Envision Unlimited to host community wellness celebration for BIPOC Mental Health Month

DOLTON, IL – According to the Cook County Health Atlas, the rate of depression is higher for adults living in Cook County than individuals living in other areas of Illinois. In addition to that, racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to experience barriers to accessing mental health resources.

To respond to these concerns, Envision Unlimited – a nonprofit organization providing services to people disabilities and mental health challenges throughout Chicagoland and Central Illinois – will host a daylong celebration of culture, healing and mental health. The free event is open to families, youth, elders as well as healing advocates and will focus on healing, joy and connection.

“Mental wellness is something we all deserve to invest in every day, not just during times of crisis,” said Angela Russell, Director of Envision Unlimited’s Cultural Faith-Based Empowerment Program. “We've intentionally curated an experience for people of all ages that brings together education, connection and community resources because healing looks different for everyone. No one should have to navigate life's challenges alone.”

“Healing Happens Here: A Community Wellness Experience” 
Saturday, July 25
11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Abundant Living Christian Center
14540 Lincoln Ave.
Dolton, IL 60419

Activities and resources will include:

  • Mental health and wellness workshops, such as:
    • The Loneliness Experiment: What We Keep Missing About Connection, Community, and Mental Health
    • Finding Peace with Money
    • Pause, Breathe and Be Present
  • Community resources
  • Youth and family activities, including guided peace circles and journaling
  • Live entertainment, food vendors and giveaways

Interested individuals can register for a virtual ticket via Eventbrite.

In 2024, Envision Unlimited launched its Cultural Faith-Based Empowerment (CFBE) Program, which equips clergy, faith leaders and congregations with necessary tools, training and resources to support individuals’ emotional and spiritual wellbeing. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), people experiencing traumatic events or mental health crises often turn to their trusted faith leaders before considering help from a mental health professional. Yet, clergy often face challenges in addressing mental health concerns. Envision Unlimited staff work with leaders from diverse religious backgrounds to provide interactive workshops and discussions that explore the intersection of faith, trauma and mental health. 

The CFBE Program specifically aims to reach people living in Black and Brown communities, as these groups are often left out of the mental health conversation. While the program provides mental health education and resources, it does not replace clinical counseling, which is offered through other Envision Unlimited mental health services. As a certified Community Mental Health Provider, Envision Unlimited provides a comprehensive range of behavioral health services tailored to individuals with diverse mental health needs.

For more information, visit https://www.envisionunlimited.org/programs/mental-health/cultural-faith-based-empowerment