Under the bright lights of the conference hall, excitement buzzed as participants gathered for the Resilient Tennessee Collaborative Statewide Summit 2025. The atmosphere was charged with creativity and collaboration, as volunteers prepared to share their insights and ideas through colorful posters.

The event kicked off with an invitation for volunteers to present their work, encouraging everyone to display their posters for all to see. A light-hearted warning about a trip hazard on stage added a touch of humor, reminding attendees that even in serious discussions, a little levity can go a long way.

Among the first groups to present was a team from Tennessee Voices, led by Sheena Lazenby. Their slogan, "Healing starts with a conversation and not a lecture," emphasized the importance of dialogue in mental health discussions. With a striking visual of two silhouettes engaged in conversation, they highlighted the need for equal opportunities to share thoughts and feelings. Their message was clear: mental health matters, and everyone deserves a voice.

Next, Amy Sadler and her colleagues from Miriam's Promise took the stage, presenting a different but equally vital perspective. Their slogan, "Build a community of hope, humility, opportunity, perseverance, and equity," resonated deeply with the audience. They shared a compelling statistic: 95 percent of pregnancies in Tennessee are planned. This fact shifted the narrative around pregnancy, particularly in light of recent legislative discussions. The team emphasized the importance of providing maternal education and support, aiming to foster a community that uplifts all mothers, whether their pregnancies were planned or not.

As the presentations continued, the room filled with a sense of purpose and determination. Each group brought unique insights and solutions to the table, showcasing the collaborative spirit that defines the summit. The discussions not only highlighted pressing issues but also ignited a collective commitment to building a resilient Tennessee.

As the day unfolded, attendees were encouraged to engage with the posters and share their thoughts, creating a vibrant tapestry of ideas and solutions. The summit served as a reminder that through conversation and collaboration, communities can come together to address challenges and foster hope for a brighter future.