The Resilient Tennessee Collaborative Statewide Summit 2025, hosted by the Commission on Children and Youth in Tennessee, focused on enhancing community resilience and addressing critical issues related to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health. The summit, held on May 21, 2025, brought together local leaders and stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving health outcomes and building stronger communities across the state.

A key discussion point was the economic impact of ACEs, with estimates suggesting that Tennessee incurs approximately $5.2 billion in healthcare costs related to these experiences. Participants emphasized the need for a comprehensive economic model to address these costs and improve community health. The summit highlighted Tennessee's existing infrastructure, including nine regional networks, which can be leveraged to mobilize resources and support local initiatives aimed at reducing ACEs and promoting resilience.

Brenda Harper, a prominent figure in the Trousdale County Health Council, shared insights from her community's efforts to tackle pressing health issues, including obesity, mental health, and substance misuse. Harper detailed the formation of a mayor's task force to address mental health and substance abuse, which has successfully opened a mental health clinic in Trousdale County. This initiative aims to reduce stigma and improve access to care, demonstrating how local engagement can lead to meaningful change.

The summit also recognized the importance of collaboration among counties and local governments, encouraging participants to learn from one another and share best practices. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to fostering resilience and well-being throughout Tennessee, with a focus on sustainable and scalable solutions.

As the summit concluded, attendees were encouraged to continue their efforts in building community resilience, emphasizing that every community, regardless of size, has the potential to make a significant impact. The event served as a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering partnerships, paving the way for future initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Tennessee's children and families.