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The Maple Valley and Odom Branch Libraries want you to join us at our Ubuntu Speaks lunchtime discussion event. **This event will be held at the Maple Valley Branch Library.
Register online, in person, or by calling Odom Branch Library at 330.643.4720 or the Maple Valley Branch at 330.864.5721.
This event's topic discussion will be on Mental Health and Women, with guest speakers Dr. Ciara Dennis-Morgan and Barbara Blash, MA, from the Minority Behavioral Health Group (MBHG).
Ubuntu is an African word meaning "humanity to others." It is often described as reminding us that "I am because we are." Ubuntu has its roots in African humanist philosophy, where the idea of community is one of the building blocks of society.
This event is FREE with a light lunch provided and hosted by the Maple Valley Branch Library, 1187 Copley Road, Akron, Ohio 44320. Registration is limited to 25 people.
Currently, Dr. Dennis serves as Clinical Director at Minority Behavioral Health Group in Akron, Ohio. She focuses on understanding the impact of systematic oppression on mental health while providing culturally specific treatment and prevention services. Being a certified yoga instructor, she emphasizes wellness within mind, body, and spirit.
Barbara Blash, MA, is the Clinical Coordinator at Minority Behavioral Health Group. She completed her MA in Clinical Counseling from Ashland University. Her focus is to normalize receiving mental health services and reduce stigma. She deeply desires to support those within her community. One value she has is the support of people in receiving culturally-appropriate care, and within that, helping people connect with Black providers to support people in being able to see themselves, relate, and connect.
Minority Behavioral Health Group was established in 1998 to provide mental health services for the growing minority populations in Summit County. MBHG was the first and only African-American nationally accredited and state-certified community mental health agency in Ohio.
The Maple Valley Branch Library is a key component of a neighborhood that finds a welcoming community gathering place within its walls. Artwork features local artists Debra Calhoun, Melissa Daubert, and the late Miller Horns, and a plaque pays tribute to poet and Maple Valley childhood customer Rita Dove. Rich book, movie, and music collections celebrate, among other genres, the extensive contribution of African-Americans to the arts, literature. In addition, the library is a hub of activity that ranges from computers and computer classes, WiFi, printing, copying, scanning and faxing, to hundreds of programs for all ages on themes as diverse as local history, book discussions, crafting, storytelling, homework help, and more.
Local non-profit groups meet at the Maple Valley Branch Library frequently, and Library staff can be found participating in events at local schools and as participants in community organizations working toward neighborhood success. Maple Valley Branch Library is the one-stop spot for education, creativity, and entertainment to suit all interests.
60 South High Street
Akron, Ohio 44326
330.643.9000
Our Mission: The Akron-Summit County Public Library provides resources for learning and leisure, information services, meeting spaces, and programs for all ages that support, improve, and enrich individual, family, and community life.
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