Resources

In this episode, Stacey Walker, a native to Cedar Rapids, IA shares his journey. From childhood experiences of loss, trauma, and adversity to being the first African American to serve as a Linn County Supervisor, Stacey shares the power of relationship in cultivating resilience.

As a leader, a mother, and an advocate, Melissa Walker, Director of Philanthropy at Tanager Place shares her story of resilience. Melissa shares the importance of knowing yourself, having a community of support, and making self care a priority. These have been key to her resilience as she has navigated the sometimes difficult path of international adoption to maintain connection, belonging, and hope for each new day.

As a life-long advocate for youth in our community, Lori Ampey, Director of Tanager Place LGBTQ+ Center and Director of Programming & Outreach at Boys & Girls Club, shares her story of resilience through finding a sense of meaning and purpose through contributing to the lives of others. In addition to being seen, accepted, and honored for who you are, finding a sense of mattering in this world creates a reason to keep going each and every day.

First hand experiences with homelessness and food insecurity were transformed into a personal mission to offer a support, safety, and compassion to others in her community. Bridgette Williams Robinson has made a career as CEO of Bridge Under the Bridge, an idea that started with one altruistic act during a time of need.

Alejandro was born in Lima, Peru and immigrated to the United States with his parents and younger brother. Alejandro explores his joy in working with incredibly diverse populations and seeing the beautiful humanity in each individual and in every story. His current position at YPN has reminded him of the ability we all have to impact the life of another person in profound ways.

Ben Rogers, a Linn County Supervisor, is one of 10 million American’s that suffer from a co-occurring depression and substance use disorder. Ben has over 7 years of sobriety from alcohol and has been open about his struggles, journeys and lessons learned to help reduce stigma related to brain health and substance use disorders. Ben sums up his place in the world from a quote by Aeschylus (pronounced Es-Ka-lis): “Make Gentle the Life of this World”