Category Archives: Health: Abortion

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SAFE Credit Union Hosts Interactive Financial Literacy Workshops


“I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for students to come learn how to manage their finances, what they should be doing to prepare for the real world while in college and set themselves up for success after they graduate,” says Sasha Margulies, ASI marketing coordinator.

Budget Cents is a simulation where each participant receives a persona that includes a family, debt, and income. They visit various stations representing major expenses, including childcare, housing and transportation costs.

At Sacramento State, SAFE representatives helped students with their budget and provided feedback to see how they successfully managed their money.

The event attracted participants from diverse backgrounds through outreach from the university’s ASI program. ASI offers services including a food pantry, childcare, a safe ride program and no-cost education events.

Students like Lorena Rodriguez appreciated the program’s insights. “The information to pay extra on the amount due to your credit card was very helpful,” she says. “I did not know that before.”

SAFE Credit Union Financial Wellness Manager Hector Madueno says students attending Budget Cents are most surprised “by how much things cost.”

“When we built this program, we looked at data for the Greater Sacramento area. So, when they are running through it, they’re going to see actual housing costs, the actual costs of food or dining out,” he says.

Budget Cents programs are offered at no-cost.

“A lack of financial education can lead to young adults making mistakes that can impact them for years,” says SAFE Credit Union Vice President of Community Relations and Financial Education Rebecca Delmundo. “Helping young people learn positive spending and budgeting practices can position them for a better future, especially when it comes time for those major life milestones like buying a house, new car, or starting a family.”

About SAFE

SAFE Credit Union is a not-for-profit, state-chartered credit union in Northern California with over $4.7 billion in assets and more than 236,000 members. Insured by NCUA.

Media Contact

Robyn Eifertsen, SAFE Credit Union, 916-809-7002, [email protected], safecu.org

SOURCE SAFE Credit Union

American Forests partners with USDA Forest Service to expand reforestation across national forests


Activities under the partnership will include helping the Forest Service develop a climate-informed reforestation action plan for each region. The partners will also collaborate to engage and expand workforce and partnership opportunities with tribes and states, as well as rural and disadvantaged communities.

Enacted as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in late 2021, the REPLANT Act removed a cap on Forest Service funding for reforestation, allowing the agency to now access nearly ten times more in reforestation investments annually. American Forests helped catalyze the REPLANT Act, working in collaboration with bipartisan members of Congress.

“Thanks to President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, USDA Forest Service and partners like American Forests are poised to make historic investments in reforestation as forests across the nation face extended droughts, catastrophic fires, pests and disease, all accelerated by climate change,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The scale of this challenge means that we can’t do it alone, and this agreement is another step in making our forests – and communities – healthier, safer and more resilient.”

With this additional capacity, the Forest Service is now positioned to help address an estimated backlog of at least four million acres of National Forest System land in need of reforestation – a number that has jumped due to recent increases in severe wildfire.

“Reforestation is an important investment for the future and resiliency of forests across the country,” said Forest Service Chief Randy Moore. “This agreement with American Forests will help the agency reduce the backlog of reforestation needs to support wildfire and disaster recovery, identify future reforestation needs, and improve our ability to monitor the impact and outcomes of this important work.”

Together, the Forest Service and American Forests will use landscape-level planning and climate-informed restoration practices to advance goals identified in the agency’s National Forest System Reforestation Strategy and Secretary Vilsack’s June 2022 Order, which directed the Forest Service to restore and create climate-resilient forests.

Across the U.S., a growing backlog of National Forest System lands need reforestation, driven in significant part by the escalating impact of climate change on U.S. forests. Large, high-severity wildfires are driving 81 percent of reforestation need on national forests, outpacing the agency’s capacity to restore these lands following such fires. Prior to the REPLANT Act, the Forest Service had only been able to address six percent of the reforestation backlog each year.

Building from the Forest Service’s National Reforestation Strategy, American Forests and the agency will develop 10-year REPLANT Act implementation plans designed to bring about tailored reforestation solutions for each region of the National Forest System. This new agreement provides a strategic launch point for implementing these solutions.

“American Forests is proud to lead on REPLANT Act implementation through this comprehensive partnership with the Forest Service,” said Jad Daley, president and CEO of American Forests. “Together, we will accelerate climate-smart reforestation across national forests, helping to restore the health of these priceless public lands.”

ABOUT AMERICAN FORESTS: Secretary Vilsack Directs USDA Forest Service to Take Bold Action to Restore Forests, Improve Resilience, and Curb Climate Change. American Forests is the first national nonprofit conservation organization created in the U.S. Since its founding in 1875, the organization has been the pathfinders for the forest conservation movement. Its mission is to create healthy and resilient forests, from cities to wilderness, that deliver essential benefits for climate, people, water and wildlife. The organization advances its mission through forestry, innovation, place-based partnerships to plant and restore forests and movement building.

ABOUT USDA FOREST SERVICE: The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service manages more than 192 million acres of public land as national forests and grasslands. Grounded in world-class science and technology – and rooted in communities – the Forest Service connects people to nature and each other. As a federal agency in service to the American people, the Forest Service cares for shared natural resources in ways that promote lasting economic, ecological, and social vitality. In doing this, the agency supports nature in sustaining life. To learn more about the Forest Service, visit Home | US Forest Service (usda.gov)

Media Contact

Liane O’Neill, American Forests, 702-499-7388, [email protected], https://www.americanforests.org/

Shayne L. Martin, USDA Forest Service, 702-499-7388, [email protected], https://www.americanforests.org/

SOURCE American Forests

Power Financial Credit Union to Donate $10,000 to Local Charities as Winner of PSCU’s Credit Union Give Back Sweepstakes


Allan Prindle, President and CEO, commented, “We extend our heartfelt thanks to our valued partner, PSCU, for this meaningful opportunity to give back. This $10,000 donation underscores our shared commitment to making a positive impact. At Power Financial Credit Union, we believe in the transformative power of supporting local charitable causes, particularly those dedicated to the well-being of children in our community. This generous donation will enable us to further contribute to the great work these charities do, ensuring a brighter future for the youth they serve.”

“We continue to be humbled by, and grateful for Power Financial Credit Union’s belief in our efforts to build a better future for children in need,” said Seth Levit, Executive Director of the Jason Taylor Foundation. “PFCU’s investment in serving the South Florida community extends far beyond its members and we are honored to be among the numerous non-profit organizations that benefit from their generosity. We look forward to allocating these dollars toward mission-driven programming that inspires and uplifts the young people we serve.”

“We are deeply grateful to Power Financial Credit Union for their commitment to making a positive impact in our community,” said Erica Herman, President and CEO of Voices for Children of Broward County. “This generous donation will significantly contribute to our mission at Voices for Children of Broward County, where we work tirelessly to advocate for and support children in foster care. This partnership with Power Financial Credit Union exemplifies the collective strength we have in creating meaningful change for those who need it most. Together, we can continue to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Power Financial Credit Union for their dedication to the well-being of children in Broward County.”

About Power Financial Credit Union

Serving the South Florida community since 1951, Power Financial Credit Union is committed to helping guide its members to better financial lives today and for generations to come. Power Financial Credit Union helps members achieve financial freedom by combining free financial education resources with a superior experience, and personalized banking solutions, many with great rates, low to no fees and exclusive discounts. Power Financial Credit Union’s customized personal and business banking solutions including mortgages, home equity loans, checking, savings, youth accounts, CDs, money markets, IRAs, credit cards, auto loans, personal loans, business accounts, business loans, merchant services, payroll services, investments, and more. Power Financial Credit Union was the first credit union in South Florida to eliminate overdraft and non-sufficient funds fees. To learn more, please visit www.PowerFi.org.

About the Jason Taylor Foundation

In July 2004, Miami Dolphins legendary defensive end Jason Taylor, established the Jason Taylor Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) organization. The Foundation’s mission is to support and create programs that facilitate the personal growth and empowerment of South Florida’s children in need by focusing on improved health care, education and quality of life.

Since opening its doors, the Jason Taylor Foundation has impacted tens of thousands of children through innovative programming including The Jason Taylor Reading Room, Cool Gear for the School Year, the Jason Taylor Children’s Learning Center, Jason Taylor Scholars, the Omari Hardwick bluapple Poetry Network, and the Careers in Sports Network among others. For more information on the Jason Taylor Foundation, please visit www.jasontaylorfoundation.com or follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/jasontaylorfoundation or Twitter and Instagram: @jtfoundation99.

About Voices for Children of Broward County

Voices for Children of Broward County (Voices) is at the forefront of championing the well-being of every child who is a victim of abuse, neglect, and abandonment in Broward County. Dedicated to ensuring that each child’s health, education, and social needs are met, Voices plays a pivotal role in supporting the approximately 1,600 children currently in foster care in Broward County. Voices provides essential support and services to children in foster care, offering advocacy, comprehensive case management, vital resources, age-appropriate referrals, and wrap-around services through our core programs. For over a decade, Voices has been dedicated to filling the gaps in the child welfare system, empowering children to overcome adversities, and ensuring they not only survive but thrive. To learn more about our mission and ongoing initiatives, please visit voicesbroward.org.

About PSCU

PSCU, the nation’s premier payments CUSO and an integrated financial technology solutions provider, supports the success of more than 2,400 financial institutions and processes nearly 7.7 billion transactions annually. Committed to service excellence and focused on continuous innovation, PSCU’s payment processing, fraud and risk management, data and analytics, digital banking, strategic consulting and real-time payments platforms, along with 24/7/365 member support via its contact centers, help deliver personalized, connected experiences. The origin of PSCU’s model is collaboration and scale, and the company has leveraged its influence on behalf of credit unions and their members for more than 45 years. Today, PSCU provides an end-to-end, competitive advantage that enables credit unions to securely grow and meet evolving consumer demands. For more information, visit pscu.com.

Media Contact

Vinnie Fiordelisi, Power Financial Credit Union, 1 954-538-6245, [email protected], https://www.powerfi.org 

SOURCE Power Financial Credit Union

Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation Announces New CEO


“The mission of my life changed that day,” said Montanaro. “Amid the tragedy, it meant the world to know that FEHSF didn’t just show up, they truly cared about my family. The organization showcases the best in humanity; leading it isn’t work for me, it’s a labor of love.”

FEHSF’s role as the ‘Financial First Responder’ extends to the families of Federal Agents and Officers from agencies including the ATF, CBP, DEA, FBI, IRS, and Secret Service. FESHSF has disbursed hundreds of financial grants over the organization’s more than 20-year history, with total assistance exceeding $4 million.

“William embodies the reason we exist: to be a light in the darkness for families enduring unimaginable pain, and to support those who sacrifice every day to keep our nation safe,” said FEHSF Honorary Chairman Tom Ridge, who served as a Congressman, Governor of Pennsylvania, and the inaugural Secretary of The Department of Homeland Security. “He is uniquely positioned to ensure that we have their backs, just as they have ours.”

In 2024, FEHSF aims to increase its grants for line-of-duty deaths to $25,000 per family, as well as to establish a scholarship fund for the children of fallen Agents and Officers. For more information and to donate, please visit https://www.fehsf.org/.

About FEHSF
The Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation is a non-profit humanitarian, apolitical and patriotic 501(c)(3) corporation, formed as a private/public partnership of concerned business leaders and former and current high-ranking Federal Law Enforcement officials. FEHSF’s mission is to provide emergency funding to the Federal Law Enforcement Community within 24-48 hours of notification. FEHSF provides financial support to families of Agents and Officers who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty protecting the nation’s citizens or enforcing our laws. Additionally, FEHSF supports those Agents or Agents’ families during times of personal difficulties, tragedies, or financial hardship.

Media Contact

Ariel Grossman, The Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation, 561-703-4278, [email protected], https://www.fehsf.org/

SOURCE The Federal Enforcement Homeland Security Foundation

Gilbane Building Company Earns Top Score in Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2023-2024 Corporate Equality Index (CEI)


The results of the 2023-2024 CEI showcase how companies are promoting LGBTQ+-friendly workplace policies. The first year of the CEI included 319 participants, and the 2023-2024 CEI now includes 1,384 participants, further demonstrating the tremendous trajectory of the CEI. A record-breaking 1,340 businesses have non-discrimination protections specific to gender identity, up from just 17 in 2002. These critical non-discrimination protections cover 21 million employees in the U.S. and around the globe. Gilbane’s efforts in satisfying all the CEI’s criteria earned a score of 100 and the designation as recipient of the Equality 100 Award: Leader in LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion.

“Gilbane has a robust employee resource group (ERG) program and we’re proud of their work to support an inclusive culture,” said Kavon Archie, Senior Inclusion Manager, Gilbane Building Company. “Our PRIDE ERG is a trusted resource supporting LGBTQIA causes and matters both within Gilbane and throughout the industry. We applaud PRIDE and all of our ERGs for their commitment to enhancing career and personal development and making a difference in building a sense of belonging across our organization.”

The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four central pillars:

  • Non-discrimination policies across business entities
  • Equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families
  • Supporting an inclusive culture
  • Corporate social responsibility

“For well over two decades, businesses have played an important role in furthering LGBTQ+ equality by centering employee needs and voices when it comes to workplace inclusion. While there is much more work to be done, year-over-year growth in CEI participation is evidence of a business community that recognizes the responsibility and value in upholding equity and inclusion,” said RaShawn “Shawnie” Hawkins, Human Rights Campaign Sr Director of Workplace Equality. “Our goal at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation is to work in a spirit of partnership with companies, providing educational resources and leading benchmarking, and collaborating on ways for businesses to support the LGBTQ+ community at a time when we face unprecedented legislative attacks, heightened anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and physical violence. The CEI is an ever-evolving tool – a blueprint that companies can use to show up more effectively in supporting their LGBTQ+ employees and their families.”

The full report is available online at http://www.hrc.org/cei.

About the Human Rights Campaign Foundation:
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) people. Through its programs, the HRC Foundation seeks to make transformational change in the everyday lives of LGBTQ+ people, shedding light on inequity and deepening the public’s understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, with a clear focus on advancing transgender and racial justice. Its work has transformed the landscape for more than 15 million workers, 11 million students, 1 million clients in the adoption and foster care system and so much more. The HRC Foundation provides direct consultation and technical assistance to institutions and communities, driving the advancement of inclusive policies and practices; it builds the capacity of future leaders and allies through fellowship and training programs; and, with the firm belief that we are stronger working together, it forges partnerships with advocates in the U.S. and around the globe to increase our impact and shape the future of our work.

About Gilbane Building Company:
Gilbane Building Company is a global leader in construction management, delivering high-quality projects for clients across various markets. Gilbane provides a full slate of construction and facilities-related services – from preconstruction planning and integrated consulting capabilities to comprehensive construction management, general contracting, design-build, and facility management services. Founded in 1870, Gilbane is still a privately held, family-owned company. With more than 45 office locations worldwide, Gilbane brings world-class experience to local communities.

For more information, visit http://www.gilbaneco.com.

Media Contact

Lynn Rasic, Gilbane Building Company, 212-822-0319, [email protected], gilbaneco.com

SOURCE Gilbane Building Company

Christmas Comes Early for Traders as Bitcoin Reaches $41k After 19 Months, Says PayBito CEO


Bitcoin maximalists and Chief of PayBito Raj Chowdhury states, “2023 was about preparing for the forthcoming bull run. Optimism is high for 2024 and beyond. As speculation wanes, true innovators can now shift focus from a digital trading frenzy to harnessing Bitcoin‘s potential for real-world impact.”

According to CoinDesk, Bitcoin holders withdrew 37,000 BTC between Nov. 17 and Dec. 1, indicating a shift towards direct custody. Investors are focused on positive developments such as the possibility of a Bitcoin ETF approval and the upcoming Bitcoin halving in May 2024. The halving event typically triggers a new rally and keeps a cap on the supply of Bitcoin.

“This remarkable surge is not just a financial milestone but a profound Christmas gift for traders worldwide,” concludes Chowdhury. He previously highlighted the potential of cryptocurrencies to create a borderless world.

The recent surge in the price of Bitcoin has once again highlighted the cryptocurrency‘s potential for real-world impact and its status as a unique asset class. While some view it as a risky investment, others see it as a haven during times of geopolitical strife. The possibility of a Bitcoin ETF approval and the upcoming Bitcoin halving, the optimism for Bitcoin‘s future remains high. As we head towards 2024 and beyond, it will be interesting to see how the cryptocurrency market evolves and how Bitcoin continues to shape the world of finance.

About Raj Chowdhury:

Raj Chowdhury is the Managing Director of HashCash Consultants and Paybito. Raj pioneered the first interbank Trade Finance and Remittance implementation of Blockchain Technology between two of the largest global banks. Raj is an eminent voice in the Blockchain and Cryptocurrency space and actively engages with policymakers in this area. He is a contributor to the Economic Times, Business World, and CNNMoney and advises industry leaders in the adoption of Blockchain. He is a member of Asha Silicon Valley, a nonprofit committed to education for children in emerging countries. Author of the book ‘The Dark Secret of the Silicon Valley’, Raj is an investor in blockchain and cryptocurrency companies and an active member of the philanthropic community.

Media Contact

Coleen Facete, Hashcash Digest, +14159662907, [email protected]

SOURCE PayBito

Gasparilla Music Festival Moves to New Venue February 16-18


A limited quantity of deeply discounted “Early Bird” tickets will go on sale on December 5 and will be available online at www.gmftickets.com. The presale ticket prices are

GA 2-DAY EB (Fri/Sat) $60.00

GA 2-DAY EB (Sat/Sun) $60.00

GA 3-Day EB $75.00

VIP 2-DAY EB (Fri/Sat) $150.00

VIP 2-Day EB (Sat/Sun) $150.00

VIP 3-Day EB $200.00

For more info, please contact the Gasparilla Music Foundation at [email protected]

About the Gasparilla Music Festival

The Gasparilla Music Festival is entering its 13th year and is produced by the 501(c)(3) Gasparilla Music Foundation. The 2024 festival will take place February 16-18 in Julian B Lane Riverfront Park and will feature 50 bands performing on 5 stages. From 1pm-3pm on Sunday February 18, the festival will host its Kids Fest inside the festival with family friendly performers and an interactive zone at the Kids Fest Stage. The festival includes a broad range of musical genres, and past festival performers at the Gasparilla Music Festival have included Brandi Carlile, The Avett Brothers, Nas, Cage the Elephant, The Roots, Portugal the Man and hundreds more. The independent and volunteer driven festival has been voted Tampa Bay’s #1 festival in each of its 12 years and includes a critically acclaimed lineup of food options.

Those interested in participating at the festival, please email

[email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected]

About the Gasparilla Music Foundation

The Gasparilla Music Foundation is a Tampa based 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization founded in 2011 that produces the Gasparilla Music Festival each year during the Gasparilla season in downtown Tampa. In addition to the festival, the organization operates year round throughout Tampa Bay supporting music education through its Recycled Tunes program and promoting local musicians through its GMF Productions program. During 2023, the foundation provided 525 instruments and repairs to 42 Title 1 schools in Tampa Bay and provided over $135,000 in paid performance opportunities to local professional artists. The foundation is supported by proceeds from the festival, from its sponsors, and through its membership group Higher Ground. To learn more about becoming a member of Higher Ground, please visit www.gmfhigherground.com

Media Contact
Michelle Gutenstein, Gasparilla Music Foundation, 1 8137088423, [email protected], www.gasparillamusic.com

Twitter

SOURCE Gasparilla Music Foundation



Navigating the Challenge of Sustainable Income for Creatives


1st Opus: Transforming Banking for Artists, Empowering a Global Community

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — 1st Opus is reshaping both the entertainment and banking industry with their state-of-the-art digital wallet and payment services. 1st Opus is not a bank, but an innovative ecosystem that fosters connections between artists and their fan base.

Empowering Artists for Creative Pursuits

Artists often grapple with the challenge of sustaining a reliable revenue stream, leading them to engage in alternative employment that detracts from their creative pursuits. Recognizing this struggle, 1st Opus positions itself as a gateway to financial empowerment. It offers a unique proposition, channeling revenue directly into the hands of artists, empowering them to monetize their popularity and create a sustainable income stream in tune with the ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

Innovative Leadership Steering the Course

At the helm of 1st Opus stand industry icons Walter Afanasieff, Oleg Shmelev, and Jean-Claude Eenshuistra. Walter Afanasieff, a leader in the music industry, contributes decades of experience, while Oleg Shmelev, a visionary entrepreneur, complements the team with financial innovation expertise. Jean-Claude Eenshuistra, the CEO, has a goal to have 1st Opus work with more than 1000 artists and 1000 of their closest fans. Together, they form a dynamic leadership team propelling 1st Opus towards.

Revolutionizing Entertainment Banking Services

1st Opus goes beyond conventional banking services. The platform offers a comprehensive suite, including FDIC-insured US bank accounts, user-friendly payment apps, and Visa and Mastercard debit cards. Setting itself apart, 1st Opus provides exclusive content, event access, and merchandise fulfillment services for artists. Fans using the 1st Opus card not only earn rewards for themselves but actively contribute to their favorite artist’s revenue stream, creating a symbiotic relationship.

Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

Beyond its financial services, 1st Opus is committed to community-building and making a positive impact. The platform allocates 5% of its profits to support the arts, operating not just as a financial platform but as a membership card to an exclusive club. This connection extends, linking members to the broader entertainment world.

“‘By artists for artists’ is more than a slogan – it is the foundation of 1st OPUS. We empower artists to create more and better with the support of their fans and followers,” says Walter Afanasieff, music producer, composer, and founder of 1st OPUS.

Future Plans and Global Expansion

As 1st Opus looks to the future, an official launch in 2024 is on the horizon after a successful year of testing. The platform envisions international expansion, collaborating with over 1000 artists and their closest fans. The ultimate goal is to create a global community transcending geographical boundaries, celebrating the intersection of art and finance.

Join the Revolution: Celebrate Entertainment and Financial Empowerment

1st Opus invites artists, fans, and enthusiasts to join the revolution. Access exclusive content, attend events, and support favorite artists with the 1st OPUS Card. Pre Register in 2023 to secure an exclusive founders card https://1stopus.com/#pre_registration

About 1st OPUS

1st OPUS, established in 2021 in Los Angeles, is an entertainment brand offering Entertainment, Payments (Neobanking), and Lifestyle for Artists, Creatives, Entertainers, Athletes, Actors, Models, Influencers, Freelancers, and their friends, fans, and followers. Payment services, including FDIC-insured US Bank Account, User-friendly Payment App, Debit, and later Credit Cards, are provided through US Banks, technology partners, and US card programs.

For inquiries, contact Jean-Claude Eenshuistra, CEO 1st OPUS, at [email protected].

SOURCE 1st OPUS

The Athletes Mental Health Foundation Launches; Is Dedicated to Helping Young Athletes Improve Their Internal Well-Being


A coalition of mental health clinicians, athletes, parents and coaches team up to normalize mental health by promoting education and engagement, while removing barriers.

BEND, Ore., Nov. 29, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — A community of licensed mental health clinicians, athletes, coaches and parents have teamed up to launch the Athletes Mental Health Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young athletes understand and address their internal well-being.

The launch comes on the heels of studies that show many young athletes struggle with mental health issues yet do not seek treatment, as well as the founders’ own experiences with high-level athletics and as licensed clinicians. Indeed, recent studies show that:

  • Only 10% of college athletes with known mental health conditions seek care from a mental health professional.
  • The top three reasons that young elite athletes don’t seek mental health help are: 1) not knowing about mental disorders or symptoms, 2) not knowing when they need help, and 3) stigma associated with seeking help
  • Evaluations of youth elite athletes performed by trained professionals found that 16.9% were currently experiencing at least one mental disorder, with a lifetime prevalence of 25.1%

“We believe that mental wellbeing is essential to an athlete’s success in sport, education, and life after competition,” says Katie Steele, executive director. “When an athlete is healthy, inside and out – their enjoyment, empowerment, and performance are all enhanced.”

“We want to empower young athletes to identify mental health concerns and seek care,” said Dr. Tiffany Brown, Chief Science Officer. “Together, we can help them find more love for their sport and perform better through enhanced mental wellness.”

Anyone interested in becoming a member of the Athletes Mental Health Foundation may do so, at no cost, on the Foundation’s website. Members have access to the most up-to-date research, data, and articles about athlete mental health, and on topics including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, puberty, substance use, suicide, self-harm, and more. Members can also interact with licensed mental health experts, read interviews with athletic and mental health professionals, can participate in ongoing research projects, and take part in virtual events as well as daily interactive discussions on the member’s forum.

It is also important to note that a big priority for the Athletes Mental Health Foundation is to help normalize mental health needs beyond just the more serious symptomology and/or diagnoses.

“We want athletes, parents, coaches, and athletic directors to be able to talk about the full spectrum of mental health needs and concerns, whether it’s just frustration or sadness, or something more serious. We believe that with the tools and framework available via the Athletes Mental Health Foundation, we can have a positive impact on athlete mental health outcomes,” added Dr. Brown.

“We want to ensure that athletes are able to stay connected to the passion they have for the game they love,” added Katie Steele. “In order to do that, we know that mental health integration is a critical, so we designed the Athletes Mental Health Foundation to be a place from which participants walk away feeling informed and energized, knowing what needs to be done for change to happen.”

For more information, to become a member, or to make a financial donation that will enable the Foundation to reach more young athletes, please visit the Athletes Mental Health Foundation website.

About Athletes Mental Health Foundation

Athletes Mental Health Foundation is a community of licensed mental health clinicians, athletes, coaches, and parents who have teamed up to create a non-profit organization dedicated to helping young athletes understand and address their internal wellbeing. Its goals are to normalize mental health by promoting education and engagement, to enable everyone involved in athletics to be able to talk about the full spectrum of mental health needs and concerns whether routine or more serious, and to optimize the integration of mental health into athletic systems.

About Katie Steele, LMFT, Executive Director

Katie Steele became passionate about mental health and athletics after a negative experience as a D1 athlete. She earned her graduate degree in Couples and Family Therapy at the University of Oregon. Katie is a licensed marriage & family therapist and co-founder of Thrive Mental Health, an outpatient mental health clinic in Bend, Oregon. Katie is a mom to three children with her husband, Adam Steele (2003 NCAA Champion in the 400-meter dash), who also serves as Chief Operating Officer of Athletes Mental Health Foundation.

About Dr. Tiffany Brown, Chief Science Officer

Dr. Tiffany Brown is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Senior Lecturer II and Clinical Director in the Couples and Family Therapy graduate program at the University of Oregon. She received her doctoral degree at Texas Tech University. She has also served as an athlete mentor in Student-Athlete Development at the University of Oregon; this program matches current student-athletes with a mentor for career guidance, mentorship, and support. A therapist for two decades, Dr. Brown is fiercely committed to supporting athletes by turning toward their own mental health wellness during and after sport.

For more information, to become a member, or to make a financial donation that will enable the Foundation to reach more young athletes, please visit the Athletes Mental Health Foundation website.

Media Contact

Chris Roslan, Roslan & Associates Public Relations, 1 9175385629, [email protected]

SOURCE Athletes Mental Health Foundation

Frederick Health helps to organize donation of 2 million diapers


Leveraging a generous donation from the Ausherman Family Foundation, institutional knowledge from the Frederick Rescue Mission, the real-world experience from the Family Connects Frederick County team, and the purchasing power of Frederick Health, the first set of diapers is scheduled to be delivered to the Frederick Health Village on November 27. A photo and interview opportunity with representatives of the above groups will be held at the Frederick Health Village on Wednesday, November 29 at 10:30 AM. Media members are invited to attend. Should you wish to attend, please contact Josh Faust, Public Relations & Communications Specialist with Frederick Health.

“We are thrilled to use the purchasing power of Frederick Health to connect local families with a much-needed resource,” said Heather Kirby, Vice President, and Chief Population Health Officer with Frederick Health.

The Family Connects Frederick County team identified the lack of reliable diaper assistance while conducting home visits with newborns and their families. This issue is not just a need for newborns, but also for older children as they grow. Working with local partners, Family Connects Frederick County sought to develop a resource in the community where families could have consistent access to a basic need that is often overlooked.

“This effort demonstrates the power of collaboration. The Frederick community, including our numerous non-profit partners, is incredibly generous; we all benefit when we work together,” said Kirby.

About Frederick Health
Frederick Health provides comprehensive healthcare services to the residents of Frederick County. The system includes Frederick Health Hospital, Frederick Health Medical Group, Frederick Health Employer Solutions, Frederick Health Home Care, and Frederick Health Hospice. Frederick Health Medical Group is a multi-specialty practice with more than 100 providers, 22 specialties and 25 locations across the county. The system has several ambulatory care locations, the freestanding James M Stockman Cancer Institute, four urgent care locations, and the Frederick Health Village. With 4,000 team members, Frederick Health provides a full spectrum of healthcare and wellness services to support its mission to positively impact the well-being of every individual in our community.

For more information on Frederick Health, visit http://www.frederickhealth.org/newbornvisit

Media Contact

Josh Faust, Frederick Health, 240-566-4816, [email protected], https://www.frederickhealth.org/ 

SOURCE Frederick Health