Breastfeeding Peer Update

This is a 1-day training offered to Breastfeeding Peer Counselors across the state and is one of the four required pieces of training for peers. The statewide Peer Update is an opportunity for peer counselors to come together and learn new information from a nationally recognized speaker, share best practices, and network with other peers. Peer Managers/Breastfeeding Coordinators and WIC Coordinators are welcome to attend as well.

2023 Date & Location

September 12, 2023
Calvin University
Prince Conference Center and Hotel
1800 E Beltline Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546

2023 10 Year Peers

  • Leslie BarksdaleThe Detroit Health Department
  • Toni DavisGenesee County Health Department
  • Dera Williams Washtenaw County Health Department
  • Melissa MerloLapeer County Health Department

2024 Date & Location

September 24, 2024
Location TBD

2023 Breastfeeding Peer Update Agenda

September 11, 2023 (Optional)
There will be a Networking Event held the evening before the conference from 6:30 PM-8:30 PM. If you are attending the conference, we would love for you to join us at this optional event. This will be a time to get to know the State WIC Breastfeeding staff, including the Regional Lactation Consultants, and a time for information sharing and fun. Please come in relaxed clothing and to be prepared to move around. When registering, please choose the Networking Event as an option and we hope to see you there!

Continuing education hours will be available for this training. This information will be updated once the amount and type are confirmed.

2023 Breastfeeding Peer Update Conference – Purpose, Objectives, and Disclosures

The training is intended for Michigan WIC local agency breastfeeding peer counselors. Breastfeeding Coordinators/Peer Managers and WIC Coordinators are welcome to attend. There are no prerequisites.

Participants will be able to:

  • Identify ways to support clients in navigating feelings with infant loss.
  • Review milk production conversations with clients experiencing infant loss.
  • Participate in an activity to assist in designing a plan to help clients deal with pregnancy/infant loss.
  • Review the Pump Act and other tools to assist with understanding provisions.
  • Identify ways to advocate for breast and chestfeeding clients in the workplace.
  • Determine best practices used by peer counselors to educate and support WIC breast and chestfeeding clients.

Guest accommodations will be at the Prince Conference Center and Hotel (https://calvin.edu/offices-services/prince-conference-center/) which is attached to the conference location. This location is ADA-accessible. Please contact your supervisor for information on room reservations.

  • Anesha Stanley, CD, BD, PCD, CCCE
  • Mildred Kress
  • Bradley Lapchak
  • Dionne Moore-Smith, RD, IBCLC
  • Regional Lactation Consultants

The Peer Update is an in-person training this year and will take place from 9:00 am- 3:30 pm. Currently, there is no fee for this training. An in-person Networking Event will be available the evening prior to September 11, 2023. Please the Agenda tab for more information.

All participants registering in advance will receive a Participant Reminder with the training details. If you do not receive a confirmation email prior to the event, or if you have any questions regarding registration, please contact MPHI at (517)324-8330 or EandTReg@mphi.org.