Red Sox Drive Mental Health Conversation with Nonprofits.

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Boston Red Sox have unveiled “Changeup the Conversation,” a new season-long initiative aimed at enhancing mental health support and access across New England.

The programme will formally kick off with pregame ceremonies on May 7, prior to that evening’s matchup between the Red Sox and the Rangers, where the team will honour its six partner nonprofit organisations.

Throughout the season, the Red Sox will highlight one New England-based mental health nonprofit each month, utilising both in-park activities and storytelling via social media.

These monthly themes will encompass various aspects of mental health, including its relationship to sports, stress management strategies, and preventative measures against suicide.

Participants from the featured organisations will have the opportunity to visit Fenway Park to watch batting practice, interact with Red Sox players, and enjoy the game.

To further engage the community, each nonprofit will set up an informational table in the concourse, providing visitors with details about their specific programmes.

Additionally, those who attend will receive goody bags and “Changeup the Conversation” t-shirts, while their narratives will be shared on the Red Sox Community Relations social media platforms, aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing stigma surrounding emotional well-being.

The six partner organisations exemplify a comprehensive spectrum of approaches to mental health, including peer-led support, LGBTQ+ affirming environments, sport-based therapy, and suicide prevention initiatives.

These organisations and their missions include:

• Active Minds: This organisation mobilises young adults to openly discuss mental health and foster communities of support within schools and universities nationwide.
• Doc Wayne: As a therapy provider, Doc Wayne employs sports and play to address mental health concerns, offering both individual and group sessions for youth and adults, alongside training for caregivers and professionals.
• KyleCares: Focused on facilitating candid conversations regarding mental health challenges faced by teens and young adults, KyleCares promotes education and awareness while implementing suicide prevention programmes in high schools and colleges across New England.
• OUT MetroWest: This organisation is dedicated to fostering supportive communities for LGBTQ+ youth, connecting them with peers and affirming adult role models.
• Samaritans: Operating across Massachusetts, Samaritans provides suicide prevention resources and grief support services. They offer a 24/7 helpline, peer-to-peer texting for youth, community education initiatives, and survivor support programmes.
• The Jed Foundation: This nonprofit is committed to safeguarding emotional health and preventing suicide among teenagers and young adults. By partnering with educational institutions, The Jed Foundation strengthens mental health, substance abuse, and suicide prevention programmes, equipping young people with essential skills and knowledge.

“Changeup the Conversation” is spearheaded by the Red Sox Community Relations team and aligns with Major League Baseball’s ongoing commitment to promoting mental wellness within the league.

By connecting fans with local partners and amplifying authentic experiences, this initiative aims to cultivate a culture of openness, support, and resilience both within Fenway Park and in the wider community.

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