Bridge Builders Men's Mental Health Conference 2025

Join us for the Bridge Builders Men's Mental Health Conference 2025, a weekend-long event supporting men's mental health and well-being! We’re bringing together men from the community for an empowering opportunity to positively impact the mental health of each of our participants. Moderated by mental health professional and therapist Scotty Robinson, This event will provide valuable insights into mental health care and offer practical tools and resources to enhance mental wellness.

What to Expect:

1.) Men's Fishing & Fellowship (Saturday, April 4th, 2025): 8am - 12pm

Salisbury City Park Recreation Building (316 Lake Drive, Salisbury, NC 28144)

In today's fast-paced world, men often carry the weight of responsibilities without taking time to focus on their own mental and emotional health. This event offers more than just a chance to cast a line - it's an opportunity to recharge, connect, and grow. This event focuses on the scientifically-backed premise that a fishing day can be monumental to mental health and wellness in the following areas:

Stress Relief: Being on the water provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.

Mindfulness in Nature: Fishing encourages presence and mindfulness, helping to clear the mind and foster a sense of calm.

Physical Wellness: Time outdoors and light physical activity contribute to overall health and well-being.

Building Bonds: This event will provide a space for open conversation and authentic connections among men, fostering brotherhood and support.

Breakfast will be provided by Tau Alpha Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, located in Salisbury, NC. All necessary equipment for fishing will be provided for registered participants, including a rod and reel, fishing lures and bait, and a fishing license, all provided by the City of Salisbury Parks & Recreation and JDavis Tax Service.

2.) Panel Discussion (Saturday, April 4th, 2025): 6pm - 8pm

Livingstone College - Varick Auditorium (701 W. Monroe St. Salisbury, NC 28144)

Scotty Robinson will moderate a panel discussion revolving around impactful topics related to the mental health and wellness of men of color. Topics will include exploring cultural and societal barriers to seeking mental health support, focusing on the following:

• Examining the pressures of traditional masculinity and its effect on emotional well-being.
• Exploring the impact of slavery, systemic racism, and historical oppression on mental health.
• How generational trauma influences identity, relationships, and self-esteem.
• Balancing mental health with fatherhood, relationships, and family expectations.
• Teaching emotional intelligence and health coping mechanisms to their children.
• Overcoming communication barriers and addressing unresolved trauma in partnerships.
• The psychological toll of racial discrimination, police brutality, and activism.
• Addressing challenges adolescents and young adults face, such as peer pressure, social media, substance use, and more.

In addition to the panel discussion, we will have a team of local resources and vendors on site to present information and continue the conversation about taking control of their mental health.

3.) Bridge Builders Scholarship Banquet (Sunday, April 5th, 2025): 3pm - 6pm

Livingstone College - Culinary Arts & Hospitality Center (530 Jake Alexander Blvd. S. Salisbury, NC 28144)

Please join us for an unforgettable evening of connection, celebration, and purpose at the Bridge Builders Scholarship Banquet, marking the grand finale of the Bridge Builders Mental Health Conference. This special event is more than just a meal - it's an opportunity to come together as a community to support the vital work of advancing mental health and wellness in the Salisbury community.

We will hear a powerful message from our keynote speakers, honor individuals and organizations making an impact in men's mental health and wellness in Rowan County, and engage with thought leaders, advocates, and supporters to fulfill the mission of our honoree, the late Dr. Christopher Wayne McNeil.

This conference is a free event, but spots are limited! Don’t miss this chance to invest in yourself and your mental well-being.

Host or Publisher Beyond The Lights Youth Services