Reimagine Conference 2024: Together, We Flourish

Reimagine Conference

Date

Friday, October 11, 2024

Time

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Location

Valparaiso University Harre Union
1509 Chapel Dr, Valparaiso, IN

  • Poverty Simulations by: Jen Trowbridge – Main Ballroom
  • Recognizing and Addressing Personal Trauma and Toxic Stress by: Heidi Ausburger-  Brown & Gold 
  • The Mitigation of Trauma and Adversity Requires the Power, Promise, and Imperative of Connection by: Dr. Carol Dahlen – Heritage Room
  • Mitigating the Impact of Secondary Trauma (MIST) among Helping Professionals: Bridging Theory to Practicing Part 1 by: Jennifer Middleton & Beatriz Vides- Alumni Room
  • Poverty Silumation Cont. by: Jen Trowbridge – Main Ballroom
  • Every Mind Matters by: Nora Pambeck – Brown & Gold (No CEU)
  • Brain Architecture Game by: Claudia & Cathy- 200 Multipurpose Room (No CEU)
  • Mitigating the Impact of Secondary Trauma (MIST) among Helping Professional Part 2 by: Jennifer Middleton & Beatriz Vides – Alumni Room
  • Domestic Violence, Children and Resiliency by:Brittany Caraballo & Tabatha Creasbaum – Main Ballroom
  • Brain Architecture Game by: Claudia & Cathy – 200 Multipurpose Room
  • Neurosequential Model by: Amanda Zelechoski – Brown & Gold Room 

Keynote Speaker Gealin Elmore and Closing Remarks.

Join us for a networking cocktail or soda as we close the days events! Thank you for attending Reimagine Conference by CoAction.

Join us at the Reimagine Conference, where compassion meets action, and flourishing is our shared objective

Our responsibility transcends self-interest. We have a responsibility to help our communities flourish. It’s about lifting one another, healing together, and nurturing resilient communities where everyone can access the resources and support they need to realize their full potential. The Reimagine Conference is a catalyst, creating a ripple effect that transforms our neighborhoods. 

This one-day community conference fosters collaboration, learning, and empowerment within our local community. It addresses critical issues and aspirations that impact our collective well-being and future. We aspire to create a dynamic and inclusive event that inspires positive change and action through engaging sessions, meaningful dialogue, and community participation.

Keynote Address: Gaelin Elmore

Be the Difference: Belonging is the Support We Need

Hear from our inspiring keynote speaker, Gaelin Elmore, as he shares his powerful story that has motivated and inspired thousands. Learn about the importance of belonging and support, and discover how you can be the difference.

Speaker Bio

Gaelin Elmore

Gaelin Elmore is a dynamic and nationally sought-after keynote speaker, trainer, and thought leader. He works with organizations and people to become belonging-informed in order to help children overcome trauma and unleash their potential. Gaelin’s passion and energy for his work stem from his heart for justice and his own lived experience. His own belonging journey has led Gaelin to the National Football League and now stages, boardrooms, and organizations across the country, aiming to inspire, encourage, and equip others to think differently about their work and its long-term impact on others. Gaelin now lives in Eden Prairie, MN, where he gets to experience the purest form of belonging as a husband to his wife, Micaela, and dad to their two daughters, Laniah and Tatum.

Registration Details

Early Bird registration is available until Friday, September 13, 2024. Register now to get the best price!

 

The conference focuses on understanding the impact of trauma, toxic stress, ACEs, and exploring trauma-informed approaches to create flourishing communities.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood. Understanding and addressing ACEs can help improve individual and community well-being.

This conference is ideal for educators, healthcare professionals, social workers, community leaders, and anyone interested in learning about trauma and community resilience.

Yes, a networking breakfast and lunch are included in the registration fee.

We recommend business casual attire. Comfort is key, as the day will include various activities and opportunities to network. Feel free to bring a light jacket or sweater, as room temperatures can vary.

Session Information

An immersive journey that offers participants a glimpse into the challenges faced by individuals and families living in poverty. During this eye-opening one-hour “month,” participants step into the shoes of someone navigating the complex and often overwhelming world of poverty.
The simulation is divided into four “weeks,” each lasting 15 minutes, representing a month in each assigned character’s life. Participants are charged to manage basic needs such as housing, food, healthcare, and transportation within this time frame. However, resources will be limited, and participants will face unexpected events that mirror the unpredictable nature of life for those in poverty.
Throughout the simulation, people might experience:
  • Financial Stress: Balancing a meager budget and prioritizing essential expenses can be incredibly stressful. Every dollar spent on one necessity means less for another.
  • Limited Resources: Food, transportation, and healthcare services scarcity can force difficult decisions and trade-offs.
  • Social Stigma: Interactions with various institutions can highlight the stigma and biases often faced by those in poverty, affecting self-esteem and mental well-being.
  • Barriers to Education and Employment: Navigating educational and job opportunities when resources are limited can shed light on the cycle of poverty that makes advancement difficult.
  • Unforeseen Crises: Unexpected events like medical emergencies or sudden changes in employment can disrupt even the most carefully crafted plans.
  • Community Support: Participants may come to rely on one another and form support networks, showcasing the importance of community in challenging circumstances.
At the end of the simulation, there is a debriefing session to discuss participants’ feelings, insights, and reactions. This reflection provides an opportunity to deepen understanding and empathy for those facing poverty and to consider potential avenues for change and support in real life.
2 CEUs

In this session, we will explore the profound impact of trauma and toxic stress on our lives an dwell-being. participants will learn how to identify the signs of trauma within themselves and understand the mechanism by which toxic stress affects mental and physical health. Through a combination of expert insights and practical strategies, attendees will be empowered to take the first step towards healing and resilience. This session emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and self-care in the journey to recovery.

The Neurosequential Model is an evidence-based framework that brings a developmentally-sensitive, neurobiological, and trauma-informed approach to clinical problem-solving. Developed by renowned psychiatrist and neuroscientist, Dr. Bruce Perry, the Neurosequential Model has been adapted and implemented in a variety of contexts, including mental health clinics, schools, juvenile justice systems, youth sports organizations, and child welfare programs. This workshop will present an overview of the Neurosequential Model and the ways it is currently being implemented throughout Northwest Indiana, through a grant-funded collaboration between Purdue University Northwest and the Neurosequential Network. Join us to learn how your organization can get involved in this and additional systemic capacity-building initiatives to address adverse childhood experiences in our community.
 
Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:
  1. Identify the core components of the Neurosequential Model
  2. Recognize the diverse range of contexts in which the Neurosequential Model has been adapted and implemented
  3. Understand the specific ways in which the Neurosequential Model is currently being implemented in Northwest Indiana
  4. Identify opportunities for potential collaboration and involvement with ongoing trauma-informed community and capacity-building efforts underway at Purdue Northwest

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Valparaiso

We’ve reserved a block of rooms at Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Valparaiso for Reimagine conference attendees.

The reservation link is valid until September 10, 2024. Reserve a room.

View images from last year’s conference