Following the success of their first event in the spring, WEforum Group, the Rumson School District, and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS) are once again bringing the critical issue of youth mental health to the forefront. This time, the community conversation, Youth Mental Health: What I Wish I Knew, will take place on Tuesday, October 29th at Forrestdale Middle School, Multi-Purpose Auditorium, 60 Forrest Avenue, Rumson, NJ.
As youth mental health challenges continue to rise, this event serves as an urgent and necessary continuation of the dialogue begun earlier this year in Red Bank. With the stakes higher than ever, it is imperative that parents, caregivers, educators, and community members unite to better understand and support the younger generation. Advance registration is available at WEforumGroup.org.
The event agenda is as follows:
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- Registration: 6:30 pm
- Program: 7:00-8:00 pm
- Q&A: 8:00-8:30 pm
The conversation will once again be moderated by Susan Tellone, clinical director of the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS). The distinguished panel of experts includes Kalisha Smith, LCSW, associate clinical director at SPTS; Stacy Brief, LMSW, coordinator at SPTS Summit Long Island, Marli J. Gelfrand, M.A., L.P.C., A.C.S., assistant vice president of RWJBarnabas Health - Monmouth Medical Center (MMC), and Christine and Bob Moore, Parent Voice.
“The urgency of addressing youth mental health cannot be overstated,” said Carolyn DeSena, founder of WEforum Group and MMC Trustee. “We are seeing the emotional toll on our youth reach unprecedented levels, and we must act now. Our goal is to create a safe space where mental health struggles are discussed openly and without judgment, in the hope of shattering the stigma and offering hope to families.”
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This fall’s event continues the mission to break the silence surrounding youth mental health, offering valuable insights and life-saving information. Attendees will gain crucial tools to help recognize early warning signs, engage in meaningful conversations, and take proactive steps to support a young person in crisis.
“This conversation is more than just sharing stories—it’s about equipping the community with real solutions and strategies,” said Tellone. “Our panel of experts will offer both professional and personal perspectives on what we wish we had known earlier. The stakes are high, and every parent, caregiver, and educator needs to be part of this conversation.”
Partners for the event include the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, Monmouth Medical Center, RWJBarnabas Health, Rumson School District, the Mental Health Association of Monmouth County, Tigger Stavola Foundation, ShoreHouse, The Source at Red Bank Regional High School, and Soffer and Associates. In collaboration with the Rumson-Fair Haven Ridge Road Alliance, students will receive 2 hours of community service for attending.
This transformative discussion has the power to change lives, strengthen family bonds, and create a resilient community that prioritizes mental well-being. The urgency is clear—action must be taken now to ensure that youth receive the support they need.
Please visit WEforumGroup.org to register.
About WEforum
WEforum aims to strengthen the health and wellness of our local communities by educating and empowering individuals to take charge of their healthcare choices and make informed decisions. They partner with community leaders, wellness professionals, educators, and business organizations to promote a culture of healthy living. In addition, they foster awareness through community events, empower young people and adults alike through various programs, and raise funds to develop and support community programs and services that are free and accessible to all. Please visit weforumgroup.org.
