In a powerful display of compassion, unity, and advocacy, The Holistic Healing Source for Marginalized Society recently hosted The 2026 Free Community Mental Health Breakfast. Founded by the visionary Dr. Calynn Lawrence, the organization brought the community together for an inspiring morning dedicated to breaking stigmas, fostering connection, and raising vital awareness for mental health. The beautifully orchestrated event was held in proud support of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Illinois, further amplifying the critical message that mental health care is a universal right, not a privilege. The event raised several hundred dollars to help finance NAMI Illinois’ life-saving services that benefit 90,000+ residents every year, including Dr. Lawrence who speaks openly about living with Major Depressive Disorder, alcoholism, complex trauma, and being a suicide survivor.
For marginalized communities, the barriers to accessing mental health resources can often feel insurmountable. Systemic inequities, cultural stigmas, and financial hurdles frequently prevent individuals from seeking the help they deserve. Recognizing this profound need, Dr. Calynn Lawrence established The Holistic Healing Source for Marginalized Society as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. The 2026 Free Community Mental Health Breakfast was a direct reflection of this mission in action.
By offering a complimentary, welcoming breakfast, the organization created a safe space where community members could gather without the pressure of financial burden. Food has long been a universal language of care, and sharing a meal allowed attendees to let their guards down, engage in open dialogue, and connect over shared experiences. The atmosphere was nothing short of transformative—a morning where vulnerability was met with validation, and isolation was replaced by profound solidarity.
The event’s support of NAMI Illinois added an essential layer of impact to the morning’s proceedings. NAMI has long been at the forefront of mental health advocacy, education, and support. By dedicating this gathering to NAMI Illinois as she sits on the State Board of Directors as the Development & Fundraising Chair, Dr. Lawrence and her team not only raised crucial awareness for the organization’s life-saving programs but also connected attendees directly to resources that can help them navigate their mental health journeys long after the breakfast plates were cleared.
Through heartfelt speeches from a plethora of impactful speakers (listed below) and free educational resources, and the simple act of gathering for a common cause, the breakfast served as a reminder that healing happens in community. The Holistic Healing Source for Marginalized Society is doing the essential, ground-level work required to ensure that mental health advocacy reaches the populations that are too often overlooked.
The 2026 Free Community Mental Health Breakfast was more than just a successful event; it was a movement of empathy and empowerment. Dr. Calynn Lawrence and her dedicated team have proven that when we create accessible, holistic spaces for healing, we don’t just raise awareness—we uplift entire communities. As attendees left with nourished bodies and inspired spirits, the message was clear: no one has to fight their mental health battles alone, and the path to wellness is one we can, and must, walk together.
Event Speakers:
- Dr. Calynn Lawrence, Founder of The Holistic Healing Source, Professionally Certified Trauma Specialist, Globally Accredited Holistic Therapy Educator, NAMI Illinois State Board of Directors – Development Chair
- Dawn Smith, M.Psych, Contributing Researcher at The Holistic Healing Source, Nationally Certified Holistic Mental Health Specialist
- Jasmin Ford, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, Award-Winning Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Nursing Educator, Entrepreneur
- Dr. Robina Wright-Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor, Doctor of Education, M.A, M.Div
- A’Shonti McKinney, CEO of Crowned Elites, LLC
- Nikhaule Martin, BPH, CEO of Pour Into It Media, Seasoned Healthcare Professional
- Brenda Stewart, Executive Director/Co-Founder of Ernestine’s Daughter, Survivor Leader, Advocate
- David Chappell, MA, MNLM, CEO of Daybreak Development LLC, NAMI Illinois State Board of Directors
- Rob Mayfield, Professional Comedian and Media Personality
- Delois Dean, Professional Comedian and Media Personality
- Mara Lynne, Human Rights Advocate and Activist
Learn more at www.holistichealingsource.org.
