Dallas Cowboys Assistant Defensive Line Coach and Dallas Park and Recreation Announce Partnership to Tackle Mental Health Myths and Stigmas in Communities of Color

Getting My Help Mental Wellness Walk and Fair hosted by influencer and media personality Lady Jadewill feature an energetic 5K walk, informative workshops, various mental health resources, refreshments, and entertainment provided by radio stations 97.9 The Beat & Majic 94.5. Event registration is available on Eventbrite.com or click here.

Ellis, who played 11 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, is encouraging families, groups, and those impacted by mental health challenges to participate. Family, close friends and some current and former NFL Players will join him on the walk. The summit will challenge myths and stigmas often associated with discussing and seeking therapy for mental health issues.

"The need for everyone to really look at their mental health is more critical nowmorethan ever before. Self-care is the key to managing our mental and emotional health. That'sespecially important for youth because one-third of American teens are sharing their concerns about their mental health. In communities of color, statisticsshow that they struggle with their mental health at higher rates than others," said Ellis.

Registration for the 5K and one-mile walk begins at 8 a.m. Leading pre-walk warmups is former UFC Mixed Martial Arts Champion Dr. Guy Mezger, CEO of Mezger Martial Arts and holistic health practitioner at Optimal Health Solutions.

Interactive breakout sessions from 9 a.m. to noon will explore emotional and mental wellbeing with topics including the significance and benefits of therapy, finding the right therapist, coping with grief and loss, mediation, and a.m. mindfulness activities including yoga, dance, and cooking demonstrations. Closing out the event will be Camille Thompson's MOM CREW & iDANZ.

Dallas Mayor Pro Tem Tennell Atkins and State Representative Toni Rose will be among those attending the summit.

"It is important for families to know what resources are here and how to protect their mental and emotional wellbeing. Our mental health affects how we act, think, and coexist with others. When our bodies don't feel well, we get medical help. In many situations, we won't seek the support and assistance we deserve for our mental health. Taking care of our minds, bodies, and souls is the self-care everyone needs," said Atkins.

Supporting the event are HSC Health & Aging Brain Study Health Disparities, Freedom Chevrolet by Ed Morse, Geico Local Office Victoria Elliott, NTX Health, UTA University Crossroads, Radio One, Brothers Food Service, and Hot Rod Connects.

Crystal R. Ross, Deputy Director, Dallas Parkand Recreation Department, expressed excitement for the partnership, saying, "We are thrilled to work with Mr. Ellis to create awarenessand momentum for this important issue. Together, we will reach out to families and their communitiesto help them with support and resourcesand empower them to advocate for their personal wellbeing."

Ross and Ellis agree that parks and recreation programs are good for the physical and mental wellbeing of people of all ages. Last year, Dallas Park and Recreation offered 9,588 recreation and leisure programs at its 42 recreation centers. Discover more about Dallas Park and Recreation programs at DallasParks.org.

Improving the overall health and wellbeing of Dallas residents and communities through publicoutdoor spaces and recreation is Dallas Park and Recreation's mission and one of three pillars of the National Recreation and Park Association. As an industry leader, NRPA champions and supports the field of parks and recreation through professional development, advocacy, grants and programs, and research.

Dallas Park and Recreation Department is among the nation's largest urban park systems. Its mission is to champion lifelong recreation and serve as responsible stewards of the city's parks, trails, and open spaces. The department maintains 24,000 acres of park land and water that include 410 parks, 180 miles of trails, athletic complexes, and natural areas. It also manages recreation centers, golf courses, community pools, tennis centers and family attractions including Bahama Beach Waterpark. For more information, visit www.DallasPark.org.

Getting My Help founded by Greg Ellis is a 501-C3 charitable foundation. Its mission is to change the world's perception of mental wellness. Through the power of creativity, they aim to touch hearts, dissolve barriers, and redefine a shared understanding of this vital issue. Their canvas is the screen, and their medium is film. They craft commercials, documentaries, and productions that go beyond entertainment - they inspire empathy, spark dialogue, and unite diverse voices.

National Recreation and Park Association is a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing park, recreation and conservation efforts that enhance quality of life for all people. Through its network of more than 50,000 recreation and park professionals and citizens, NRPA encourages the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles, conservation initiatives and equitable access to parks and public space. For information, visit www.nrpa.org.