Deacon Laverne S. Williams, CSW host Thankful Tuesdays

During this time of crisis and uncertainty many rely on faith for support and stability. The community is invited to join Laverne S. Williams, CSW, a Deacon at the Union Baptist Church in Montclair, for a free Zoom.us session, entitled "Thankful Tuesdays." During these sessions, Deacon Williams and her special guests explore important topics centered around faith and spirituality. The program is offered at 2 p.m. every Tuesday: individuals may participate online through the Zoom link https://zoom.us/j/424719863?pw... or by visiting Zoom.us, Meeting ID number 424 719 863, Password 469922 or by calling 646-558-8656. The program may also be viewed on Facebook Live @MentalHealthAssociationinNewJerseyInc

Please join Deacon Williams on Tuesday, October 12th when her special guest will be The Reverend Walter L. Parrish III, D.D. Reverend Parrish is a graduate of Morehouse college in Atlanta, GA. and upon graduation went to work as a Computer Analyst for Southern Bell Telephone company. In 1987 he received the Master of Divinity Degree from the Union Theological Seminary in New York City. He went on to receive a Doctor of Divinity Degree from Virginia University. Dr. Parrish has lived out a unique calling with more than 30 years of service to the local church and in executive leadership in denominational bodies. The topic of his discussion is entitled, "Hold On."

Laverne Williams, CSW is the Director of the PEWS (Promoting Emotional Wellness and Spirituality) Program for the Mental Health Association in New Jersey. Ms. Williams is a New Jersey Certified Social Worker, WRAP (Wellness & Recovery Action Plan) Facilitator, Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and Certified Grief Recovery Specialist. With over 35+ years of experience in mental health service, Ms. Williams is a highly sought- after conference keynote and workshop facilitator. Her workshops have been presented to numerous statewide and local agencies, consumer organizations and family member groups. As an advocate on behalf of persons with mental illness, and a Deacon at her church, Ms. Williams diligently develops partnerships between faith-based communities and behavioral health institutions by bridging the gap between theology and mental health.

Ms. Williams was quoted in the April 2017 #1 best-selling book, Option B – Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy, by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Gant.

To contact Ms. Williams please email: lwilliams@mhanj.org