With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros, Saint Basil Academy proudly presents Together We Thrive, an initiative to build a robust community of Orthodox congregations committed to the mental and spiritual health of parishioners and community members. Together We Thrive seeks to spread Orthodox Christian healing both regionally and nationally by providing training and certification in Mental Health First Aid to clergy and parishioners in the setting of a spiritual retreat. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based program spearheaded by The National Council for Behavioral Health that trains individuals on how to recognize and respond to the warning signs of mental and substance abuse disorders and link them with appropriate treatment. MHFA increases the understanding that mental illnesses are real, common, and treatable. Together We Thrive participants will undergo MHFA training while also experiencing the benefits of worshiping, learning, and connecting with other congregations. 

Program Highlights Include

• Onsite certification and teacher training of laity and clergy in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in the setting of a spiritual retreat.
• Funding for program participants to become MHFA ambassadors and host their own local training retreats.
• Workshops providing mental health support resources to congregations and connecting them with local resources and providers.
• Ongoing community-building of participating congregations to create a robust support network and invigorated sense of inter-congregational Orthodox community.
• Deep invigoration of congregational life through strengthening community, relationships, and an atmosphere of health and support

Together We Thrive will also allow Saint Basil Academy to facilitate healing in the same spirit that our beloved and venerated patron saint created his “City of Charity” to provide health, comfort, and succor to the most vulnerable in the early days of the church. Together, we can face the challenges of our times: Together we can thrive.