On Wednesday, April 26, the Girls Dig Deeper Initiative teamed up with Macon Mental Health Matters (MMHM) to hold their very first Mental Health Check-In for Teens. About 20 people showed up to Rosa Jackson Recreation Center, including teens and their mothers, and they were all eager to be there.

“It was so great to have interaction from every single person that attended,” said MMHM Coordinator Andrea Cooke. “Sometimes it can be hard for people, especially teenagers, to open up and talk about their feelings. This group had no difficulties. They were so engaged in every activity.” 

MMHM provided information about resolving conflict, meditation, relaxation, and grounding techniques for anxiety prevention. Teens also learned about signs and symptoms of mental health issues and how to cope with them.  

“It was so good to see that intergenerational aspect, to see mother and daughter talking about their mental health,” said Girls Dig Deeper Initiative Founder Najiva Timothee. “I meet with young people all of the time, so getting to have our parents involved in these sessions is so much more powerful. We’re looking forward to many more sessions.” 

This was the first of two sessions. The next session will be in May at Rosa Jackson, but the exact date has not yet been set. The sessions are free and open to everyone. Free food and beverages are also offered.  

About Macon Mental Health Matters 

The Macon Mental Health Matters (MMHM) initiative services include mental health counseling for both individuals and families, financial counseling, conflict resolution, non-traditional mental health activities (yoga, pop-up gyms, training, parenting/IECMH, etc.) and these services are offered in the community at no cost to the client, increasing the opportunity for access to care. 

This program incorporates a holistic approach for reducing recidivism, resolving conflict without using violence, and increasing access to mental health care within the Macon-Bibb County area. 

This program also serve to raise awareness, and inform the people within the community about therapy in general. This will lead to destigmatizing mental health as well as increasing access to mental health care. 

About Girls Dig Deeper Initiative  

Girls Dig Deeper Initiative is a girls group mentoring and youth development program in Central Georgia which serve youth in schools,  communities and incarcerated youth ages 13-17.  They provide 1:1, group and a team model mentoring approach within the organization. 

Their mission is to foster guidance, support and encouragement to all youth girls to dig deep within themselves to access their inner potential and expand their capacity to be a positive influence to themselves and others. 

Girls Dig Deeper Initiative launched its leadership development program in January, The Winners’ Mindset which teaches youth girls to rise up and win regardless of the challenges they face. 

About the Macon Violence Prevention Program   

Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) is an evidence-based, multifaceted program created to address public safety in Macon-Bibb County. Supported and funded by the consolidated government, MVP is a community-wide effort that brings together elected officials, community leaders, agencies, organizations, and departments. 

The second round of MVP grants is currently under review and will be announced soon by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia. Up to $600,000 will be awarded to organizations to continue or start programs focused on violent crime prevention. These programs and efforts are to be aligned with the goals of the community-generated MVP Strategic Plan that were set by nearly 2,000 people through forums and surveys on what our neighborhoods need.  

“The solution to violent crime in our community will be found in all of us working together on the same team,” explained Mayor Lester Miller. “The fact that more than 50 organizations came to the table with good ideas and applied for MVP grants shows that the people of our community are committed to this historic effort. If we continue to work together, we will create a safer, stronger community now and for future generations.”