LAKEPORT, Calif. – Lake Family Resource Center's California HOPE project offers ongoing groups and gatherings in Upper Lake and Lakeport.

Conversations for Community Resilience meets at the Upper Lake Senior Activity Center, 9410 Mendenhall Ave. in Upper Lake on the first and third Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon.

The groups are also offered on the second and fourth Fridays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the Lakeport Senior Center, 527 Konocti Ave., Lakeport.

Facilitated by Lake Family Resource Center’s Cal HOPE outreach workers, “Conversations for Community Resilience” is a casual gathering of community members impacted by the recent fires where attendees can share experiences and resources, learn about individual and community reactions to disaster, brainstorm next steps, and learn simple self care approaches to support natural resilience.

"What we've learned from the past three or so years is that recovery from these large scale disasters is more of a marathon than a sprint," said Cal HOPE Team Lead JoAnn Saccato. "For those of us used to finishing all our tasks before resting, this can present a real challenge."

Saccato noted that simple things like setting aside extra time to complete tasks, keeping our “to do” lists short and book-ending the time around difficult tasks with pleasant and nourishing activities can help buffer against stress.

Lake Family Resource Center’s California HOPE project provides free confidential services to individuals, families, groups and organizations impacted by recent fires.

Outreach teams provide information and linkage to resources, emotional support and community networking opportunities.

They also offer education about individual and community reactions to disasters for groups, businesses and organizations.

Services are provided by Lake Family Resource Center through a grant from Lake County Behavioral Health Services.

For more information on California HOPE, visit www.lakefrc.org/calhope , check out the Facebook page or call 707-349-5203.