Nationwide — Teen Care Network (TCN) is proud to announce the success of Wellness University (Well-U) 2024, a dynamic event held on October 10th at Old Dominion University’s Webb Center to celebrate World Mental Health Day. The event, organized in partnership with First Star Academy ODU and sponsored by MTV Entertainment Studios and Active Minds, drew students, community members, and mental health advocates for an afternoon of music, wellness resources, and advocacy.
The presence of voter registration services allowed many attendees to register ahead of the Virginia deadline on October 15th, with support from local volunteers to facilitate the process of checking voter registration statuses and getting registered.
“We are incredibly pleased with the turnout and the enthusiasm of everyone who attended,” said Dorian Hollingsworth Jr., Executive Director of Teen Care Network. “This event not only celebrated World Mental Health Day but also offered meaningful resources for young people to prioritize their mental well-being and get involved in community action, including voter registration.”
With sponsorship from MTV Entertainment Studios and Active Minds, and support from First Star Academy ODU, Well-U 2024 amplified the message that mental health matters for everyone. Attendees engaged in conversations about mental health awareness and advocacy while enjoying a fun, supportive environment.
The event was part of Teen Care Network’s ongoing mission to break the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities and other communities of color, offering programs and resources to youth that promote mental wellness.
“We’re thankful for the incredible partnerships that made this day a success,” Hollingsworth Jr. added. “Together, we are creating spaces for young people to engage with mental health resources in a way that is both impactful and fun. Special thanks to Alexia Hargrove, Director of First Star Academy ODU!”
The event was captured by photographer Te’Rance Spurlock Jr. of VelliVisuals Studios, who beautifully documented its highlights, including the attendees’ excitement as they participated in the wellness activities and shared their World Mental Health Day moments. View the event recap video on our YouTube!
Event Highlights:
• Live Music: DJ ILLMATIC kept the energy high with his set, delighting attendees with music that created a lively and positive atmosphere.
• Mental Health Resources: Free materials, information on mental health services, and giveaways helped attendees connect with tools for their well-being.
• Voter Registration: Voter registration was a huge focus of our event, allowing attendees to register to vote ahead of the Virginia deadline on October 15th. Local volunteers helped facilitate the process by checking voter registration statuses and getting others officially registered.
• Photo Moments: Attendees took photos to commemorate the day, sharing their World Mental Health Day moments on social media—photos by VelliVisuals Studios.
For more information about upcoming events, Teen Care Network’s initiatives, or to donate to help bring events like this back to communities, visit TeenCareNetwork.org or contact info@teencarenetwork.org
About Teen Care Network
Teen Care Network is a nonprofit organization that supports the mental health and wellness of teens and young adults. Through education, advocacy, and community events, TCN aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health in Black communities and other communities of color.
About First Star Academy ODU
First Star Academy ODU partners with foster youth to provide academic, life skills, and emotional support to help them transition successfully into higher education and adulthood.
About MTV Entertainment Studios
MTV Entertainment Studios is a global leader in youth culture, bringing bold and diverse content across multiple platforms that impact communities through entertainment and advocacy.
About Active Minds
Active Minds is the nation’s premier nonprofit organization supporting mental health awareness and education for young adults. Through advocacy, outreach, and resources, Active Minds is changing the conversation about mental health.
About Mental Health Action Day
Mental Health Action Day is an open-source movement of brands, organizations, government agencies, and cultural leaders to drive culture from mental health awareness to mental health action. The 2024 Mental Health Action Day took place on Thursday, May 16, 2024, with a mission to encourage and empower people to take their first actions on mental health — whether for themselves, for their loved ones, or for their communities, because mental health is health. Learn more at MentalHealthIsHealth.us or follow along at #MentalHealthAction to get involved in 2025.
For press inquiries, contact press@teencarenetwork.org
