Breakout Sessions

In the wake of disasters, we see the best of humanity – neighbors helping neighbors and volunteers from far and wide showing up to lend a hand. As physical spaces are rebuilt, the deeper task of healing hearts and minds begins -a process where words, actions, and even our own responses may feel uncertain. This training is designed to bring clarity to this journey. Together we’ll explore how crisis affects our brains and bodies and practice simple effective tools and strategies to support yourself and others. This training is ideal for community leaders, volunteers, first responders, and anyone committed to making a positive difference in their community after hard times.

This workshop will provide information and resources available to faith communities and individuals in the Asheville area on substance use and harm reduction. The workshop will consist of panel members who will speak individually to their experiences and what services their agency provides to the community. This workshop will also provide promising strategies and ways of fostering hope and healing. 

Join art therapist Ella Dufrene in this immersive, experiential workshop. Through a hands-on creative exercises where you will create a manda, you’ll explore the transformative power of art to unlock emotions, foster self-discovery, and promote mental wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or new to creative exploration, this session is for you.  Learn more about the artful path to holistic wellness. 

Participants meet each other “where they are” through large group discussion, table talk on topics they select to caucus on, plus identifying and sharing their experience across interests.  This trauma-informed gathering will be emergent and cooperatively facilitated by those present and John Parker from the NC Council of Churches.