Join us at the Reif Center for presentations by local experts who interact with poverty on a daily basis.

Over 5,500 people live below the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines in Itasca County.

Monday, November 29th
8:30 – 2:00

The Causes of Poverty: Alice Moren
KOOTASCA Community Action

Growing Up Poor in America
PBS: FRONTLINE

Low Income Housing: Diane Larson & Amanda MacDonell
Itasca County Housing & Redevelopment Authority

Home Ownership: Sandy O’Fallon
KOOTASCA Community Action

MNSure & Social Security Advocacy: Kim Wirtanen
KOOTASCA Community Action

The Digital Divide in a Pandemic: Michelle Toven
KOOTASCA Community Action

Food Insecurity: Sue Estee
Second Harvest North Central Food Bank

Equity & Anti-Racism Resources: Seraphia Gravelle
KOOTASCA Community Action

Tuesday, November 30th
8:30 – 2:00

Myths & Stereotypes: Alice Moren
KOOTASCA Community Action

Growing Up Poor in America
PBS: FRONTLINE

Suicide Prevention & Resources
COVID-19 & Mental Health
Shane Troumbly & Jayme Gabler
Itasca County Public Health

The Road to Recovery: Eero Schulz
Circles of Support

The Impact of Social Assets:
Michelle Toven, Dave Roerick, Lola Seekman, Eero Schulz
Circles of Support

Domestic Violence: Mandi Aalto
Advocates for Family Peace

The Role of the Faith Community in Addressing Poverty
Pastors & Community Members

Transitional Housing, Crisis Rent Assistance, & RentHelpMN:
Gail Beckman, Haley Berkeland, Sara Citrine
KOOTASCA Community Action

Reif Center – Ives Theater
720 NW Conifer Drive, Grand Rapids

Lunch will be provided on both days. Registration is required.
There is no cost to attend this event.

Members of the audience are required to wear masks. This event will adhere to CDC recommendations.

Please register by contacting Michelle at 999-5883 or michellet@kootasca.org