On Thursday, April 23, Black Hawk College is inviting the public to a powerful half-day experience designed to inspire leadership, strengthen community connections and empower change. The conference will feature Haley DeGreve of The Gray Matters Collection as a keynote speaker.

The conference will focus on categories like Quad-City events, community and student life. Although the event is geared towards students and adults, it is open and free to the public. Breakfast and lunch will also be provided for free.

The morning/afternoon agenda is packed full of sessions, starting off with check-in and free registration from 8:30-9 a.m. Then from 9-9:30 a.m., speaker DeGreve will be presenting “Changing the Conversation on Mental Health.” After the presentation, a 15-minute break will follow, where guests will have a chance to partake in the free breakfast that is provided.

Starting at 9:45 a.m. will be a breakout session, where guests will discuss Fem Scouts QC facilitated by Biologist Elizabeth Van Camp and Rock Island County Democratic Women’s Club facilitated by President Amy Breeding. These topics will be discussed until 10:30 a.m., and another 15-minute break will follow.

The second, and final session, will begin at 10:45 a.m. and last until 11:30 a.m. In this session, topics of discussion will include ImpactLife facilitated by Tori Tebbitt in donor relations, Family Resources facilitated by Pauline Pender, family resources prevention advocate and Dress For Success facilitated by Mikael Gibson, executive director.

After the sessions, conference holders invite guests to partake in the free lunch that is provided, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Proof of meal ticket is required to participate in the free lunch. BHC students are required to attend one session to receive a free lunch voucher.

Attendance at the entire conference is not required for lunch. During this break time, conference-goers will also have an opportunity to network and enjoy interactive self-care activities.

The entire event will take place at the Quad Cities campus at 6600 34th Ave. in Moline. Attendees should expect the conference to run from 8 a.m.-1p.m, on April 23.