THANKFUL TUESDAYS with Deacon Laverne S. Williams, CSW

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, January 4th, at 2pm as she welcomes special guest, Carolyn Beauchamp, President and CEO of The Mental Health Association in New Jersey. Ms. Beauchamp will lead a discussion entitled, "How to Change the System- Achievements in Mental Health."
Throughout Carolyn Beauchamp's 30-plus year career, she has been a leading advocate in New Jersey for people living with mental illness. Her staunch commitment to these individuals and their families has been the driving mission of her professional life. Ms. Beauchamp has a strong voice in fighting for their rights, assuring needs are met and advancing the battle against stigma of behavioral health disorders.

Under her leadership, when the COVID-19 pandemic arrived, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey (MHANJ) shifted its in-person operations to all-virtual. This dramatically expanded its capacity to help those in need. Further, the MHANJ studied the use of telehealth among recipients of mental health services and providers to determine best practices, identify technology gaps and underscore the importance of supporting our state's most vulnerable residents. Her work has made a difference in thousands of lives through the years.
In recognition of her achievements, her most recent award was the Force for Change Award by the Leading Women Entrepreneurs' business organization.

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 #1 best-selling book, Option B – Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy, by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Gant.

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