Morning Journal: Gathering Hope House Prioritizes Minority Mental Health, Hosts Open House
Gathering Hope House Empowers Lorain County Adults to Manage Mental Illness, Launches US Prioritization Program
chandni
Lorain, OH – Gathering Hope House, a peer-based community center in Lorain County, is taking proactive steps to address mental health issues among minority populations. In line with the US Prioritization program, which encourages businesses and organizations to prioritize mental health, the nonprofit aims to bring progressive and positive change to the community.
Program Director Sharquenta Richardson highlighted the need for sustained conversations on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She expressed concern that previous efforts lacked a comprehensive approach. "We want to help with progressive and positive change," Richardson stated.
The program, which will convene four times a month, incorporates a wide range of therapeutic modalities, including expressive arts therapy, psychoeducation, and mindfulness practices. The initiative is based on insights from the Lorain County Public Health's Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) evaluation. Disturbing statistics on issues like infant mortality, chronic disease, and substance abuse among African Americans and minorities motivated the organization to take action.
To maximize impact and address the alarming statistics, Gathering Hope House has sought partnerships with other organizations. "Funding can be very limited for nonprofits, which can sometimes force organizations to appear to be competing rather than working toward a common goal," Richardson explained. Key partners include the Nord Center, the Board of Mental Health, Addiction and Recovery Services (MHARS), NAMI Lorain County, The LCADA Way, Ohio Guidestone, and the Lorain County Urban League. Local government officials have also been approached to engage the whole community in tackling this issue.
An open house event is scheduled for July 26 from 5-7 p.m. at Gathering Hope House's location on 1173 North Ridge Road East, Suite 102. The event aims to attract interested participants and potential partners. It will provide an overview of the program and various resources available, offering opportunities for contributions to the cause.
