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 12 ,2022 when she will welcome special guest, Janai Wade, the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office Crisis Intervention Law Enforcement Coordinator. Ms. Wade will present the topic, " HBCU vs. Traditional Universities: How My career began in law enforcement."

Detective Wade currently serves as a County Detective in the Intelligence Unit. The Intelligence Unit consists of the Bias Crimes Unit, Community Outreach, AG's Operation Helping Hands/Blue Cares, and the Veterans Diversion Program. Detective Wade joined the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office on February 6, 2020. Prior to that, she was a Plainfield Police Officer from 2016-2020. In May 2012,

Detective Wade earned a Bachelor of Science Degree with a concentration in Health Science and Minor of Psychology from Lincoln University of Pennsylvania. In December 2013, she earned a Master's in Science from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania with a
concentration in Athletic Training. Detective Wade is certified in Crisis Intervention Training/ Crisis Intervention Training Coordinator. She also received a Methods of Instructions Certificate from the John H. Stamler Police Academy in September of 2019 and has taken many other courses in the field of law enforcement.

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