Families as Allies

Supportive Coaching for Parents Supporting Other Parents
2025-08-13 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-09-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
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 >>

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>>

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

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

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>>

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>>

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!

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>>

2nd Annual Disaster Preparedness Fair
2025-08-22 11:00 - 13:00
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.

Growing the Connection: Promoting Meaningful Family-School Partnerships
2025-08-25 11:00 - 11:30
MSPTI
MSPTI presents Growing the Connection: Promoting Meaningful Family-School Partnerships on Monday, August 25, from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This session, led by Patty Gautier of REACH MS, will explore ways families and schools can work together to build stronger partnerships that support student success. Parents, caregivers, and educators are encouraged to join this short but impactful presentation.
Register here>>

Special Education Workshop and Clinic
2025-08-26 12:30 - 19:30
MS Special Education Coalition
This free community event offers training and resources for families navigating the special education system, including live legal consultations, panel discussions, and CLE sessions. Whether you’re a caregiver, parent, or advocate, this clinic could provide valuable support. Dinner will be served, and the first 10 registered clinic attendees will receive a $25 gift card.
Register here>>

Leadership Coaching and Policy Discussion
2025-08-27 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>>

BSF Parent Cafes
2025-08-28 09:00
Be Strong Families
If you ever needed a place to learn how to keep families strong—this is it! This information session will give you a complete overview of the Be Strong Families’ Parent Cafés and the process of how to make them a part of your parent outreach.
Register here>>

The Story Behind Caiden's Corner: Turning a Diagnosis Into a Movement
2025-08-28 10:00 - 11:00
MSPTI
This session is a raw, real look at how one autism diagnosis flipped everything I knew upside down and sparked a mission to make sure no other family ever feels alone on this journey. I’ll share the behind-the-scenes story of starting Caiden’s Corner, how we’re building support systems for families across Mississippi, and what we’ve learned about advocacy, grief, grit, and community along the way.
Register here>>

Investing in Our Future - How Mississippi Supports Young Children
2025-09-02 13:00
Mississippi First
Join MS First on Sept. 2 at 1 PM for a free webinar unveiling the 2nd edition of Investing in Our Future. Learn how Mississippi supports young children and access new data for policymakers, educators, and families.
Register here>>

Boots on the Ground Pop-Up Weekend - Charity Day
2025-09-05
Boots on the Ground
“Spread the Love” Charity Day has grown into an EPIC weekend celebration of community, service, and togetherness. This year, we’re turning love into action with a powerful fundraising goal to renovate the Day Center at the MS HUB Complex, transforming it into a welcoming haven by December 22, 2025.

By registering, you become a Game Changer, and your name will be displayed on our Game Changer Wall at MS HUB Complex.

To become a Vendor, Contestant, Volunteer, Sponsor, Player, Exhibitor, Line dancer, or purchase a T-shirt

Register here>>

Community Baby Shower and Health Resource Fair
2025-09-05 10:00 - 13:00
Center for Pregnancy Choices (CPC)
You’re invited to a Community Baby Shower & Health Resource Fair on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (CT) at the Warren County – Vicksburg Public Library for a special event designed to connect families with essential resources, support, and community care.
This free, family-friendly event offers:

Blood pressure, glucose, and HIV screenings
Health workshops
Diapers and baby care resources
Giveaways and much more!

Location:Warren County – Vicksburg Public Library700 Veto Street, Vicksburg, MS 39180
For more information, contact Joyce Roundtree-McCoy at (662) 441-3552 or joycermccoy@gmail.com.
Register here>>

Boots on the Ground's Spread the Love Charity Day & Fundraiser Event
2025-09-05 10:00 - 15:00
Boots on the Ground
Get Involved and Make a Difference! Join us in supporting individuals and families in need by becoming a sponsor, volunteer, or vendor. Your involvement will help provide essentials like food, hygiene products, fresh produce, hot meals, and access to showers. Proceeds will also go toward transforming the MS HUB Complex into a central hub for services, programs, and resources that empower our community.
Whether you choose to sponsor, volunteer your time, or showcase your offerings as a vendor, your contribution will create lasting positive change.
Sign up today and be part of something impactful!
Volunteers: Register here>>
Charity Day Vendors: Register here>>
Sponsors: Register here >>

Boots on the Ground Pop-Up Weekend - Day-in-the-Park
2025-09-06
Boots on the Ground

“Spread the Love” has grown into an EPIC weekend celebration of community, service, and togetherness. This year, we’re turning love into action with a powerful fundraising goal to renovate the Day Center at the MS HUB Complex, transforming it into a welcoming haven by December 22, 2025.

Want to be part of the action? Sign up at the link to join us as a:

Vendor (including Food Trucks)
Sweet Treat Contestant (Cakes, Pies, Brownies, Soufflés & more)
BBQ Contestant
Judge (for our delicious competitions!)
Line Dancer – Groups welcome! (Boots on the Ground)
Car, Truck, or Bike Exhibitor – Groups welcome
Slip ‘N Slide Kickball Player (Adult & Kids Games)
Kids Zone Keeper
Face Painter
Balloon Artist
Performer (music, spoken word, dance, etc.)

Register here>>

Creating Your Own Path
2025-09-11 07:30 - 16:00
MS Department of Rehabilitation Services
The 11th Annual Creating Your Own Path Autism Conference will take place on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services in Madison, Mississippi.
Our featured speaker will be Rick Daynes. In addition, agencies, organizations, and individuals from across the state will share exciting initiatives that are shaping the future for Mississippians with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other disabilities.
Register here>>

Parent Caregiver Peer Support
2025-09-15 - 2025-09-19
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:

September 15-19, 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:

November 17-21, 2025
January 12-16, 2026
March 16-20, 2026
May 11-15. 2026

Shatter the Silence 2025 Suicide Prevention Symposium
2025-09-16 08:30 - 13:30
Mississippi Department of Mental Health
Registration is now open for the 9th Annual Suicide Prevention Symposium!
Join us on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, for this year’s event, themed “Changing the Narrative by Sharing Our Stories.”
Sponsored by the Mississippi Department of Mental Health, the symposium will feature speakers who have been personally impacted by suicide. While this is a difficult topic, our goal is to continue the conversation and highlight the power of sharing stories. Together, we can support families, encourage those who are struggling, and honor the lives of loved ones we have lost.
Lunch will be provided.
Please note: This year’s symposium will not include Continuing Education credits.
Register here>>

Bringing Everyone Together Around Wraparound Research
2025-09-16 17:30 - 18:30
Families as Allies

Families as Allies invites you to a virtual meeting on Friday, September 16, 2025, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. 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>>

Special Education Advisory Panel Meeting Notice
2025-09-17 10:00
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
(MDRS)
The Special Education Advisory Panel will meet via Zoom on Wednesday, September 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.

Special Education Advisory Panel Meeting Notice
2025-09-17 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.
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.

Caregiver / Parent Peer Support Specialist Training Graduation
2025-09-19 13:00 - 13:30
Families as Allies
Please join us in congratulating our newest class of parent peer support graduates. In addition to celebrating their accomplishments, this is a great opportunity to build the parent peer support community. We encourage the graduates’ friends and families, as well as anyone who supports parent peer supporters or is interested in learning more about being a parent peer supporter, to attend.
Register here >>

2025 Tougaloo Summit
2025-09-20 09:00 - 13:00
Magnolia Bar Association
Save the date for the 2025 Tougaloo Summit on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Tougaloo College.
This free community event includes a resource fair, “Ask a Lawyer” stations, legal rights information, health screenings, lunch, and door prizes. Everyone is welcome!
Register here>>

Community Resource Fair
2025-09-20 10:00 - 13:00
Butterflies By Grace Defined By Faith
Join Butterflies By Grace Defined By Faith for an exciting Community Resource Fair, showcasing collaborative community efforts and featuring an extensive range of accessible resources. Engage with community partners at the booths, dedicated to delivering valuable services. This event offers an exceptional opportunity to discover readily available support and assistance. With diverse vendors participating, attendees are certain to find something of interest. Notably, this event is entirely free.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Tiffany C. Anderson, DPC, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMHT, Miracle Counseling Services, LLC
Attendees are encouraged to wear purple and/or teal during this event. Vendors and groups are encouraged to attend.
Register here>>

Bringing Everyone Together Around Wraparound Research
2025-09-21 14:00 - 15:00
Families as Allies

Families as Allies invites you to a virtual meeting on Friday, September 21, 2025, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. 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>>
