Skip to content

Community Counseling Center Announces 2nd Annual Thriving Together Conference Featuring Darryl Strawberry and Bobby Henline

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO - May 19, 2026 - Community Counseling Center (CCC) is thrilled to announce the return of its free, one-day conference on behavioral health and wellness, open to the public and designed for non-behavioral health professionals and community members. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, which drew more than 400 attendees from across the Heartland and earned widespread regional media coverage, the 2nd Annual Thriving Together Community Behavioral Health + Wellness Conference will take place on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Show Me Center in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

The 2026 conference offers a comprehensive exploration of critical topics in behavioral health, including mental health, substance use, suicide prevention, family dynamics, resilience, and overall wellness. Attendees will hear from nationally recognized keynote speakers, including Darryl Strawberry and Bobby Henline, participate in interactive breakout sessions, and gain access to practical tools and strategies.

Famed for his remarkable achievements on the field, baseball legend Darryl Strawberry is an eight-time MLB All-Star, four-time World Series Champion, and one of the game's most formidable hitters. However, his influence extends far beyond sports; he now dedicates his platform to sharing his journey of recovery, faith, and purpose.

Bobby Henline, retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant and veteran of four tours in Iraq, survived a devastating IED explosion that resulted in life-altering injuries. Since then, he has become a powerful voice of resilience, hope, and healing.

“Last year’s inaugural Thriving Together conference exceeded every expectation we had with more than 400 community members joining us for a day that sparked real conversations about mental health and wellness,” said Wendy Ice, Community Counseling Center CEO. “We’re honored to bring the community back together for a second year, and with voices as powerful as Darryl Strawberry and Bobby Henline on stage, we believe this year’s conference will leave an even greater impact.”

The event is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to effectively support behavioral health in both their communities and personal lives. Admission to the conference is free, but spots are limited. Attendees can register at cccntr.com/thrivingtogether/. For inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, email ThrivingTogetherConference@cccntr.com.