Minneapolis — Central Kansas Mental Health Center and the Ottawa County Health Department invite the public to Roots of Resilience: A Rural Mental Health Gathering on Saturday, June 7 from 1:00 to 5:00 PM at the Minneapolis Public Library Meeting Room, 519 Delia Ave.
This free community event is designed to spark open conversation, reduce stigma, and connect individuals in rural and farming communities with tools and resources for mental health and suicide prevention. Whether you're a farmer, rancher, business owner, parent, or neighbor, all are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion.
The event will feature inspiring presentations and a panel of local experts:
1:30 PM — “A Call to Action” with Isabelle Blackwood, Youth Leaders in Kansas (YLinK)
Nationally recognized youth advocate Isabelle Blackwood shares her powerful story and leadership in suicide prevention, especially in farming communities.
3:00 PM — "Weathering the Storm in Agriculture" with Rebecca McFarland, K-State Extension
Extension veteran and farm stress specialist Rebecca McFarland offers practical strategies for recognizing and managing stress in agricultural life.
4:15 PM — Community Resource Panel
Representatives from the Ottawa County Health Department, CKMHC, and NAMI will highlight local behavioral health services, prevention programs, and community supports.
Attendees that live in Ottawa and Lincoln counties will receive a $30 grocery card as a thank-you for participating. All are welcome, registration is encouraged but not required.
For more information or to RSVP, contact Gretchen Boyum at [email protected] or call 785-515-6139.