Sacred Work: Section 3

Supporting the mental health of Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) youth is not only necessary—it’s deeply important work that sits at the intersection of biblical justice, faith, and community care. This course is designed for youth workers, educators, faith leaders, and community advocates who want to deepen their understanding and practice of culturally responsive care for BIPOC youth navigating mental health challenges. Participants will engage in interactive learning, reflection, and skill-building to explore how systemic injustice, cultural identity, and personal experiences shape the mental health realities of young people. Through activities like spectrum discussions, case studies, mindfulness exercises, and personal reflection, we will unpack how mental health is expressed across cultures and how youth distress is often misunderstood or overlooked. Topics include: – Understanding youth mental health terms and trends – Exploring how racial trauma, oppression, and identity impact mental wellness – Learning to recognize and respond to signs of distress with cultural humility – Practicing responses using tools from Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) – Reflecting on personal and collective sustainability in youth work – Navigating the intersection of faith and mental health A certificate of completion is available to participants completing the coursework.