Advocacy Academy (Part 1)
2025-05-12 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
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>

Supportive Coaching for Parents Supporting Other Parents
2025-05-14 12:00 - 13:00, 2025-06-11 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 >>

Clothing, Hygiene & Pantry Donation Drive
2025-05-16 - 2025-05-26
Fieldhouse for the Homeless
Help support Fieldhouse for the Homeless in Hattiesburg, MS by donating essential items to individuals experiencing homelessness. Donations are being accepted now through May 26 at the Prentiss Public Library.
Items Accepted:

New socks and undergarments.
Gently used men’s and women’s clothing
Hygene items: toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, soap, feminine products
Pantry items: canned goods, dry goods, and bottled water

Drop-off Location: Prentiss Public Library
Need help donating? Email Mariah Evans at mariahdionne.evans@gmail.com to arrange a pickup or discuss other donation options.

Caregiver / Parent Peer Support Specialist Training Graduation
2025-05-16 13:00
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 >>

Mind, Body & Heart
2025-05-19 09:00 - 11:30
Woolfolk Middle School
We invite you to be a part of this empowering event on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Woolfolk Middle School, located at 209 W. 5th Street, Yazoo City, MS. The fair will take place from 9:00 am to 11:30 am and is designed to focus on the Mind, Body & Heart of our students.
This exciting health and wellness fair promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Guests will be able to engage in activities, gather valuable health information, and connect with resources supporting a healthy lifestyle. Whether learning about nutrition, participating in physical activities, or understanding heart health, this event offers something for everyone.
Don’t miss this chance to invest in your health and well-being!
For more information, contact Zina Allen at 662-571-6828 or zallen@masd.k12.ms.us.

What is SEL (Social Emotional Learning): An Introduction for Families
2025-05-19 11:00 - 11:30
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is a process through which people build awareness and skills in managing their emotions, setting goals, establishing relationships, and making responsible decisions that support success in school and in life. SEL is a critical part of our development that starts in the home and continues in our schools and communities. Join us to learn more on the essential roles we as family members play in supporting healthy child development and in allowing student learning to continue across the many settings in which our children learn.
Presented by: Patty Gautier, Family & Dissemination Coordinator, REACH MS
Register here>>

Advocacy Academy (Part 2)
2025-05-19 12:00 - 13:00
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Let’s talk about the importance of self-advocacy, what families/parents can do to help youth with planning for the future. The message of the session is simple: Access to information and resources will strengthen families/parents ability to participate in the process and improve transition into the community for youth and young adults.
Register here>>

Special Education Advisory Panel Meeting Notice
2025-05-21 10:00
Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services
(MDRS)
The Special Education Advisory Panel will meet via Zoom on Wednesday, May 21,, 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.
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.

Mississippi LIFT Resource & Referral at MSU Extension
2025-05-21 10:00 - 12:00
Mississippi LIFT
Families are invited to attend a local Community Event hosted by Mississippi LIFT in partnership with MSU Extension. The event will provide resources, referrals, and support for families in the area.
Location:Co-Lin Simpson R&R151 Co-Lin DriveMendenhall, MS 39114
Phone:
601-849-0118
Date & Time:Wednesday, May 21, 202510:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CST
This is a great opportunity to connect with community programs and services that support children and families.

Community Resource Fair
2025-05-23 11:00 - 14:00
Pearl River Valley Opportunity, Inc.
Pearl River Valley Opportunity, Inc. invites you to a Community Resource Fair on May 23, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Danny Hinton Community Center, located at 225 Tatum Rd., Hattiesburg, MS 39401.
This event will bring together a variety of community partners and agencies to provide valuable information and resources to individuals and families. Representatives will be available from:

Mississippi Department of Employment Security
Regions
PRVO – Forrest County CSBG/LIHEAP
PRVO – Head Start
SEMRHI
South MS Housing Authority
Dream Center
Edward Street Fellowship Center
Cadence Bank
…and more!

Come explore local programs, ask questions, and connect with services that can support your family’s needs and goals.
For more information, visit www.prvoinc.org or call 601-545-8110.

Pathway to Employment: Essential Skills for Youth with Disabilities
2025-05-27 11:30 - 12:00
Mississippi Parent Training & Information Center Project
Join us for a dynamic training session designed to equip young adults with disabilities with key skills for future employment. This session will provide hands-on strategies to build confidence and workplace readiness, with a focus on summer activities that support personal and professional growth.
Register here<<

Donate Blood: Mississippi Blood Bus
2025-05-27 14:00 - 18:00
Harrisville Public Library
Join the Harrisville Public Library as they host the Mississippi Blood Bus for a community blood drive on Tuesday, May 27, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Donating blood is a powerful way to give back — one donation can potentially help save up to three lives.

Leadership Coaching and Policy Discussion
2025-05-28 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>>

Mississippi Peer Conference 2025
2025-05-29 - 2025-05-31
Mental Health Association of South MS
The Mississippi Peer Conference is a CONTINUING EDUCATION conference for Certified Peer Support Specialists, Peer Support Supervisors, Recovery Support Specialists, and other DMH Licensed Providers.
Attending this conference will teach you the THREE R’S OF PROFESSIONAL WELLNESS: REFRESH, RECOVER, AND RECONNECT.
Register here>>

Mental Health Awareness Brunch
2025-05-30 12:00
Hope Haven Home
Join Catholic Charities, Inc. of Jackson for a Mental Health Awareness Brunch on Friday, May 30, 2025, presented by Hope Haven Home-Based in collaboration with Kinship Navigator and the Unaccompanied Refugee Minor Programs.
The event will feature a Mental Health Resource Fair beginning at 12:00 p.m., followed by brunch at 1:00 p.m. with Keynote Speaker Dr. Clyde Glenn.
Two training hours are available for resource homes.

Empower Together
2025-05-30 13:00, 2025-06-13 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

Bloom and Grow Family Fun Day
2025-05-31 09:00 - 12:00
Join us for a joyful celebration of families and young children during the Week of the Young Child, organized by NAEYC. This free event welcomes all ages and offers exciting activities designed to educate, entertain, and inspire.

St. Paul MBC Health Fair
2025-05-31 10:00 - 13:00
St. Paul MBC
St. Paul MBC Health Fair Join us for the St. Paul MBC Health Fair on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM, at 007 St. Paul Lane, Silver Creek, MS 39663.
This event offers a wonderful opportunity to focus on your well-being! Participate in engaging fitness activities, learn about healthy eating habits, and discover practical ways to improve your health. Plus, take advantage of free health screenings provided on-site.
Let’s come together as a community to promote health and wellness. Don’t miss out on this day of learning, connection, and care!

Born to be WILD Friends & Family Picnic
2025-05-31 10:00 - 14:00
Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities
Join the Coalition for Citizens with Disabilities for a judgment-free, supportive environment filled with laughter, connection, and community. Everyone is welcome — come be part of the celebration!
Register here>>

Waterford Upstart Summer Learning Program
2025-06-02 - 2025-08-31
Waterford Upstart
Families are invited to attend a free information session for the Waterford Upstart Summer Learning Program on Sunday, June 2, hosted in partnership with Excel by 5.
This program helps young children build essential skills in reading, math, and science—right from home. It’s designed for families who want to prepare their child for kindergarten, especially those not enrolled in a traditional preschool.
What to Expect:

Learn how the Waterford Upstart program works
Get support for early childhood learning at home
Find out how to access online lessons, even without a computer or internet

This is an excellent opportunity to give your child a strong start, at no cost to your family.
Register here>>

Round-Up Events
2025-06-04 09:00 - 2025-06-06 16:00, 2025-06-11 09:00 - 2025-06-13 16:00
W. H. Jones Head Start Center
Join the W.H. Jones Head Start Center for upcoming Round-Up Events designed for families of young children to access important screenings and resources before the new school year begins. The events will take place June 4–6 for families of children birth to 3 years old and June 11–13 for families of children ages 3 to 5 years old. Each event runs from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the W.H. Jones Head Start Center, located at 5489 Old Hwy 42, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. These Round-Up Events serve as a comprehensive orientation and will include registration, physical and developmental screenings, dental screenings, and a variety of resources and support services for families. Whether you’re preparing for your child’s first school experience or continuing their Head Start journey, this is a valuable opportunity to ensure your child is ready for success.

Autism Conference and Resource Fair
2025-06-07
Jackson Revival Center
The Autism Conference and Resource Fair is a free community event happening on June 7, 2025, in Jackson, Mississippi. Open to all, the conference provides valuable resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. Featuring informative sessions, engaging activities, and a welcoming atmosphere, this event is designed to empower attendees and foster awareness. Registration is required, so don’t miss this opportunity to connect and learn.

Mobilizing Youth Summit
2025-06-10 08:00 - 2025-06-13 17:00
Teen Health Mississippi
Teen Health Mississippi is hosting an impactful event aimed at mobilizing youth advocates and changemakers. While we are not affiliated with Teen Health Mississippi, we wholeheartedly support their efforts to empower young people and create positive change in our community.
Register here>>

﻿Bridging Divides Where Systems Meet for Youth & Families Wellness Success
2025-06-11 11:00
National Training & TA Center for Child, Youth, & Family Mental Health
Join NTTAC for this 3-part webinar series provides a practical roadmap for professionals seeking to build effective and even reimagine cross-sector collaborations that serve youth and families. Drawing from real-world experience in creating sustainable partnerships across behavioral health, education, faith communities, and social services, participants will gain concrete strategies for overcoming system fragmentation, silos, and creating seamless support networks. Each session builds upon the previous, moving from foundational concepts to practical implementation and long-term sustainability. Featuring case studies from the D.O.V.E.S Network® Continuous Care Model, participants will receive actionable frameworks and measurement considerations for them to apply in their own communities immediately.
Register here >>

3 Keys To Reclaim Your Vitality & Peak Mental Performance NATURALLY!
2025-06-11 18:00 - 19:30
Dr. Tayo
You used to feel unstoppable. What happened?
If you’re a midlife woman who feels like she’s running on empty despite doing “all the right things,” you’re not alone.
It’s not you, and you’re definitely not broken.
The brain fog that makes you forget mid-sentence?
The bone-deep exhaustion that sleep doesn’t fix?
The overwhelm that hits even when your schedule isn’t that crazy.
This isn’t about getting older or being stuck. This is about getting REAL answers.
Join Dr. Tayo — physician, international speaker, and Women’s Wellness Strategist- for a game-changing 60-minute masterclass that will uncover what’s happening in your body during midlife.
Register here>>

The Mississippi disAbility MegaConference
2025-06-12 07:30 - 2025-06-13 12:00
Mississippi Parent Training and Information Center
Join the Mississippi disAbility MegaConference—the state’s largest cross-disability event connecting people with disabilities, families, students, and professionals. Discover the latest insights, innovations, and opportunities while building friendships and community!
Register here>>

Community-Led Juvenile Justice Convening
2025-06-14 10:00 - 14:00
Hinds County Children’s Coalition & The Honorable Carlyn Hicks
Join the Juvenile Justice Town Hall Series for a powerful and collaborative event focused on creating solutions for juvenile justice in our community. As part of the Juvenile Justice Town Hall Series, this convening brings together families, youth advocates, community members, and justice system partners to share ideas, resources, and strategies for lasting impact.
