On May 21, 2025, the Association for Children’s Mental Health (ACMH) and Youth United hosted Youth Mental Health Action Day at the Lansing Center. Guided by the theme “Great Change from the Great Lakes: Driving the Revolution for Youth Mental Wellness,” the event brought together more than 120 youth, families, and community members committed to advancing mental health across Michigan.
The day opened with remarks from ACMH and Youth United leadership alongside Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. A powerful keynote panel featuring State Representative Kara Hope, Ingham County Commissioner Myles Johnson, Founder of Harmony in Hues Wellness Center Nedra Cannon, and Justin Tate from MDHHS explored advocacy, policy, and the importance of centering lived experience in system change.
During lunch, a dynamic panel of speakers – Jarell Farley, a youth leader; Natalia Cuthrell, a youth advocate; Madelynn Nagy, a Youth Peer Support Specialist; Coach A’Jai Necole, a life coach; and Robert Pettaway, a Parent Support Partner and President of ACMH’s Board of Directors—shared thoughtful, experience-driven strategies to strengthen and enhance support systems for youth and families across Michigan.
Breakout sessions throughout the afternoon tackled key topics such as trauma-informed care, cultural healing, inclusive spaces, and equitable decision-making. Attendees also connected with 10 local organizations at the resource fair and recharged creatively in a reflection space hosted by Amelia McGraw.
The day closed with a music and movement session presented by DJ Y’z and Breaker Tabor Vits from All of the Above Hip Hop focused on grounding and empowerment.
We thank all speakers, facilitators, volunteers, and attendees whose participation made the day a success. For the full agenda and complete list of speakers, please visit our event page.
Relive the Day: Photo Gallery
Download Presentation Slides
📁 Breaking the Silence – Ethan Getchell
📁 Culture and Tradition is Medicine – Adon Vazquez and Taylor Maxwell
📁 Empowering Friendship – Keegan Johnson
📁 MDHHS Fireside Chat- Kim Batsche-McKenzie, Justin Tate, and Krissy Dristy
📁 All Hands on Deck – Nadiah Dyer-Coronado, Margo Pierce, Kyla Viruquiz, Christy Levine
Save the Date
We’re keeping the momentum going!
Join us for the 2025 ACMH Statewide Conference
📅 September 16, 2025
📍 Lansing, MI
This year’s conference will bring together families, youth, providers, and leaders from across Michigan to share strategies, spark solutions, and elevate voices in children’s mental health. More details and registration information coming soon—stay tuned!
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