June 6, 2008—Faith community representatives and others whose job might include  counseling community members during emergencies are invited to attend a free workshop on psycho-social risk communication to be held Friday, June 13 at the Islandia Marriott from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The seminar will be conducted by risk communication expert Dr. Vincent Covello and mental health expert and former assistant surgeon general Dr. Brian Flynn. The purpose of the workshop is to help people involved in a counseling role learn additional skills to help foster individual and community resilience after large scale disasters.  Participants will:

• Discuss how faith-based and community organizations and other trusted leaders can work with their local health department to prepare for, respond to and recover from an emergency involving mass mortality.

• Practice risk communication skills necessary to help community members cope in times of deep psychological trauma.

• Network with colleagues in the public health and faith-based communities.

Although there is no charge for the workshop, advance registration is required.  To reserve your place, contact Katie Schafer by telephone at 360-746-0010 or by email at kschafer@pierysytems.com