[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Ecumen is a non-profit organization that provides senior living. Ecumen also offers services that empower individuals and families to confidently navigate aging, making it a purposeful journey filled with dignity and support. They aim to be the most trusted aging services provider and the best place to work for those serving older adults.<\/p>\n
To achieve these goals, Ecumen is taking proactive steps to support the mental health and well-being of its team members by partnering with Winona State and offering the Adult Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training program<\/a>. This nationally recognized, evidence-based course is designed to equip individuals with the skills needed to recognize the signs of mental health issues and provide effective support to those in crisis.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/blogs.winona.edu\/academics\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/08\/ACE-in-the-Community_Ecumen-MHFA-1-1280.jpg” alt=”Ecumen partners holding MHFA certificates.” title_text=”ACE-in-the-Community_Ecumen-MHFA-1-1280″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The MHFA course teaches participants how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. Through an interactive 8-hour training, attendees learn a 5-step action plan that includes assessing risk, listening non-judgmentally, providing reassurance, and connecting individuals with appropriate professional and self-help resources.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Julie Kiehne” job_title=”Business Outreach Coordinator” company_name=”Winona State University” admin_label=”Julie Kiehne Testimonial” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||20px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The MHFA training focuses on building awareness of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, and substance use, while emphasizing the importance of early intervention. Participants gain practical tools to support co-workers, friends, or loved ones facing mental health challenges.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n By offering this training, Ecumen seeks to foster a more supportive, informed, and resilient workplace culture. Team members from all departments\u2014including caregivers, clinical staff, administrators, and leadership\u2014are encouraged to participate. The training reflects Ecumen\u2019s ongoing commitment to the well-being of its team and those they serve.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_testimonial author=”Wendy Brostrom” job_title=”People Service Operations Director” company_name=”Ecumen” admin_label=”Wendy Brostrom Testimonial” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”20px||20px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Mental Health First Aid training was eye-opening. I now feel much more confident recognizing when someone might be struggling and knowing how to respond in a supportive, non-judgmental way. This training gave me practical tools I can use every day\u2014not just at work, but in my personal life too. It\u2019s empowering to know I can make a real difference for someone in crisis.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_testimonial][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The Mental Health First Aid training at Ecumen is provided in collaboration with Winona State University’s Adult & Continuing Education (ACE) team. WSU-ACE offers a variety of high-quality, flexible learning opportunities to support professional development. Through online courses, classroom instruction, and hands-on training, Winona State helps individuals and organizations achieve their goals.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/blogs.winona.edu\/academics\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/28\/2025\/08\/ACE-in-the-Community_Ecumen-MHFA-2-1280.jpg” alt=”Ecumen partners holding MHFA certificates.” title_text=”ACE-in-the-Community_Ecumen-MHFA-2-1280″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n For more information about Mental Health First Aid training or other continuing education opportunities, contact Julie Kiehne at jkiehne@winona.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blurb title=”About Ecumen” content_max_width=”1100px” admin_label=”About Ecumen Blurb” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n