The Real Voices – Real Choices Consumer Conference is going virtual! It’s a two day event, August 30-31, 2021, with the aim of empowering individuals across the state of Missouri. The free and open conference is administered jointly by the Missouri Mental Health Foundation and the Missouri Department of Mental Health.
The virtual programming will include 15 presentations across a variety of topics from neurodiversity and public guardianship to personal finance and mentoring along with a keynote from speaker Susan Badeau.
Badeau is a nationally known speaker, writer and consultant with a heart for children and families. Having worked for many years in child welfare, Badeau currently serves on several national and international boards including the Association for Training on Trauma and Attachment (ATTACh), Justice for Families and Imara International.
“The Department of Mental Health is dedicated to enhancing consumer voices, expanding public education, promoting mental health, preventing substance misuse, and helping people with disabilities live their lives to the fullest,” said Mark Stringer, director of the Missouri Department of Mental Health.
“The Real Voices – Real Choices conference is a priority event for the department, even during these challenging times,” added Stringer.
The conference, which has been held annually since 2008, aims to unite, inform, and empower individuals and families living with mental illness, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and those in recovery for substance use disorders.
“During my time with Real Voices – Real Choices, I have been deeply honored to make connections with incredible individuals who come from all walks of life and have beautifully unique backgrounds," said Kristina Cannon, conference coordinator. "Hearing their amazing stories of perseverance and victory in the face of great adversity is extremely inspiring!”
This year's virtual event includes a lineup of presentations that can be watched live at the Missouri Mental Health Foundation's Facebook page, YouTube page or website. Each session can also be viewed after the event on the Foundation’s website.
Free registration is encouraged but not required to attend the virtual conference. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for attendees. Those seeking CEUs must pre-register.
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About Missouri Mental Health Foundation
The mission of the Missouri Mental Health Foundation is to raise awareness and public understanding of issues impacting individuals and families living with mental illness, developmental disabilities and substance use disorders. Our efforts battle stigma and discrimination, promote care and treatment, and foster inclusion in the community and the workforce.
About the Department of Mental Health
The Department of Mental Health (DMH) serves approximately 170,000 Missourians annually through state-operated facilities and contracts with private organizations and individuals. The department is composed of three divisions: the Division of Behavioral Health, the Division of Developmental Disabilities and the Division of Administrative Services, as well as seven support offices. Its vision is for all Missourians receiving mental health services to have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and live as valued members of their communities.