Event Presented by CalHope and Purina, in Partnership with The Kids Mental Health Foundation
LOS ANGELES – In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, LA Galaxy, CalHope, Purina, and The Kids Mental Health Foundation hosted a roundtable with LA Galaxy Forward Christian Ramirez on Wednesday, May 21 at 1 p.m. PT. A group of 50 elementary school students from Para Los Niños attended and participated in the event.
Longtime LA Galaxy broadcaster Joe Tutino moderated a conversation between the students, Ramirez, Dr. Cathy L. Butz, PhD—a contributor to The Kids Mental Health Foundation and pediatric psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital—and a representative from CalHope. Following the discussion, the students moved into breakout groups where they collaborated on stress management plans and explored the importance of managing stress in their daily lives. The event concluded with a play session featuring dogs from Wags and Walks, a group closely connected to Purina’s community efforts, and a group photo.
As a Southern California native, Ramirez has remained passionate about building a world where mental health is a vital part of every child’s upbringing in Los Angeles and beyond. He was recently honored with the Champions of Influence for Mental Health Award from The Kids Mental Health Foundation for his advocacy work.
May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, an annual observance founded by Mental Health America in 1949 to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, educate the public, reduce stigma, and promote support for those affected by mental health conditions. Each year, individuals and organizations come together to raise awareness and advocate for improved mental health care and resources.
