Natural disasters, like Hurricane Ian, pose a significant threat to human health and safety, property and critical infrastructure. They also have the potential to warp two important experiences in life — experiences of fairness and experiences of mattering. Research shows that wellness, or wellbeing, is highly influenced by fairness and worthiness.

In a presentation Tuesday, Jan. 17, at 6:30 p.m., at Faith Presbyterian Church in Cape Coral, Dr. Etiony Aldarondo, Ph.D., will describe an evolving initiative by The Melissa Institute in collaboration with community leaders in Cape Coral to equip them with research-based knowledge and practical tools to promote individual and community well-being in the aftermath of the damage caused by Hurricane Ian.

In addition, Dr. Isaac Prilleltensky, Ph.D., will discuss his research on well-being, and how well-being is directly related to experiences of mattering and conditions of fairness.

The presentation is free and there is a cost for the meal.

Aldarondo is the executive director of The Melissa Institute for Violence Prevention and Treatment in Miami. He is a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience in domestic violence research and advocacy, mental health services, community partnerships and higher education administration. His academic trajectory includes appointments in the Family Violence Research Program at the University of New Hampshire, Harvard Medical School’s Cambridge Hospital, The Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic, Boston College, the University of Miami and Albizu University. Etiony has a long history of involvement with grassroots advocacy organizations. He was founding board chair of the National Latino Alliance for the Elimination of Domestic Violence, as well as founding director of the Community and Educational Well-Being Research Center at UM. He is past executive director of The Council on Contemporary Families.

Prilleltensky is professor of Educational and Psychological Studies and the Erwin and Barbara Mautner Chair in Community Well-Being at the University of Miami. He is past dean of the School of Education and Human Development at UM. He is an award-winning scholar and practitioner who works with individuals, organizations and communities to promote well-being. He conducts research on various aspects of well-being and has published 12 books and about 150 academic papers.

Faith Presbyterian Church is at 4544 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral. For additional information about the church or the presentation, call 239-542-2858.