The Southeast Minnesota Adult Mental Health Initiative announced on Apr. 14 that it will host the “Breaking Silence, Building Strength” community mental health and wellness conference on May 7, 2026. The event will take place at the International Event Center in Rochester and is free to attend, with lunch included.
The purpose of the conference is to bring people together to raise awareness about mental health issues, provide education, and work toward reducing stigma. Organizers say the event aims to help attendees gain insights into mental well-being, connect with local resources, and build support systems within the community.
Chris Hawkey, a Minnesota radio host, singer, and speaker, will deliver the keynote address at 9 a.m. Hawkey plans to discuss his experience going public with depression and how sharing personal stories can benefit both individuals and their communities regarding mental health.
Throughout the day-long conference beginning at 8:30 a.m., participants can attend sessions focused on topics such as affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals, stress management tools, building support systems, proper use of NARCAN for opioid emergencies, and living with panic disorder. A panel discussion will also be held about responding to co-occurring mental health conditions.
Sierra Grandy will close out the event by sharing her own recovery journey. Grandy is known as a neurodiversity educator and disability rights advocate who founded Questify Your Life LLC. She intends to speak about formal and informal support systems in creating individualized recovery plans.
Registration for “Breaking Silence, Building Strength” is required online or by phone at 507-328-7770. Questions about the event can be directed to events4mentalhealth@olmstedcounty.gov.
