Conflict Resolution
IEPs

For more information, contact Lesle Junkin at leslie@mspti.org or Jeannie Herrin at jeannie.herrin@co.harrison.ms.us, (228) 241-1837.
Registration is preferred but not required.

Special Education Boot Camp
2025-07-28 18:30 - 20:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
This July, join the Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project at the Harrison County Advocacy Center in Gulfport, MS, for their Special Education Boot Camps.
We have two Boot Camps available:
July 28th from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
REGISTER HERE!!
July 29th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
REGISTER HERE!!
Topics will include:

Advocacy
Communication/Documentation
Conflict Resolution
IEPs

For more information, contact Lesle Junkin at leslie@mspti.org or Jeannie Herrin at jeannie.herrin@co.harrison.ms.us, (228) 241-1837.
Registration is preferred but not required.

Ready, Set, Learn! Back to School Giveaway
2025-07-26 10:00 - 14:00
LINK
Join LINK and Head Start for a fun and impactful Back to School Giveaway on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10 AM – 2 PM at the WH Jones Head Start Center, located at 5489 Old Highway 42, Hattiesburg, MS.
Families will have access to:

Community Resources
Free School Supplies
Hygiene Items
Food

This event is hosted by LINK (Navigating Families to Success), a program of Canopy Children’s Solutions, in partnership with Head Start. Don’t miss this opportunity to get prepared for a successful school year!

Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC)
2025-07-25 14:00 - 16:00
Mississippi’s Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Committee
Join the Mississippi Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Committee on Friday, July 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Cobb Conference Center inside the Walter Sillers Building, located at 550 High Street in downtown Jackson. The meeting is open to the public. You can attend in person, and we anticipate that Medicaid will provide a virtual link closer to the meeting time.

A Splash of Summer: Vitality Café
2025-07-25 12:00 - 13:30
Be Strong Families
Adding a splash of summer is all about finding those moments of joy, relaxation, and spontaneity that create lasting memories, even amidst the challenges and responsibilities of everyday life. The essence of Summer – joy, freedom and relaxation- can infuse everyday life into vibrant, creative, bright days.
Register here>>

Mississippi’s Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Council
2025-07-25 10:00 - 12:00
Mississippi’s Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Council
Join the Mississippi Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Council on Friday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Cobb Conference Center inside the Walter Sillers Building, located at 550 High Street in downtown Jackson. The meeting is open to the public. You can attend in person, and we anticipate that Medicaid will provide a virtual link closer to the meeting time.

Leadership Coaching and Policy Discussion
2025-07-23 12:00 - 13:00
Families as Allies
This group focuses on understanding current policy issues and also opportunities for leadership training graduates to serve on decision-making committees. Leadership training graduates are strongly encouraged to attend, but the meetings are open to anyone who is interested in learning more about policy.
Register here>>

Back to School Backpack Giveaway
2025-07-23 10:00 - 13:00
BPSOS Biloxi and community partners
Free Backpack Giveaway on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM (or until supplies run out) at the Sacred Heart Gymnasium, located at 10446 Lemoyne Blvd., D’Iberville, MS 39540.
What to expect:

Free backpacks and school supplies for children
Senior community resources and free health screenings
No documentation needed

Children must be present to receive supplies

This event is made possible by BPSOS Biloxi and community partners, including Hancock Whitney, MDHS, SMPDD, and others.
For more info: Call 228-436-9999
Come early and get ready for a great school year!

A Vision of Youth Thriving: Aligning External Assets with Youth Strengths and Needs
2025-07-21 12:30 - 15:00
National Training & TA Center for Child, Youth, & Family Mental Health
Foundational work in Positive Youth Development (PYD) has shifted how we think about adolescence and young adulthood as a time of unique opportunity and potential rather than a time full of risk and deficits. With that orientation, researchers and practitioners are working as a scientific and applied community to better understand thriving and the factors that support it. Stemming from a qualitative study with young people and practitioners across the country, this presentation will highlight a vision of thriving, including key outcomes of mental and physical health, and the strengths and assets youth experience in themselves and the communities that support their thriving. We will discuss how practitioners and others who support young people (either personally or professionally) can use these findings and how others from the field of PYD can be asset builders for young people. We invite you to come with your own wisdom and questions. We are excited to dive in together and envision a world where every young person has the strengths and supports they need to thrive!
Register here>>

Back to School Supply Drive
2025-07-20 15:00
C3 Car Club
C3 Car Club {Gulf Coast} proudly presents their 7th Annual Back to School Supply Drive on Sunday, July 20, 2025, starting at 3 PM at 2701 US-90, Gautier, MS (behind McDonald’s).

Free school supplies for students (child must be present)
Car show vibes with the Gulf Coast’s favorite ridesSupplies are available while they lastFor more info, call: 228-235-0499

Bring the family, enjoy the energy, and help get students ready for a successful school year!

Community Health Fair & Back to School Bash
2025-07-19 09:00 - 13:00
Southside Missionary Baptist Church
Join Southside Missionary Baptist Church for their Community Health Fair & Back to School Bash on Saturday, July 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM at 100 Nashville Ferry Road E., Columbus, MS 39702
This family-friendly event will feature:

Free school supplies and backpacks (while supplies last)
Free health screenings and wellness resources
Hygiene kits and dental care items
Vision and medical services are available on-site

Get your family ready for a healthy and prosperous school year—all in one place!
