What is the Summit About?

In Broward County, there are many incidents where first responders become involved with a civilian suffering from mental health or substance abuse issues. Many of fatal police encounters occur in similar circumstances. These numbers are unacceptable. This was a contributing factor for creating the Broward Mental Health Summit back in 2018.

The summit is intended to take a look at current and trending issues facing our community. We aim to educate, inform, and offer tools for understanding mental health so that first responders and the community at large have better interactions when situations arise.

Now in our eighth year, we continue to work alongside a strong committee of mental health professionals, first responders and business owners, to provide current and educational workshops.

Whether you are a healthcare provider, first responder, aspiring activist unsure how to contribute, an accomplished community leader, a business owner, an elected official, or simply a concerned citizen, you will leave with concrete data, information tools, and a better understanding of the challenges that those with mental health issues face. After all, mental health affects all.

Who Should Attend?

EVERYONE! This event is for YOU, the general public. It is intended to educate, inform and offer tools for your mental wellness.  Now in our seventh year, we have assembled a robust committee, who have put together interactive sessions that are timely and informative. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, first responder, aspiring activist unsure of how to contribute, an accomplished community leader, a business owner, elected official, or just simply a concerned citizen, you’ll walk away with concrete data, information tools, and a better understanding of the challenges affecting those with mental health issues. After all, mental wellness affects everyone!

Event Committee

EVENT PLANNING COMMITTEE

Background 

Back in January 2018, the Executive Director of the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County at the time, Juan Carlos Arias, decided to create an event, a summit which would educate the public on mental health issues affecting our community. It was at this time that Juan was introduced to Beth Taché, a community leader and marketing executive in Broward County. (and has since joined the Board of Directors for the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County) Beth and Juan, along with 211 Broward met on the morning of February 14, 2018, to discuss a possible collaboration.

Unforeseen events would unfold just a few hours later, leaving the South Florida community looking for answers. This was the day of the MSD shooting. A few weeks later, they met again and instead of 3 in the room, the small office was bursting with other community leaders, behavioral health professionals and organizations, as well as sponsors who were ready to help this cause. The First Annual Broward Mental Health Summit was produced 6 months later in September 2018 and continues to be a collaborative effort with many of the original supporters to this day. The Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County is proud to have started this important initiative.