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May 2026 | Trainings, Events, & Updates
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May is a meaningful month at MACC as we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month alongside Women’s Health Month, Older Americans Month, Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, and National Prevention Week. These observances remind us that health is not one-dimensional. Mental, emotional, physical, relational, and community wellness are all connected — and each deserves care, attention, and support.
This month, we are reflecting on the power of conversation, prevention, and connection. Across Ohio, communities are continuing to ask important questions about access, healing, recovery, youth wellness, maternal mental health, and how we can better support one another before challenges become crises.
Throughout April, MACC had the opportunity to host impactful trainings, participate in meaningful community conversations, and strengthen partnerships that support culturally responsive behavioral health care across Ohio. From Start The Right Conversation events to professional trainings and community-centered learning opportunities, we remain grateful for every participant, presenter, partner, and vendor who helped make this month so engaging.
We are also looking ahead to a busy and exciting start to summer, including the 2026 School Success Conference, the OACBHA Conference, and our sponsorship of the 2026 Asian Festival during Memorial Day weekend.
In This Issue:
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Upcoming Events and Trainings, including the School Success Conference
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Where to find MACC next
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Continuing MACC’s Start The Right Conversation events
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April training and community highlights
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Mental Health Awareness Month reflections and resources
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A new podcast series
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Crawley’s Corner
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FEATURED EVENT
2026 School Success Conference: Stronger Together
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2026 School Success Conference: Stronger Together
Cultivating Responsive School Communities
MACC is proud to partner in the 2026 School Success Conference, taking place June 10–11, 2026 at Eversole Middle School in Plain City, Ohio.
This collaborative conference brings together educators, behavioral health professionals, school staff, prevention specialists, community organizations, and youth-serving professionals for two days of learning, connection, and practical strategies focused on strengthening school communities and student well-being.
Participants will explore topics including:
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Student mental health and wellness
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Trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices
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School-based prevention and early intervention
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Youth substance-use trends and support strategies
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Staff wellness and workforce resilience
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Cross-sector collaboration and community engagement
We are especially excited that this year’s conference will be offered free of charge to attendees while also providing Continuing Education (CEUs) opportunities across multiple professional categories.
Whether you work directly in schools, behavioral health, prevention, youth services, social services, or community support, this conference offers valuable tools, meaningful dialogue, and opportunities to build lasting partnerships that help young people and school communities thrive.
We look forward to bringing together professionals from across Ohio for two days centered on learning, collaboration, wellness, and responsive support for students and families.
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Where You Can Find MACC Next:
MACC is looking forward to several exciting opportunities for connection, collaboration, and community engagement throughout the coming months. We always value opportunities to build relationships, share resources, and continue conversations surrounding behavioral health, wellness, prevention, recovery, and culturally responsive support across Ohio.
2026 Asian Festival | May 23–24, 2026
MACC is also proud to serve as a sponsor of the Columbus Asian Festival taking place downtown during Memorial Day weekend on May 23–24, 2026.
The Asian Festival continues to be an important celebration of culture, community, education, and connection while also supporting the health and wellness of the Asian community through outreach, resources, and engagement opportunities. One of the festival’s longstanding highlights is its community health area, where free health screenings will once again be available to anyone who visits the health booth during the event.
We are grateful for the Festival’s continued commitment to supporting physical health, behavioral health awareness, community wellness, and access to valuable health resources for individuals and families throughout the community.
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OACBHA Conference | June 1–2, 2026
MACC will also be attending the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities Conference on June 1–2, 2026 at the Columbus Hyatt Regency. We look forward to connecting with behavioral health professionals, community organizations, and partners from across the state while sharing more about MACC’s trainings, initiatives, and ongoing work throughout Ohio.
If you are attending, we encourage you to stop by, say hello, and connect with our team.
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Upcoming Trainings You Won’t Want to Miss!
Click on the linked titles to register, or you can register on our website.
Before the Crisis: Prevention that Actually Works
May 12, 2026 • 1:00 pm–3:15 pm
A prevention-focused training emphasizing early relational support as a proactive approach to stress and behavior escalation. 2 OH-Chemical Dependency Prevention CEUs awarded.
How to Navigate Cultural Awareness/Competency Work in the Current Political Climate using the Shared Human Experience Lens
May 19, 2026 • 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Participants will explore practical strategies to strengthen therapeutic relationships and trust across diverse populations, followed by a brief roundtable discussion on current challenges and resources. 2 OH-CSWMFT CEUs awarded.
Engaging in Recovery Support for Underserved Populations
May 28, 2026 • 10:00 am–12:00 pm
This training explores practical, trauma-informed approaches for engaging individuals and communities who may be experiencing substance use concerns, mental health challenges, homelessness, sexual violence, and other overlapping stressors. 2 OH-Chemical Dependency CEUs awarded.
Family Peer Support Specialist Training – In Person and Virtual
June 15-17, 2026 In-Person, June 24-25, 2026 • 9:00 am–5:00 pm Virtual
Location: Capital One Shine Bright Center, Whitehall/Columbus (In-Person)
This free hybrid 40-hour training is for individuals who have supported a loved one through mental health, substance use, developmental, or related challenges and want to use their lived experience to support others. Participants will learn to share their story, build peer relationships, and offer hope, guidance, and connection while beginning the path toward becoming a certified Family Peer Support provider. 8 CEUs awarded.
Adult Mental Health First Aid – Part 1 – CLASS IS FULL
June 16, 2026 • 9:00 am–12:00 pm
A nationally recognized, evidence-based training that builds early-intervention skills for supporting adults facing mental health or substance use challenges. 3 OH-CSWMFT CEUs awarded.
**Both Part 1 and Part 2 are required.
Adult Mental Health First Aid – Part 2 – CLASS IS FULL
June 23, 2026 • 9:00 am–12:00 pm
Continues MHFA training focusing on supportive responses, use of the ALGEE Action Plan, and connection to resources. 2.5 OH-CSWMFTCEUs awarded.
**Both Part 1 and Part 2 are required.
Beyond Sobriety: Empowering Lives through Trauma-Informed Recovery
June 30, 2026 • 10:00 am–12:30 pm
This training will address the critical intersection of trauma and substance use disorders through a comprehensive and transformative approach. This session will inspire participants to implement trauma-informed care principles, enhance treatment outcomes, and promote holistic recovery.
2 OH-CSWMFT CEUs awarded.
Substance Use Across the Lifespan: Prevention, Treatment, and Community Response
July 15, 2026 • 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Explores how substance use risks evolve from adolescence through older adulthood. Participants examine prevention strategies, treatment considerations, and community responses that support wellness across the lifespan.
2 OH-CSWMFT CEUs awarded.
Loneliness, Loss, and Substance Use Later in Life
July 29, 2026 • 10:00 am–12:00 pm
Explores how isolation, grief, and major life transitions can contribute to substance use among older adults. Participants examine prevention strategies and supportive interventions that promote connection, purpose, and wellness.
2 OH-CSWMFT CEUs awarded.
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**Reminder: MACC offers customizable private and public trainings on behavioral health, mental health, cultural health, and substance use topics, with sessions available in both virtual and in-person formats. If you’re interested in learning more, please reach out to our Program Director, Jon Moorehead II at jmoorehead@maccinc.net
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April Events & Trainings Recap
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Start the Right Conversation: Church Talk & Teen Talk
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Last month, MACC continued expanding the Start The Right Conversation campaign through two meaningful events centered on honest dialogue, connection, support, and healing. We continue to be grateful for our opportunities to directly connect with our community.
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On April 9th, MACC hosted Church Talk: Congregation Conversation at Trinity Baptist Church, bringing together faith leaders, community members, vendors, and attendees for thoughtful discussions surrounding mental health, substance use, stigma, and support within faith communities. The event created space for powerful conversations sparked by a panel of respected religious leaders who shared insight, encouragement, and perspective on the importance of compassion, listening, and community care.
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Later in April, MACC partnered with 100 Black Men of Central Ohio, Inc. for Teen Talk, hosted as part of the Elevate Leadership Academy at Columbus Africentric Early College. Teen Talk on April 25th, provided young people with a welcoming and supportive environment to engage in honest conversation, share experiences, build supportive connections, and access valuable community resources. The event reflected the importance of creating spaces where youth feel heard, encouraged, and empowered.
We are incredibly grateful to our vendors, participants, panelists, hosts, community partners, and GetCr8v for helping organize, support, and facilitate these impactful events. These conversations continue to reinforce the importance of community-centered dialogue and the power of creating spaces where individuals and families can connect, learn, and support one another.
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MACC Out and About Presenting Trainings
April also gave us the opportunity to hold two in-person training sessions, From Pain to Portrait: Transforming Lived Experience through Art, and Foundational Training for Service Organizations presented for Goodwill Columbus employees.
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On April 29th, MACC hosted From Pain to Portrait in partnership with the Arts Equity Collective of Cincinnati. Presented by Rachael DuBose, CEO of Be the Light, this creative training explored how art can be used as a tool for reflection, emotional expression, and healing. Participants were invited to learn more about the long traditions of using the arts for communication and connection, and then instructed to examine their own thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences through creative techniques in a supportive, engaging environment.
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MACC also provided Foundational Training for Service Organizations to Goodwill employees who support, recruit, train, and provide technical guidance to new staff. Led by Anisa Liban, Vice President of the Westerville City Schools Board of Education and CEO of Somali Community Link, the training offered insight into the histories, backgrounds, and experiences of New American communities. Participants explored practical approaches and communication techniques to help strengthen understanding, connection, and support within the workplace.
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Above: Goodwill’s Director of Workforce Development, Amanda Lynne; Presenter, Anisa Liban; MACC Program & Marketing Coordinator, Sarah Henry; and MACC Program Director, Jon Moorehead II
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Recent Event & Training Feedback
One of the most meaningful parts of MACC’s work is hearing how trainings, conversations, and shared experiences are impacting attendees both professionally and personally. We are grateful for the thoughtful feedback and continued support from our community.
What Participants Are Saying:
“Other attendees asked really great questions, and the trainer was really fantastic. Trainer had a depth of knowledge and was able to keep the training interesting and relevant to current practice. It was a lot of information but organized well and they made sure it was digestable and understandable, so I wouldn’t change anything!”
“I was very pleased with the thorough knowledge Laura Hinds was able to provide in the time alloted.”
“The panel presentations have been excellent and yielded excellent information, not just to be heard, but applied. The panel moderators have been very good at asking questions to highlight key information!“
“Thank you for hosting this event. It was greatly appreciated. I would love to see more sessions like this catered to professionals“
What Partners are Saying
“Just wanted you to know that I was in a meeting where the CEO of the…County Board, was singing MACC’s praises. One of our trainers worked with her Board and the [County] Board and did an amazing job! Bravo to your team!”
“We were very impressed with [the trainer] and the engagement was wonderful. I think that everyone walked away with having a very positive experience.”
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Sitaram Koppaka
Board Member
This month, we are featuring one of our newest Board members, Sitaram Koppaka to discuss his background, interests, and what brought him to MACC.
Sitaram Koppaka is a Hindu community leader in the greater Columbus area who has lived in and served the community for more than 17 years. He is a corporate IT executive who has dedicated much of his non-work life to community service and advocacy.
Mr. Koppaka has served on the boards of several organizations, including Sewa International, FIIDS — Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora, and the Hindu Education Foundation. He is also an alumnus of the FBI Academy and serves as part of the Planning and Zoning Commission for the City of Powell.
An avid yoga practitioner, Mr. Koppaka has trained school and city officials in yoga practices that help reduce stress and anxiety, especially among teenagers. He has also made consistent efforts to connect city officials, police departments, and other government leaders with the broader Hindu community through initiatives such as blood drives and COVID-19 vaccination camps. During the COVID-19 crisis, he led a team of 40 volunteers in efforts that included making masks and donating hand sanitizer.
Additional notable projects led by Mr. Koppaka include refugee empowerment efforts, such as supporting educational opportunities for middle and high school students, raising funds for refugee awareness, and assisting families during times of distress.
Why MACC
Mr. Koppaka joined MACC for the opportunity to work with official boards and engage across cultures. He sees MACC’s work around mental and behavioral health awareness, as well as the solutions available to communities, as a meaningful area of impact. With his background in yoga and stress management, MACC’s programs felt like a strong fit.
As he shared, “I am new and still learning.”
Looking Ahead with MACC
As he continues his service with MACC, Mr. Koppaka hopes to help share MACC’s work with larger communities, especially across the many cultures represented in our society. He is also interested in assessing the impact of MACC’s programs, strengthening and improving future offerings, and connecting with additional groups and nonprofits across Ohio and nationally to build a stronger forum for addressing behavioral health awareness and solutions.
**Find out more about our Board and Staff on our website!
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New Feature: Mental Health Awareness Month Podcast Series
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MACC is excited to share a special podcast series in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Hosted by Executive Director Erica C. Crawley, JD, MPA, this series will feature thoughtful conversations with community members, leaders, advocates, educators, and behavioral health professionals on topics that impact individuals and families across our communities.
Discussions will explore areas such as maternal mental health, youth wellness, community support, prevention, resilience, and culturally responsive care. Through these conversations, MACC hopes to create another meaningful way to educate, connect, and encourage dialogue around mental health and wellness.
Episodes will be released weekly throughout May. Be sure to follow MACC on social media for upcoming release announcements, clips, and new episodes.
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Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that wellness is not limited to moments of crisis. Emotional well-being is shaped through everyday habits, supportive relationships, honest conversations, rest, connection, and access to care.
For many helping professionals, caregivers, educators, advocates, and community leaders, May can also serve as a reminder to check in with ourselves while continuing to support others.
Try This Simple Reset This Month:
1. Check in honestly. Pause for a moment and ask yourself:
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What has been draining my energy lately?
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What has been helping me feel grounded?
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What support might I need right now?
2. Reduce “Productivity Guilt”
Rest is not avoidance. Taking breaks, setting boundaries, and slowing down when needed are important parts of maintaining long-term wellness.
3. Reconnect With Community
Mental health improves through connection. Reach out to someone you trust, attend a community event, spend time outdoors, or simply make space for conversation.
4. Start the Right Conversation
A simple check-in can make a meaningful difference:
“How have you really been doing lately?”
You do not need to have perfect words — showing up with compassion and consistency matters.
Looking for additional support or wellness resources? Explore these organizations for information, tools, crisis support, and community connection.
Click the links to learn more:
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Mental Health Resources
Mental Health America – Mental Health Month Toolkit & Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Resources
Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services
The Trevor Project – LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health Support
Postpartum Support International – Maternal Mental Health Resources
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DATES TO KNOW – May
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ALS Awareness Month
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Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week ( May 4-10)
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Mental Health Awareness Month
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Older Americans Month
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National Prevention Week (May 10-16)
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Women’s Health Month
DATES TO KNOW – June
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A monthly space for reflections, updates, and important news from MACC Executive Director, Erica C. Crawley. Stay connected with her latest insights and the work happening across our organization.
As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month this May, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the importance of continuing conversations surrounding emotional wellness, substance use, recovery, prevention, and community support. Mental health impacts every family, every generation, and every community. While awareness months help bring visibility to these conversations, the work of supporting mental wellness must continue throughout the entire year.
Across Ohio and throughout our communities, many individuals continue to navigate stress, burnout, grief, trauma, isolation, caregiving responsibilities, financial strain, and barriers to accessing support. At the same time, we are also witnessing greater openness, stronger advocacy, and more people willing to engage in honest conversations about healing and wellness. That progress matters.
At MACC, we believe meaningful change begins with connection, compassion, education, and the willingness to truly listen to one another. Throughout April, our team had the opportunity to participate in several impactful trainings and community conversations that reflected those values. From Church Talk and Teen Talk to trainings focused on communication, trauma-responsive engagement, FASD education, and creative healing approaches, each event reinforced the importance of creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, respected, and supported.
I am especially encouraged by the continued growth of our Start The Right Conversation campaign and the ways communities are showing up to engage in these discussions with openness and care. Whether in schools, faith communities, workplaces, homes, or community organizations, conversations surrounding mental health and wellness help reduce stigma and remind people that they are not alone.
I am also excited to share that MACC is developing a special podcast series in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Along with our creative partner, GetCR8V, we are recording several conversations with community members, leaders, advocates, educators, and behavioral health professionals on important topics impacting our communities, including maternal mental health, youth wellness, community healing, prevention, resilience, and culturally responsive support.
These conversations will be released soon, with new episodes shared weekly throughout May. We encourage everyone to follow MACC on social media and watch for upcoming episode announcements, clips, and releases.
As we continue through Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage each of us to make space for both compassion and conversation — to check in with one another, to ask questions without judgment, and to remember that support and healing often begin with simply being willing to listen.
Thank you for continuing to support MACC’s mission and for being part of this growing community dedicated to wellness, equity, connection, and care.
With appreciation,
Erica C. Crawley, JD, MPA
Executive Director, MACC
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Our Mission, Vision, and Work
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Who We Are
Multiethnic Advocates for Cultural Competence (MACC) is an Ohio-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing cultural competence, equity, and inclusion across systems of care and community services. For more than 20 years, MACC has served as a statewide resource through professional trainings, technical assistance, community-centered initiatives, and collaborative partnerships that strengthen culturally responsive practices across behavioral health, healthcare, education, government, nonprofit, and community settings. MACC works to reduce disparities, elevate community voice, and help organizations better serve historically marginalized and underserved populations across Ohio.
Our Mission
MACC’s mission is to advance culturally responsive, compassionate, and equitable practices that strengthen communities and improve systems of care across Ohio. This work is rooted in collaboration, education, and a commitment to reducing disparities while supporting individuals, families, and professionals.
Our Vision
MACC envisions communities and systems where equity, inclusion, and cultural responsiveness are embedded in practice, and where all individuals and families have access to respectful, informed, and supportive care.
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