Hope Starts Here 2026

We invite you to join us for our Annual Hope Starts Here event, on Saturday, November 21st at Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth. The Saturday before Thanksgiving is recognized as International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, a day to support those who have been impacted by suicide. The cost is $25 per person and includes lunch.

Event Agenda

9:00-10:00 AM – Check In

• Welcome food and beverages

• Visit local resource and vendor/activity tables

​Welcome - Barb Smith, President SRRN

Panel Discussion

Lunch Provided (on site)

Keynote Speaker – Heather Williams, MS, LPC

Closing

We are pleased to announce this year's Keynote Speaker:

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We are excited to welcome Heather Williams, as our keynote speaker. Heather Williams, MS, LPC, is a nationally recognized mental health, suicide prevention, and postvention advocate whose professional expertise and lived experience inform her work. She serves as the Program Manager for Integrated Treatment for Co-Occurring Disorders, leading innovative approaches to support individuals facing both mental health and substance use challenges. Heather earned her Bachelor's in Psychology and Master's in Mental Health Counseling for Southeast Missouri State University. She played a key role in developing the 32nd Judicial District Co-Occurring Court and received the 2021 Kelly VanVleck Unsung Hero Award for her impact. As a TEDx speaker, she shared The Power of Connection, emphasizing how authentic relationships can save lives. Heather is also the co-author of The Wellness Workbook for Correctional Staff and The Wellness Workbook for First Responders, resources that promote resilience and wellbeing in high-stress professions. Her leadership, clinical expertise, and lived experience allow her to inspire hope and meaningful change in communities nationwide. 

In this powerful presentation, a suicide loss survivor shares her personal journey of navigating profound grief and loss. Through storytelling, she will reflect on the early challenges of bereavement and illustrate how “grieving out loud” became a meaningful coping strategy and pathway toward healing. In the session Heather will explore how open expressions of grief fostered connection, community, and a continuing bond with her loved one.

Pre-registration required. (Scholarships available if needed)

Please contact us at barb.smith@srrn.net or call 989-781-5260 with any questions.

Hope Starts Here is made possible in part from our Annual Walk for Hope... Depression and Suicide Awareness event.

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