From chronic exposure to varying levels of violence, substance abuse, family erosion, cultural discrimination, employment instability, chronic diseases, crime, suicide, incarceration, and reduced access to quality education and treatment - children in rural and low-income communities are forced to normalize an overwhelming number of traumatic stressors, and often endure a lifetime of associated hardships due to inadequate support.  Raised in rural South Carolina, Neka Alston, Founder of Beyond Now Foundation, experienced each of these childhood traumas and the associated burdens that traveled along with her into every stage of life. In partnership with parents and schools, the goal of Beyond Now Foundation is to encourage a love of learning, inspire compassionate communities, and to advocate for innovative pathways that equip marginalized students with ""REAL"" opportunities for long-term success. The mission of Beyond Now Foundation is twofold: first to advance equity and diversity in early childhood education, and secondly to provide community-based outreach that encourages public support for rural and underserved families and schools.

Dr. Amy Perricone has a background in clinical leadership, currently serving as the director of Western Michigan University's Resiliency Center for Assessment and Treatment (RCAT), following her roles as clinical director of the Children's Trauma Assessment Center (CTAC) and the Resiliency Center for Family and Children (RCFC). With a focus on trauma assessment and treatment, Dr. Perricone has managed three SAMHSA Level III grants and maintains a private practice offering holistic care for both children and adults. Her dedication to advancing trauma assessment practices is evident through her extensive involvement in Michigan and Colorado's assessment delivery systems.

Ashley is a licensed professional counselor who has spent the last decade of her career focusing on expanding her knowledge of trauma-related research, treatment, and trauma-informed care for youth and their families. She has received certifications and trainings focused on the treatment of those who have experienced traumatic events. She completed the Child and Adolescent Mental Health certificate through Rutgers University, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, a trained facilitator for Youth Mental Health First Aid, and  a volunteer for the NJ Bergen County Traumatic Loss Coalition which provides support and psychological first aid for youth serving organizations who have lost a child or adolescent. Ashley is an Approved EMDR Consultant and am a Certified Provider having been trained in specific EMDR treatment for youth through courses provided by Ana Gomez and the Playful EMDR hub. She has also been trained in GTEP, a group EMDR model in which she has facilitated numerous groups sessions to youth to offer opportunity to process difficult experiences. Over the past 7 years, she has worked for a non-profit agency where she was able to provide trauma-focused treatment to youth through a NCTSN funded program. Although Ashley is no longer working for this agency, she continues to remain active in her volunteer role, advocate for the importance of equitable mental health care for youth and their families, and stay updated and informed in work related to caring for and treating youth who have been impacted by negative life experiences with the hope that they can be provided the support and skills needed to lead resilient and fulfilling lives.