Join William Henry and Jessica Colón as they explore the transformative power of outdoor movement, community engagement, and nature-based education. Discover how Jessica’s journey from Puerto Rico to founding ‘For the People and Kids’ highlights the importance of accessible green spaces, community partnerships, and fostering a love for nature in children and families.
Guest Information:
- Guest Name: Jessica Colón
- Bio: Jessica M. Colón is the founder of For the People & Kids, a community-centered organization dedicated to connecting children and families with nature, creativity, culture, and hands-on learning experiences. Passionate about accessible education and inclusive community programming, Jessica has helped create bilingual, nature-based programs that bring together local educators, artists, farms, libraries, and wellness practitioners throughout the community.
- Driven by a deep belief in the healing and transformative power of nature, Jessica focuses on creating meaningful opportunities where children can explore, create, move, and grow in welcoming environments. Through For the People & Kids, she continues to build partnerships and programs that make enriching experiences affordable and accessible for all families.
- Links:
Website: www.forthepeopleandkids.org (Gala October 17th)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forthepeopleandkids/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/for-the-people-and-kids/posts/?feedView=all
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forthepeopleandkids
Key Topics
- Jessica’s background and journey into community work
- The importance of nature and green spaces in childhood development
- How ‘For the People and Kids’ was founded and grew
- Community partnerships and accessibility in outdoor education
- Innovative programs like bee hotels, gardens, and art in nature
Resources:
The Farm at Cabbage Hill: https://www.cabbagehill.org/
DIG Farm: https://www.digfarm.org/
Host & Show Info
- Host Name: William Henry, LCSW
- About the Host: William Henry is a licensed clinical social worker and certified nature informed therapist. After graduating from New York University, he spent seven dedicated years in a day treatment center and school where he worked closely with students and families facing significant mental health challenges. Certified in Nature Informed Therapy in 2022, he believes that rebuilding our connection with nature can provide some much needed relief from the struggles that many of us are facing. Will spends his free time fly fishing, camping and hiking. Find more resources and information through his practice, Riverstone Mental Health Collective, based in Mount Kisco, NY.
- Website: riverstonementalhealth.com
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- Follow us on social media:
- Instagram: @riverstonementalhealth
- Facebook: Riverstone Mental Health
- LinkedIn: William Henry, LCSW
- YouTube: @TheNatureofMentalHealth
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer:
The Nature of Mental Health is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. The information presented here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care professional. If you’re in crisis, thinking about harming yourself, or don’t feel safe, call 911, or contact your local emergency number or crisis hotline immediately.