Crystal Thryves with Crystal Rozelle-Bennett, LMSW

This month’s guest is Crystal Rozelle–Bennett. Crystal has been working with youth and families for nearly 20 years.  She is committed to empowering, engaging, educating, and advocating in order to implement trauma-informed strategies for individuals and communities. She earned a Bachelor’s in Arts in psychology from Wells College and completed her Master’s in social work from Florida State University.  During her career, Ms. Bennett has demonstrated a passion in sharing her personal and professional experiences with others to serve marginalized individuals and prevent re-traumatization.  She has experience in directing child & youth service programs for the Department of the Navy with a history of providing program oversight and accountability in accordance with the Department of Defense, COA, & BGCA Requirements.  Additionally, she has consulted with schools on policy development and has managed residential treatment facilities and foster care programs.  Ms. Bennett is a lifelong learner and has provided education and support to foster families, facilitated psychoeducation programs for youth, responded to crisis hotline calls for the Department of Veterans Affairs, and trained behavioral healthcare professionals in the areas of human trafficking, suicide prevention, child trauma/maltreatment, motivational interviewing, racial trauma, cultural competency, and serving LGBT youth. Learn more about Crystal and her work here: https://crystalthryves.com/aboutme/ Prevention in Media This month’s prevention in media is the film-adapted Broadway musical “In the Heights.” The show illustrates prevention protective factors through embracing culture, community, and finding your far-away dreams realized in your home neighborhood. You can find this movie in theaters or on HBO Max. Coalition Spotlight This month’s Coalition Spotlight is Youth Substance Abuse Prevention Action Team. Mission: To mobilize resources to promote healthy, holistic lifestyles among the underserved in Wyandotte County affected by substance use disorder and mental health challenges. They are most proud of the partnerships they have built in the last year. “It took us a while to get the right people at the table but now we have a great team dedicated to youth prevention. They are also proud of the work the youth did on the marijuana education campaign!” They designed some really great posters that will be placed all over town and within the schools when they're back in session. Check out the YSAP Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/YSAP2020 For more information on coalition spotlights visit: https://kansaspreventioncollaborative.org/coalition-spotlights/