In an effort to both reduce the stigma on mental health and educate the public on services and efforts, the Wellness Capital of Capital Crossroads will host a series of public conversations. These sharing and learning sessions will focus onĀ our communityā€™s mental health and collective resilience. The series is aimed at helping inform the public and encouraging open dialogue.

The series builds off of Andrew Zolli’s visit on resilience and kicks off on May 22 with an update on the state of mental health. Panelists include Nicole Beaman, Orchard Place; Angela Connolly, Polk County; Dr. Angela Franklin, Des Moines University; and Stephanie McFarland, Des Moines Public Schools. Panelists will share updates on their sector of the mental health industry followed by a question and answer session. The event will be moderated by Andrea Woodard, director of public policy for the Greater Des Moines Partnership.

Future events include:

  • July 24: Workplace Wellness: Connections Matter
  • Sept 25: Encouraging Healthier Habits with 5-2-1-0
  • Nov 13: Measuring Social and Emotional Well-Being

Each event will be held from 7:30 – 9:00 am at the Greater Des Moines Partnership. Coffee and light refreshments will be provided. The event is free, but registration is encouraged. Interested individuals can register for the May 22 eventĀ here.

Capital Crossroads is a bold but achievable vision pushing Central Iowans to dream big, not settle for good enough, think long term and work together. Capital Crossroads brings together community volunteers to meet the challenges of the future while building on our past successes. It is in partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, the Des Moines Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Greater Des Moines Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Polk County, Prairie Meadows, and the United Way of Central Iowa.