Submitted by Northwest Youth Services
Northwest Youth Services is excited to invite the community to the 2nd Annual Healing Centered Engagement Gathering on Saturday, October 5, from 9 AM to 1 PM at Sehome High School. This event offers a unique opportunity to explore how art and belonging intersect within the framework of Healing Centered Engagement.
Centered around the principles of learning, creating, and connecting, this year’s Gathering provides a space for attendees to deepen their understanding through engaging discussions, creative workshops, and meaningful interactions. Attendees will also have the chance to see local youth art showcased throughout the event.
Participants will learn from dynamic guest speakers, engage in hands-on workshops, and join facilitated conversations led by youth and community members. These activities are designed to inspire personal growth and foster communal connections that support well-being and healing.
This year’s guest speakers include:
- JoeHahn (he/they), LGBTQ+ Director at Western Washington University, whose work focuses on intersectionality, Afrofuturism, and queer theory. Drawing inspiration from artists like Octavia Butler and Janelle Monáe, JoeHahn’s sessions will explore innovative ideas rooted in over two years of collaboration with Northwest Youth Services.
- Ayanna Phillips (she/her), Program Manager for LGBTQ+ Western, who will lead conversations on uplifting marginalized voices. With her experience supporting the queer community in Bellingham, Ayanna brings a passion for challenging norms and fostering inclusive spaces.
- Tim Harlan-Marks (they/them), an experienced group facilitator and conflict mediator, will share insights from over 15 years of guiding groups through social change. Tim’s workshops will focus on building connections across differences and overcoming patterns of separation and oppression.
Together, these presenters promise a transformative and impactful experience for all attendees.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, October 5, 2024
Time: 9 AM to 1 PM
Location: Sehome High School, 2700 Bill McDonald Pkwy, Bellingham, WA
Why Attend
- Learn: Gain insights from experienced speakers and facilitators.
- Create: Participate in workshops that foster creative expression and practical ideas.
- Connect: Build meaningful relationships with community members and leaders.
This all-ages event is open to everyone in the community. Join us for a day dedicated to learning, creating, and connecting as we explore the powerful intersection of art, belonging, and healing.
RSVP and More Information
For more details and to RSVP, please visit https://www.nwys.org/healingcenteredengagementgathering or contact us at Schantell Porter at schantellp@nwys.org
We look forward to your participation in this inspiring and collaborative event.
About Northwest Youth Services
Northwest Youth Services’ mission is to affirm youth experience and autonomy as we work together to foster collective healing and justice in order to dismantle the systems of oppression that perpetuate youth homelessness. At Northwest Youth Services, we believe this is attainable by focusing on participants’ holistic selves and well-being, not just their trauma or symptoms. We employ radical innovative services and care models that go beyond physical well-being to build social capital in partnership with young people, 13 to 24-year-olds experiencing homelessness or unstable housing. Our philosophy of care centers around three concepts: Learn, Create, and Connect. https://www.nwys.org/