Voices of the Future: Empowering Black Youth & Young Adults A Town Hall Event to Support and Empower Black Youth and Caregivers on Mental Health

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – Suncoast Center, in collaboration with Zero Suicide Partners of Pinellas, Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg, and the Juvenile Welfare Board proudly presents Voices of the Future: Empowering Black Youth & Young Adults — a free, community-driven town hall designed to uplift Black youth, young adults, and their caregivers in Pinellas County through open conversations on mental health, resource sharing, and community building.

This event will take place on Tuesday, December 3rd from 5:30pm-8:00pm at the Foundation For a Healthy St. Petersburg’s Center for Health Equity-2333 34th Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33711 and is open to the public, free of charge. The town hall aims to provide a safe space where Black youth, young adults, and caregivers can openly share their experiences, connect with trusted local Black leaders and mental health professionals, and gain direct access to supportive resources.

The event will feature Herbie Mack as the keynote speaker. Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, Mack is a Suicide Prevention Specialist whose personal journey of overcoming drug abuse, gang violence, and alcoholism has led him to a powerful mission of mental health advocacy. Drawing from his own experiences, Mack is dedicated to helping organizations and schools recognize the warning signs of suicide and foster supportive environments. His story of survival and resilience brings both hope and practical strategies, making him a trusted voice in suicide prevention and mental health.

Led by a panel of community leaders and mental health experts, Voices of the Future will include engaging sessions where youth and young adults can voice their needs, ask questions, and collaborate with peers to envision a healthier, more hopeful community. Caregivers will also have the chance to strengthen their support systems and receive resources to help navigate mental health challenges with children and young adults.

Feedback collected from the town hall will inform local organizations as they develop initiatives to enhance mental well-being and address the troubling rates of suicide within the Black community in Pinellas County.

Event Highlights Include:
• Panel Discussion: With Black leaders and mental health professionals, tailored to the questions and needs of youth, young adults, and caregivers• Community Connection: An opportunity for young people to build relationships with peers and supportive adults.
• Resources Provided: Attendees will receive information on free and low-cost local mental health resources, along with free food and beverages.
By fostering meaningful dialogue and supporting young people’s mental health, Voices of the Future serves as a vital step towards building a brighter, more resilient community.

Event Details:
What: Voices of the Future: Empowering Black Youth & Young Adults
Who: Black youth, young adults, caregivers, and community members
When: Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 from 5:30pm-8:00pm
Where: Foundation’s Center for Health Equity- 2333 34th Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33711

For more information on the event and to register, please visit https://www.meetatthecenter.org/event/EmpowerBlackYouth2024/register. Join us in supporting the voices of Black youth and young adults as we work together to create a hopeful future for all.