NOT JUST A SMILE
Programs
Mind Over Matter
The average cost of therapy is $100–200 per session which can average $400–800 per month. Black and Brown communities are hit hard when it comes to insurance and having the capital to cover sessions they need. This event is NJAS’ annual month-long fundraiser that works to cover the cost of therapy for Black and Brown individuals. Rounding off the month with a community event to bring resources to those in need
For the people, by the People
Every March, NJAS collaborates with TwoWay Ent and Divine 9 organizations at local HBCUS to throw a day party with one sole purpose–to raise funding to package mental health kits and donate them to local Title 1 Schools and Womens Shelters.
Interview Series
At its conception, NJAS formed an interview series titled, “Smile for the Camera.” Its purpose was to highlight overcoming barriers as they pertain to mental health in college-aged adults. Why? To show the community that mental health is real and that rarely do we have to fight these battle alone. This series has since grown to tackle a number of different aspects of mental health in Black and Brown Communities such as loving oneself, stigmas surrounding seeking therapy and so much morel.
Season 2 Episode 1
Join Taylor as she invites Bailey to a new season of Smile for the Camera. Bailey talks about her work with Black, Brown and Queer communities and how this work affects her in her own identities and mental health.
Season 2 Episode 1
Join Taylor as she welcomes Sway to the close of Season 2 of Smile for the Camera. Sway opens up about navigating life as a Black Trans man and persevering past sexual assault.
Community Education
According to NAMI, while all of our communities face mental health challenges, Black communities often deal with more stigma and discrimination, and can receive compromised care. Despite the needs, only one in three Black adults who need mental health care receive it.
NJAS is dedicated to bringing educational programs to local schools and neighborhoods to show people that it is perfectly fine to seek help and to show others how to support those close to them.