Coaching for Safer Communities
About this Event
Coaching for Safer Communities
Youth coaches, mentors, and community leaders play a vital role in shaping Asheville’s future. Presented by Asheville Parks & Recreation in partnership with Buncombe County, the Buncombe County Children’s Collaborative, and Vaya Health, this specialized training equips you with the essential tools and insights needed to support local youth.
Why This Matters
Coaches and mentors possess a powerful opportunity to build life-saving support systems. Over the past 20 years, suicide has doubled to become the second-leading cause of death for collegiate student-athletes, with male athletes accounting for roughly 77% of these tragedies. Intense performance pressures and severe injuries are frequent triggers for severe mental health crises.
By serving as lifelong mentors who praise the person over the performance, youth coaches can build a resilient foundation of self-worth that protects athletes long after they leave youth leagues.
What You Will Learn
Whether you lead a sports team, run an after-school program, or volunteer as a mentor, this two-hour session will provide actionable strategies to create a safer, more supportive environment. Topics include:
- Effective Mentorship Strategies: Building strong, positive, and trusting relationships.
- Navigating Communication Styles: Connecting with youth on their level.
- Suicide Awareness & Prevention: Recognizing the signs and offering immediate support.
- Trauma Awareness & Response: Creating safe spaces for vulnerable young people.
- Mindfulness Practices: Promoting mental well-being for both mentors and mentees.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Time: 10am – 12pm
- Location: Stephens-Lee Community Center on 30 George Washington Carver Avenue in Asheville
Space is limited – secure your spot today! Please share this opportunity with your networks, staff, and volunteers. Working together, we can make Asheville a safer place for our young people to thrive, lead, and reach their full potential.
Meet Your Presenters
Angel Redmond
Angel serves as Facility Supervisor at historical Stephens-Lee Community Center for Asheville Parks & Recreation. As the lead for the Go! Guiding Others mentorship program, she has extensive experience incorporating restorative practices into youth development. Angel is dedicated to equipping youth coaches with tools to promote supportive, trauma-informed environments both on and off the field. Outside of her professional commitments, she finds peace and inspiration in her three children and her lifelong connection to the sea.
Jess Supik, MPH
Jess is the System of Care Coordinator with Buncombe County Children’s Collaborative. With nearly 20 years of experience working with children and youth impacted by trauma, Jess brings a warm, community-centered approach to her work. She focuses on adverse childhood experiences, positive childhood experiences, and youth mental health. Jess is passionate about strengthening connections and building resilience in the community. In her free time, she can be found at baseball fields with her son or exploring the outdoors of Western North Carolina.
Will Baxter
Will is the Community Safety and Violence Prevention Coordinator for Buncombe County. A 14-year U.S. Navy veteran and former law enforcement professional, Will has a lifelong commitment to youth mentorship and community safety. Driven by his own early experiences with community mentors, and the tragic loss of his nephew to violence in 2021, Will has dedicated his life to preventing violence and supporting youth facing adversity. He is a highly trained Violence Prevention Professional who believes that listening, building partnerships, and offering collective support can truly change lives.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
