BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//NAMI Greater Boston - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:NAMI Greater Boston X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://namiboston.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for NAMI Greater Boston REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260305T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20251229T175409Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260104T203412Z UID:1125-1772735400-1772739000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Amy Manion DESCRIPTION:BIO: \nBorn in Boston\, raised on its border\, Amy Manion is a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) through the Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community. She likes to make songs\, poems\, take photos\, make collages\, dance\, take videos of her cat\, go to improv drop-in classes\, and open mics\, among many other creative pursuits. Sometimes joy feels far away; creating helps her connect to herself and beyond herself to others. In these connections\, she feels more like herself: joyful\, care-free\, playful\, a member of a community\, belonging\, and able to offer and receive care. \nPRESENTATION: \nIn this talk\, Amy will interweave her healing journey along life’s way through song\, poetry\, video\, and visual art sharing. Things that have helped along the way\, such as resources\, communities\, and programs\, will be shared in her talk. She hopes to share from her heart and show how the arts have been vital to her healing journey\, as well as community\, supports\, and connecting to a greater purpose. There will be a time for questions and comments at the end and maybe a creative practice to anyone who is interested in participating in\, to conclude the presentation portion. It may be an improv acting exercise\, a group poem\, sharing ones own art at the end\, or something else interactive and arts-based\, depending on time and interest. \n\nTo get an email invite for the meeting please email: hdt@namiboston.org \nJoin the meeting now \nMeeting ID: 278 388 590 434\nPasscode: Z2NY6bm2\n________________________________\nDial in by phone\n+1 617-297-7925\,\,925045323# United States\, Boston \nFind a local number\n \nPhone conference ID:\n925 045 323# URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-amy-manion/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20251024T161748Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251220T175107Z UID:1098-1770316200-1770319800@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Kim Bisset DESCRIPTION:Bio:\n \nKim Bisset\, Ed.D has completed hundreds of training sessions for organizations throughout Massachusetts for both organizations and individuals. Kim has worked with a variety of  individuals throughout her career including staff and persons served from the Department of Mental Health (DMH)\, Vinfen\, Justice Resource Institute (JRI)\, Eliot Community Human Services\, The NAN mental health awareness and suicide prevention Project\, The Edinburg Center\, Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) and many other agencies. Kim has developed several innovative and engaging trainings that resonate with individuals experiencing mental health challenges\, people who are  BIPOC (Black\, Indigenous and People of Color)\, LGBTQIA (Lesbian\, Gay\, Bisexual\, Transgender and Queer (or Questioning) Intersex and Asexual (or allies\, aromantic\, or agender) individuals\, and/or those who have experienced trauma. \nKim has conducted over 92 G.I.F.T.\, Gathering Inspiring Future Talent training for young adults who want to move forward in their lives and careers. sessions. She has helped many  young adults identify their career paths and develop into leaders in their communities. Kim’s education includes Masters and Doctorate degrees in Educational Psychology from Boston College and University of Massachusetts\, Amherst\, respectively. \nKim has the honor of being a member and trainer for the International Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT)\, and is proud to be one of the small number of MINT-Certified Trainers in the world.  Kim conducts Motivational Interviewing training throughout the state.  Kim is the Founder and Director of Radiate Consulting and advises and trains businesses and nonprofits who are interested in creating or improving their staff development\,  employment and training programs. Her website is www.radiatecc.com \nTitle of Talk: My Comeback Story \nDescription of talk: \nMy name is Kim Bisset. I am going to share my Connection Story. One of the trainings that I developed and I also teach is called the G.I.F.T\, Gathering Inspiring Future Talent for young adults who want to move forward in their lives and careers. At first we called the story that we asked training participants to create a recovery story\, which is an intentional story that shares pieces of their lived experience to inspire hope. Then we adapted the name to a Comeback Story\, who doesn’t love a good comeback. Overcoming adversity\, making mistakes\, learning and getting closer to what you want and need. Now I describe what I ask of my students and what l am going to share with you as a Connection story because I am going to share pieces of what l have been through\, some of the mistakes l’ve made\, (spoiler alert\, there are many) and what I have learned and continue to learn through this messy\, challenging\, unbelievable hard and beautiful process that we call life. My mission is to help people not just survive but thrive! \nThrough sharing my story\, my hope is to foster a shared connection between us\, to either promote a greater understanding of yourself or enhance your understanding of anxiety or someone else who you are connected to who might have mental health struggles. My story is one of perseverance and resilience. I am both nervous and excited to share it with you. I am excited because I love to talk with people. I am nervous because I experience anxiety. I will share with you both how I learned that I have anxiety and the ways I have learned to cope with it and not let it stop me for reaching for my dreams and supporting others in a compassionate and authentic way. Looking forward to seeing you soon:) \nTo get an email invite for the meeting please email: hdt@namiboston.org \nJoin the meeting now \nMeeting ID: 278 388 590 434\nPasscode: Z2NY6bm2\n________________________________\nDial in by phone\n+1 617-297-7925\,\,925045323# United States\, Boston \nFind a local number\n \nPhone conference ID:\n925 045 323# URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-kim-bisset/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251217T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251217T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T184022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T184022Z UID:1007-1765996200-1766001600@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-24/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251204T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251204T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20251010T213335Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251201T154613Z UID:1094-1764873000-1764876600@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Lenny Mulcahy DESCRIPTION:  \nBio:\n \nLenny Mulcahy is a CPS/Certified Peer Specialist who has been working at Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation for the last 25 years. The Center’s mode of Recovery and Rehabilitation is based on education and celebrating people’s personhood and individual choices. \nLenny teaches adult education topics on wellness\, including physical\, spiritual and emotional wellness. People with lived experience are called students which dissipates the stigma of being called a patient. Lenny believes that students thrive in the role of a student and are not afraid to express their knowledge and learn new skills. \nHe also works closely with students individually\, giving peer support to those who need to talk as they navigate their recovery. He believes empathy is critical to the healing process of anyone living with a mental health condition. He likes to say\, “People heal People”.\n \nTitle of Talk: Recovery is non-negotiable \nDescription of talk: \nLenny will focus on his experience of living with a mental health condition for the last 35 years. He is an amateur photographer and will show his images at different times in his life focusing on hope\, healing through spirituality\, overcoming isolation\, resiliency and inspiring others. He will also use his images as metaphors in his life. \nCommunication is extremely important to the recovery process and talking about our experiences may be difficult. Viewing Photo images is one way Lenny will discuss his. \nPointing out that people\, including himself\, don’t need to be fixed but loved. This can be an eye-opening concept for some people. By loving others people begin to heal\, and loneliness dissipates. \nTo get an email invite for the meeting please email: hdt@namiboston.org \nJoin the meeting now \nMeeting ID: 278 388 590 434\nPasscode: Z2NY6bm2\n________________________________\nDial in by phone\n+1 617-297-7925\,\,925045323# United States\, Boston \nFind a local number\n \nPhone conference ID:\n925 045 323# URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-lenny-mulcahy/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251119T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251119T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183723Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183723Z UID:991-1763577000-1763582400@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-23/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250812T131439Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T131439Z UID:1054-1762453800-1762457400@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Heidi Lee DESCRIPTION:  \nBio \nHeidi HyunJin Lee (she/they)\, BFA\, MEd\, CPS/certified peer specialist is an artist\, visual arts educator\, mental health activist\, somatic healing fanatic\, and mother to a beautifully spirited child who keeps her heart young and mind curious. \nShe is currently working on her MSW degree\, inspired by her former clients at Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program and Common Art (an art program for those experiencing homelessness)\, leaving her former life as a Boston high school art teacher\, community organizer\, and community advocate for those experiencing homelessness. \nFor self care\, Heidi practices Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Forrest Yoga as a form of exposure therapy to combat cPTSD\, bipolar disorder\, and cooks massive amounts of Korean food economically for fellow hungry souls. \nTitle of Talk: Somatic Modalities: Releasing Trauma From The Body\n \nDescription of talk: \nWhen we experience trauma\, especially early in life\, it can erode our trust in our own bodies. Healing is not just about repairing what’s been hurt\, but about building new pathways for safety\, self-trust\, and balance. \nIn this talk\, we’ll explore how the concept of Yin-Yang or Fire and Water activation and restoration can guide us in reconnecting with our bodies as allies in healing. \nUsing polyvagal theory as a foundation\, we’ll look at how the nervous system shifts between states of overactivation\, regulation\, and shutdown. \nPractices such as yoga\, diaphragmatic breathing\, walking\, martial arts\, or other mindful movement can help regulate the nervous system — moving us toward a calm\, alert\, and grounded state. \nSome of these practices also provide safe\, intentional activation — through pressure\, resistance\, and release\, which strengthens nervous system flexibility and expands the window of tolerance\, making it easier to stay present without becoming overwhelmed. \nBy combining activation (fire) with restoration (water)\, we can support both body and mind in developing resilience and adaptability. Somatic practices not only help us release tension and regulate in the moment — they also lay the groundwork for long-term nervous system health\, body trust\, and the possibility of post traumatic growth towards one’s homeostasis. \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-heidi-lee/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251015T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251015T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183605Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183605Z UID:993-1760553000-1760558400@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-21/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251002T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251002T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250812T131214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T131214Z UID:1053-1759429800-1759433400@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - No Event DESCRIPTION:There will be no event on October 2nd because of Yom Kippur. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-yomkippur/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250917T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250917T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183634Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183634Z UID:992-1758133800-1758139200@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-22/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250904T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250904T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250811T134525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T134525Z UID:1050-1757010600-1757014200@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Elizabeth Moore DESCRIPTION:  \nBio \nElizabeth Moore is currently employed as one of four Certified Peer Specialists at Waverley Place\, the community support program associated with McLean Hospital.  She has been employed there for 8 years and loves helping members strive to meet their individual recovery goals.  Some of her other responsibilities at Waverley Place include leading groups\, coordinating referrals\, and managing inventory.  In late August she will start co-facilitating groups 4 hours per week at the McLean Hospital Behavioral Health Program. \nDescription of talk: Her talk will focus on the vital importance of charting your own path and learning how to build a rewarding life while in recovery from mental illness \nKey Points:\n*Focus on finding and maintaining communities of non-judgemental people who will walk with you on the journey.  Whatever you are dealing with you can’t do it alone.\n*The judgement of clinicians and other professionals is not the final verdict on your future and they don’t know how to fix you\n*Just because you are not initially successful doesn’t mean it will not happen.  Some of us just take longer.\n*Avoidance is not a viable long term coping strategy for dealing with symptoms.  Eventually you have to learn how to face them so you can build the life you want.\n*Building a meaningful productive life is VERY possible despite having ongoing severe mental health issues. \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-elizabeth-moore/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250820T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250820T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183442Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183442Z UID:995-1755714600-1755720000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-19/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250807T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250807T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250717T203208Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T203208Z UID:1047-1754591400-1754595000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Ashley Sproul DESCRIPTION:  \nBio \nAshley Sproul is the Director of Recovery and Empowerment with the Department of Mental Health and a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS). She began her career as a CPS within The Living Room model\, where she was able to provide peer support to individuals experiencing significant emotional distress in a trauma-sensitive setting. Throughout her career\, she has benefited from working in various settings\, including a peer-run Recovery Learning Community and an interdisciplinary treatment team within a Community Behavioral Health Clinic. Her background includes both direct support and supervisory roles\, where she has been passionate about collaborating across roles to support individuals seeking wellness and highlighting the importance and implementation of person-centered care. Ashley has training experience as a former member of the Massachusetts Certified Peer Specialist training team\, where she was responsible for providing education around racism and oppression in the Systemic Racism Module. Outside of her role\, you will find her spending time painting\, playing music\, and finding ways to incorporate artistic creativity into Peer Support spaces.\n \nTitle of Talk: Follow Recovery Road \nDescription of talk: Ashley Sproul will share her recovery story of how she has navigated her own wellness both within and outside of the traditional mental health system\, with an emphasis on what tools\, supports\, and organizations that were helpful on her journey. Ashley will then share more about the Office of Recovery and Empowerment with the Department of Mental Health as well as her personal and systemic vision for DMH. Questions and comments will be welcome! \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-ashley-sproul/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250716T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250716T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183423Z UID:996-1752690600-1752696000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-18/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250703T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250703T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250616T190226Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250616T190226Z UID:1043-1751567400-1751571000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Lawrence Harris DESCRIPTION:Bio\nLawrence Harris is a 19-year-old Youth Empowerment Speaker who helps teens and young adults break through limiting beliefs and build lives rooted in confidence\, resilience\, and mental wellness. As someone who is autistic and a survivor of childhood abuse and C-PTSD\, Lawrence brings a raw\, relatable\, and powerful presence to every stage he steps on. His story is proof that no matter where you start\, healing and growth are possible—and worth the work. \nWith four years of speaking experience\, Lawrence has inspired thousands through school assemblies\, youth events\, and mental health panels. His message connects deeply with students\, educators\, and youth advocates alike\, offering practical tools and real hope for anyone fighting internal battles they rarely speak about. \nDescription of Talk: Think Different\, Feel Different\, Live Different\nA practical\, emotionally grounded experience that helps teens and young adults transform their mindset from survival mode to self-leadership. Through the lens of lived experience—navigating trauma\, autism\, and the internal battle of limiting beliefs—I break down how thought patterns affect emotional regulation and long-term decision-making. The talk equips youth with tools to reframe their thinking\, shift their emotional responses\, and take active steps toward personal growth and clarity. \nStructure of the Talk:\n \n\nTHINK DIFFERENT – The first segment addresses internal dialogue\, mental habits\, and the roots of negative self-perception. I introduce common limiting beliefs and provide practical reframing techniques that help young people to disrupt these thought cycles.\n\nFEEL DIFFERENT – This section dives into the emotional weight teens carry\, how it connects to mindset\, and how to build emotional intelligence as well as offering tangible tools to navigate shame\, anxiety\, and disconnection.\n\nLIVE DIFFERENT – The final segment focuses on identity ownership and long-term behavior change. Audiences learn how consistent mindset shifts lead to new actions\, greater self-trust\, and the ability to make empowered life decisions—even when circumstances are hard.\n\n\nTwo References from organizations I’d previously worked with\, attached below: \nRecording of the speech given at New Leash of Life: https://youtu.be/851dkXDIYPM?si=LW1IUa1vJ8_OADcj \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-lawrence-harris/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250618T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250618T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183359Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183359Z UID:997-1750271400-1750276800@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-17/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250605T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250605T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250603T023038Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250603T023038Z UID:1040-1749148200-1749151800@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Opening Doors to the Arts DESCRIPTION:The next National Alliance on Mental Illness Greater Boston Peer Support and Advocacy Network (PSAN) monthly speaker series will feature several members of opening doors to the arts telling their recovery story and how opening doors works. We get free and reduced price tix to concerts\, theatre and more!  see www.openingdoorstothearts.org\n\nSpeakers: Hilary\, Michael\, Howard \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-opening-doors-to-the-arts/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250521T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250521T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183342Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183342Z UID:998-1747852200-1747857600@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-16/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250501T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250413T160421Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250413T160421Z UID:1025-1746124200-1746127800@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Massachusetts General Brigham Hospital’s Center of Excellence for Psychosocial and Systemic Research (COE) DESCRIPTION:The Massachusetts General Brigham Hospital’s Center of Excellence for Psychosocial and Systemic Research (COE) aims to enhance the lives of those with mental health challenges through community-based projects. The COE focuses on research\, psychoeducation\, and addressing healthcare disparities while implementing psychosocial interventions to improve individual and community well-being. \nIn 2018\, the Peer Specialist Team at the COE conducted a psychosocial needs assessment with mental health service users sampled from across Massachusetts. Listening group participants spoke about the benefits of peer support and a central theme that emerged was the clear need for more programs to include Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) services and better access to CPSs across the state. \nIn response\, the COE peer team organized four listening groups with Massachusetts CPSs to identify the challenges faced by peer specialists in various work environments\, along with corresponding recommendations\, with the goal of improving the working conditions\, effectiveness\, and satisfaction of CPSs across Massachusetts. \nFindings highlighted several areas where CPSs expressed a desire for improvement\, categorized into four key topics: \n\nOrganizational Culture: The values\, beliefs\, practices\, and behaviors that contribute to the overall success of CPSs in their work settings.\nResource Availability: Whether CPSs felt they had the necessary physical resources to perform their jobs effectively.\nTraining and Education: Whether\, after their initial certification\, CPSs felt prepared to fulfill their responsibilities and if they had access to opportunities for further growth through additional training and certification.\nRole Definition: Whether CPSs felt empowered to perform their duties as trained\, in accordance with the CPS Code of Ethics\, and if their non-peer colleagues acknowledged\, respected\, and understood the peer role.\n\nThe COE Peer Specialists will present on this Peer Integration Project\, followed by a discussion about the challenges Peer Specialists face\, and what subsequent recommendations can aid in the integration of Peer Support Specialists into larger healthcare systems and improve access to their services. \nPresenters for this talk from the COE include Valeria Chambers\, Ryan Markley\, Jacquie Martinez\, Anne Whitman\, Sandi Whitney Sarles \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-coe/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250416T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183252Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183252Z UID:989-1744828200-1744833600@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-15/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250403T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250403T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20250319T194213Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250319T194220Z UID:1022-1743705000-1743708600@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Vesper Moore DESCRIPTION:Biography – Vesper Moore\n \nVesper Moore serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Kiva Centers. As an Indigenous activist and leader\, Vesper is deeply committed to promoting mental health and disability rights through activism\, leadership\, organizing\, public speaking\, and education. Their work focuses on cultivating social movements and raising public awareness to foster lasting social change. \nVesper has contributed to the establishment of mental health organizations worldwide and has been an advocate for civil rights in the United States. Through their advocacy\, they have brought the perspectives of people with mental health challenges and disabilities to both national and international platforms. \nCollaborating with the United States government and the United Nations\, Vesper helps shape strategies around trauma\, intersectionality\, and disability rights. They have been featured on NBC News\, PBS NewsHour\, Politico\, and at The White House. Vesper is at the forefront of legislative reform\, striving to shift the societal paradigm surrounding mental health. \nAbout the presentation \nWe Are the Evidence: Certified Peer Specialists and the Commitment to Community-Based Services \nThis session will explore the role of Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) in shaping and sustaining community-based behavioral health services in Massachusetts. As the commonwealth continues to advance its commitment to accessible and person-centered care\, it is crucial to recognize the momentum behind these efforts and ensure the continued expansion of peer-led and peer-run initiatives. This presentation will highlight the significance of the Certified Peer Specialist profession as well as the state credential and training program that equip individuals with lived experience to support others\, and the integration of CPS professionals into behavioral health teams\, including Mobile Crisis services. \nThe discussion will also focus on the growth and development of peer-run centers and respites\, essential spaces that foster recovery\, autonomy\, and community support. By centering the voices of those most impacted\, peer-run services provide an effective approach to behavioral health care that prioritizes dignity and self-determination. Through this presentation\, participants will gain insight into how Certified Peer Specialists contribute to a more equitable and person-driven system\, reinforcing the commonwealth’s commitment to transforming behavioral health care through community-based solutions. \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-vesper-moore/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250319T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183225Z UID:987-1742409000-1742414400@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-14/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250306T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250306T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241219T213052Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250221T215914Z UID:1014-1741285800-1741289400@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Chris Laureano DESCRIPTION:Biography – Chris\n \nChristopher Laureano is a Certified Peer Specialist and Director of the Recovery Education and Learning (REAL) Program at Bay Cove Human Services. Christopher is an autistic person who has also experienced anxiety and trauma through various life situations due to having trouble with reading social cues and learning differently from others. He is passionate about both making peer support trainings and the REAL Program equitable and accessible for all\, and including neurodiversity in peer support. Chris will be speaking about the importance of ‘breaking the cycle’ when overcoming anxiety\, trauma\, and life challenges with living as an autistic person\, along with the importance of ‘self-evolvement’ in recovery.\n \nAbout the presentation \nChristopher Laureano will be sharing his recovery story and discussing his work as the Director of the Recovery Education and Learning (REAL) Program at Bay Cove Human Services\, which offers both in-person trainings at the fifth floor of Center Club\, and online trainings through the Zoom app with the purpose of preparing people for the workforce in human services. Christopher will also be sharing information on expansion developments of the REAL Program.\n \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-chris/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250219T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T183024Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183024Z UID:985-1739989800-1739995200@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-13/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20250115T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20250115T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T182958Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183139Z UID:983-1736965800-1736971200@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-12/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241218T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241218T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T182938Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183120Z UID:981-1734546600-1734552000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-11/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241205T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241205T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241204T002238Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241204T002238Z UID:1011-1733423400-1733427000@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Justin DESCRIPTION:Biography – Justin\n \nI grew up in the small town of Duxbury\, located on the South Shore of Massachusetts. I have since moved to Fall River and I am currently the Program Director at the Fall River Recovery Connection Center. I have been in recovery since 2010\, and I worked at the Atlantic Clubhouse in Quincy from 2022-2024 before taking my current position. I have been at the Fall River RCC since June of this year and have been enjoying my time getting to know the peers who make our program so wonderful. I am able to spend time in each of the special groups that our RCC has to offer\, and I have also got to know the amazing staff that we have. I completed my CPS Training through Kiva Centers in the beginning of September and will always value all of the tools and knowledge that I gained from that program. I graduated from Quincy College in 2018 with an associate’s degree in liberal arts with a focus in Behavioral Science. I was drawn to the Recovery Connection Center because of my belief that groups and peer engagement can play a vital role in anybody’s recovery. I enjoy spending time with loved ones\, listening to my favorite music on repeat\, and taking photographs while immersed in nature. \nAbout the presentation \nMy talk will begin with my recovery story to help illustrate the challenges I have faced since receiving my original diagnosis. I will then speak about my transition from working in a clubhouse setting to a recovery setting. I will include the tools I use daily to maintain my positive mentality\, along with the tools and mindset I use while working amongst my peers. I will also talk about the success of our program before I became the program director\, and the steps I am taking to maintain its effectiveness. I will conclude my talk with what I hope to learn and build throughout my time at our Recovery Connection Center and the encouraging effect it has had in my life since being there in June of this year. \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-justin/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241120T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241120T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241031T182617Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241031T183104Z UID:977-1732127400-1732132800@namiboston.org SUMMARY:Latinx SAN - Grupo de Apoyo Familiar DESCRIPTION:Compañeros de vivencia pueden mandar un correo electrónico a latinx@namiboston.org o llamar 781-819-3282 para dejar un mensaje. URL:https://namiboston.org/event/latinx-san-grupo-de-apoyo-familiar-10/ CATEGORIES:Latinx Meetings END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20241107T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20241107T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20241024T223559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20241024T223559Z UID:973-1731004200-1731007800@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Michael Siena DESCRIPTION:Biography – Michael Siena\n \nI grew up in Connecticut and moved to the Boston area in 1994 to go to school at Tufts University. I left Tufts during my junior year in 1996 due to experiencing emotional distress and extreme states. I returned and graduated in 2004 with a degree in philosophy. \nDue to a lot of work on my recovery that continues on a daily basis\, I have a full and satisfying life today. I continue to experience emotional distress and extreme states at times but they are less frequent\, less intense and last for less time. I also continue to experience personal growth through my recovery\, as well. \nI enjoy many pursuits including skateboarding\, snowboarding\, hiking\, reading\, writing\, connecting with friends and family and watching basketball. I have been working as a peer specialist for about ten years and feel grateful to have a challenging and fulfilling job. I am also pursuing a recovery coach certification. \nLife can still be difficult and painful at times. I seek to overcome the challenges of life as I reach out for support\, use coping skills\, engage in prayer\, meditation\, spiritual reading and practicing spiritual principles. Maybe most importantly\, I try to put one foot in front of the other\, doing the next right thing regardless of how I feel. As I continue to try to do my best each day\, I see life working out and becoming more beautiful. \nAbout the presentation \nMy talk will start with my recovery story followed by an in-depth description of my work within the Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community (MBRLC) over the last ten plus years. I will cover working on the Peer Support Line as well as working at the Boston Resource Center\, giving details of the tools\, resources and challenges involved with working in both settings. At the end of the talk\, I will go over some things I have learned over the years working in the MBRLC and as a person in recovery. \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-michael-siena/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241003 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241004 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20240912T194936Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240912T195022Z UID:966-1727913600-1727999999@namiboston.org SUMMARY:**Announcement: No Zooming Speaker Series in October due to holiday** DESCRIPTION: URL:https://namiboston.org/event/announcement-no-zooming-speaker-series-in-october-due-to-holiday/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20240905T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20240905T193000 DTSTAMP:20260418T144146 CREATED:20240802T194035Z LAST-MODIFIED:20240802T194115Z UID:959-1725561000-1725564600@namiboston.org SUMMARY:PSAN Recovery Speaker Series - Priestess Ziona DESCRIPTION:Biography\nPriestess Ziona is the CEO of AMRON International Organization and current Outreach Coordinator for Brockton RCC of South East Recovery Learning Community. She is considered a peer in the Mental Health Recovery community and volunteers throughout the peer recovery movement in various organizations. Ziona holds the Howard Trachtman Award\, an Honorary Doctorate\, amongst other accolades. She used her creative writing talent to express her trauma experiences and became a self-published author. She has shared her story and taught suicide prevention in over 30 schools in Massachusetts. For Ziona\, this is the beginning of her making big strides for her career in the recovery field. \nAbout the presentation\nIn her presentation\, she will share part of her story of surviving trauma\, surviving multiple suicide attempts\, and her road to recovery. Ziona will share information about her project\, “Dating With a Diagnosis” ©  which was started to break the stigma on recovery and relationships. DWAD is about better advocating for our needs and building healthy relationships around us with our spouses/partners\, friends\, and family. The series merges various recovery-based tools and skills to accomplish the effort of having healthier social connections. Ziona will talk about her chapter in the America Psychiatric Association textbook of Hospital Psychiatry\, “From within: A consumer perspective of Psychiatric Hospitals”. She looks forward to answering any questions that may arise during the presentation. \nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/96984874345 \nMeeting ID: 969 8487 4345\nOne tap mobile\n+16465588656\,\,96984874345# US (New York)\n+13017158592\,\,96984874345# US (Germantown) \nDial by your location\n+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)\n+1 301 715 8592 US (Germantown) URL:https://namiboston.org/event/psan-recovery-speaker-series-priestess-ziona/ CATEGORIES:Peer Meetings,Speaker Series END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR