Watch the Digital Desk segment in the video player on this page to learn more.

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – For Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, Norfolk Community Services Board is partnering with Project ORF to bring the community together.

On Thursday, July 11, Surviving Through Mental Health will be an opportunity for connection, healing and support. It runs 5 to 9 p.m. at the historic Attucks Theatre, located at 1010 Church St.

At the Digital Desk, Councilwoman Danica Royster from Norfolk City Council, Superward 7 and Shawnice Hernandez, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Project ORF spoke about the event. Watch the conversation in the video player on this page.

Project ORF is a nonprofit organization focused on bridging the gap in black mental health. According to their social media page, they will “teach young adults and teens preventative tools to combat transgenerational trauma.”

The nonprofit is collaborating with the city of Norfolk to start bridging the gap in a community conversation.

In a press release, the city of Norfolk writes, “This event focuses on how mental health concerns show up differently in young, minority and underserved communities and how collaboration can make a positive impact”.

According to the event, it will promote dialogue on how mental health shows up in our communities from community members to professionals.

What can you expect?

A moderated panel discussion by WAVY’s Kiahnna Patterson will be a highlight of the event, featuring experts in the mental health field, activists and survivors.

So far, guests include:

  • Dr. Krystal Vaughn from Cornerstone Therapeutic Services
  • Kamron Blue, LCSW from CHKD’s Safer Futures Program
  • Ms. Kim Ambrose, educator and mental health student interventionist
  • Dr. Kristie Norwood, clinical psychologist from Hampton University
  • Dr. Tonya Shell from Norfolk State University

Community partners, resources and services will be on-site to learn more about mental health. There will be fun and engaging activities including food vendors, refreshments, raffles, door prizes and giveaways.

The event is free and open to the public. You do not have to be from the city of Norfolk to attend, all are welcome. To find out more information and register to attend, visit like the link here. Registration is preferred, but not required to attend the event.