Fact Forward's Webinar Wednesday: Real Talk: Youth Mental Health, Community Impact, and What It Takes to Show Up
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Fact Forward invites you to join a powerful and engaging virtual conversation with Rhonda Bush, Executive Director of Girl Get Up Society. This webinar will be facilitated in an interactive Q&A format, highlighting the critical role of community-based organizations is supporting mental health among youth and young adults.
Together, we will explore the services and programs offered by Girl Get Up Society, the impact of their work within the community, and the importance of creating safe, supportive spaces for young people to thrive. The conversation will also include key insights and data pints to deepen understanding and spark meaningful dialogue around youth mental health.
This session is ideal for educators, youth-serving professionals, community leaders, and anyone committed to supporting the well-being of young people.
- Describe the role of community-based organizations on addressing youth mental health needs.
- Identify practical approaches and strategies used to support youth mental well-being in community settings.
- Recognize opportunities for collaboration and engagement to strengthen mental health support for young people in their own communities.
Rhonda Bush
A Veteran survivor of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, Rhonda Bush is no stranger to the impact mental health can have on a person’s ability to navigate daily life.
After two deployments, Rhonda found herself back home during the pandemic, stuck in a literal and figurative dark closet. Several months into suffering in isolation, she heard a clear voice in that closet make this pronouncement: “Girl, Get Up.” So she did just that in 2021, bringing her personal experiences with her to form a society dedicated to helping other women and girls see their way through mental health challenges.
In less than two years, Rhonda was named a Jefferson Award winner for her vision in addressing the unmet mental health needs among girls and women. She understands the importance of both therapeutic services and community-building and considers both as central to a holistic approach to mental wellness. She prioritizes the inclusion of community voices that are not always represented in philanthropic conversations, funding circles, nor nonprofit organizations.
Though she had been afforded the opportunity to receive therapy for little to no cost, she knew this was not the case for women in many communities, especially communities of color. She set out to change this with Girl, Get Up Society.
Rhonda earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Morris College in 2012, a dual Master's in Human Resources Management and Management and Leadership from Webster University in 2016 and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from York County Chamber of Commerce in 2024.