Men’s Mental Health Awareness Panel 2026

Because strength isn’t silence.

Co-Sponsored by Bright Path Behavioral Health and Fusion Academy of Raleigh & Chapel Hill
Friday, June 12 | 1:00–3:00 PM
Hill Learning Center

About This Event

Conversations around men’s mental health are often left unspoken or pushed aside. This panel is designed to change that.

Join us for an afternoon of honest, thoughtful dialogue as a group of local professionals come together to share their experiences, insights, and perspectives on men’s mental health. Through both personal stories and professional lenses, this conversation will explore the challenges men face, the barriers to seeking support, and the role community plays in building stronger, healthier lives.

This event is open to everyone. We welcome professionals, parents, families, and students to attend and be part of the conversation.

We’ll have food, drinks, and space to connect, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with one another in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

What You’ll Learn

Participants will:

• Gain insight into how men experience and express mental health challenges
• Better understand the impact of societal expectations on emotional well-being
• Learn practical strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and mental health
• Explore ways to support boys and young men in developing healthy coping skills
• Hear real perspectives on vulnerability, strength, and asking for help

Event Format

The afternoon will include a moderated panel discussion led by Jeremiah Horne, followed by audience Q&A and time for connection and conversation.

Moderator

Jeremiah Horne
Director of Admissions, Fusion Academy Raleigh

Panelists

We will be joined by five professionals from the mental health and education community who will share their unique perspectives and experiences.

Daniel Montenegro | Family Psychiatry Practice and Associates
Daniel brings a clinical mental health perspective to the conversation and will help attendees think about the ways men experience, name, and seek support for emotional well-being.

Jimmy Evans | Barbershop Therapy
Jimmy brings a community-centered lens to men’s mental health, with a focus on connection, trust, and the informal spaces where honest conversations can begin.

Chris Weintrob | Center for Psychology and Education
Chris brings experience from the psychology and education field and will offer perspective on supporting boys, young men, and families through mental health conversations.

Al Bennett | Fusion Academy
Al brings an education and student support perspective, with insight into what young men need from adults, mentors, and school communities.

Jordan Hall | Bright Path Behavioral Health
Jordan brings a behavioral health perspective and will speak to practical support, relationships, and the role community can play in reducing stigma.

Registration

Registration is required to attend this free, in-person event.

Questions or Suggestions?

We always welcome ideas and feedback. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to Jeremiah Horne at jhorne1@fusionacademy.com. We look forward to seeing you there.