Evaluating Implementation of Sustainable Training in Mental Health First Aid for GML Staff

Grupo de Mujeres Latinas (GML) was founded to create a welcoming space for Latina women in the Bronx, and has evolved into a multifaceted program offering workshops in arts, computer skills, health, sewing, parenting, and spiritual formation, all while fostering dignity, agency, and leadership. Yet, many women participating in GML are not only struggling with a disproportionate number of stressors that fuel an array of mental health concerns (e.g., depression, post-traumatic stress), but also face structural barriers to accessing mental health support in the Bronx. To address this, we will implement an evidence-based curriculum to train GML staff (e.g., workshop leaders, youth group leaders) to recognize, respond to, and appropriately refer out as needed for urgent mental health needs. By centering Latina voices and culturally relevant solutions, we aim to create a sustainable “train the trainer” program to improve knowledge and skills related to mental health, and promote lasting change within GML and other Bronx communities.

Community Partner:

Belmont Catholic Community

Project Team:

Trena Yonkers-Talz

Director of Community Center, Outreach, and Accompaniment at Belmont Catholic Community Center | Trena Yonkers-Talz has over 20 years of experience in Jesuit higher education in Central America. Trena holds master’s degrees in Theology from Boston College and in College Student Development from Miami University. She recently completed her Doctor’s Degree in Lay Ministry from Fordham University.

Dr. Elizabeth Raposa

Associate Professor of Psychology at Fordham University | Professor Raposa is a clinical psychologist whose research focuses on how early life stress affects youth development and how supportive relationships can protect against its negative impacts. She earned her B.A. in Psychology and Comparative Literature from the University of Pennsylvania, and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from UCLA.