WHO: Wellnest, a 100-year-old organization providing emotional well-being and behavioral health services, in collaboration with Ora Café, will be hosting the Wellnest Mental Health Awareness Month Event. Additional community partners are the Lucas Museum, Plant Chica, USC Race & Equity Center, therapeutic art making from Wellnest clinical experts and nutritional tips and recipes from FEAST, a nonprofit working to empower communities through healthy foods.
Founded in 1924 to provide hope, healing and opportunity, Wellnest applies a holistic approach to emotional well-being to children, young adults, and the families they serve in Los Angeles. Wellnest offers comprehensive mental health services and housing, ensuring that everyone has access to the support needed to reach their full potential.
Spokespeople available for interviews include:
- Charlene Dimas-Peinado, President & CEO (English/Spanish)
- Paco Retana, Chief Program Officer (English/Spanish)
- Amber Bliss, Clinical Therapist
- Rick Saneda, Director of Outpatient Services, Leimert Park
- Wellnest clients
Attendees include:
- Elizabeth Arrazola, Deputy Health and Wellness from Los Angeles Supervisor Holly Mitchell’s Office
WHAT: The Mental Health Awareness Month Event features hands-on wellness activities, including music and art therapy, therapeutic gardening, mindfulness practices, and nutrition education. Attendees will have access to holistic wellness experiences and community mental health resources in Ora Café, a supportive, welcoming space that is a local gathering place in the heart of Leimert Park.
WHEN: Friday, May 16 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Ora Café, located in the heart of Leimert Park, at 4331 Degnan Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90008
WHY: “During Mental Health Awareness Month, Wellnest wants to raise awareness about mental health as a vital part of overall wellness in the community it serves,” said Charlene Dimas-Peinado, Wellnest President & CEO. “By working with other organizations and businesses in Leimart Park, we can help to break the stigmas of mental health while connecting the community to Wellnest’s accessible wellness services. The event celebrates healing, creativity, and connection and normalizes the varied ways to integrate mental health into our daily lives and overall well-being.”
HOW: Through a community-centered approach, Wellnest is partnering with local businesses and wellness leaders to bring impactful, interactive experiences to attendees. Attendees are encouraged to visit Ora Café, which will remain open to the public.
About Wellnest
Through a holistic approach to emotional well-being, Wellnest, a nationally acclaimed and leading provider of emotional health and wellness services, offers hope, healing, and opportunity to the children, young adults, and the families they serve. Founded in 1924, their commitment remains steadfast as they enter their second century of service. For more information, visit wellnestla.org
Media Contact
Rebecca Haussling
Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs
Mobile: 310-922-7384