Mississippi Health Center

Medicinal Men- A Monthly Men’s Circle
2025-11-19 18:15 - 21:00, 2025-10-15 18:15 - 21:00, 2025-09-17 18:15 - 21:00, 2025-08-20 18:15 - 21:00, 2025-07-16 18:15 - 21:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
This ongoing group offers men a space to explore authentic connection and personal growth through awareness practices and honest dialogue. Whether you’re new to men’s work or experienced with inner exploration, you’ll find opportunities to deepen relationships, expand emotional capacity, and work skillfully with life’s challenges.
Perfect for men who find it challenging to trust or be vulnerable with other men. That’s where the work begins.
Bring a cushion or a floor chair
monthly, 3rd Wednesday of the month at 6:15-9pm
$30-50 sliding scale
Email sean@seantalbeaux.com for more information or to RSVP.

PERIMENOPAUSE Stories
2025-07-15 18:30 - 20:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Join us for this conversation about perimenopause, no matter what stage of life you’re in – if you’re in the thick of it, haven’t started yet and are just preparing yourself, or have already reached menopause. What analogy would you make for perimenopause? A rollercoaster? A mystery novel? A long walk through a hot desert? All of our experiences are different and all offer wisdom that we can share with each other.
You will have an opportunity to record your story anonymously to add to the database on humanreproductivestories.com, but it’s not at all required. This event is hosted by Beth Yohalem-Ilsley of Mississippi Health Center and will be facilitated by Heather Hawksford. Light snacks and beverages provided!
Human Reproductive Stories exists to collect, preserve, and share real-life reproductive health experiences, providing a central hub where people can find and contribute stories without stigma, misinformation, outside comments or commercial influence. By fostering open dialogue through digital storytelling and live events, HRS helps reduce isolation, build collective wisdom, bring awareness to chronic inequities, and create a more informed and compassionate public understanding of reproductive health.
Details:
Tuesday, July 15
6:30-8:30 PM
Suggested donation: $25 (no one will be turned away for lack of funds)
Mississippi Health Center, 4631 N. Albina Ave
Contact heatherhawksford@gmail.com with questions
Register here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdUFqe9-zhGg-ze-hgMJdAvfFQBMUISRO5F74KlaxFeEV1N1A/viewform?usp=header

Medicinal Men- A Monthly Men’s Circle
2025-05-28 18:30 - 21:00 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
This ongoing group offers men a space to explore authentic connection and personal growth through awareness practices and honest dialogue. Whether you’re new to men’s work or experienced with inner exploration, you’ll find opportunities to deepen relationships, expand emotional capacity, and work skillfully with life’s challenges.
Perfect for men who find it challenging to trust or be vulnerable with other men. That’s where the work begins.
Bring a cushion or a floor chair
monthly, 6:30-9pm
$30-50 sliding scale
Email sean@seantalbeaux.com for more information or to RSVP.

Medicinal Men- A Monthly Men’s Circle
2025-04-22 18:30 - 21:00 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
This ongoing group offers men a space to explore authentic connection and personal growth through awareness practices and honest dialogue. Whether you’re new to men’s work or experienced with inner exploration, you’ll find opportunities to deepen relationships, expand emotional capacity, and work skillfully with life’s challenges.
Perfect for men who find it challenging to trust or be vulnerable with other men. That’s where the work begins.
Bring a cushion or a floor chair (we have a few)
monthly, 6:30-9pm
$30-50 sliding scale
Email sean@seantalbeaux.com for more information or to RSVP.

Storytelling Circle
2025-04-14 18:30 - 20:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Despite discourse around reproductive health being one of the most consequential topics in the world, responsible for future generations, there is currently no central platform to share stories of reproductive health that is free from comments or advice, two features that can unintentionally create a unsafe environment for those with unique, stigmatized, under-represented or sensitive stories.
Human Reproductive Stories thus aims to create judgment-free, safe and inclusive storytelling and listening environments that are both online and in our local community.
This particular story circle is for those born with female anatomy. It will be facilitated by Heather Hawksford from the Human Reproductive Stories project and hosted at MHC by Beth Yohalem-Ilsley.We will come together to tell stories pertaining to our reproductive systems (medical procedures, birth, pregnancy, puberty, fertility, menopause, etc) to foster openness and to empower one another. Heather will be offering the opportunity to record your story for humanreproductivestories.com where it will be shared anonymously and live on as a valuable resource for others to witness.
*A reminder to participants that the stories shared in this workshop will likely include sensitive content.
Please register through HEATHER HAWKSFORD
heatherhawksford@gmail.com
503.381.6789

Community Herb Swap!
2024-09-29 16:00 - 17:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Please join us for an in-person gathering outside by the mural. Bring whatever herbs you are willing to share and we will exchange earth’s bounty with each other! You may bring fresh, dried, in a pot, in a basket, in preserved form or whatever you feel like sharing!
This event is free and open to the public

Portland's New City Government and how it works
2024-09-04 18:30 - 19:30 | OR
Portland city government is going through big changes this fall! Join Amy Randel, member of Portland’s Government Transition Advisory Committee, for an informative presentation on Portland’s historic government transition.
We’ll discuss the adoption of ranked-choice voting, the creation of 12 district-based council seats, and the new mayor-city administrator model, and talk about what all these changes mean for regular citizens like you.
To learn more about the transition visit City of Portland Transition website and learn more about Amy and GTAC here, https://www.portland.gov/transition/advisory
Wednesday, September 4th, 2024 6:30pm
Where: backyard by the mural
Who: anyone interested in how our city council works.
Note: This is NOT an endorsement of anyone, it is information to help Portland residents understand how the system works.
This event is free and open to the public

MHC Turns 20!!!
2024-09-01 14:00 - 17:00 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Please join us as we celebrate the clinic’s 20th birthday!
Music, cake, good times!
When: Sunday, September 1, 2024, 2-5pm
Where: in the back yard of the clinic, by the mural
Who: YOU (family friendly event)!

Medicinal Herbs Near You! (part 1)
2024-08-22 18:30 - 19:30 | zoom
Zoom call from your yard and we will do a virtual herb walk together where we can check out what’s growing right where you live. Learn to harvest these precious allies respectfully and what medicine grows right at your feet! Weeds are especially potent medicine so manicured gardens are not required nor expected. This will be a shared zoom call so participants will share visuals and information over zoom.
Pre-registration requested: beth@mississippihealthcenter.com
Mississippi Health Center is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Medicianal Herbs Near YOU!
Time: Aug 22, 2024 06:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4546526007?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 454 652 6007
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath with Merry
2024-04-14 16:00 - 17:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath with Merry
Day: Sunday, April 14th
Time: 4-5:30pm (in person only)
Mississippi Health Center, 4631 N. Albina Ave.
Participation limited to 8 people, preregistration required
Merry says:
Please join me for an hour of pure bliss. We will begin with settling into our spaces and a gentle meditation to allow for grounding and preparation to receive. After you’re settled, I’ll play my crystal singing bowls, along with other harmonic instruments while you focus on your breath and relaxing into your body. The sound bath creates vibrations to help prepare the energetic and physical bodies for rejuvenation and relaxation. Benefits of a sound bath include:
– Promotion of energy balance within the body
-Reduction of stress and tension
-Stimulation of toxin removal
-Help to harmonize body, mind, and spirit
No prior knowledge is needed
1 hour commitment, plus allow 15 minutes for set up and pack up
hybrid
Donation only
RSVP required (as we can only get 8 inside)
merry.convery@gmail.com
503.317.7320
Please bring the following:
-yoga mat (if you have one. I can also provide if needed)
-favorite small blanket
-eye covering of some sort
-favorite small pillow for your head

Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath with Merry
2024-04-07 16:00 - 17:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Day: Sunday, April 14th
Time: 4-5:30pm (in person only)
Mississippi Health Center, 4631 N. Albina Ave.
Participation limited to 8 people, preregistration required
Merry says:
Please join me for an hour of pure bliss. We will begin with settling into our spaces and a gentle meditation to allow for grounding and preparation to receive. After you’re settled, I’ll play my crystal singing bowls, along with other harmonic instruments while you focus on your breath and relaxing into your body. The sound bath creates vibrations to help prepare the energetic and physical bodies for rejuvenation and relaxation. Benefits of a sound bath include:
– Promotion of energy balance within the body
-Reduction of stress and tension
-Stimulation of toxin removal
-Help to harmonize body, mind, and spirit
No prior knowledge is needed
1 hour commitment, plus allow 15 minutes for set up and pack up
hybrid
Donation only
RSVP required (as we can only get 8 inside)
merry.convery@gmail.com
503.317.7320
Please bring the following:
-yoga mat (if you have one. I can also provide if needed)
-favorite small blanket
-eye covering of some sort
-favorite small pillow for your head

Cacao ceremony
2024-04-07 13:00 - 14:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Open your heart with cacao!
Please join me in-person for cacao ceremony including brief history of cacao, how cacao is made and benefits of cacao. We will make intentions, sip together and experience the benefits of cacao. I’ve been drinking cacao for over two years and it has helped me on my healing journey and has become ritual. Looking to sharing this beautiful plant medicine!
$5 donation to cover costs is appreciated but not required
Day: Sunday, April 7
Time: 1:00-2:30pm
Location: Mississippi Health Center
Participation limited to 8 people, preregistration required:
facilitated by Jennifer D’Avanzo: jenanndava@yahoo.com
What to bring:
Your favorite mug, water, an item to share for the alter (which you will bring home), intention, yoga mat, pillow or block to sit on, if you like to prop up, your curiosity.
Please, no perfumes or body scented body oils.
Please remember:
Do not to drink caffeine at all this day and not to eat 2 hours before. Stay hydrated!
Cautions:
If you are on MAOI antidepressants cacao contains tyramine which may cause interaction.
Contraindications to consider:
• If you take antipsychotic medication
• If you have low blood pressure, cacao lowers blood pressure.
• Cacao contains tryptophan, tryptamine and MAO (mono-amine oxidase) inhibitors that may cause a synergistic intensification when combined with antidepressants or 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP).
Cacao may not be suitable for people with heart conditions, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, for people with epilepsy, for children, and people with caffeine sensitivities.

cacao ceremony
2024-04-07 13:00 - 14:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Cacao Ceremony!
Day: Sunday, April 7
Time: 1:00-2:30pm
Location: Mississippi Health Center
Participation limited to 8 people, preregistration required:
Jennifer D’Avanzo: jenanndava@yahoo.com
From Jennifer:
Open your heart with cacao!
Please join me in-person for cacao ceremony including brief history of cacao, how cacao is made and benefits of cacao. We will make intentions, sip together and experience the benefits of cacao. I’ve been drinking cacao for over two years and it has helped me on my healing journey and has become ritual. Looking to sharing this beautiful plant medicine!
$5 donation to cover costs is appreciated but not required
What to bring:
Your favorite mug, water, an item to share for the alter (which you will bring home), intention, yoga mat, pillow or block to sit on, if you like to prop up, your curiosity.
Please, no perfumes or body scented body oils.
Please remember: Do not to drink caffeine at all this day and not to eat 2 hours before. Stay hydrated!
Cautions:
If you are on MAOI antidepressants cacao contains tyramine which may cause interaction.
Contraindications to consider:
• If you take antipsychotic medication
• If you have low blood pressure, cacao lowers blood pressure.
• Cacao contains tryptophan, tryptamine and MAO (mono-amine oxidase) inhibitors that may cause a synergistic intensification when combined with antidepressants or 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP).
Cacao may not be suitable for people with heart conditions, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, for people with epilepsy, for children, and people with caffeine sensitivities.

Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath with Merry
2024-03-17 16:00 - 17:30 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
Merry says: Please join me for an hour of pure bliss. We will begin with settling into our spaces and a gentle meditation to allow for grounding and preparation to receive. After you’re settled, I’ll play my crystal singing bowls, along with other harmonic instruments while you focus on your breath and relaxing into your body. The sound bath creates vibrations to help prepare the energetic and physical bodies for rejuvenation and relaxation.
Benefits of a sound bath include:
– Promotion of energy balance within the body
-Reduction of stress and tension
-Stimulation of toxin removal
-Help to harmonize body, mind, and spirit
No prior knowledge is needed
1 hour commitment, plus allow 15 minutes for set up and pack up
Donation only
RSVP required (as we can only get 8 inside)
merry.convery@gmail.com
503.317.7320
Please bring the following:
-yoga mat (if you have one. I can also provide if needed)
-favorite small blanket
-eye covering of some sort
-favorite small pillow for your head

An Introduction to Qi Gong Practice
2024-03-17 15:00 - 15:45 | zoom
Qi Gong, literally translated to “energy work”, originated in China over 3,000 years ago and is the basis for Tai Chi. The movements are very simple, emphasizing breath work with the goal of increasing energy flow and developing a greater mind-body connection. Qi Gong requires very little space and no special equipment – making it an easy addition to any self care routine. Regular practice works to reduce stress and anxiety while increasing focus, flexibility and strength.
Sara has been practicing Qi Gong on and off since 2003 and she especially treasures the 7 years spent learning from Sifu Gregory Fong, who died in 2014. This workshop welcomes all skill levels. The goal is for each participant to cultivate a practice and to learn from each other.
Contact Sara directly for questions or to RSVP:
Sara.stout@gmail.com

Herbal Allies with Beth Yohalem-Ilsley
2024-03-13 20:00 - 20:45 | zoom
Join Beth on zoom (for now) for a casual gathering where we share info, insights and stories about medicinal plants. Stories about your own interactions with the herb are highly encouraged (not required), or you can simply tune in and listen.
Beth has been feeling more disconnect from the live herbs due to clinical practices of sending people to get Chinese herbal granules or off with tinctures that were premade by some company. The call is to connect with plants as herbal allies rather than simply prescribing them in their preserved forms.
Soooo… please join Beth as we find connection with these beautiful sentient beings that grow in and through the earth and love to be loved by humans.

An Introduction to Qi Gong Practice
2024-03-10 15:00 - 15:45 | OR

Cultivating Depth and Resilience: A Men’s Workshop (In person only)
2024-03-10 14:00 - 17:00 | Mississippi Health Center, 4631 North Albina Ave, Portland, OR, 97217, United States
This will be an in person only event for 8-12 participants. Carve out three hours for something meaningful. This workshop, tailored for men and those conditioned as male, focuses on fostering personal growth and community among men through the cultivation of awareness, personal depth, and resilience.
What to Expect? This workshop is designed to offer both newcomers and those experienced in men’s work a meaningful opportunity to connect with their core selves and with each other. Through a blend of guided meditations, reflective inquiries, and dynamic interactive exercises, participants will delve into themes of integrity, trust, and intimacy.Facilitated by an experienced guide in men’s work, it’s an opportunity to join a community of men committed to depth and resilience.
All proceeds from the workshop will benefit the Native American Youth and Family Center, making your participation an act of community as well as personal exploration. Suggested donation is $30 to $50 if you are able. We will have a jar at the clinic or donate to: https://nayapdx.org/support-us/donate-now/
The day promises not only to enrich your understanding of yourself and others but also to offer a taste of the deeper dive available in the upcoming “Leaning In” retreat later in the month.If you’re looking for a day of introspection, connection, and practical insights into navigating life’s challenges with more depth and resilience, this workshop is where you want to be.
Secure your spot and take your life a step deeper.
Please email sean@seantalbeaux.com to register.

Healing Salve for joint and muscle relief
2024-03-06 10:45 - 11:45 | OR
Come and explore making an icy joint & muscle relief balm. This class will review the materials needed to create a healing salve and several reading materials that will aid in your continued self instruction of herbal remedies. This is an empowering class as you will see how simple making a potent medicine can be. No materials needed to attend class. Interested participants may purchase supplies at a later time to try and make their own salve. Come & enjoy an inside look on how to make a remedy for those aching bones & muscles.
Bridey studied Functional Nutrition with the Functional Nutrition Alliance and has written & facilitated curriculum in Nutrition & Cooking, Food Science & Herbal Remedies for Home School families of Los Angeles for the last 7 years. Learning about how plants interact with the physiological self thrills her and she is grateful to share what she is learning with you.
contact Bridey prior to class for any questions at: brideyonaolapo@gmail.com

Qi Gong with Sara
2024-03-03 15:00 - 15:45, 2024-02-25 15:00 - 15:45 | zoom

Herbal Allies with Beth Yohalem-Ilsley
2024-02-28 20:00 - 20:45 | OR
