Our second annual Circles of Hope is less than two weeks away and as we gear up for another inspiring event, there are a few important things we’d like to share with you.
First, the theme of this year’s TED Talk-style conference is ‘Every child needs a hero’. As such, our speakers will dive deep into this topic and evaluate how early childhood experiences, development, and adult relationships are critical in the first 18 years of life. Second, this event is not just for those working or involved in the homeless-serving sector, but anyone interested in learning more about how we can empower the next generation and create a brighter future for all!
Research and experience show that positive adult relationships with children have the power to inspire, build resiliency, and promote healthy development mentally, physically, emotionally and psychologically. At Circles of Hope, we strive to inspire you to be the hero every child deserves!
Find out the specialties of each incredible speaker below:
- Tammy Schamuhn is a Registered Psychologist and Play Therapist, Founder and Executive Director of Family Counselling Centres. Tammy’s expertise in family psychology has allowed her to positively impact thousands and has fostered incredible self-fulfillment in every client she assists.
- Sara Austin is the CEO of Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre and Founder of Children’s First Canada. Sara has spent a lifetime advocating for children and children’s health. Her industry expertise is invaluable, and her work is truly revolutionary.
- Movement with a Message, who will be performing an incredible number on overcoming adversity and uplifting others. This performance will leave you wanting more.
- Tapisa Kilibuk is the Indigenous Strategy Advisor & Community Liaison at Inn from the Cold. Tapisa has experienced the intergeneration cycle of trauma and has dedicated her life to understanding the effects of trauma on development and uses it to guide her work with families at Inn from the Cold.
- Phil Carlton is the Engagement Lead at First 2000 Days Network. Phil has a background in education and early childhood development. His work at First 2000 Days Network enables many to take collective action toward improving Early Childhood Development outcomes.
- Garret Smith is an Activist and Founder of Camp Mohkinstsis. His peaceful protest outside the Calgary Courts Centre is shedding light on injustices in the court systems for Indigenous people. He is bringing a voice to the voiceless.
- Steve Wigglesworth is the Principal of Catherine Nichols Gunn School. He is an experienced educator with a deep understanding of adverse childhood experiences and trauma. Steve works to ensure children are supported to achieve major successes in school and for the rest of their lives!
- Louise Gallagher is the Interim Executive Director at Inn from the Cold. Louise has over a decade of experience in Calgary’s homeless-serving sector. As Interim Executive Director for the Inn, she is focused on creating a community where no child or family is homeless and recognizes that no one person, agency or business can achieve this alone – it can only happen with collective action.
- Allan Donsky is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Calgary and Adjunct Professor in the Department of Child Studies and Social Work at Mount Royal University. He takes an integrated care approach to patients combining Mind, Heart, and Spirit and has a deep understanding of the complexities of humanity and all of its dimensions which have made him a leader in his field.
- Circles of Rhythm, local drumming, and music group. Returning for the second year, we will be finishing the day with a participatory drum circle led by Circles of Rhythm. The activity will be led by Julien Lepage, full-time Mental Health Social Worker, and Professional Drum Circle Facilitator. Since 2009, Julien has developed a specialty in working with adults who experience life with a chronic and persistent mental illness.
- Amanda St. Laurent is the Director of Programs at Inn from the Cold. With more than a decade of experience, she has spearheaded efforts in trauma-informed care at the Inn, creating trauma-informed shelter spaces, integrating a housing-first philosophy and organizing a team to help families see successful independence, despite rising numbers in family homelessness.
Don’t miss these industry thought leaders speak on Tuesday, November 6th at WinSport. Tickets for this full-day event are still available and cost $75.
To find out more or to purchase tickets, visit EventBrite.
Throughout the day there will be activities, fantastic networking, an industry fair and more. You won’t want to miss out on this amazing event.
