Local podcasters, the “Two Cool Dudes” of Anthony Johnson and Lawrence Williams, will collaborate with Healthy Adams Behavioral Health Task Force members to bring the When the Sun Goes Down, Find your light event to Gettysburg High School on Jan. 22 at 6:15 p.m.
The duo’s mission is to de-stigmatize mental health issues; the program will offer an insightful exploration of mental wellness.
Although it is held at the high school, “the event is for everyone,” said Johnson.
The Weary Arts Group will also be performing, adding a unique twist to stories that will be shared by some of the podcast’s past guests.
Representatives from local agencies will be on hand to provide valuable information about the resources and services they offer.
The duo’s work is cathartic and brings discussion of mental health issues on a personal basis. “We still have struggles. What we go through on a daily basis from what we’ve been through helps us to give back,” said Johnson. “I have 2 kids in school. I know how things can seem because of depression, politics, loss of a loved one, the way the world is today and so on.”
Hearing two African-American men talk about mental health concerns, thoughts, and feelings helps to normalize every day struggles in the surrounding community. “It’s ok not to be OK,” they say.
The podcast helps the duo meet others where they are and get link them to local resources. “We hope to revamp the podcast in 2025 and do some more recordings to help others,” said Williams.
This is a free community event, but participants are asked to register using the QR codes on the flyer and consider making a donation to the Healthy Adams County Task Force.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in early childhood education and occupational therapy, and volunteers with local organizations.
It’s great to see mental health brought forward in our community, especially with the chaos and confusion that seems to infect every aspect of our lives. As a senior educator I am thrilled to see this happen; and ask, how are “two cool dudes” qualified to make this presentation, and, able to answer questions about the challenges of mental health and wellness that may arise?
William, I encourage you to listen to our podcast so you have an understanding of what we are about. We do not believe you need to be a professional to create awareness about mental health or provide a forum for individuals to find out about the resources available to them within their community. Or to share stories of individual struggles of mental health.
Looking forward to this event. Thank you so much for organizing it for the community.