Sunny Days Bring New Mental Health Initiative to Lakeview

Sunny Days and a New Initiative to Foster Mental Health in Lakeview

Good morning, Lakeview! As the sun rises on this beautiful day, bringing abundant sunshine and temperatures expected to peak at a balmy 83°F, we have some exciting news to share from our community. It’s a perfect day to not only enjoy the weather but also to understand the strides being made in the realm of mental health. With a lovely low of 49°F expected tonight under clear skies, it’s a day that promises comfort and warmth in more ways than one!

Introducing a Dedicated Leader for Mental Health Awareness

In a heartfelt announcement, the Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center (BLEC) has appointed Reverend Dr. Jeffrey A. Howard as the new project coordinator for their Mental Health Awareness Initiative. According to Dr. Cindye Richburg Cotton, the Executive Director of BLEC, they’re thrilled to bring Dr. Howard on board. “He comes with a stellar record of success,” she stated, emphasizing his qualifications and the critical nature of his role in tackling mental health issues that affect our community.

Dr. Howard couldn’t be more excited to embrace this opportunity. He shared, “This is a critical time for training as we aim to eliminate misinformation associated with mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding them.” His enthusiasm encapsulates the spirit of BLEC’s mission—creating a healthier, more informed community.

A Look at Dr. Howard’s Impressive Background

Now, let’s take a moment to explore who Dr. Howard is. Most recently, he wore two significant hats: as the Emmanuel McCall Initiative Consultant at the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship in Decatur, Georgia, and as a consultant for the HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN). In both roles, he made significant impacts, notably by creating educational programs that addressed not only COVID-19 and HIV but also issues like diabetes—all while working hard to improve vaccination rates in underserved areas. Talk about a dedicated individual!

Prior to this, from 2022 to 2023, he served as the minister of Christian Education and Outreach at Welfare Baptist Church in Belton, South Carolina, where he emphasized health and wellness for his community. His efforts in implementing a Health and Wellness Ministry focused on diabetes management and weight loss have already changed many lives for the better. Add more than a decade of experience as a project facilitator for F.A.I.T.H. Celebrate Recovery, and it’s clear that Dr. Howard brings a wealth of practical experience and passion for service.

A Strong Educational Foundation

Dr. Howard’s educational background is equally impressive. He earned his bachelor’s in Family and Church Education and Bible from Columbia International University in 2014, then completed a Master of Divinity at the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary. His Master of Sacred Theology followed shortly thereafter, and he proudly received his Doctor of Ministry from the Interdenominational Theology Center and Morehouse School of Religion.

Community Training Opportunities

With his extensive background and fresh enthusiasm for community service, Dr. Howard is set to lead mental health first aid training programs in partnership with local organizations. The aim? To equip our community with the tools to support each other better and promote mental wellness across Lakeview and beyond.

If you’re interested in participating in these free training sessions or want to know more about how you can play a role in improving mental health within our community, feel free to reach out to Dr. Howard at 803-744-1961 for his office or 803-445-7548 on his mobile. You can also drop him an email at jhoward@brookland.cc. Your involvement could make a big difference!

Final Thoughts

As we enjoy today’s warm sun and clear skies, let’s also look forward to the positive changes coming our way in mental health awareness. It’s an exciting time for Lakeview, and together, we can foster a community that not only thrives but also cares for one another through every challenge. Here’s to brighter days ahead and lifting each other up!