Mental Health Fair - Reach For Resources

Mental Health & Accessibility Fair

Presented by: Blaze Credit Union

Thank you to everyone who attended Reach for Resources’ Mental Health & Accessibility Fair! We are incredibly grateful to all of the community members, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, presenters, and panelists who helped make this event a success. The fair brought people together to learn, connect, and explore resources that support mental health, accessibility, and overall well-being. From meaningful conversations and educational opportunities to community connections and shared experiences, the day highlighted the importance of creating inclusive and supportive communities for all.

A special thank you to our presenting sponsor, Blaze Credit Union, as well as our exhibitors, partners, and volunteers whose time, expertise, and dedication made this event possible. At Reach, we believe everyone deserves access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Events like this help strengthen our community, reduce stigma, and increase awareness of the services available to individuals and families.

Thank you for being part of this important event. We look forward to continuing these conversations and working together to build a more inclusive, accessible, and mentally healthy community.

Mental Health Panel

Take a moment to meet the incredible professionals who will be sharing their insights and experiences during our Mental Health Panel.

Jessica Wiley

Jessica Willey is the Director of Case Management and the Community Support Program (CSP) at Minnesota Mental Health Clinics. She brings eight years of experience in mental health case management and a strong dedication to supporting individuals living with mental illness. Jessica earned her Bachelor of Applied Science degree from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2017, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Public Health. Throughout her career, she has been committed to advocating for individuals, helping people access the resources and supports they need, and strengthening the communities she serves. She is passionate about creating meaningful change and fostering a more supportive, connected, and resilient community for all.

David Goehl-Manolis

David is NAMI Minnesota’s Suicide Prevention Coordinator. He manages suicide prevention initiatives, coordinates and teaches classes, develops and distributes resources, and responds to requests for information and support. David holds a BA in History, MA in Teaching, and is a licensed school counselor. He is a certified instructor for QPR, safeTALK, Survivor Voices, CALM Clinical, and CALM Conversations. He chairs the Minnesota State Postvention Committee.

Shaida Vafaei

Shaida’s passion for mental health began early in life when she experienced the benefits of therapy firsthand as a child. The supportive relationship she built with her counselor inspired a deep appreciation for mental wellness and ultimately led her to pursue a career as a therapist. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and her master’s degree from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Shaida is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered. During sessions, clients may occasionally be introduced to her beloved pets, including Xena, a German Shepherd, and three Maine Coons named Boba, Gandalf, and Shadowfax. Outside of work, Shaida enjoys spending time with loved ones, creating art, and attending the occasional comedy show. She is also an avid fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s works, particularly The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and is always happy to share the story of the time she met Elijah Wood.

Bhargavi Ghat

Bhargavi Ghate, MSW, LICSW, MBA, serves as the System Director of Mental Health & Addiction Clinical Services at Fairview Health Services. With more than 26 years of experience in behavioral health leadership, she has extensive expertise in program development, addiction services, integrated care delivery, health equity, and operational transformation. Throughout her career, she has led innovative initiatives that improve access to care, strengthen clinical services, and drive meaningful change across complex healthcare systems.

Libby Haight

Libby joined Washburn in 2018 as a Spanish-Speaking Crisis Stabilization Therapist, supporting Latinx families experiencing mental health crises. She later became Supervisor of the Crisis Stabilization Program and now serves as Director of Intensive Community-Based Services. Before entering social work, Libby spent 10 years in Mexico City partnering with local organizations to advance transparency and accountability in anti-poverty initiatives.

She holds bachelor’s degrees in International Relations, Spanish, and Theater Arts from the University of Minnesota, a Master of Public Policy from the University of Chicago, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Minnesota. Libby is also a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW).