Colorado Desk - Colorado Springs celebrates one year of Pikes Peak Rising, a community-powered movement for mental health

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~ The City of Colorado Springs is celebrating the one-year anniversary of Pikes Peak Rising, a mental health movement that has gained momentum and support from various sectors within the community. This initiative was born out of a shared belief that mental well-being is a responsibility that falls on the entire community.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade expressed his pride in the growth of Pikes Peak Rising, stating that it has become much more than just a single initiative. He emphasized the importance of tackling mental health challenges as a community and prioritizing social connection, treating the issue with dignity, and taking action together. The Mayor also highlighted how this movement showcases the city's ability to lead with both strategy and heart.

First Lady Abbey Mobolade, who is a nurse educator and long-time advocate for mental health, also shared her excitement about the progress made in helping individuals and families within the community. She stated that there are even more plans in place for the upcoming year to continue providing support where people live, work, and gather.

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Since its launch in July 2024, Pikes Peak Rising has brought together numerous partners from different sectors such as neighborhood leaders, nonprofit advocates, local businesses, and military personnel. One notable partnership is between the Colorado Springs Police Department and the statewide 988 Mental Health Hotline. This collaboration allows individuals in need of non-emergency care to be directly transferred to licensed practitioners, making access to care easier while also reducing the burden on emergency responders.

In addition to this partnership, over 200 supervisors and managers have been trained in suicide prevention through Pikes Peak Rising's H.O.P.E. Bronze Certification program. This makes Colorado Springs the first and largest city in the United States to achieve this certification.

The initiative has also focused on fostering connection within neighborhoods through their 1,000 Neighborhood Gatherings initiative. Residents from all 77 neighborhoods have participated in various events such as block parties, cleanups, park meetups, and public safety events. This has helped to reduce isolation and promote community connection. The business community has also shown support for Pikes Peak Rising through the growth of the Pikes Peak Rising Business Collective, which provides employers with tools and training to support their employees' mental health.

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Pikes Peak Rising has also partnered with El Paso County Public Health to launch the Pikes Peak Rising 360° online portal, the first of its kind in Colorado. This portal offers 24/7 access to resources and tools for families, workers, and young people dealing with stress, anxiety, or emotional strain.

As Pikes Peak Rising enters its second year, they are preparing to launch new campaigns focused on workplace wellness, community resilience, and sector-specific outreach. This includes providing support for the restaurant industry and military families. The central message of this initiative remains unchanged - mental health care starts with connection and healing begins when communities rise together.

To learn more about Pikes Peak Rising or access mental health resources, visit ColoradoSprings.gov/PikesPeakRising.

Filed Under: Government, City

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