Project HOPE Volunteer to Speak at Easton

On Sunday, September 9, the Easton Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) will celebrate Easton Day, its annual commemoration of what is known as the "Feather of Peace" -- a time in 1777 when a party of Burgoyne's Indians set aside hostilities and joined Easton Friends in worship. It will take place at the Easton Friends' South Meeting House, 227 Meeting House Road (off State Route 40 about six miles north of Schaghticoke), in Easton, NY.

All are welcome to the events, which include registration at 10:00 a.m., followed by the 10:30 a.m. telling of the “Feathers of Peace” story and Meeting for Worship (with a concurrent program for children up to twelve years old). Potluck lunch will occur at noon, followed by singing and the featured presentation by Karen Beetle at 1:30 p.m. Karen Beetle is a mental health specialist from Albany who was a volunteer with Project HOPE's response team deployed in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Her topic will be, "What Is 'Radical Accompaniment'? and Why We Need Itin a World of Turmoil and Heartbreak."

In addition to being a therapist, she has been a mindfulness teacher, human rights protector, refugee advocate, and violence prevention educator. In her talk she will show how caring and effective assistance can help people, heartbroken by disaster, bounce back, work together, and change their lives and the world.She has said, "To be met with non-judgment and care is healing in itself."

Those wanting more information may call 518-677-8934.