The Resilient Veteran

All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-04-06 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
April 6, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Register online for Zoom link.

About the event

All Veterans. Any and all veterans are welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary

Pittsburgh-Area Veteran Town Hall on the PACT Act
2023-04-04 17:00 - 20:00
DMVA Announces Pittsburgh-Area Veteran Town Hall Providing Information to Veterans on the PACT Act
Annville, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) will hold an in-person Veteran Town Hall on the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act on April 4, 2023, from 6-8 p.m. at the West View VFW Post 2754, 386 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh, PA 15229. The town hall will also be available by phone to increase accessibility for Pennsylvania’s more than 700,000 veterans – the fourth largest veteran population in the nation.
The new federal PACT Act law expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances. The town hall will provide veterans and their advocates with a convenient platform to learn and ask questions about eligibility and applying for benefits related to the PACT Act.
“The PACT Act has expanded benefits to thousands of veterans throughout Pennsylvania who were exposed to toxic substances during their military service,” said Maj. Gen. Mark Schindler, Pennsylvania’s acting adjutant general and head of the DMVA. “Many veterans don’t know they may be eligible for these additional benefits, so we are making the PACT Act a primary focus this year. Our goal is to raise awareness, answer questions, and connect as many veterans as possible to the benefits they have earned.”
In-person attendees are also invited to arrive early to enjoy a dedicated resource fair from 5-6 p.m.
Featured presenters for this event will be Chip Gilliland, DMVA’s chief of the Division of Reintegration and Outreach; and Jennifer Vandermolen, director of the Pittsburgh VA Regional Office.
In-person town hall attendees are asked to register prior to the event by calling 717-644-3890. Anyone joining the town hall by phone should call 267-332-8737 and enter Conference ID: 989503340# to participate. Both in-person attendees and callers will be able to ask questions during the town hall. Media are permitted to attend.

Motivating Veterans to Engage in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
2023-03-28 12:30 - 14:00
Motivating Veterans to Engage in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Tuesday, March 28th, 2023
9:30AM PST – 10:30AM MT – 12:30PM EST
Location:
Virtual Presentation
Presented By:
Alice Maynor, LCSW
Description:
Veterans are a unique population to treat for substance use and mental illness due to their background in the military. After ears of having strict structure, highly stressful career expectations, and rigorous back to back training, Veterans re-entering the civilian world can be a difficult challenge to overcome for most. Because of this, Veterans struggling with substance use disorder and PTSD often enter treatment extremely guarded and/or resistant to treatment, which can lead to them leaving treatment early. Substance abuse and PTSD are complex issues that require consistent care and commitment to healing for any population, but for Veterans, it’s important to understand the barriers that they face on a daily basis and how to help them overcome them.
Register online.

Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-03-26 13:00 - 15:00
Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop
March 26, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST
Register online for the Zoom link.
About the event

Women Veterans. Any and all women veteran welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary
The focus of this workshop is on Cis Gendered Women Veterans only. All other veterans are welcome to join us in our All Veterans Empowerment Workshops.

Women Veterans Conference
2023-03-24 - 2023-03-26
March is Women Veterans Month
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of PA is proud to sponsor the Women Veterans ConferenceMarch 24–26, 2023Pittsburgh, PAPittsburgh Marriott North, 100 Cranberry Woods Drive, Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Agenda Includes: Veterans Benefits and how to access proper health care and benefits for women; presentations by several women veterans’ advocacy groups; leadership seminars; a motivational speaker; networking and camaraderie and much more All women veterans in Pennsylvania are welcome to attend. You do not need to be a member of the VFW in order to attend.
Please join us for a weekend of fellowship, camaraderie, and informational workshops by, for, and about women veterans—and the issues that matter and impact them directly. Preregistration is required; please see the VFW Dept. of PA Website for forms and the tentative agenda, or contact Amy MacKenzie (info below).Final Registration 01/31/2023 (or until sold out)www.vfwpa.org (under the “resources” tab)
This event is organized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Pennsylvania, with financial contributions from Districts, Posts, Auxiliaries, & Individuals.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of PA Women Veterans ChairpersonAmy MacKenzie717.575.3982 quartermaster@ephratavfw.org

All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-03-23 18:30 - 20:30
All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
March 23, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Register online for Zoom link.

About the event

All Veterans. Any and all veterans are welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary

A Case for Substance Use Recovery and Sobriety to Prevent Suicide
2023-03-21 15:00 - 16:00
Tuesday, March 21, 2023
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
Location: Virtual Presentation
Presented By: Aimee Johnson Schenck, LCSW
Description: For those working in healthcare and behavioral health care settings, the opportunity to offer evidenced based treatments for substance use disorders and suicide is broad. This presentation will provide a basic understanding of the impact substance use and substance use disorders has in the United States, the connection to suicide risk and provide clear resources for individual providers, multidisciplinary teams, and organizations.

Support Members of Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-03-14 19:00 - 21:00
Support Members of Veterans Empowerment Workshop

Mar 14, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Register online for the Zoom link.
About the event

Support members of veterans! The focus of this workshop is on civilians that support a veteran/reserves/active duty/national guard this workshop is for you! Includes spouses, siblings, caretakers, give it a try
Everyone has a story. Triumphs and Struggles of every day life.
Join us to tell your story, be embraced by a community of people practicing empowerment, self care and kindness to themselves and others. Fill your own container before you give to others. We are here.
When the mind suffers or struggles the body does too. Release what no longer serves you and empower your experiences.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary

Recovery is Community: Evaluation and Diagnosis of ADD in Adults
2023-03-10 12:00 - 13:00
Friday, Mar 10 • 12 pm to 1 pm
FREE. Register online.
Presented by Lisa May, Ph.D.
This presentation will review diagnostic criteria for adult ADD diagnoses and review neuropsychological evaluation processes as well as screening tools that can be used.
Learning Objectives – Upon completion of this session participants will be able to:

· Identify the DSM -5 diagnostic criteria for Attention Deficit Disorder.
· Identify elements of a neuropsychological evaluation for attention difficulties.
· Identify some common screening tools that can be helpful in identify possible diagnoses related to attention complaints.
·Identify at least 3 compensatory strategies to offer to patients that are not medication related.

Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-03-09 18:30 - 20:30
All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
March 9, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Register online for Zoom link.

About the event

All Veterans. Any and all veterans are welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary

QPR Training at Storm Harbor Equestrian Center
2023-03-09 18:00 - 20:00
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Thursday, March 9, 2023
6:00-8:00 PM
Hosted by:
Storm Harbor Equestrian Center
245 Harmony Rd, Slippery Rock, PA 16057
Register to attend by calling: 878-208-8186 OR email patti.tanner@pitt.edu.
Download the flyer to print or share. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

Evaluating the Effects of Opioids and Benzodiazepines on All-Cause Mortality in Veterans
2023-03-09 09:00 - 12:00
March 9, 2023 | 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET
Opioids and benzodiazepines are often prescribed to manage chronic pain. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has convened an expert committee to evaluate the effects of opioids and benzodiazepines on all-cause mortality of veterans, including suicide.The Committee to Evaluate the Effects of Opioids and Benzodiazepines on All-Cause Mortality of Veterans will hold a public session during its second meeting on March 9, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET, to include presentations on trends in opioid and benzodiazepine use, and data and study design considerations.The event will be accessible via live webcast, and there is limited capacity for in-person attendees on a first come, first served basis. Learn more and register on the event page.

Erie County Veterans Organizations: Lunch at the Legion
2023-03-07 12:00 - 14:00
Calling all veteran-focused community organizations!
Please join The Nonprofit Partnership, Bodhi Garden Initiative and The University of Pittsburgh’s Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU) on Tuesday, March 7th at 12:00 PM at the American Legion for a sector-specific convening.
Our goal is to bring community groups together to network and learn more about one another; share information and resources; determine needs; and create a plan for next steps.
This convening is meant for agencies with a focus towards veteran support. Is your organization completely veteran focused? You’re invited! Does your organization have a veteran-specific program? You’re invited!
Logistics:

This event is free; registration is required
Light lunch will be provided
Register online to secure your spot

American Legion Millcreek Post 773
4109 West 12th St.
Erie, PA 16505

Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-03-05 13:00 - 15:00
Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop
March 5, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST
Register online for the Zoom link.
About the event

Women Veterans. Any and all women veteran welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary
The focus of this workshop is on Cis Gendered Women Veterans only. All other veterans are welcome to join us in our All Veterans Empowerment Workshops.

QPR Training
2023-02-28 14:00 - 16:00
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Tuesday, February 28, 20232:00 – 4:00 PMHosted by:American Legion Post 138419 W. Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749
Register to attend by calling: 878-208-8186 OR email patti.tanner@pitt.edu.
Download the flyer to print or share. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

Second Harvest Military Food Share Distribution
2023-02-24 14:00 - 16:00
In northwest Pennsylvania, nearly 18% of households receiving food assistance have at least one member who has served in the military. Military Share, a Produce Express Program of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, is designed to provide fresh, nutritious foods for families with at least one member who has served in the armed forces. For the convenience and privacy of the individuals and families served, Military Share distributions take place on-site at VA Medical Centers, Veterans of Foreign Wars facilities, and at armories throughout Second Harvest’s 11-county service area.
Military Share is funded exclusively by donations. While requests to include specific items in a distribution may impact the cost, you can sponsor a military family for just $15. To learn how you or your organization can sponsor a Military Share distribution in your community, please contact Manager of Programs Gerry Weiss by email at gweiss@nwpafoodbank.org or by phone at 814-459-3663 ext. 120.
UPCOMING MILITARY SHARE DISTRIBUTIONS
Please click on the month below to find a distribution near you!
February 2023 Military Share
Friday, February 24th – Warren, PA
3:30 PM Distribution
(Please do not arrive before 2:00 PM)
Penelec Building, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue West,
Warren, PA 16365 – Warren County
ALL DISTRIBUTIONS ARE DRIVE-THRU AND FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED.
Please bring a photo ID, wear a face mask and remain in your vehicle for the duration of the distribution.
While the specific items distributed will vary based on Second Harvest’s available inventory, each eligible, registered family will receive fresh produce, one quart of fresh milk, one dozen eggs, cheese and a box of shelf-stable pantry staples such as soup, pasta, sauce and cereal. When available, meat, fish and poultry products may also be included.

Second Harvest Military Food Share Distribution
2023-02-22 13:00 - 15:00
In northwest Pennsylvania, nearly 18% of households receiving food assistance have at least one member who has served in the military. Military Share, a Produce Express Program of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, is designed to provide fresh, nutritious foods for families with at least one member who has served in the armed forces. For the convenience and privacy of the individuals and families served, Military Share distributions take place on-site at VA Medical Centers, Veterans of Foreign Wars facilities, and at armories throughout Second Harvest’s 11-county service area.
Military Share is funded exclusively by donations. While requests to include specific items in a distribution may impact the cost, you can sponsor a military family for just $15. To learn how you or your organization can sponsor a Military Share distribution in your community, please contact Manager of Programs Gerry Weiss by email at gweiss@nwpafoodbank.org or by phone at 814-459-3663 ext. 120.
UPCOMING MILITARY SHARE DISTRIBUTIONS
Please click on the month below to find a distribution near you!
February 2023 Military Share
Wednesday, February 22nd – Erie, PA
2:30 PM Distribution
(Please do not arrive before 1:00 PM)
Second Harvest Food Bank, 1507 Grimm Drive,
Erie, PA 16501 – Erie County
Friday, February 24th – Warren, PA
3:30 PM Distribution
(Please do not arrive before 2:00 PM)
Penelec Building, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue West,
Warren, PA 16365 – Warren County
ALL DISTRIBUTIONS ARE DRIVE-THRU AND FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED.
Please bring a photo ID, wear a face mask and remain in your vehicle for the duration of the distribution.
While the specific items distributed will vary based on Second Harvest’s available inventory, each eligible, registered family will receive fresh produce, one quart of fresh milk, one dozen eggs, cheese and a box of shelf-stable pantry staples such as soup, pasta, sauce and cereal. When available, meat, fish and poultry products may also be included.

Caring for Veterans in Crisis: First Responder Summit
2023-02-22 08:30 - 12:00
FIRST RESPONDER SUMMIT
Caring for Veterans in Crisis
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
8:30 a.m. – Noon | Registration 8:00 a.m.
Blasco Library
Hirt Auditorium
160 East Front Street, Erie, PA 16507
Erie VA Medical Center Behavioral Health Clinic and the Erie County Department of Veterans Affairs invite front line workers, police, fire and rescue, and EMTS participate in our First Responder Summit.
Presenters will share best practices to assist and treat Veterans in:
• Suicide Prevention
• Homeless Care
• Substance Use Disorder
Attendees will also receive information on resources and programs available to assist Veterans with:
• VA’s Whole Health Program – complimentary alternative medicine
• PACT Act Claims – navigating expanded VA health care
• Compensated Work Therapy – Additional employment resources
Speakers will discuss best practices for assisting and treating Veterans in need.
Register by February 21. Contact Jason Brown
at 814-860-2023 or jason.brown10@va.gov

Second Harvest Military Food Share Distribution
2023-02-21 14:30 - 16:30
In northwest Pennsylvania, nearly 18% of households receiving food assistance have at least one member who has served in the military. Military Share, a Produce Express Program of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, is designed to provide fresh, nutritious foods for families with at least one member who has served in the armed forces. For the convenience and privacy of the individuals and families served, Military Share distributions take place on-site at VA Medical Centers, Veterans of Foreign Wars facilities, and at armories throughout Second Harvest’s 11-county service area.
Military Share is funded exclusively by donations. While requests to include specific items in a distribution may impact the cost, you can sponsor a military family for just $15. To learn how you or your organization can sponsor a Military Share distribution in your community, please contact Manager of Programs Gerry Weiss by email at gweiss@nwpafoodbank.org or by phone at 814-459-3663 ext. 120.
UPCOMING MILITARY SHARE DISTRIBUTIONS
Please click on the month below to find a distribution near you!
February 2023 Military Share
Tuesday, February 21st – Franklin, PA
4:00 PM Distribution
(Please do not arrive before 2:30 PM)
36 Elk St, Franklin, PA 16323 – Venango County
(lower end of Elk Street by Allegheny River)
Wednesday, February 22nd – Erie, PA
2:30 PM Distribution
(Please do not arrive before 1:00 PM)
Second Harvest Food Bank, 1507 Grimm Drive,
Erie, PA 16501 – Erie County
Friday, February 24th – Warren, PA
3:30 PM Distribution
(Please do not arrive before 2:00 PM)
Penelec Building, 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue West,
Warren, PA 16365 – Warren County
ALL DISTRIBUTIONS ARE DRIVE-THRU AND FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED.
Please bring a photo ID, wear a face mask and remain in your vehicle for the duration of the distribution.
While the specific items distributed will vary based on Second Harvest’s available inventory, each eligible, registered family will receive fresh produce, one quart of fresh milk, one dozen eggs, cheese and a box of shelf-stable pantry staples such as soup, pasta, sauce and cereal. When available, meat, fish and poultry products may also be included.

Recovery is Community: The PA Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative
2023-02-21 12:00 - 13:00
Tuesday, Feb 21 • 12 pm to 1 pm
FREE. Register online.
Presented by Tony Klein, MPA, NCACII, & Katie Gassner, CTTS
Pennsylvanians who enter recovery from mental and substance use disorders deserve the best care possible. Over the years, we’ve learned that people who are offered evidenced-based tobacco interventions while in treatment for other addictions have better overall treatment outcomes compared to those who do not. Despite this understanding, tobacco use is often overlooked in the treatment setting and smoking remains a prime form of socialization in the recovering community. This training provides an overview of the Pennsylvania Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative. Advancing a new normal supportive of tobacco interventions is achieved through an integrated, data-driven systems approach, community partnerships, and a strength-based, recovery-oriented perspective.
Learning Objectives – Participant will be able to:

Define the PA Statewide Tobacco-Free Recovery Initiative’s vision and mission.
Cite three strategies to advance evidence-based tobacco use disorder interventions within a recovery-oriented framework.

Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-02-19 13:00 - 15:00
Women Veterans Empowerment Workshop
Feb 19, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST
Register online for the Zoom link.
About the event

Women Veterans. Any and all women veteran welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary
The focus of this workshop is on Cis Gendered Women Veterans only. All other veterans are welcome to join us in our All Veterans Empowerment Workshops.

All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
2023-02-16 18:30 - 20:30
All Veterans Empowerment Workshop
Feb 16, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Register online for Zoom link.

About the event

All Veterans. Any and all veterans are welcome regardless of discharge status or time in service.
Discover the Artistry of Empowerment with WVE&T
Here at WVE&T we facilitate workshops to practice skills of Empowerment
~Schedule time for yourself without apologizes
~Practice speaking, writing and living without taking things personally
~Learn to empower yourself from within
~Practice observing without judgment
Invest in a compassionate, cooperative community of Empowerment for YOU!
Previous artistic experience not necessary

PAUSE Community Circle
2023-02-11
PAUSE (People Addressing and Understanding Suicide Experiences) is a global movement founded on a growing awareness that the current state of suicide prevention science has been inadequate in addressing and understanding the complexity of suicide. PAUSE is grounded in compassion, social & economic justice, and health equity for all, valuing lived experiences with suicide.
PAUSE Community Circles create safe, supportive spaces to delve into the complexity of suicide. Three Community Circles are offered on February 11th. Each will be 90 minutes in length. Using portions of the PAUSE Declaration as a starting framework, individuals will be invited to share their experiences and ideas, while listening to and learning from each other.
Session times:
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM EST
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
8:00 PM – 9:30 PM EST
Learn more and register for a time on the PAUSE events page.

Recovery is Community: Differential Diagnosis with Complaints of Attention Problems
2023-02-10 12:00 - 13:00
Presented by Lisa May, Ph.D.
This presentation will review common differential diagnoses and symptom presentation for attention/focus patient complaints.
Learning Objectives – Participants will be able to:

·Identify common differential diagnoses when presented with patient complaint of attention problems.
·Identify some common screening tools that could be used to assist with diagnosis.
·Identify when referral for neuropsychological evaluation is recommended to assist with diagnosis.

FREE. Register online.
Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

How States and Communities Can Better Support Military and Veteran Caregivers
2023-02-09 14:00 - 15:30
Three-part Series: December 13, 2022; January 12, 2023; February 9, 2023Time: 2:00–3:30 p.m. ET
Register Online
Part 3: February 9, 2023

Session 3 – Strengthening Community Supports and Promoting Financial Wellness for Military and Veteran Caregivers

Thursday, February 9, 2023, 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET

Learning Objectives

Illustrate how states and communities can come together to support military and Veteran caregivers
Highlight the challenges caregivers face related to financial wellness and the resources available to help

Presenter

Shawn Moore, L.M.S.W., Founder, Executive Director, Caregivers on the Homefront; Program Manager, Financial Wellness, Elizabeth Dole Foundation

With over 5.5 million military and Veteran caregivers in the United States, the implementation of the newly released National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers is a critical step forward for those caring for our Nation’s wounded, ill, and injured service members and Veterans. Caregivers consistently experience worse health outcomes, greater challenges in family relationships, and increased difficulties in the workplace than non-caregivers. Military and Veteran caregivers are unique in that they tend to be younger and serve in caregiver roles longer than their civilian counterparts.

This learning community will provide participants an opportunity to learn in a small group and interactive setting. The objectives of this learning community are to (1) Discover a framework for supporting military and Veteran caregivers, (2) Examine how both paid and informal caregivers can be recognized and valued in the continuum of care, and (3) Identify resources available that are specifically tailored for military and Veteran caregivers.

The learning community will meet monthly for three sessions beginning in December 2022 via Zoom. Each session will feature an expert presentation with engaging group discussion incorporated throughout.

Recovery is Community: Tobacco Use in Behavioral Health
2023-02-07 12:00 - 13:00
Presented by Tony Klein, MPA, NCACII, & Katie Gassner, CTTS
Despite significant progress made in reducing smoking in the general population, individuals with mental and substance use disorders bear a disproportionate burden of tobacco-related illness, disability, and premature death. This training explores the basis for widespread smoking in the recovering community and the bio-psycho-social aspects of tobacco use disorder. The basis of all recovery is hope and a belief that our current circumstances can be improved, managed, and overcome. Learning tobacco-free coping skills is safe, achievable, enhances physical and mental health, reduces social stigma, and contributes to long-term recovery.
Learning Objectives – participants will be able to:

Define the origin of prevailing tobacco-related social norms in the recovery and treatment culture.
Identify strategy to mobilize the recovery and treatment community to de-normalize tobacco use and support interventions tailored to individuals in behavioral health services.

ONLINE Tuesday, Feb 7 • 12 pm to 1 pm
FREE. Register online.

Free CE credit of 1.0 hour for AMA, ANCC, and LSW/LCW/LPC/LMFT will be offered to those who attend.
Requirements include attendance for the duration of the session and completion of a course evaluation provided at the end of the session.
ACCREDITATION
In support of improving patient care the University of Pittsburgh is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to provide continuing education for the health care team.
PHYSICIAN (CME)
The University of Pittsburgh designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
SOCIAL WORK (CEU)
Mercyhurst University’s Department of Social Work is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education and is an approved provider of Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapist and Professional Counselor continuing education by the Pennsylvania State Licensing Board.

Opioids and Benzodiazepines on All-Cause Mortality in Veterans
2023-02-03 13:00 - 15:00
This is a virtual meeting for the Committee on Evaluating the Effects of Opioids and Benzodiazepines on All-Cause Mortality in Veterans.
Fri, February 3, 2023, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM EST

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine will convene a committee of experts to conduct a study to evaluate the effects of opioids and benzodiazepines on all-cause mortality of veterans, including suicide. A public session will be held virtually on February 3, 2023. The committee will hear from the study sponsor, the Veterans Administration (VA), on the committee’s statement of task and will have an opportunity to clarify the charge at hand. Background on the Congressional request (Section 204a of the Hannon Act) and an overview of Veterans data will also be provided.
Live stream of the open session can be viewed:
https://www.nationalacademies.org/event/02-03-2023/evaluating-the-effects-of-opioids-and-benzodiazepines-on-all-cause-mortality-in-veterans-meeting-1

Mindfulness Meditation Classes for Veterans
2023-02-03 11:00 - 12:00
Join VA’s free, phone-based class called “Mindfulness Meditation.” Designed for Veterans of all eras, this class will help you manage the challenges and stressors of everyday life. Each class covers a topic related to mindfulness, followed by a guided meditation practice. Classes are available from 11a.m. to noon ET.

QPR Training
2023-02-03 10:00 - 12:00
QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is someone in a position to recognize a crisis and warning signs that someone may be at risk of suicide.
Pennsylvania suicide rates, especially in rural counties, are higher than the national average. QPR is a two-hour educational program designed to teach professionals as well as lay “gatekeepers” the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to respond. A gatekeeper is an individual who can recognize a crisis and the warning signs of someone possibly contemplating suicide. Anyone can become a gatekeeper: parents. friends, neighbors, teachers, athletic coaches, ministers, doctors, nurses, office supervisors, squad leaders, foremen, police officers, advisors, caseworkers, firefighters, etc. Gatekeepers come from all walks of life and do not require any prior training or education.
Click on the image to download or print the flyer and access the registration QR code. Please contact us if you experience challenges with registration.
We look forward to meeting you at an upcoming training session!

Equine Event for Veterans and Their Families
2023-01-28 10:00 - 12:00
Join us for a fun morning of FREE activities for the whole family!

Horsemanship & Groundwork Emotions & Body Language
Snowshoeing & Archery
Free Childcare (on-site)
Physical Health & Riding
Wellness Resources
Butler VA is offering FREE (limited) transportation to/from this event.

JANUARY 28, 2023 · TWO SESSIONS! 10AM-12PM and 1-3PM
Storm Harbor Equestrian Center
245 Harmony Rd, Slippery Rock, PA 16057
(weather dependent)
ALL AGES AND ABILITIES ARE WELCOME!
Children aged >5 yrs. may participate in activities. Storm Harbor has adaptive equipment for riders who need accommodations; riding is not required to participate.
Questions? Need a ride to the event? Contact Patti at pag109@pitt.edu or 878-208-8186
Register online to let us know you’re attending! A pdf of the event flyer is available to download and share.
