2018 Hero Helps Community Summit to feature Laura Porter, thought leader

in Adverse Childhood Experiences and Substance Use

The 2018 Hero Helps Community Summit, slated for Friday, May 11 at the Edward Hospital Athletic and Event Center in Romeoville, will feature Laura Porter, a thought leader in Adverse Childhood Experiences and its relation to substance use.

“Laura Porter has been a leader in the most important public health movement of our time, said Dr. Kathleen Burke, Will County’s Director of Substance Use Initiatives. “The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study findings represent a paradigm shift in human understanding of the origins of physical, social, mental, and societal health and well-being. Laura will share the connection between ACEs and substance use leading to addiction.”

Porter will address how to use the science and theory of ACES to change policy and influence practice to move toward healthier communities, free of substance use.

The summit will also include presentations from Maria Bruni, assistant secretary of programs for the Illinois Department of Human Services, Dr. Nirav Shah, director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, who will share information about the State of Illinois Opioid Action Plan. A resource fair with 40 vendors and Narcan training will also be part of the summit.

The event is free and open to the public. Continuing education credits will be offered. Pre-registration is required for the Narcan training. For more information or to register for the Narcan training, visit the website: www.HeroHelpsSWC.org.