‘Hamster Church is our monthly opportunity to hear from a Belling’hamster to learn about their life, hear their stories and how they are contributing to the life of this city.

June's dialogue partner is Danielle Humphreys, M.A.T., a Youth Suicide Prevention and Wellness Specialist at Whatcom Family & Community Network.

She has been speaking to youth and families for 20 years in various capacities as a youth leader and minister, and more recently with leading the peer-led M.A.D.-H.O.P.E. Youth Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Wellness Training program. She and her team of young people train students to break the stigma around mental health and learn how to help a struggling friend, and connect with a Trusted Adult. They train over 1500 youth each year, in every school district in Whatcom County, WA. Danielle also recently completed training as a spiritual director, focusing on supporting those working in justice and liberation movements.

Believing that representation matters, Danielle joyfully identifies in the intersection of LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities, and is mom to 3 school-aged children. Connecting to the natural world, food, culture and her faith community are her main protective factors!

This conversation will be live on Echoes' Facebook page and YouTube channel, with opportunities to ask questions. Danielle is thoughtful, engaging, and doing vital work in Whatcom county. Tune in to get to know a fellow Bellinghamster and learn how she is contributing to the well-being of this place!