KUNHI-YO “I’m Healthy” Conference
Registration
Event Information
Oneida Nation community members are invited to the free Kunhi-Yo’ “I’m Healthy” conference on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the Oneida Casino Hotel. The event, sponsored by Oneida Behavioral Health’s Tribal Opioid Response Team, coincides with International Overdose Awareness Day.
The goal of the event is to raise awareness about drug overdoses, reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths and acknowledge the grief felt by families and friends. This year’s theme, “Integrity” highlights the strength of coming together and standing in support of those connected to the tragedy of overdose.
“All too often we don’t talk about losing family members or friends due to an overdose,” said Mari Kriescher, Director of Oneida Behavioral Health. “Sometimes our grief overtakes us, and we don’t want to acknowledge it. Other times we feel ashamed, or we may be angry at the person we lost because of their drug use. But talking about it is crucial to healing as well as helping to prevent others from going down the same path. This conference provides a safe space for having those discussions.”
The daylong Kunhi-Yo’ “I’m Healthy” conference begins at 8:00 am and ends at 5:00 pm. There will be featured speakers on hope, healing, harm reduction and healing from historical trauma; overdose education; culturally centered activities; community resources and supports.
Admission to the event is free, but registration is required for meal planning purposes. Breakfast and lunch will be provided for registered, in-person attendees.
Click here to contact the Kunhi-Yo Planning Team with any questions or concerns regarding Kunhi-Yo 2026.
Host a Market or Resource Table
Recovery Stories
Would you like to share your recovery story?
Kunhi-Yo 2025 Recovery Stories
Memorial Wall
Kunhi-Yo 2025 Memorial Wall
Would you like us to add a loved-one to next year’s Kunhi-Yo Memorial Wall?
Change one's life” tekatunhatényehseˀ Willingness to Change One’s Life for the Better
Willingness to change means being open and committed to improving yourself, even when change feels uncomfortable or challenging. It involves recognizing that something in your life is not working and having the courage to take steps toward growth. This willingness is often the first and most important step toward a better future.
People who are willing to change accept responsibility for their choices. They understand that while change may involve fear, failure, or sacrifice, staying the same can be more harmful in the long run. Willingness does not mean perfection—it means effort, honesty, and persistence.
Change one’s life” tekatunhatényehseˀ Why Change Is Important
1. Personal Growth
Change allows people to learn new skills, develop healthier habits, and gain self-awareness. Without change, personal growth stops, and individuals may remain stuck in unhealthy patterns.
2. Improved Mental and Emotional Health
Positive change—such as seeking help, setting boundaries, or changing negative thinking—can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Growth often leads to greater confidence and emotional strength.
3. Better Relationships
When people are willing to change, they communicate better, take accountability, and show respect for others. This can heal broken relationships and strengthen connections with family, friends, and coworkers.
4. Adaptation to Life’s Challenges
Life constantly changes. Being willing to change helps people adapt to new circumstances such as job changes, health issues, or personal losses. Adaptability increases resilience and stability.
5. Creating a Better Future
Change is necessary to reach goals. Whether improving health, education, career, or recovery from addiction, progress only happens when someone takes action instead of remaining stuck in the past.
Conclusion
Change is not always easy, but it is essential. Willingness to change one’s life for the better opens the door to growth, healing, and opportunity. Even small changes can lead to meaningful improvements over time. Choosing change is choosing hope, progress, and a healthier future.
