Introduction to Ancestral Practices for Providers

Step into a restorative and community-centered learning experience designed for mental health and wellness providers.

In this gathering, participants will explore what it means to be in relationship with the natural world and how reconnecting with land, plants, and seasonal rhythms can support personal wellbeing and culturally grounded care for clients. Stacy Stout will share ancestral frameworks and nature-based practices providers can integrate into their work. The session will open and close with an experiential herbal practice, leaving participants with practical tools and renewed inspiration for nature-centered healing.

Event Details

• Saturday, March 28, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• Cost: $10 donation appreciated

• Registration: Waiver required at sign-up

• Location: In person meet (location will be sent to you after confirming registration).

Additional Information

• Please dress comfortably for gentle movement and for the weather, as a portion of our time together may be spent outdoors (weather permitting).

• In care for Mother Earth, participants are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle.

• To cultivate a brave and trusting space for sharing, video and audio recordings will not be permitted.

• You are encouraged to bring a notebook and pen for reflection, note-taking, and journaling.

About the Host

Stacy Stout (she/her)

Stacy Stout is the President and CEO of the Blandford Nature Center, where she leads nature-based learning, wellness programs, and community engagement across 264 acres of conserved land in Grand Rapids. A passionate community leader, she previously served as the inaugural Director of Family-Centered Philanthropy at the Steelcase Foundation and formerly led diversity, equity, inclusion, and engagement efforts for the City of Grand Rapids. Stacy is also the founder of Yarrow Joy Wellness, where she offers coaching and nature-based healing experiences rooted in culturally grounded practices. She holds a Master of Public Administration and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Grand Valley State University and lives in Grand Rapids with her family.

This event is a dedicated, affirming space designed exclusively for Black, Indigenous, and communities of color (BIPOC). Our mission is to provide culturally responsive and affirming mental health and wellness care resources and support to Black, Asian, African, Indigenous, Latine, and other communities of color and providers. To maintain the integrity of this centered space, all participants—including mental health care providers and wellness providers—must affirm that they identify as a member of one or more of these communities of color. This shared identity is essential to fostering the culturally specific environment necessary for this event’s purpose. You will be asked to affirm this identity as a required step during the registration process.