On October 19th, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson visited the Adrienne Arsht Center to present a $500,000 check supporting the center’s “I am Me” initiative, a unique arts-based youth mental health program designed to engage high school students. Launched in early 2022, “I am Me” is a theatrical production and workshop that travels to Miami-Dade County Public Schools with a mission to reach up to 25,000 students annually. The program uses interactive storytelling to promote mental health resources and well-being, equipping students with tools to enhance their mental health.
Funded as part of the 2023 Congressional Appropriations, the initiative is the nation’s first arts-driven mental health program of its kind.
“Initiatives like ‘I Am Me’ are impactful resources that leverage the arts to foster mental health and resilience… Supporting these programs provides our children with the necessary resources to thrive,” said Congresswoman Wilson in a press release. “I would like to express my gratitude to the Adrienne Arsht Center for leading this initiative.”
Johann Zietsman, President and CEO of the Adrienne Arsht Center, expressed appreciation for Wilson’s support, underscoring the arts’ role in fostering mental wellness. “The Arsht is grateful that Congresswoman Wilson shares our belief that the arts can be a powerful tool for understanding ourselves and each other,” said Zietsman in a press release. “‘I am Me’ is an important mental wellness initiative that can help spark important conversations among teens about mental health.”
Following the check presentation, attendees enjoyed a free performance from the Arsht Center’s Free Family Fest series, with a production of The Busy Bees’ Great Adventure, which focuses on promoting environmental awareness.
“I am Me” is one of 12 educational programs by the Adrienne Arsht Center, reaching a total of 80,000 students each year. More details about the Arsht Center’s educational initiatives can be found at arshtcenter.org/education.
This is a Hy-Lo News Staff Report.
0 comments on “Congresswoman Wilson Presents $500,000 Check to Support Arts-Based Youth Based Mental Health Initiative, “I Am Me”, at Adrienne Arsht Center”