Rush City Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month

By Johanna Gasper

MCF-Rush City celebrated Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting the first installment of its Speaker Series on May 2. Titled “Mind Matters: A Conversation on Mental Health," the event was organized by WOOC CPD Becki Erickson and featured three speakers: Farji Sharheer, Lacey Thompson, and Jordan Hansen.

Mr. Shaheer is the CEO/Founder of Innovative SOULutions. He spoke on the topic of overcoming trauma brought on by gun violence. Ms. Thompson is the CEO/Founder of Laceys' Light and she discussed the way human emotions work and how to work through anger and conflict. Finally, Mr. Hansen, CEO/Founder of YourPath, told the audience his story of addiction and the path he took to achieve 14 years of sobriety.

The event was attended by 65 incarcerated individuals, along with multiple staff. Recruiter Victor Archibong was also present. He took photos and recorded the speakers so those incarcerated who were unable to attend in person can view the event on the offender network.

MCF-Rush City's band, Voices of Hope, provided music between orators and incarcerated individual Jermaine Ferguson served as the emcee. The attendees were able to ask questions and provided plenty of positive feedback to those that spoke.

In fact, the event was so well received that afterwards, attendees were already asking CPD Erickson when the next Speaker Series would happen. Overall, the event was well received, and the staff and incarcerated at Rush City are excited for the next installment!