~ Mesa, AZ - In the wake of yet another tragic school shooting, Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman gathered with over 150 pastors, clergy members, nonprofit partners, and community advocates to recognize the crucial role faith leaders play in supporting teen mental health. The event, held at the Mesa Convention Center, celebrated the city's strong spiritual and civic foundations and emphasized the importance of collaboration between faith and community organizations in creating safe and supportive spaces for young people.

During his opening remarks, Mayor Freeman acknowledged the long-standing tradition of people of faith stepping up to care for others, strengthen families, and uplift neighborhoods in Mesa. He praised the attendees for continuing this legacy and urged them to work together towards building a stronger and more resilient city.

The theme of this year's breakfast was teen mental health and suicide awareness. Speakers highlighted the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for teenagers and their families. The keynote address was delivered by Katey McPherson, a nationally recognized advocate for youth well-being and suicide prevention. McPherson stressed the need to recognize underlying struggles such as depression and isolation in young people and encouraged leaders to be proactive in offering support before a crisis occurs.

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Brian Cannon, Mental Health Advocacy Program Manager for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, also addressed the audience. He shared information about the Diocese's Mental Health Ministry which equips congregations with tools and resources to support individuals and families facing challenges. Cannon's presentation served as a model for how faith organizations of all sizes can engage in meaningful mental health outreach.

In his closing remarks, Mayor Freeman issued a call to action for continued collaboration across congregations, nonprofits, and neighborhoods to support Mesa's youth. He emphasized that this is not work that can be done alone but rather requires collective effort from all stakeholders. By working together hand in hand with both faith-based organizations and civic leaders, we can send a powerful message to our young people that they are valued, supported, and never alone. Mayor Freeman urged everyone to do everything in their power to prevent tragedies like the one the nation is mourning today.

The event was a powerful reminder of the important role faith leaders play in promoting mental health and well-being among teenagers. By coming together and working towards a common goal, Mesa's faith and civic communities are setting an example for others to follow in creating a safer and more supportive environment for young people.

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