Steel Smiling welcomes 15 new Beams to Bridges graduates!

Last week, we welcomed 15 new graduates to the Beams to Bridges program! Congratulations to all! 

Beams to Bridges is a 6-month community mental health education and support group for Black residents of Allegheny County. The cohort met weekly since April to discuss self-care and community care, and how they could each impart a positive mental health experience within their communities. Thank you to our community partners at Center of Life for supporting the cohort by coordinating our space, transportation, and childcare, and our funders Allegheny County DHS, Hillman, and Staunton Farm Foundation for supporting this work.

"While being present for sessions with this phenomenal cohort, I witnessed first-hand their shared commitment to wellness, healing, and Black mental health. They consistently gave themselves and their classmates the grace needed to be transparent, supportive, and heard. The entire Steel Smiling and Neighborhood Allies team is excited to see how they continue serving as trusted Community Mental Health Advocates."

-Julius Boatwright, Founder and Managing Director, Steel Smiling

Congratulations to the 15 graduates: Angel Drake, Angel McKinstry, Carlos Stanford, De Nese L. Hendon, Donovan Campbell, Homer Craig, Jamie Summers, Keaira Wallace, LaNae Evans-Connor, LiAra Martin, Louise Gray, Shatae’ DeVaughn, Sydney Davis, Symphany Highsmith, Teaira Collins, Andrea Coleman-Betts (Honorable mention).