Mindful Beginnings
Mindful Beginnings is a monthly outdoor meet-up for new and expecting parents to connect and share in community with fellow parents. Led by certified doula and childbirth educator Kassie Leachman, each gathering includes a gentle walk on local trails and a chance to share experiences with fellow parents. Babies are welcome—carriers are encouraged!
We meet on the third Wednesday of each month from 10:00–11:30 am, rotating locations to explore different outdoor spaces. During the winter months, we’ll cozy up at local coffee shops for warm conversations and continued connection.
Each month, we’ll feature a different nature trail as a meeting spot for a relaxing walk and time together in nature. Interested in joining us? Join the email list: https://theallianceforec.org/upcoming-events/2025/9/17/mindful-beginnings-4lnzg-nxyjh-5rbf5-ahjc9
Upcoming Events
“Hold These Truths”: A Table Reading
Joel de la Fuente
Award-winning stage and screen actor
Jeanne Sakata
Award-winning actor and playwright
Lisa Doi, Ph.D.
Assistant curator and project manager at the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles
North Shore Country Day Auditorium
Note: Event start time is Central Time (CT).
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

Parenting Anxiety: Breaking the Cycle of Worry and Raising Resilient Kids
Meredith Elkins, Ph.D.
Clinical psychologist, faculty member of Harvard Medical School, and co–program director, McLean Anxiety Mastery Program, McLean Hospital
Rebecca Jenkins
Superintendent of Libertyville School District 70 in Libertyville, IL
ON ZOOM
Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose (Event 1 of 2)
Jennifer Breheny Wallace
Award-winning journalist and bestselling author
Robert Waldinger, MD
Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, co-director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, and co-founder of the Lifespan Research Foundation
ON ZOOM

