The HeroZona Foundation announced the Bridge Forum Mental Health Summit, where a distinguished panel of Arizona’s government and healthcare leaders will convene to tackle the pressing mental health concerns facing our state, exploring actionable steps to ensure accessible resources for community members in need. 

The invitation-only event is supported by APS, SRP, American Psychiatric Association Foundation, Mega 104.3 Jamz, 101.1 The Bounce, Prensa Arizona, Arizona Informant and The HeroZona Foundation, a press release stated.

The forum will also be livestreamed to the public at Facebook.com/HeroZonaOrg.

Event panelists consist of Executive Deputy Director of Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System Carmen Heredia, CEO of Solari Crisis and Human Services Justin Chase, Director of the Arizona Coalition for Military Families Thomas Winkel and Arizona Department of Health Services Prevention Services Assistant Director Celia Nabor.

"Mental health awareness-building is essential for individuals to receive the necessary treatment and support to maintain their overall wellbeing," Tomás León, president of the Equality Health Foundation, stated in the release. 

Additionally, there will be a fireside chat by Leon and Executive Director of the American Psychiatric Association Foundation Rawle Andrews, Jr.

“Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone, anywhere and at any time,” Andrews stated in the release. “National Mental Health Awareness Month is a time during the month of May devoted to helping millions of people learn about the tools, tips and resources that are available to improve our well-being.”

Also in attendance will be special guests Governor Katie Hobbs, Arizona U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-4), Chairman of Maricopa District 1 Jack Sellers and Tempe Mayor Corey Woods.

As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, it is more important than ever to bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, mental health professionals, community leaders and individuals with lived experience, to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore strategies for addressing mental health challenges, the release detailed.

“With mental health concerns on the rise globally, it is imperative that we prioritize this issue and work collaboratively to break down stigma, expand access to resources and improve support systems for those in need,” HeroZona Foundation Founder and U.S. Army Desert Storm Veteran Alan “AP” Powell stated in the release. “By partnering with government officials and community partners, we aim to amplify our impact and drive meaningful change at both the local and national levels.”

For more about the Bridge Forum, visit thebridgeforum.com.