The University of Dayton is setting for a significant event focused on mental health, featuring Dayton Flyers coach Anthony Grant and his wife, Chris. The mental health event at UD Arena will be known as “The Spotlight,” which is scheduled for October 19 and aims to bring attention to critical issues related to mental health.
Notably, this event holds special meaning for the Grants, as it honors the memory of their late daughter, Jay, who passed away in 2022.
The Spotlight is designed to champion the cause of adolescent and young adult mental health and suicide prevention, driving awareness, and education on these critical topics.
The Spotlight – Mental Health Event At UD Arena
The University of Dayton has announced the details of The Spotlight, emphasizing its commitment to addressing mental health challenges among adolescents and young adults.
The event is open to the public and is free of charge, welcoming all who wish to attend. The doors will open at 5 p.m., providing attendees with an opportunity to explore a mental health resource fair and engage in a meet-and-greet session with the Dayton men’s basketball players.
The main event will commence at 6 p.m. and is expected to conclude at approximately 8:30 p.m.
The primary objective of The Spotlight is to create a platform for discussions surrounding mental health, offering insights and resources for those affected by these issues.
It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing mental health challenges, particularly among young people who may be struggling silently.
Notably, The Spotlight event precedes a special exhibition basketball game between the University of Dayton and Ohio State men’s basketball teams scheduled for October 22 at UD Arena.
The proceeds from this game will be directed towards the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation and the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Ohio.
Dayton Athletic Director Neil Sullivan underscored the purpose of these events, stating, “The purpose is to educate, advocate, and support and help individuals and families who are battling some of these challenges that seem to be growing and trying to raise some money to increase access to mental health services in Ohio and throughout the country.”
Mental health concerns have become increasingly prominent, especially among adolescents and young adults, making initiatives like The Spotlight and the basketball game exhibition even more critical.
The events provide an opportunity for the community to come together and address these pressing issues.
The Grant family’s personal connection to the cause adds a deeply emotional dimension to The Spotlight. By honoring the memory of their late daughter, Jay, they hope to inspire change and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about mental health and wellness.
Their dedication to advocating for adolescent and young adult mental health and suicide prevention serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that individuals and communities can have when they join forces to address such crucial issues.
The University of Dayton’s commitment to this cause reflects its broader mission to support the well-being of its students and the community at large.
Mental health is an essential aspect of overall health and wellness, and events like The Spotlight help break the silence surrounding these issues and offer valuable resources for those in need.
As the date of The Spotlight event approaches, anticipation is building, and it is expected to draw individuals and families from across the region.
The hope is that this event will not only raise awareness but also encourage open conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote access to the support and services that can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected.
Ultimately, The Spotlight is more than an event; it’s a beacon of hope and an opportunity to come together as a community to support and uplift those facing mental health challenges.
By honoring Jay Grant’s memory and driving awareness, education, and advocacy, The Spotlight aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of adolescents and young adults, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.