A transformative mental health event is set to take place at Black Hawk College in Moline on March 14, 2025. The “Empowerment Through Awareness” conference promises a day of learning, connection, and growth, focusing on holistic approaches to mental well-being. From 8 AM to 4 PM, attendees will explore topics like stress management, sound healing, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. Keynote speaker Jamie Shoemaker, a Geneseo police detective, will share insights on mental health and substance use in the community. Registration, priced at $40, includes meals and a professional certificate. Don’t wait—the deadline to sign up is March 6th. For details, call 309-796-8223 or visit www.bhc.edu/empowermentconference. This event is a must for anyone passionate about mental health awareness and community support.
Keynote speaker Jamie Shoemaker, a detective with the Geneseo Police Department, will present Making an IMPACT on Your Community: Mental Health and Substance Use within the Community and Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Illness.
Additional conference presentations include:
- Interoception: Tuning Into You to Manage Stress & Anxiety – Stephanie Phares, HSc, MOTR/L
- Understanding Mental Health and Wellbeing, Utilizing Bodily Systems and Relational Framework—Breann Hirst, LISW, LCSW
- The Transformative Power of Sound Healing: Jessica Ramos, MsED, QMHP, and Autumn Gonzalez, LCPC, MHC, CAADC
- Bridging the Gap: Supporting Veteran and Military Students’ Mental Health—Thomas Reagan, M.S., Black Hawk College and Joe Landen, U.S. Air Force (retired)
- Creating a Community of Change: Kevin Atwood, Foster’s Voice