The Grief Experience 2023

• Friday, August, 18, 2023, starting at 8:30 AM- Grief Experience Summit (Final Agenda to come)

  • 8:30-9:00 am: Registration & breakfast bites 

  • 9:00 am: Opening from Hearts2Heal

  • Opening Keynote: 

    • Dr. Ebony Butler

    • This session will address the relationship between trauma and grief. We will discuss the impact of trauma on our lives and the grief process that comes with trauma recovery. Attendees will receive tangible coping skills they can use to address their own grief. They will also receive resources to help them navigate their individual journeys. Dr. Ebony Butler will also provide an overview of My Therapy Cards as a resource for working through grief.

Featured Sessions:

• Surviving on Purpose: 

  • Mical Roy

• This session is centered on dealing with grief around cancer diagnoses. As a prostate cancer survivor, it is important that people of color understand how to assist family or friends who may have been diagnosed with one of many cancers. 

• Unveiling the Journey: Exploring the Grief Process Among Black Men

  • Karl Spencer

  • Navigating the terrain of grief is a deeply personal and complex journey. In our session, "Unveiling the Journey: Exploring the Grief Process Among Black Men," we delve into the unique experiences and challenges faced by Black men as they process grief. By examining cultural, social, and psychological factors, we aim to shed light on this often-overlooked aspect of the human experience.

• RE[ME]MBERING: Navigating Grief and Gratitude

  • Dionte McClendon, Shanenequiwa Sledge, Brooke Gordon

  • Let's be honest: grief is hard and inescapable. Through this session attendees will gain practical tips from licensed therapists on embracing the grieving process, finding gratitude amidst loss and how we can intentionally RE[ME]MBER our loved ones throughout our daily lives. 

• The Hearts of Wills & Estates

  • Yasmine Smith, Esq. & Tara Brice, Esq.

  • This session explores the crucial importance of wills and estates specifically for people of color. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and considerations faced by individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds when it comes to estate planning. Through interactive discussions and case studies, participants will discover how historical and systemic factors have influenced wealth accumulation, property ownership, and inheritance within marginalized communities. 

Friday, August 18, 2023 at 4:00 PM-Reflect & Connect Mixer

The Reflect & Connect Mixer is an informal gathering where participants can engage in conversations, share their stories, and connect with others who have experienced similar losses. It aims to create a relaxed and supportive atmosphere where individuals can find solace and build a sense of community. Participants will have the opportunity to socialize, enjoy refreshments, and engage in activities that promote healing and self-care.