The Blue Hill Library and Community Compass are co-sponsoring a presentation about cultivating resilience with the Maine Resilience Building Network (MRBN) on Tuesday, May 25 at 4 PM. Teens and adults are invited to join Ruby Parker from MRBN, who will share an introductory overview of the science around stress, adverse childhood experiences, and resilience, providing an understanding of how these experiences effect our nervous system and emotions. After building a foundation around these topics, Ruby will share strategies involving compassion and mindfulness to help promote resilience within the self and over all well-being. Everyone will leave this presentation with new tools, resources and practices to promote resiliency.

Ruby Parker is the Engagement & Education Director for the Maine Resilience Building Network (MRBN). Ruby provides education across the state to build awareness around the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the importance of protective factors in building resilience.  She provides opportunities for learning to people from all walks of life, in addition to participating as a member of a number of coalitions, committees and task forces all aimed to address trauma and promote safe and supportive environments for children. Ruby obtained her education in Baltimore with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Goucher College and a master’s degree in Conflict Management from the University of Baltimore. Though she grew up in Portland, Maine, Ruby has spent many summers in Blue Hill visiting her grandmother who is still an active community member.

Community Compass is a local non-profit working to break the cycle of poverty in our region. Reaching seven towns on and around the peninsula, Community Compass helps provide families in need with assistance through a variety of services. Their focus is to increase opportunities for people of all backgrounds and educate others who may be unaware of the impact of poverty in their communities. You can learn more about Community Compass and their efforts by visiting their website.

All are welcome to join in this free online program, though space is limited. Register through the library's interactive calender to receive the Zoom link or by calling 374-5515. This program is co-sponsored by the library and Community Compass. If you have any questions please contact Teen Services Librarian Kendall Chapman at kendall.chapman@bhpl.net.