Cocoa & Conversation: Helping Families Navigate Addiction and Mental Illness

Presented by the Multiethnic Advocates for Cultural Competence (MACC)
Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Discover Shine Bright Center • 4590 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43213
 

About the Event

Cocoa & Conversation is a family-centered community gathering for those affected directly or indirectly by substance use, addiction, or mental illness. The event creates a safe and welcoming space for learning, healing, and connection. Families will have the opportunity to hear from professionals, community partners, and individuals with lived experience, while exploring practical approaches that support understanding, emotional well-being, and meaningful communication.

This program serves as the launch of The Right Conversation, MACC’s initiative aimed at helping caregivers and families navigate conversations around substance use with empathy, clarity, and confidence.
 

Who Should Attend

This event is designed for:

• Families experiencing the effects of substance use, addiction, or mental illness in their household or extended network

• Caregivers seeking tools, support, or deeper understanding

• Community members who want to learn more about substance use, addiction, mental illness, and their impact on families

• Professionals and partners who support youth, families, or behavioral health services
   

Program Experience

Participants will engage in a balanced program that includes:

• Welcome & Opening

  • Introductions, a guided engagement activity, and a discussion on why addressing substance use, addiction, and mental illness openly within families and communities matters.

• Educational Segment

  • A clear and accessible overview of Substance Use Disorder, with attention to recognizing patterns, early indicators, and common family dynamics, as well as acknowledging the mental health challenges that may accompany or arise from these experiences.

• Panel Conversation

  • A moderated discussion with therapists, behavioral health and mental health professionals, local health officials, treatment or recovery specialists, and a community member with lived experience.

  • Topics may include: how substance use and mental illness affect families, signs to notice, compassionate communication approaches, and supporting resilience and recovery.

• Community Resource Connection

  • Time to visit vendor and partner tables offering behavioral health and recovery services, mental health supports, caregiver resources, and related community programs. Optional access to Naloxone will be available, along with a brief explanation of its purpose and use.
     

Venue & Accessibility

• Cocoa & Conversation is FREE to attend and will be held in person at the Shine Bright Community Center.

• A livestream option may be added to increase accessibility for families and community members who cannot attend on site.

• Registration is required 
   

Partner Opportunities

• MACC welcomes collaboration with organizations interested in:

• Hosting a resource/vendor table

• Sharing professional expertise or serving on the panel

• Promoting the event to families and community networks

• Providing general materials or supports that benefit attendees

If you would like to participate as a partner or resource, please contact our team for more information:
Sarah Henry, Programs & Marketing Coordinator: shenry@maccinc.net