This immersive program will dive into these critical topics, fostering deeper understanding and practical skills, builds on the last, offering a combination of engaging discussions, and actionable strategies. Participants will learn to approach cultural differences with humility, explore the impact of intersecting identities, and develop tools to effectively recognize and address microaggressions in diverse environments. Perfect for individuals and teams committed to creating inclusive and respectful spaces.Melissa is an avid reader, loves her dog Alta, and is always looking for new places to explore. For the last 13 years, Melissa has worked as the Director of Operations & Administration for First Call, which lets her combine her experience and skills in property and people management with her drive to help others. Additionally, Melissa directs her church bell choir, serves as the Fundraising Chair for the contemporary classical group KC VITAs, and volunteers with grassroots social justice organizations.Hector Contreras, MPS, MAADC I
Youth Counselor, First Call
Hector Contreras is a dedicated Youth Counselor at First Call, passionate about empowering young people to reach their full potential. His commitment to youth development began during his college years in Arkansas, where he worked at a sports and adventure camp on Beaver Lake and later served as an Assistant Site Director for an after-school program supporting underserved communities across Northwest Arkansas.
In 2020, Hector relocated to Kansas City to pursue a career in mental health, serving as a Residential Manager and Behavioral Specialist at Embark Behavioral Health. These experiences have shaped a counseling approach grounded in validation, empowerment, and growth.
Drawing from his lived experience as a Native Mexican and his fluency in both English and Spanish, Hector brings a deep understanding from his ethnicity and welcomeness to his work with youth and families. He previously collaborated with Wichita State University and the State of Kansas to develop curriculum exploring the intersection of substance use disorders and Spanish-speaking communities. Beyond his counseling work, Hector continues to challenge himself personally—most recently by completing the Kansas City Half Marathon—a reflection of his commitment to perseverance, growth, and holistic well-being. Keith Faison, CRAADC, LAC, SATOP
Keith has been dedicated to providing counseling and educational services in the Kansas City area for over 30 years. He is a Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CRAADC), Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional, Kansas Licensed Addiction Counselor, and SATOP Certified.Throughout his career, Keith has worked extensively with the Department of Corrections (D.O.C.), DWI and domestic violence offenders, medication-assisted treatment programs, and individuals seeking recovery from addiction.
As the Director of Organizational Development, Keith also supervises and mentors professionals pursuing certification in the field, helping them strengthen their skills and make a greater impact in the community. His deep experience and steady leadership reflect a lifelong commitment to supporting others on their path to recovery and growth.
