On October 26, 2024 the Champaign County Community Coalition’s Race Relations Subcommittee proudly hosted the 2nd Annual Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference at Parkland College, running from 8 AM to 4 PM. This impactful event focused on the unique challenges surrounding mental health in the Black community, offering support and resources for individuals and families affected by these issue. The conference featured engaging sessions that delved into crucial topics, including understanding mental health and illness, recognizing racialized trauma, parenting, substance abuse, the journey grief, and pursuing wellness.
Staff members from the City Manager’s Office, Neighborhood Services Department, Equity and Engagement Department, and Public Works Department participated in the conference, demonstrating a strong commitment to community engagement. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our partners—Parkland College, Champaign School District #4, Urbana School District #116, Carle Hospital, Urbana Rotary, the University of Illinois, the Regional Planning Commission, the Housing Authority of Champaign County, the Campus-Community Compact to Accelerate Social Justice, United Way, and CUPHD—whose collaboration made it possible to provide valuable resources and information to all participants.