Families as Allies

Parent Caregiver Peer Support
2025-05-12 - 2025-05-16
Are you a parent or caregiver raising a child aged 0-21 who has mental health or behavioral health challenges? Would you like to use your lived experience to help another parent on the same journey?

Then, being a parent peer supporter may be for you!

What is Parent-Peer Support? Parent-peer support is when a parent or caregiver uses their lived experience to support another parent or caregiver who is going through similar experiences.

Who Can Be a Parent Peer Supporter? A parent-peer supporter is a biological parent, adoptive parent, or caregiver with legal custody who is currently raising or has raised a child with these characteristics:

The child is currently between the ages of 0-21, or was when they first began having challenges.
The child has an emotional, social, behavioral, or substance use disability.
The child received services in or navigated the mental health or a related system (for example, a child with an IEP related to behavior issues at school).

How Do I Become a Parent Peer Supporter? The Department of Mental Health certifies parent-peer supporters in the mental health system.
Upcoming training:

May 12-16, 2025

Click here for the application packet.

Who Should Take the Training?
Any parent or caregiver who is raising a child who has challenges and:

Is interested in working for a community mental health center or another agency certified by the Department of Mental Health. Completing the training does not guarantee you a job, but it helps ensure you’ll be ready for one.
Is interested in doing part-time contractual work for Families as Allies. We are building our pool of contractual employees.
Supports parents in any system. This training will strengthen your skills and help you network with other parent-peer supporters.
Would like to learn how to support other parents in the same shoes in any child-serving system. We currently have funds to pay training stipends to parents who are—or have been—involved in the youth court system and would like to learn how to support other parents going through the same thing. Contact us at 601-355-0915 or info@faams.org to learn more.

Can’t make this Parent/Caregiver Peer Support Training?
Our upcoming training dates are below:

July 14-18, 2025
September 15-19, 2025
November 17-21, 2025
January 12-16, 2026
March 16-20, 2026
May 11-15. 2026

Overcoming The Obstacles
2025-05-10 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago)
MS Alliance to End Suicide
Join the MS Alliance to End Suicide for Overcoming the Obstacles, a special event dedicated to promoting mental health awareness for youth and adults. Families can enjoy a day filled with fun activities.
The event begins with sign-up at 10 AM and an opening ceremony at 10:30 AM.
Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month by making a difference—register early and learn more by texting “May Event” to 601-573-4195.

The Magical Road to Sweet Surprises
2025-05-10 10:00 - 14:00
Help Me Grow Mississippi
Mark your calendars for “The Magical Road to Sweet Surprises”, hosted by Be Undefeated Therapeutic Solutions! This event is a wonderful way to learn about your child’s developmental milestones while enjoying a fun and interactive environment.

Jefferson Davis Health and Wellness Community Fair
2025-05-10 09:00 - 13:00
Damionh Jones
Join Damionh Jones at the Jefferson Davis County Health & Wellness Fair! Let’s come together to revitalize physical education and community engagement in our area because we all deserve access to fun activities, love, and opportunities to grow!
Register here>>

Behavioral Health Planning and Advisory Council
2025-05-08 10:00 - 12:00
Department of Mental Health
Federal law specifies the duties of the Joint Mental Health Planning Councils.
>Duties include:

Review the Mental Health Block Grant Plan and 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.

Click here for notice information.

Meeting Location-in person
Mississippi State Hospital
3550 Highway 80 W
Whitfield, MS 39193
Contact Information
August Irving
601-359-6204
august.irving@dmh.ms.gov

A Bridge of Hope Where Faith and Mental Health Connect
2025-05-08 08:00 - 15:00
Mississippi Public Health Institute
Join the Mississippi Public Health Institute on Thursday, May 8 from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm for A Bridge of Hope a Mental Health Faith Based Summit where Faith and Mental Health meet.
Register here>>

Kindergarten Readiness Working Group
2025-05-07 14:00
Mississippi Early Childhood Development Coalition
Would you like to join an ECDC working group that focuses on how public school districts can help prepare children and families for kindergarten and support families in building babies’ and toddlers’ brains? We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at 2:00 via Zoom. Our first meeting was on April 2, 2025.
Register here>>

Family Fun Day
2025-05-05 13:00 - 16:00
Pearl River Valley
Join the Fun at Family Fun Day in Hattiesburg!
Looking for something exciting to do with the family? Head over to Vernon Dahamer Park in Hattiesburg, MS, on Monday, May 5th, from 1 PM to 4 PM for a day packed with fun, food, and community celebration!

Empower Together
2025-05-02 13:00
The Arc
Don’t Miss This Unique Opportunity! The Arc is proud to host a free training session led by Dr. Jeanfreau from USM, a renowned expert in relationships and sexuality in IDD. Using a nationally recognized curriculum, Dr. Jeanfreau will guide participants in building awareness and understanding.
This training is open to both service providers and those who receive services, and it’s absolutely FREE! Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so act quickly.
Important: Be sure to note the two locations and different training dates.
Empower yourself with knowledge—because knowledge is powerful and essential for safety.
To reserve your spot, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Lisa Burck at lisa@arcms.org

Bridging The Gap: Mental Health & Crisis Intervention Teams
2025-05-01 - 2025-05-02
NAMI Mississippi
Mental health crises are increasing in communities everywhere, placing unprecedented pressure on law enforcement, healthcare systems, and families. Addressing these challenges requires more than resources—it demands understanding, collaboration, and a shared commitment to care.
Community: Empowering individuals and families with resources and support as they navigate mental health.
Law Enforcement: Training and tools to support officers in responding to mental health crises with care and expertise.
Healthcare Systems: Enhancing partnerships to facilitate more seamless and effective crisis management and recovery care.
2025 marks a historic milestone in Mississippi for the first-ever joint state-wide conference. Themed “Bridging the Gap: Mental Health and Crisis Intervention Teams,” this groundbreaking event aims to transform how mental health crises are handled in our communities.
Register here>>

Denim Day 2025
2025-04-30 18:30 - 20:45
Butterflies By Grace Defined By Faith
DENIM DAY is about bringing awareness to sexual violence issues, supporting survivors, and educating ourselves and others. Join millions of people across the world in wearing jeans with a purpose- support Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in protest against injustice and rape culture.
Join BBGDF and community partners for an evening honoring and empowering survivors of sexual violence. We encourage all parents, youth, and community members to show solidarity with survivors.
Register here>>

Operation Shoestring Spring Fling 2025
2025-04-30 17:30 - 19:30
Operation Shoestring
Join Operation Shoestring Families and Friends for an evening of community, music, and delicious food at the Spring Fling Celebration!
Enjoy live music, great food, and a special moment to celebrate the incredible volunteers and community members who make a difference daily.
Register here>>

Keys to Building Effective Communication Skills
2025-04-28 11:00 - 11:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Effective communication is essential for creating meaningful relationships, reaching common goals, and navigating conflicts – whether in personal life or the workplace. It includes expressing ideas clearly, listening attentively, and picking up on nonverbal signals. When people develop effective communication skills, they build trust, empathy, and teamwork, which positively impact many areas of life. Join us as we explore these invaluable life skills.
Register here>>

Autism Screening Day
2025-04-28 10:00 - 18:00
MS LIFT
Join us for MECIC Statewide Autism Screening Day, a free event offering screenings for children aged 5 and under. Families across Mississippi can access expert evaluations to support early childhood development.
Take advantage of this opportunity to support your child’s growth and development. Early detection can make a difference!
Call to schedule an appointment: 601-266-4745

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes
2025-04-27 14:30 - 16:00
Butterflies By Grace Defined By Faith
April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Join BBGDF by participate in a one-mile walk to raise awareness around the issues of rape, sexual assault and gender violence.
The goal of this march is to empower men to join the efforts of women by literally walking in their shoes. We aim to make our communities safe places for all and to provide an opportunity for communities to discuss these important issues. We want our clergy community, churches, coaches, political members, first responders, and all to participate in this year’s walk.
Register here>>

Girl Talk: A Purple Talk Table Event
2025-04-26 11:00 - 12:45
Butterflies By Grace Defined By Faith
Join Butterflies BBGDF for Girl Talk: Purple Table Talk Edition, an empowering and private space for women to discuss important topics like Pleasure, Sensual Love, and Body Shaming. This session is designed to foster conversations about womanhood, survival, and healing, all in a safe and supportive environment.
Our keynote speaker, Keiona Cavett, M.A., brings her expertise as an educator, sex educator, and community outreach coordinator to guide these meaningful discussions.
Register here>>

End The Cycle Stop Gun Violence
2025-04-26 10:00
Jackson Police Department
Join the Jackson Police Department in taking a stand against gun violence.
Be a part of the Youth March Against Violence and help end the cycle. Together, we can raise awareness and promote peace in our community. The march kicks off at 810 Cooper Road Precinct 1 and will conclude at Sykes Park.

Health and Wellness Fair 2025
2025-04-26
Cade Chapel
Join Cade Chapel for their Annual Family and Friends Festival and enjoy a day of health screenings, wellness information and demonstration.

Leadership Coaching and Policy Discussion
2025-04-23 12:00
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>>

Nfusion Metro Picnic
2025-04-22 16:30 - 18:00
Nfusion Metro
Bring your family and join us for the Nfusion Metro Picnic!
This delightful event promotes family engagement and cost-efficient activities in a welcoming, green park setting. Unwind with loved ones on picnic blankets, enjoy tasty treats, and participate in fun games and activities.
It’s the perfect way to create lasting memories while strengthening family bonds. We can’t wait to see you there!

The Behavioral Health Summit
2025-04-22 - 2025-04-25
FTC Prevention Services, LLC
This 4-day conference is designed to equip professionals with evidence-based strategies to promote holistic care, improve outcomes, and strengthen support systems for mental health, behavioral health, and recovery. Whether you’re a clinician, advocate, or educator, this event offers invaluable insights and networking opportunities.
Register here>>

Families as Allies Board Quarterly Board Meeting
2025-04-17 18:30 - 19:30
Quarterly board meeting of the board of Families as Allies. All meetings are open to the public and include time for public comments. Public comments can also be emailed to info@faams.org or faxed to 601-355-0919.

Register here >>

Easter Eggstravaganza: A Health & Wellness Fair
2025-04-17 09:30 - 12:00
Larry Summers Career and Technical Center
Join us at Larry Summers Career and Technical Center for a fun-filled Health & Wellness Fair focused on inclusivity, student support, and healthy living!
Register here>>

Board of Mental Health Meeting
2025-04-17 09:00
Department of Mental Health

The Department of Mental Health Regular Board meeting will be held Virtually on April 17, 2025, at 9:00 am.
Click here for notice information:
https://www.ms.gov/dfa/pmn/Home/NoticeDetails/991db1c4-6b2f-4279-be01-e239b53d8c90

Meeting Location

3550 MS 468
Whitfield MS 39193
Contact Information
Suzanne Marler
6013596260
Suzanne.marler@dmh.ms.gov

A Night of Storytelling
2025-04-16 18:00 - 20:00
Springboard To Opportunities

Join Springboard to Opportunities for an inspiring Night of Storytelling. A virtual option is available!
The evening will feature powerful stories from Springboard mothers and an engaging conversation with Dr. Tressie McMillan Cottom, award-winning writer, sociologist, and cultural critic. After the program, stay for a reception to continue the conversation, enjoy refreshments, and connect with fellow attendees. This event is free!
Register here>>

Get Your Bag Up!
2025-04-16 00:00
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated
Join us for an empowering financial literacy event featuring workshops, door prizes, and a variety of financial and retail vendors. Esteemed speakers include Rieko Wells (Community Bank), Damian Murriel (Jackson Memorial Funeral Service), and Andrew & Lori Moncure (Primerica).

Family Engagement Parent Cohorts
2025-04-15 18:00 - 19:00
Institute for Disability Studies
Join us for the Family Engagement Parent Cohorts, a virtual gathering designed for families of students receiving special education services. This event fosters connection, learning, and empowerment in a welcoming environment.
For more information, call 601.266.5163 or email fan@groups.usm.edu.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, build relationships, and advocate for your child’s education!

Pathways to College: Preparing for Inclusive Postsecondary Success
2025-04-15 11:30 - 12:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Join us for a comprehensive overview of volunteerism opportunities targeting youth and young adults with disabilities. This session will cover the benefits of volunteering, ways to get involved, and how to assist organizations in creating inclusive opportunities. In addition, virtual volunteer options will be explored.
Register here>>

Boots on the Ground for Testing
2025-04-14 12:45 - 14:00
Woolfolk Middle School
Join Woolfolk Middle School for an exciting event, Boots on the Ground for Testing, on Monday, April 14, 2025, from 12:45 PM to 2:00 PM. This celebration is designed to motivate and uplift students as they prepare for their upcoming assessments.
Parents, teachers, and community members are encouraged to attend and share words of encouragement to inspire students to perform their best.
Let’s come together to celebrate academic excellence and support our students in achieving success!

Diaper Drive
2025-04-14 09:00 - 2025-04-16 18:00
Magnolia Medical Foundation
Join the Magnolia Medical Foundation in making a difference for local families in need! We’re collecting size 4 diapers to provide essentials and support for our community.
Drop off your donations and contribute to a cause that truly matters. Every diaper counts!
For more information, contact (601) 397-6860 or email kaitleen.noah@magmedfound.org.
