THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, September 8, 1996 TAG: 9609080050
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B3 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY MIKE KNEPLER, STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: NORFOLK LENGTH: 37 lines
``Citizens Helping Citizens,'' a free conference aimed at helping community volunteers improve their skills and their knowledge of resources, will be held Sept. 21, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Scope.
The conference is aimed at volunteers who may come into contact with people with alcohol- or other drug-related problems, mental illness, mental retardation or who are homeless.
The information provided can help volunteers better understand these situations and make referrals to appropriate agencies and other resources, said Anthony D. Crisp, one of the conference organizers. The program also is open to people thinking of volunteering or wanting more insights into the situations and services, he said.
Also, the conference will help volunteers exchange ideas about community problems they are working on, Crisp said. It is open to people working through volunteer programs with social-service agencies or who volunteer in their neighborhoods or houses of worship.
There will be an overview discussion to explore the myths of mental disabilities, addictions and homelessness.
There will be 12 workshops. Topics will include the community's role in relapse prevention, forgiveness, signs and symptoms of substance abuse, a day in the life of the homeless, mental health concerns for youths, building trust with teens, crisis management, developing community connections for people with mental retardation, family dynamics and the church's role.
A continental breakfast and lunch will be available at no charge to conference participants. There will be free child care and lunch for children ages 3 to 12.
Anyone interested in attending should register in advance to help conference organizers plan the meals and child care, Crisp said.
For registration and other information, call 441-1899. by CNB