Asserted the importance of healing, justice, and connection for mental health through a national conference

At a time when we were all navigating increasing challenges to our mental wellbeing, we partnered with the Hogg Foundation to bring people together from around the country to learn from community-driven approaches in support of children and youth of color through Young Minds Matter. This conference was an opportunity to virtually connect through arts, community-building, and dialogues on healing to strengthen and improve the mental health and wellbeing of children, youth, and families. As the event coordinator, we presented a theme and invited community collaboratives, residents, and organizations to submit presentations that were important to them and that reflected what they wanted to say about children, youth, and community mental health. The event opened opportunities for expression and sharing power that emphasized the importance of tapping into the richness of community expertise and experience. This work was supported by the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health.