05/15/2026
On behalf of the Tribal NEAR Science & Community Wisdom Project:
You are invited to register for the 9th Annual Growing Resilient Communities Gathering of Collaboratives & Tribal Nations!
This event will be held virtually on Tuesday, June 23, from 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
About the event:
The 9th Annual Growing Resilient Communities Gathering of Collaboratives and Tribal Nations Addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is a free, virtual event that supports tribal community members, Children’s Mental Health and Family Services Collaboratives, and partners as they work to reduce ACEs, strengthen core protective systems, and create self-healing communities across Minnesota.
This year’s Gathering explores how each of us can cultivate solidarity and connection in our communities. Collaboration and mutual support are vital during times of uncertainty and resource scarcity like we are experiencing today. The event will lift up stories of hope from initiatives that are working together to meet the needs and preserve the safety and wellbeing of families in our communities. Attendees will walk away with action steps to take personally and professionally that promote solidarity and connection with children, youth, and families.
Keynote presentation:
Our keynote this year will be Dr. Roy Wade, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Dept. of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Wade is the lead researcher of the Philadelphia ACE Study.
Keynote presentation: From Adversity to Action: Community-Driven Strategies to Address ACEs and Build Lasting Resilience
Description: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are not only individual challenges—they are deeply rooted in community conditions, systems, and historical inequities. This session will explore the broader community impact of ACEs, including their effects on health outcomes, educational attainment, economic stability, and intergenerational well-being. Participants will examine how communities can move beyond awareness toward collective action by implementing trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and equity-centered approaches. Drawing from real-world examples, this session will highlight strategies that strengthen protective factors at the community level, such as social connectedness, safe and stable environments, and access to supportive services.
Event hosts and sponsors:
This event is planned and organized by Familywise Services, with support from Peacemaker Resources. The project sponsors for this event include More Resilient Minnesota and the Tribal NEAR & Community Wisdom Project. This event is made possible with primary funding from the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) and support from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota.
All are welcome! Anyone who wants to address the root causes of childhood adversity is encouraged to attend.
Please feel free to share!
Registration 🔗: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/growing-resilient-communities-gathering-of-collaboratives-tribal-nations-tickets-1988327123952