TedX Speaker and Bestselling Author Reggie D. Ford to Share his Inspirational Message for Uniting Belle Glade Front-Line Responders and Community Leaders for Mental Health 

Who: Refuse to Sink, Healthier Glades, and People of Purpose have joined forces to bring Nashville mental health advocate and bestselling author Reggie D. Ford to Belle Glade, FL, as part of his multi-day speaking tour in Lake Okeechobee communities. The audience will be comprised of professionals on the front lines of mental health, including first responders, guidance counselors, pastors, law enforcement, medical doctors and nurses, and community stakeholders.

What: Reggie will share his captivating journey of turning pain into peace through the process of perseverance while honoring and motivating the audience to come together and drive positive change in how the community collaborates to support individuals facing mental health challenges.

When: Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Where: Belle Glade Civic Center in the Belle Glade Library, 725 NW 4th St, Belle Glade, FL 33430

Why it Matters: Florida ranks among the states with the highest rates of mental health disparities, with limited access to care in underserved communities, insufficient funding, and a shortage of mental health professionals. These disparities are felt most strongly in the rural community of Belle Glade. Reggie’s message, along with the networking event that follows, will emphasize the vital importance of fostering strong connections and innovative ways of collaborating between front-line professionals and community members to bridge the gaps and persevere to provide essential mental health services to those in need.