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.

Please join Deacon Williams on Tuesday, April 5,2022 when she will welcome special guest, Dana Love. Ms. Love will discuss the topic, "Autism Awareness" from the perspective of a special needs Parent and Advocate. She graduated from Essex County College in 2004 earning an Associates Degree in Business Administration/Management and continued her education earning a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from Montclair State University in 2009. She has held a variety of interesting jobs including a Teacher's aide at Montclair Child Development Center (Head Start), a Paige at Montclair Public Library, and as an intern for the Rider University Campus Radio Station. She most recently served as a dedicated volunteer at United Way of Northern NJ.

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 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