Throughout the month, we've shared information and resources about different awareness campaigns every October. This week, we share resources to address domestic violence and information about LGBTQ+ History Month.

In our blog entry about LGBTQ+ History Month, we highlight the life of psychologist and LGBTQ+ activist Charles Silverstein. I'm a psychologist, but I didn't know about Dr. Silverstein until we compiled this newsletter. I'm struck by his courage. He stood up to the American Psychiatric Association and advocated for them to remove homosexuality from its diagnostic manual as a graduate student. They removed it. He also seemed kind and empathic, establishing peer-run programs supporting people with similar lived experiences.

Courage, coupled with kindness and empathy, can make such a difference. I hope in this week's edition of the Ally, you find some inspiration for all those things. Check out our blog post on the Joint Planning Council on November 2 from 10 a.m. to noon. I'm on this council, and I think it's poised to make real, practical improvements in mental health and substance use services and supports, but we need everyone's help. Please come to the meeting next Thursday and learn how you can be a part of it. We also share some thoughts on making Halloween a welcoming holiday for all who celebrate. 

Please join us on October 25 from noon to 1:00 p.m. CDT for our virtual Leadership Coaching and Policy Discussion. We will discuss school bullying prevention policies and procedures and how to use them to support your child. Families as Allies virtual quarterly board meeting was rescheduled from October 19 to October 25 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. All meetings are open to the public and include time for public comment. Our events calendar has additional support and training activities.