The Leadership Los Alamos (LLA) Health & Wellbeing session on November 7 offered a full day focused on vital community health topics. The event aimed to give participants a clear look at the pressing health issues affecting Los Alamos.
Participants explored key topics such as senior wellness, addiction prevention, and grief support. Organizers like Amber Pope and Sobia Sayeda stressed the importance of viewing health through a leadership lens, understanding both personal well-being and that of the community.
In the morning, the session kicked off at the White Rock Senior Activity Center. Amber Pope welcomed everyone and participants learned about community resources. They even took part in a guided Mindful Movement class led by Kristine Coblentz, a meditation expert.
The group then received training on suicide prevention from Brandi Weiss. This training teaches participants how to support people in crisis. They also heard about local resources for addiction recovery from Toni Chiri of Local District 46 AA. Jessica Strong, Social Services Director, talked about tackling food insecurity and homelessness in the community.
Lunch, prepared by Senior Activity Center Chef Stephen Jakob, was a chance for LLA participants to mingle with older adults. It was a lively gathering that fostered connection among community members.
In the afternoon, the group returned to Los Alamos for two immersive experiences: one focused on grief support and the other on innovative primary care options.
At Riveria Funeral Home, experts discussed end-of-life care and emotional support during grief. They delved into differences between hospice care and home healthcare. Meanwhile, at the Los Alamos Municipal Airport, Dr. Elena McAlee introduced fresh healthcare models. Kristine Coblentz led a nature immersion session, showing the restorative benefits of connecting with the outdoors.
Feedback from social media highlighted appreciation for the session’s focus on mental health and community engagement. Many participants expressed feeling more equipped to handle local challenges and promote well-being.
The LLA Board of Directors values these discussions, as they stem from a commitment to strengthening community leadership. Their goal is to create leaders who are self-aware, collaborative, and dedicated to service.
Leadership Los Alamos aims to empower a diverse network of leaders through hands-on learning. Their mission is to enhance workplace culture, community engagement, and, ultimately, the quality of life in Los Alamos.
This session is a timely reminder of the importance of community health. Recent statistics show a growing focus on mental health, with surveys indicating that many people prioritize wellness more than ever. For example, a survey from the American Psychological Association revealed that 90% of Americans believe mental health is as important as physical health. Events like the LLA Health & Wellbeing session play a critical role in fostering conversations around these vital issues.
By bringing together leaders in various fields, LLA continues to inspire positive change in Los Alamos, ensuring that it remains a vibrant place for all residents.
