Miami, Oct. 2, 2024 – Miami Dade College’s (MDC) North Campus will host Udonis Haslem and The DRT Brain Love Foundations’ “Hope for Tomorrow: A Child and Teen Suicide Prevention Summit” on Saturday, Oct. 5. The one-day family summit and resource fair aims to address the troubling rise in child and teen suicide, which has become one of the leading causes of death in that age group. Emmy Award-winning NBC 6 Anchor Jawan Strader will emcee the event. Also featured is Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Will Downing, who will share his personal experience with depression in a conversation with mental health expert Dr. Delvena Thomas. Working media is welcome.
“We are proud to partner with these two important foundations to bring awareness to suicide and prevention strategies,” said North Campus President Fermin Vazquez. “Suicide prevention is not just about saving lives; it’s about creating a community where everyone feels valued, heard and connected.”
The summit will feature age-appropriate discussions led by qualified professionals, alongside engaging activities for children and teens aged 6-19, as well as their parents or guardians. Attendees will have access to valuable information and resources designed to raise awareness, promote open conversations, identify warning signs, and outline appropriate actions related to this critical issue. In addition, there will be activities, games, free giveaways and food. Sponsors include Cigna and UKG with in-kind sponsors Pure Water Factory and Grace Foods.
MDC and the Udonis Haslem Foundation have enjoyed a long-standing partnership that fosters community engagement and education. Past events have included “An Evening and Fireside Chat with Udonis Haslem” and the “Umbrella of Hope Conference.” Additionally, the Foundation’s Executive Director Shelly-Ann King delivered the keynote address at the Rising Scholars Induction Ceremony, emphasizing their shared commitment to empowering young talent. About
The Udonis Haslem Foundation
The Udonis Haslem Foundation is committed to uplifting children and families in underserved communities by providing access to opportunities, care, and resources. Focused on mental health, community accessibility, and supporting youth, the foundation strives to create a positive impact across its pillars, including initiatives related to criminal justice reform, low-income housing, financial literacy, and supporting minority-owned small businesses. For more information, visit udcares.org.
About The DRT Brain Love Foundation
Founded by Dr. Delvena Thomas, The DRT Brain Love Foundation is advocating a culturally sensitive and holistic approach to mental and behavioral health for disadvantaged individuals by encompassing awareness, education, prevention, and treatment modalities to improve the quality of life.
WHAT: Hope for Tomorrow: A Child and Teen Suicide Prevention Summit
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
WHERE: MDC North Campus, Conference Center Room 3249
11380 N.W. 27th Ave.
Tickets are still available at: Hope for Tomorrow: A Child and Teen Suicide Prevention Summit Tickets, Sat, Oct 5, 2024 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite.
For more event information, please contact the North Campus at 305-237-1141.