May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to break the stigma, advocate for accessibility, and highlight the importance of mental well-being for children, families, and communities.
This year, we kicked off Mental Health Month with our signature event, Sunset Sip 2025: Planting Seeds of Hope. Held at Hotel Maya on May 3rd, this unforgettable evening brought together supporters, partners, and advocates to celebrate our impact and raise funds for children’s mental health. Thanks to your support, we reached a record-breaking milestone of $233,000, helping us expand programs at The Guidance Center and plant seeds for a brighter future.
At The Guidance Center, we believe that mental wellness is a human right and not a privilege. This month, we’re reaffirming our commitment to making that belief a reality.
Why Mental Health Matters
Mental illness affects 1 in 5 adults and 1 in 6 youth aged 6–17 each year. Many of them do not receive the help they need due to stigma, lack of access, or systemic barriers.
The Guidance Center serves nearly 3,000 clients annually, with 77% being aged 6 to 17. We understand the need for more mental health support and actively work to break barriers to accessibility. Awareness, education, and community support are essential —not just in May, but every day.
Source: The Guidance Center’s 2023-2024 Impact Report.
Upcoming Events in May
This Mental Health Month, The Guidance Center is turning awareness into action by collaborating with our partners on free events open to the community.
LBUSD Head Start Health & Resource Fair: Building Connections
The Guidance Center is proud to be among the 20+ partners for the Long Beach Unified School District Head Start Health & Resource Fair. This event aims to connect families to the vital resources they need to thrive.
Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Location: 1260 E. 33rd Street, Signal Hill, CA 90755
Intended Audience: Families with children ages 0–5
What to Expect:
- Free dental, hearing, and vision screenings
- Engaging children’s activities
- Access to local organizations offering early childhood and health services
5th Annual Youth Mental Health Awareness Forum
Join us for The Art of Being Yay Experience, a forum hosted by MemorialCare in collaboration with The Guidance Center, the City of Long Beach, Mental Health of America- Los Angeles (MHALA), and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Greater Los Angeles.
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Location: The Grand Long Beach, 4101 E. Willow Street
Intended Audience: Educators, youth advocates, parents or caregivers, and health care professionals
What to Expect:
- Uplifting keynote by mental health advocate and comedian, Aidan Park.
- A supportive space to learn about youth mental health and how to foster resilience in our community.
- Free to attend, but space is limited — RSVP here to save your seat!
Parent Information Workshop: Positive Behavior
Are you a parent looking to understand and connect with your little one? This workshop is for you! The Guidance Center has partnered with Long Beach Public Library to create this event as part of their Dive Into Learning series.
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Bay Shore Library, 195 Bay Shore Ave., Long Beach
Intended Audience: Parents or caregivers
What to Expect:
- Practical strategies for encouraging positive behaviors in young children
- Expert-led discussion from our early childhood mental health professionals
- Welcoming space to ask questions and connect with other families
How to Support The Cause
Even if you can’t attend these events, there are still meaningful ways to support:
- Have a conversation and let someone know they’re not alone.
- Donate to local nonprofits like The Guidance Center that provide critical programs and services for the community.
- Share resources on social media to normalize mental health care.
- Practice self-care—you can’t pour from an empty cup!
How We’re Planting Seeds of Hope
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” – Audrey Hepburn
We’re continuing to grow our mission of healing through connection, education, and care. Whether it’s through our therapy services, school-based programs, or our new Family Resource Center, The Guidance Center is here to nurture the mental health of our community.
Stay Connected!
- Learn more about The Guidance Center’s mission
- Make an impact today through a gift in support of mental health care
- Follow us on socials: Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn