Closing Mental Health Month with Community-Led Wellness at the VCU Health Hub
During Mental Health Month, a series of wellness-focused events offered East End community members space to reflect, express, and recharge. These events were led by a certified community health worker (CHW) from VCU’s Health Hub at 25th, whose work is rooted in a commitment to emotional well-being and meaningful local impact.
As a certified community health worker, Ivy Bell works at the intersection of health education, advocacy, and community trust-building. Her role is rooted in lived experience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the challenges many people quietly face, from depression and anxiety to the effects of trauma. These realities inspired her to create a weekly series of mental health “moments” that made wellness approachable and grounded in the real experiences, language, and values of the community.
“I started building these sessions because I feel like in the community and being a person who suffered from depression, anxiety, PTSD, sometimes we don’t have an outlet. ” Ivy said. “Some of the stuff I’ve learned, I thought let’s use it to teach others how to get through, and sometimes take a minute back to think about ourselves. That’s what made me do it.”
Each week focused on a different wellness practice—from color therapy and journaling to music and group reflection. Participants found moments to breathe, connect with others, and process emotions in a welcoming space. The mental health event’s intentional and open approach allowed attendees to engage at their own pace.
“We would just sit in a circle, talk, and be real with each other. Some wanted to talk, others just needed a quiet moment. Either way, they showed up,” Ivy shared.
What stood out most to Ivy was the community’s response. “They came back each week, ready to show up and support each other. That was the most memorable part for me.”
Through these events, Ivy brought more than just wellness tips—she created a welcoming space where people could breathe, connect, and begin to heal. Her work during Mental Health Month is a reminder of how consistent, community-based efforts can spark real impact.
Certified community health workers like Ivy play a vital role in bridging gaps in access, understanding, and trust within the community. They are frontline public health professionals trained to support communities with compassion and practical tools.
VCU offers a pathway for individuals interested in becoming certified community health workers, helping to expand the impact of this essential role across the region. Ivy’s work is a clear reminder of how CHWs can uplift mental wellness, foster connection, and create meaningful change one conversation at a time.
If you have questions about mental health resources or would like to connect with a community health worker, visit or contact the VCU Health Hub at 25th. The Health Hub will continue to host The Hub Club every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, offering welcoming, wellness-focused sessions that create space for reflection, creativity, and connection. These gatherings, led by Ivy Bell, include workshops, storytelling, meditation, and more. To learn more, contact us at [email protected] or follow us on Instagram at @vcuhealthhub.
VCU Health Hub at 25th | 1330 N 25th St Suite A, Richmond, VA 23223 healthhub.vcu.edu | (804) 628-6401
