College Achieve Paterson Charter School Joins Growing In Grace Counseling Group to Support Mental Health Awareness

By Sharrieff Bugg

PATERSON, NJ – In a powerful demonstration of community spirit, students from College Achieve Paterson Charter School have stepped up to support Growing In Grace Counseling Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing mental health stigma, connecting individuals to professional services, and promoting disability awareness.

Unlike many organizations, 95% of Growing In Grace’s funding is directly allocated to its programs, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most. The organization primarily operates through fundraising, with 98% of its support coming from donations and sponsorships. Through various outreach events such as Stigma-Free Day, the Mental Health Classic Car Show, Free Mental Health First Aid Classes, Bounce Away, and the Adverse Childhood Experiences Day, the group has served over 5,000 individuals since launching in 2015.

Addressing a Critical Need in Paterson

Paterson currently lacks direct city-run mental health services, leaving many residents without easy access to essential support. Recognizing this gap, Growing In Grace has been working tirelessly to connect individuals and families with professional mental health services. Thanks to the recent Mental Health Tag Day fundraising efforts, the organization has helped multiple families access professional counseling and fully covered the cost of group therapy for four families.

The students from College Achieve Paterson Charter School’s sports department took the initiative to contribute to this mission, engaging in fundraising efforts to help more individuals receive the care they need. Their dedication was deeply appreciated by the Growing In Grace team and the community members who benefited from their hard work. Athletic Coordinator Kanifa Dobson, who played a key role in organizing the collaboration, expressed the significance of the students’ involvement.

“This was a powerful opportunity for the students to see the value of their contribution,” she said. “A family was given the chance to receive mental health support because of their commitment.”

A Celebration of Gratitude

In recognition of their efforts, Growing In Grace Counseling Group, the Willie Peterkin Foundation, and Dr. Melissa Baralt hosted a celebratory luncheon for the student volunteers. The event featured a delicious spread of fried chicken, peppers & sausage, rice, ziti, salad, and bread, along with refreshing cold drinks. The students enjoyed a moment of camaraderie and appreciation, reinforcing the impact of their generosity.

The heartfelt conversations and shared meal underscored an important message — it doesn’t take much to show gratitude, and small acts of kindness can make a significant difference.

Continuing the Mission on May 10th Mental Health Tag Day

As the demand for mental health support continues to grow, grassroots organizations like Growing In Grace rely on partnerships and community involvement to expand their reach. The upcoming May 10th event aims to further this mission, bringing together supporters to raise awareness and funds for critical mental health services in Paterson and beyond.

Through collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment to breaking the stigma around mental health, organizations like Growing In Grace Counseling Group and schools like College Achieve Paterson Charter School are proving that real change happens when communities come together.

As first published on TAPinto here.