“Julia Melton: You Are Not Your Diagnosis.”
Julia Melton, United States of America’s Mrs. Southeast, stopped by the MHAfred home office to share her story. The staff quickly saw how she stands out as a beacon of hope and resilience in a world where mental health battles often remain behind closed doors. As United States of America’s Mrs. Southeast, she is using her platform to spread awareness and end the stigma.
Julia carries a powerful message on her advocacy journey, “You are not your diagnosis, and you are more than the stigma of the mental health battle you are facing.” The United States of America’s Mrs. Southeast is using her platform to make a difference.
The Struggle Within
The journey of USOA Mrs. Southeast has not been an easy one. Julia has personally navigated the complexities that come along with mental health challenges. Her journey has ignited her passion to end the stigma that surrounds mental health.
Julia Melton shares her mental health journey openly, honestly, and candidly on her blog, The Eagles View – The Jewl of the Burg.
Partnering with Mental Health America of Fredericksburg
The United States of America’s Mrs. Southeast is committed to spreading awareness beyond her own healing. This year, she is partnering with Mental Health America of Fredericksburg, an affiliate of Mental Health America.
Our nonprofit is dedicated to promoting mental wellness, providing resources through community-based programs, and eradicating the stigma associated with mental health conditions. Together, we aim to create a more compassionate and understanding community; a community where seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage.
Join USOA Mrs. Southeast & Mental Health America of Fredericksburg!
The United States of America’s Mrs. Southeast, Julia Melton, is currently campaigning for the title of United States of America’s Mrs. 2024. If you are interested in helping spread the message of destigmatizing the label of mental health diagnoses, consider donating or becoming a sponsor today! Together, we can raise awareness and advocate for mental health awareness.
Become a Sponsor – The Jewl of the Burg
MHAfred’s partnership with the United States of America’s Mrs. Southeast is an example of the power of working together towards a common goal. Follow along as USOA Mrs. Southeast and MHAfred use teamwork to break through the stigma of mental health diagnoses. Follow the journey of USOA Mrs. Southeast, Julia Melton:
Instagram: USOA Mrs. Southeast | Julia Melton (@usoamrssoutheast) • Instagram photos and videos
Facebook: USOA Mrs. Southeast | Facebook
Website: The Jewl of the Burg
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, crisis, or need immediate assistance, please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. To reach a volunteer crisis counselor through the Crisis Text Line, text HOME to 741741.
To find mental health providers that are tailored to your needs, visit MHAfred HELPLINE to search our online database of providers or call us at (540) 371-2704.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
Thank you to our sponsors of the 17th Annual Walk for Mental Wellness!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
IN-KIND SPONSORS
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
IN-KIND SPONSORS
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
IN-KIND SPONSORS
Strategic Supporters Helping At-Risk Teens
Each year, Strong Tower Church donates to MHAfred’s annual campaign to help ensure the continuation of critical services to our community. Over the last two years, their generous support, along with the Fredericksburg City Chapter of the NAACP and Mary Washington Hospital Foundation, has helped at-risk teens attend therapy sessions through Mental Health America of Fredericksburg’s partnership with Youth Life Service (YLS). Most recently, The Community Foundation of the Rappahannock River Region has awarded MHAfred funding in support of after-school therapy sessions for at-risk youth. Keep reading to learn more about how these partnerships are impacting our community.
Would you consider donating to continue these services helping local teens?
Congratulations to Reina – We Miss You Already
Reina is a valued member of our team at MHAfred, starting as an intern she proved her worth over and over again. When she graduated from UMW, with a degree in Psychology, we offered her a part-time position while she searched for her career position. Today, May 9, 2024, is her last day with MHAfred, and she starts her dream job with the Registrar’s Office of the University of Mary Washington tomorrow. We will miss her cheerful and helpful addition to the office but look forward to her continued support as a volunteer.
Reina wanted to share her experience working here with us at MHAfred:
My time at Mental Health America of Fredericksburg has truly made an impact on me professionally and personally. I have learned invaluable skills that cannot be taught in the classroom, which also helped position me for my new job.
One aspect of this internship I genuinely appreciated was that the experience was specifically curated to reach my professional and personal goals, which allowed for truly unique mentorship opportunities. For example, wanting to have more confidence when speaking in public, I was provided with the support and opportunities to enhance that skill, including representing MHAfred at community events outside the office. My favorite event was Chart Your Future hosted by Stafford County Public Schools. I enjoyed sharing with students about the mental health resources available to them and hearing their stories.
It has been a very special experience to see the impact this organization makes on the community, and I am grateful to have been able to witness this personally. It has truly been an honor to be a part of an organization that cares about the community and will go above and beyond to help those in need.
Our New Home
Our New Home: Mental Health America of Fredericksburg
A New Beginning: We’re thrilled to announce that our nonprofit has found a new home at 150 Olde Greenwich Drive! We knew it was the perfect fit for us the moment we stepped into this space because it allows us to help you – in person. We are excited about the possibilities of hosting meetings and support groups. Make sure to follow along as we settle into our new space!
Connecting with the Community: The best part about our new location? It’s right in the heart of the community. We have already had people visiting us here to get connected with the resources they need. Whether it’s a friendly chat over a cup of coffee or a quick tour of our facilities, we’re here to connect.
Space for Collaboration: At 150 Olde Greenwich Drive, we’ve got room to spare. Our spacious conference room is perfect for group meetings, brainstorming sessions, and workshops. The large communal area encourages impromptu discussions and collaboration. The common area boasts an inviting couch, which we use quite often for our weekly staff meetings!
Join Us! We invite you to visit us at our new address. Drop by for a chat, explore our office and see how we can be part of your journey. Mental Health America of Fredericksburg isn’t just an office—it’s a place where ideas flourish, partnerships form, and community bonds strengthen. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Stay tuned for more updates as we settle into our new home! 🏢🌟