Potential Impacts of Drug Sentencing Reform in Minnesota: A Workshop

The Council on Crime and Justice and Nexus Community Partners invite you to attend a free workshop to help identify the impacts and equity considerations of proposed drug sentencing policies in Minnesota.

When: Thursday, June 25, 2015

Time: While we encourage participants to attend the full session, we also offer a few flexible attendance options:  

-Full day 8:00 am to 5:00 pm: Health Impact Assessment (HIA) Overview and Drug Sentencing Work Session

• Morning 8:00 am to 12:15 pm: HIA Overview and breakfast
• 12:15 pm: Lunch
• Afternoon 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Drug Sentencing Work Session with refreshments

Where: Walter C. Rasmussen Community Room, Northeast Bank, 77 Broadway Street NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413

RSVP:We encourage you to join us and ask you to RSVP by Friday June 19th. If there is another person within your organization that should attend this workshop, please feel free to forward this invitation! RSVP here: http://goo.gl/forms/nlBYXzrj1T.

June 2015 is PTSD Awareness Month!

NIJ: HELPING AT-RISK YOUTH SAY "NO" TO GANGS

This National Institute of Justice (NIJ) journal article describes evaluation findings of the Gang Resistance Education and Training program, which teaches kids to avoid gang membership and helps them develop positive relationships with law enforcement. An NIJ-funded evaluation found that a revised curriculum and greater attention to teacher training have resulted in an improved program for preventing gang membership and delinquency.

Initiative Foundation Grants Available for Early Childhood

Our early childhood priorities are to support community-based early childhood efforts to advance literacy, school readiness and access to dental services. The Letter of Inquiry is due July 24. If invited for a full proposal, the due date is Sept. 4. Questions? Contact Tammy Filippi at (320) 632-9255.

Loan for Non-Profit Organizations Opportunity

The Initiative Foundation provides up to $50,000 in financing to eligible nonprofit organizations for the creation or expansion of mission-related social enterprise or earned-income ventures. Loan funds may be used for working capital, equipment acquisition and/or facility improvements that are clearly defined in a written business plan.

Loans are available to eligible nonprofit organizations of different sizes and fields of service including community development; human services; health care; housing; education; environmental; and arts and humanities.

For more information, visit our website or contact Lynn Bushinger.

The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Conference

When: July 15 4- to 8-hour focused classes; July 16-18 workshops and keynote speaker each day

Where: Double Tree Hilton, Bloomington

Cost: Varies

For more information, please visit the NAFCC website!

Emerging Leaders Program- Call For Presenters!

The Initiative Foundation is currently seeking assistance delivering specific content for our new Emerging Leaders program launching this year. Proposals for the following content areas are currently being considered:

• Managing Your Personal Brand (Social Media)
• Cultural Agility
• Creating an Individual Professional/Personal Development Plan (IPDP)
• Customized Learning (various sessions)

Please complete questionnaire(s) that are within your area of expertise.

The Emerging Leaders program is a collaboration between emerging and established leaders that will build self-awareness, generational understanding and cultural competencies applicable to community leadership opportunities within our region. Additional information about the program can be found online.

Registration for the Walk For Thought- Now Open!

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI): Building an Evidence Base for Effective Psychiatric Inpatient Care and Alternative Services for Suicide Prevention

NIMH, NIDA, SAMHSA, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention are seeking information on approaches to better understand: 1) what components of inpatient care are safe and effective in reducing suicide risk for various populations; 2) what are effective alternatives to inpatient care (e.g., telephone counseling, home visits, intensive day/residential treatment, types of respite care) and how can they be broadly implemented; and 3) what type of research designs could compare inpatient interventions with alternative approaches in a safe, acceptable, and fair manner.  While a number of interventions for suicide attempters have been effective and even replicated, the effectiveness of inpatient care interventions or alternative approaches in reducing later morbidity (e.g., suicide attempts) and mortality (e.g., suicide deaths) remains a question for many U.S. health care systems. Testing the effectiveness of inpatient or alternative approaches is critical for suicidal patients as few empirically-based practices exist for acute care interventions and their follow-up care.

This RFI is intended to seek information about current practices and solicit perspectives on the need for empirical research from stakeholders who are associated with relevant systems of care (e.g., state commissioners, health care administrators, insurers, providers, patients, suicide attempt survivors, and family members) and who play a role in the provision of interventions for individuals at acute risk for suicide, as well as researchers focused on such interventions and services research. Responses will be accepted through August 1, 2015. 

VA to Host Veterans' Town Hall June 25 in Duluth

'Listening Sessions' Aim to Seek Feedback, Improve VA System

Senior leaders from the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, the Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office and the VA National Cemetery Administration will hold a Veterans’ Town Hall June 25 at 5 p.m. at the Duluth Armory.

The town hall is designed to gain open and honest feedback from Veterans, their family members and other beneficiaries.  VA also welcomes input from congressional stakeholders, Veterans Service Organizations, nongovernmental organizations and other community partners.

VA facilities around the country are holding town hall meetings on a quarterly basis “to improve communication with, and hear directly from, Veterans nationwide."

“Caring for Veterans is a calling, and our first commitment is to provide Veterans and their families the timely, quality care and benefits they have earned and deserve through their service to our Nation,” said VA Secretary Robert McDonald. “As we seek continual improvement and to rebuild trust among Veterans, it is critical that we continue to listen and learn directly from those who use our system.”

The Duluth Armory is located at 4015 Airpark Blvd, Duluth MN 55811.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:   Ralph Heussner, Public Affairs Officer, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, (612) 467-3012. ralph.heussner@va.gov

MACV Women Veterans Golf Fundraiser

June 16, 2015

The Salute to Servicewomen Golf Classic is being held on Tuesday, June 16th at Prestwick Golf Course in Woodbury, MN. This is a day to recognize, remember and honor women veterans. Currently, women comprise about 14.5% of the active duty military. Back in civilian life, some will need our assistance; all will cherish our appreciation for what they have sacrificed. 

100% of the money raised will assist individual women veterans who are homeless, in danger of homelessness or are experiencing life crises. Proceeds will benefit the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) who serve veterans throughout Minnesota.

The format for the Salute to Servicewomen Golf Classic is a scramble. In addition to golf, the day’s events include a ceremony honoring women veterans, lunch, dinner and a silent auction.

Here’s how you can get into the action!

• Sign up to play in the event – and ask a friend or co-worker or two or three to join you for a day of golfing and celebrating our women veterans. You can register to play here.
• Donate a gift basket or other item(s) for the silent auction. You can send an email to: SaluteToServicewomen@gmail.com to donate to the silent auction.
• Become a sponsor with cash or an in-kind donation. Visit the website to become a sponsor.

Veterans ID Cards Available Through Community Clinics

Veterans can have their Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) processed remotely through the Minneapolis VA community clinics in Minnesota and western Wisconsin.  Veterans must schedule an appointment through the VA Call Center at 612-467-1100.  Clinics start at 8:30 a.m. and the last appointment is 3:15 p.m.  Veterans need to bring appropriate ID verification.

Mankato: June 25, July 23,

Hibbing/Ely: June 3, July 1, Aug. 5, Sept. 2, Oct. 7, Nov. 4, Dec. 2

Albert Lea: June 5, July 10, Aug. 7, Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 6, Dec. 4

Rochester: June 24, Aug. 26, Oct. 28, Dec. 16

Chippewa Falls, WI: July 14

Twin Ports: July 30

Carver County Assistant County Veterans Service Officer

Carver County has an open position for an Assistant County Veterans Service Officer. For more information about the position, and to apply, visit the Carver County Job Opportunities site. Position closes June 12.

Lunch and Learn Seminars with Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance

Sessions will take place on June 10, July 14, August 12, September 8, October 13, November 11 and December 8.

2015 Legislative Update and Networking Event

Location: 553 Fairview Ave North, St. Paul, MN 55104 

Date: Friday, June 19, 2015 9:00 AM

Time: CDT 

Several changes to Minnesota law will impact the work of staff in the reentry and community corrections field, as well as the lives of people involved in the criminal justice system. Join MCCA to learn what you need to know about the key changes that resulted from the 2015 legislative session, such as new and expanded access to mental health services and new criminal laws that may impact your clients. We will also set aside about an hour for refreshments and networking with your colleagues in the field--so bring your business cards! 

Presenters will include:

• Jennifer DeCubellis, Assistant Commissioner of Community Supports, MN Dept. of Human Services
• Josh Esmay, Co-chair, MN Second Chance Coalition
• Kathleen Lonergan, Government Relations Director, MN Dept. of Corrections

More information and online registration: 2015 Legislative Update and Networking Event

New Nystrom & Associates Clinic: Opening soon, Job Opportunities Available!

Nystrom & Associates has exciting career opportunities available at our new St. Cloud office opening this summer! Be a part of a collaborative team working with professionals from various mental health disciplines. Our current career opportunities are listed below.  Licensed Outpatient Therapist DBT Therapist Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner/Clinical  Nurse Specialist/Physician Assistant Psychiatrist Neuropsychologist Licensed Psychologist CTSS Mental Health Practitioner How to Apply:  Please complete an application at https://www.nystromcounseling.com/careers/job-opportunities-page/. Our website will give more details about these specific positions and requirements.

Minnesota Military Family Dedication

June 13, 2015

The Minnesota Military Family Tribute (MFT) will forever stand as a thank you to U.S. military Gold Star, Blue Star, and Veteran family members.

You are invited to the MFT Dedication Ceremony!

Bring your family and friends. This event is free and open to the public.

Date: Saturday, June 13, 2015

Location: Minnesota State Capitol Mall

(In front of the Veterans Services Building between the Minnesota Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Korean War Memorial)

Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• Formal program from 10 a.m. to noon (featuring a new song written and debuted for military families by The Lost Wheels)
• Free entertainment from noon to 2 p.m.
• Noon – 1 p.m.: Country Music Artist Rockie Lynne
• 1 – 2 p.m.: The Steeles
• Food trucks on site with food available for purchase.
• There will be limited seating available, so bring lawn chairs and blankets.

Parking: Centennial Parking Ramp

Located off Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul

Volunteers are needed for this event. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Dorothy Halverson at dorothyhalv@me.com.

Brain Injury Educational Classes

The Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance offers a variety of educational classes - including our monthly Brain Injury Basics class - for families, individuals and professionals in the Twin Cities. Our educators can also train your staff on-site at your facility with our Traveling Workshops.

Brain Injury Basics

Introduction to Brain Injury: June 26

Adjustment to Brain Injury: July 23

Registration is required for all classes. Brain Injury Basics takes place in the Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance offices in Roseville from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Cost is $25 for professionals; a $5 donation is appreciated from consumers.

Click here for more information on our Education opportunities or call our Education and Community Outreach Department at 612-378-2742 or 800-669-6442.

WEBINARS!

FREE WEBINAR: FAMILY VIOLENCE - WORKING TOWARDS SOLUTIONS - PT 1

Each month CTRI offers a complimentary webinar.

Family violence occurs in every community and culture and has profound effects on every person it touches. Despite this ugly reality, there has been a lot of silence, shame and stigma around this issue creating many myths and misunderstandings. In order to work towards solutions, we must first be aware of the realities of family violence, its influences and impacts. This webinar focuses on creating a basic understanding of this complex issue. Topics reviewed include the types of family violence, their impacts, theories of understanding and contextual influences.

WEBINAR: EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS: A KEY SETTING FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION

June 16, 2015, 3:00-4:30 PM ET

With close to 500,000 patients visiting EDs for self-inflicted injuries each year, ED staff have a pivotal role to play in preventing suicide; however, EDs face challenges addressing the needs of suicidal patients due to the fast-paced environment, the complex nature of suicide, stigma, and barriers to accessing follow-up care. This SAMHSA SPRC webinar will bring together experts in emergency medicine, emergency psychiatry, and research to: describe the rationale for ED-focused suicide prevention; discuss barriers and solutions to integrating suicide prevention in EDs; and introduce a new guide, CARING FOR ADULT PATIENTS WITH SUICIDE RISK: A CONSENSUS GUIDE FOR EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS.

WEBINAR: EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICES FOR CHILDREN WITH SERIOUS EMOTIONAL DISTURBANCE

June 17, 2015, 3:00-4:30 pm ET

This SAMHSA Children’s Webinar Series program will focus on early intervention of behavioral and emotional problems practices that protect children from serious consequences like isolation, substance use, suicidal thinking, school dropout, and homelessness. Panelists will discuss evidenced-based practices that have been proven effective in protecting children, including the Good Behavior Game, Parents as Teachers, and the Texas Youth Suicide Prevention Project. The webinar will provide an overview of each program, guidance on the effective implementation of these practices, and a discussion on the challenges of early intervention for children and youth.

WEBINAR: MENTAL HEALTH AND THE NEW HOME- AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES REGULATION

June 18, 2015, 2:00-3:30 pm ET

States are currently developing transition plans to bring their Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services systems into compliance with the new rule. This SAMHSA webinar will discuss those plans and how the mental health community can become involved in the transition planning process.

Upcoming Transition Coalition Meetings!

Twin Cities Transition Coalition Date: Friday, June 12, 2015 Time: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm (Networking from 9:30 to 10:00 and 11:30 to noon) Location: Ramsey County Correctional Facility 297 Century Avenue South, Maplewood, MN 55119 Topic: Jail to Community Programs Presenters: -Cynthia Arkema-O’Harra, Social Work Unit Supervisor, Hennepin County, -Lawrence Hart, Correctional Lieutenant, Dakota County Sheriff’s Office -Thomas Schneider, Correctional Deputy- IMC, Dakota County Sheriff’s Office -Ron Wells, Community Corrections Supervisor, Dakota County -Lynn Tentis, Jail Reentry Assistance Program Coordinator, Dakota County Additional Information:Carver County Jail Reentry Program, Carver County Jail Mental Health Program Contact: lee.buckley@state.mn.us

Mid-Minnesota Transition Coalition Date: To Be Determined! Contact: Krista Kackley- dreamcenterpath@aol.com

Southeast Minnesota Transition Coalition Date: Wednesday, July 8, 2015- No Meeting! Next meeting on September 9, 2015 Contact: Philip Rutherford- setranscoal@gmail.com

Central Minnesota Transition Coalition

Date: To Be Determined

Contact: lee.buckley@state.mn.us

Duluth Minnesota Transition Coalition

Date: To Be Determined!

Contact: Sara Romagnoli- sromagnoli@soarcareers.org Or 

Traci Laughlin- LaughlinT@StLouisCountyMN.gov