Upcoming Events
13th Annual Direct Caregivers’ Conference
Friday, August 16, 2019
Nicolet College Lakeside Center
$25 per attendee or $15 for nominated caregivers
Register by August 1
The Direct Caregivers’ Network (DCN) has partnered with the Northern Highland Area Health Education Center (AHEC) and Nicolet College to offer a day focused on self-care especially as it relates to substance abuse. Whether caring for a loved one or client, the topic of substance abuse can be especially pertinent to caregivers. Featuring two well-known speakers on addiction support, you’ll gain valuable information on self-care as well as effective stress reduction strategies for your mind, body and spirit.
Celebrate YOURSELF with special breakout sessions by choosing exciting self-care topics like:
- Aromatherapy
- Yoga
- Art Therapy
- Pet Therapy
- Mindfulness and Medication
- Stress Reduction Strategies
- Massage
- ADRC Dementia Live high impact simulation experience
Celebrate OTHER CAREGIVERS by nominating those who deserve recognition for our NEW Star Performer award categories. Winners will be awarded certificates & prize baskets valued at $250+
Agenda
8:30 am
Check-in and Breakfast
9:00
Welcome
9:05 - 10 am
Jeff VanVonderen, Plenary Speaker: “Holding onto Hope in the Addiction Epidemic” Without taking care of yourself, you cannot take care of others. Learn about the cycle of addiction, how to prevent codependency and burnout, and hear an affirming message about how we can support one another in our caregiving and professional roles.
Breakout Options (each participant will choose three sessions to attend)
10:05 - 10:40 am Session 1
10:45 - 11:20 am Session 2
11:25 am - 12 pm Session 3
Aromatherapy – Learn how chronic stress may affect the mind and body. Explore the world of holistic aromatherapy and learn how the power of scent can positively impact your stress response.
Yoga – Join a registered yoga instructor for an introductory yoga class. Make sure to wear comfy clothes!
Art Therapy & Pet Therapy – De-stress with art therapy and meet a pet therapy animal.
Mindfulness Meditation – During this session, participants will learn about the benefits of mindfulness meditation, and participate in a guided meditation and Reiki session using simple Reiki symbols for mindful, present-moment awareness.
Taking Care of You Workshop – Learn effective stress reduction strategies for your body, mind and spirit.
Dementia Live® is a high impact, dementia simulation experience that immerses participants into life with dementia, resulting in a deeper understanding of what it’s like to live with cognitive impairment and sensory change. (Note: Space is limited. Please sign up for your session upon check-in. Sponsored by ADRC of Vilas County.)
12 - 12:15 pm
Break
12:15 - 1 pm
Lunch and Jesse Heffernan, Closing Speaker: “My Story: Substance Use and Recovery Coaching” Having survived early childhood trauma and not knowing how to open up to those close to him, Jesse turned to active substance abuse for many years, which quickly became his whole life and led to jail, many burned bridges and totally selling out any values and hope for life. This all changed in January of 2001 while in treatment when he decided to shut up, listen and make a commitment to continue to work on himself so he could help others. Hear his story and learn what you can do to help make a more welcoming and safe environment for people with substance abuse issues, their families, and loved ones.
1 - 1:30 pm
Star Performer Awards, Giveaways/Drawings
1:30 - 2:30 pm
Complimentary Hand, Shoulder, or Neck Massages *Additional Dementia Live® sessions may be held if there is interest.
For questions or more information contact Jodi Fox at 715-365-4694 or jfox@nicoletcollege.edu