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Join Resilient Lehigh Valley for our annual conference, Lehigh Valley Speak Up! - Empowerment, Voice and Choice. YOU can be a part of a movement to make your school and community stronger, more connected and more resilient. This year’s theme is Strengthening Community Resilience Through Community Connections. Together, we’ll explore how adults and youth can make a real impact by working together, supporting each other and finding ways to overcome challenges.


May 14, 2025

8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Cedar Crest College

Tompkins College Center

Light breakfast and lunch will be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages.


At registration you will be asked to select your breakout sessions. Descriptions, CEU availability and max capacity listed below. All sessions are available on a first come, first served basis.

We have reached maximum capacity. To be added to the waiting list or to modify your registration, please contact Megan Astacio via email or phone.

Email: megana@unitedwayglv.org

Phone number: 610-770-4630

ADULT BREAKOUT SESSIONS


Trauma Basics | Adult Session

1 CEU credit available | Max capacity 30 attendees


Facilitated by: Sue Lettera, MSW, Marywood University School of Social Work/College of Health Sciences and Nikida Capasso, MSW LCSW BCD, Change The Way LLC


This training is taught from a hope-instilling and resilience-building perspective. The definitions of the following terms: ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences), PCEs (Positive Childhood Experiences), Toxic Stress and Resilience will be discussed. An exploration of the latest research on the lifelong health implications of experiencing trauma and toxic stress will deepen participant’s understanding of the impact of trauma. Tools for building resilience in individuals, families and communities will be identified. Resources to mitigate the impact of trauma will be provided. 



Restorative Practices | Adult Session

1 CEU credit available | Max capacity 30 attendees


Facilitated by: Missy Wise, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley

Restorative practices examine how to strengthen relationships between individuals and improve social connections within communities. Restorative practices are used in conflict resolution, creating dialogue, bridging gaps across divided groups and building cultures where all members have a voice, work more effectively together, and become more innovative. Restorative practices have a deep resonance with and have been influenced by a variety of collective philosophical and theoretical perspectives, including indigenous cultures and traditions from around the world. Restorative practices can be used in a variety of settings including schools, workplaces, and the community in general. 



Integrated Community Therapy (ICT) | Adult Session

1 CEU credit available | Max capacity 30 attendees


Facilitated by: Missy Wise, United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and Sue Lettera, MSW, Marywood University School of Social Work/College of Health Sciences 


Lehigh Valley Health Network and the LPPIH partnered with Visible Hands Collaborative to launch Integrated Community Therapy (ICT) in the Lehigh Valley in 2024. The Lehigh Valley is the first place in the country to be launching ICT into community in this way. There are now over 50 ICT facilitators from various organizations in the Lehigh Valley trained and using ICT. ICT offers an evidenced-practice approach, to support connections through open, powerful community conversations. ICT helps communities mobilize their own resources to address the challenges they face. Attendees will learn about ICT and experience a “round” during this session. 


Beyond the Game: The Power of Sports & Self-Discipline | Adult session

Max capacity 25 attendees


Facilitated by: Jeffrey M. Bell, The Susquehannock Camps 

This session explores how self-discipline fosters confidence, resilience and independence. Explore how mental strength, perseverance and accountability shape success, both in sports and in life. Experience the power of focusing on efforts over results and taking ownership of your growth. Featuring an engaging discussion and potential guest appearances, this session will inspire action and lasting change. 



YOUTH AND ADULT BREAKOUT SESSIONS


Ending the Silence | Adult and Youth sessions offered

1 CEU credit offered for adult session | No max capacity


Facilitated by: NAMI Montgomery County, Pa 


In this session designed for middle and high school students, presenters will address warning signs of a mental health crisis, facts and statistics about youth mental illness and wellness and explain how to get help for themselves or a friend. Research has shown that NAMI Ending the Silence for Students is effective in changing middle and high school students’ knowledge and attitudes toward mental health conditions and seeking help 



Gratitude = Happiness | Adult and Youth sessions offered

1 CEU credit offered for adult session | Max capacity 40 attendees


Facilitated by: Kory W. Kutzler, M.Ed, M.C., Resilient Edge


An engaging and interactive presentation exploring the impact of gratitude on your own happiness. Through thought-provoking discussions, hands-on activities and real-world applications, we’ll uncover how practicing gratitude can enhance well-being, strengthen relationships and transform daily life. Get ready to reflect, share, and participate in exercises designed to cultivate a grateful mindset. Whether you are looking for personal growth or ways to foster gratitude at work, school or in your community, this session will leave you inspired and equipped with practical strategies to make gratitude a lasting habit.



The Digital Diet: Reclaiming Focus in a Hyperconnected World

No max capacity | Adult and Youth sessions offered



Facilitated by: David Robertson, JOSHWAY and Glenn Breslauer, JOSHWAY


Our devices are always within reach—but is our peace of mind? In an always-on world, the answer isn’t total disconnection or mindless scrolling—it’s balance. This session is about taking back control of our attention, redefining our relationship with technology and learning how to be present without unplugging entirely. Through practical strategies and real-world insights, we’ll explore how to use technology with intention, stay mindful in a digital age and create space for what truly matters. This isn’t about restriction—it’s about freedom.


YOUTH BREAKOUT SESSIONS


True Color Theory | Youth Session

Max capacity 30 attendees


Facilitated by: Mary Pritchard, Aevidum and Angela Callie, Clear Direction Consulting LLC


Using an interactive True Color Theory activity, participants will explore their individual personality and gain insight into how it impacts their interactions with others. They will see how each of the four true color profiles brings an important skill set to any collaboration.


Mindfulness for Young Adults | Youth Session

Max capacity 20 attendees


Facilitated by: Alicen Arnold, The Mindful Child Initiative


In this interactive mindfulness experience, attendees will learn about what mindfulness is, its benefits and how easy it is to add it to your daily life. Walk away with some simple yet effective practices, your own mindful journal, mindful art supplies and some keepsakes to remind you of the practices you will learn during this session. One or both of these sessions may be outside, weather permitting.

Continuing Education Units (CEU) are being provided by

Marywood University School of Social Work.


This program has been approved for 3.0 continuing education credits for social workers. Marywood University's social work program is pre-approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors to offer continuing education credits for social workers.

Special thanks to our sponsors