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Hello Friends, and welcome to the July edition of our monthly newsletter!
As we move through the heart of summer, July invites us to slow down, soak in moments of connection, and reflect on what it means to care for ourselves and our communities. This month, we honor BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to amplify the voices and experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color who often face additional barriers to accessing mental health care.
At MHA of Dubuque County, we believe that mental health support should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and rooted in equity. This month’s newsletter highlights resources, events, and stories that celebrate resilience and promote healing within our diverse community.
Whether you're looking to learn more, get involved, or simply take a step toward your own well-being, we’re glad you’re here, and we’re grateful to be walking this journey together.
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Scholarship Deadline Extended! | | |
Mental Health America of Dubuque County is excited to announce the extension of the application deadline for our $1,000 scholarship.
If you’re a high school or college student living in Dubuque County with a mental health diagnosis and pursuing further education, you now have until July 15, 2025 to apply.
Applications and all required documents must be submitted or postmarked by 11:59 p.m. on July 15. Scholarship recipients will be notified by July 31, 2025.
Don’t miss this opportunity to help cover tuition, books, lab fees, or adaptive technology.
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BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month | | |
Every July, we recognize BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, created to bring attention to the unique mental health experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Originally founded in 2008 as Minority Mental Health Awareness Month by mental health advocate Bebe Moore Campbell, this month continues to shine a light on the historical and cultural barriers that can make accessing care more difficult for many communities.
Why It Matters
BIPOC individuals are often less likely to receive mental health services due to systemic inequities, stigma, provider bias, and lack of culturally responsive care. At the same time, communities of color show tremendous strength, resilience, and healing through connection, storytelling, and mutual support.
Mental health is not one size fits all. It is shaped by lived experiences, culture, language, and trust. That is why it is so important to support care that reflects and respects diverse backgrounds.
How We Can Support BIPOC Mental Health
- Educate yourself and others about the impact of racism and intergenerational trauma on mental health.
- Support culturally competent providers and advocacy groups doing this essential work.
- Listen to BIPOC voices, center their experiences, and believe their stories.
- Share resources and break down stigma by talking openly about mental health in your community.
Local Connections
In Dubuque and the surrounding area, several organizations are working to support BIPOC mental health and foster inclusion:
- The Multicultural Family Center offers culturally sensitive counseling, community programs, and support groups.
- The Dubuque County Wellness Coalition actively promotes equity in health and wellness through education and advocacy.
- The Dubuque LGBTQ+ Resource Network provides safe spaces and mental health resources tailored to diverse identities and backgrounds.
We encourage you to reach out, get involved, or simply learn more about these local groups making a difference every day.
MHA’s Tools and Resources
Mental Health America offers a collection of materials focused on BIPOC Mental Health, including fact sheets, culturally responsive tools, and shareable graphics for online awareness. Explore them at mhanational.org/bipoc.
Together, let us commit to equity in mental health care for every person, every story, and every community.
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Mental Health America (MHA) continues its vital mission of promoting mental health, preventing mental illness, and improving access to care across the nation. This July, MHA is focused on advancing health equity by supporting BIPOC communities and raising awareness about culturally responsive mental health care.
Recent Initiatives and Highlights:
- Equity in Mental Health Care: MHA is expanding programs and partnerships aimed at reducing disparities in mental health services for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, MHA promotes inclusive approaches that honor diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Workplace Mental Health: The Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health program recognizes employers committed to creating mentally healthy environments. Businesses across the country are encouraged to apply and prioritize mental well-being for their employees.
- National Screening Day: MHA offers free, confidential mental health screenings year-round, with a spotlight this summer on encouraging early help-seeking behaviors. Visit mhanational.org/screening to take a quick online screening and find local support resources.
- Youth Mental Health: MHA continues to champion youth mental health through educational campaigns, toolkits for schools, and support for parents and caregivers navigating mental health challenges.
Get Involved:
You can support MHA’s work by volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness about mental health in your community. Learn more about national campaigns, resources, and how to participate at mhanational.org.
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This year’s conference will bring together leading experts, trailblazing innovators, and passionate advocates who are driving real change in mental health. Together, we’ll explore proven strategies that are expanding access, improving care, and creating lasting impact across communities.
Attendees will walk away with practical tools, replicable models, and fresh inspiration to take what works—and make it work at home.
Secure your spot today and take advantage of discounted rates.
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MHA 2025 Legislative Session Final Report – Summary
Session Overview
- The Iowa Legislative Session ended on May 15, 2025.
- All budget bills passed; no major tax changes.
- Next session begins January 12, 2026.
Major Wins
- Continued $3.18 million for school-based mental health training (SF 647).
- Approved threat assessment teams in schools (SF 538).
- Updated bullying laws (HF 865) and truancy enforcement (SF 277).
- Required seizure training for school staff by July 2025 (HF 835).
- Required cell phone policies in schools (HF 782).
- Updated autism insurance coverage requirements (HF 330).
Concerning Provisions Passed
- State Medicaid funds banned for gender-affirming care (HF 1049).
- Hands-free driving law enacted (SF 22).
Still Under Consideration (2026 Eligible)
- School chaplains without licenses (HF 884).
- Mental health training mandate for school staff (SF 102).
- Free menstrual products in schools (HF 883).
- Publishing school mental health resources online (SF 100).
- Child sexual abuse prevention curriculum (SF 172).
Monitored or Opposed
- Ban on gender identity education (HSB 84).
- Ban on standards-based grading (HF 150).
- Grant program for school resource officers (HF 9).
- Allowing athletic trainers in place of school nurses (HSB 10).
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let's CONNECT For Dubuque County Children
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Are you looking for a way to be of service and volunteer some time with an excellent group in Dubuque? Consider joining the let's CONNECT For Dubuque County Children council! This group meets once a month.
See below for more information and/or reach out with questions to Gwen Deming- ggdeming@icloud.com or Julie Raymond- jraymond@fouroaks.org.
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National Alliance on Mental Illness | |
NAMI Dubuque at the Dubuque County Fair
Wednesday, July 23, 2025
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Dubuque County Fairgrounds
Join NAMI Dubuque in raising awareness about mental health at the Dubuque County Fair. Volunteers are needed to staff the information table, distribute materials, and engage with fairgoers about mental health resources and support. Shifts are available from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. No prior experience is necessary; training and materials will be provided.
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All programs and materials are FREE!
Questions?
563-557-6264
barb@namidubuque.org
ellen@namidubuque.org
| As with all programs, support groups are free and confidential. | |
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This July marks the third anniversary of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—a vital service that has connected millions of people to immediate support through calls, texts, and chats during mental health crises.
Beyond being a lifeline, 988 has sparked a nationwide movement to create comprehensive crisis care systems. Thanks to the collaboration of state legislators, advocates, and community members, the vision of crisis care is becoming a reality: ensuring that everyone in crisis has someone to contact, someone to respond, and a safe place to go.
Join NAMI’s upcoming Virtual Town Hall as we reflect on the first three years of 988 and spotlight the inspiring efforts across states to expand access to crisis care.
Reserve your spot today and feel free to submit questions for the panel through the webinar registration form!
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Healthiest State Initiative | |
Upcoming Events
Soft Trail Stroll: Denman Woods Inner Loop
- Saturday, July 12, 2025
- 10:00–11:30 AM
- Des Moines
- Explore the flat trails of Denman Woods. Meet at the west end of the bridge over Walnut Creek on North Valley Drive.
Orchard Place Moonlight Classic
- Saturday, July 12, 2025
- 7:30–11:30 PM
- Downtown Des Moines
- Participate in a nighttime bike ride supporting youth mental health programs. The event includes fun contests and supports Orchard Place's mission to serve over 6,000 children annually.
Soft Trail Stroll: Fourmile Mountain Bike Park Outer Loop
- Tuesday, July 29, 2025
- 10:00–11:00 AM
- Des Moines
- Enjoy a guided walk on the outer loop of Fourmile Mountain Bike Park's unpaved trails. Meet at the designated parking area.
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Iowa Health & Human Services | | |
Effective July 1, 2025, Iowa's behavioral health services have undergone a significant transformation. The state has consolidated its 32 Mental Health and Disability Services regions and 19 Integrated Provider Networks into a unified Behavioral Health Service System, aimed at streamlining access to mental health and substance use services across the state.
Key Changes in the New System
- Unified Access Points: All Iowans, regardless of insurance status, can access services through a single system. Individuals without insurance or with limited coverage will receive support via the Behavioral Health Service System. Services remain unchanged for those with Medicaid or private insurance.
- Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization (BH-ASO): The Iowa Primary Care Association (Iowa PCA) has been designated as the statewide BH-ASO. Iowa PCA is responsible for establishing a network of providers and ensuring clear, consistent pathways to care across all seven behavioral health districts.
- Comprehensive Service Offerings: The new system encompasses a wide range of services, including:
- Prevention, education, and early intervention for mental health and addictive disorders
- Crisis services
- Outpatient and inpatient treatment
- Recovery support services
- Alternatives to hospital care
- Residential treatment
- Behavioral Health System Navigators: These professionals are available to guide individuals to the appropriate care and services, ensuring a supportive transition into the new system.
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Mindspring Mental Health Alliance | | |
Mindspring Mental Health Alliance continues its commitment to accessible mental health education and support through a series of free webinars and events this July. These offerings are designed to enhance understanding of various mental health topics and provide valuable resources for individuals and communities.
Upcoming Webinar
The Science Behind Mental Illness
- Tuesday, July 22, 2025 | 10:00–11:00 AM PDT
- Learn about the biological and psychological foundations of mental health disorders. This session will cover causes, treatments, and prevention strategies, providing a scientific perspective on mental illness.
Support Groups
Mindspring also offers online support groups to foster community and provide shared experiences:
Dealing with Anxiety Support Group
- Thursday, July 17, 2025 | 7:00 PM CDT
- A safe space for individuals to connect and share resources related to anxiety management. Registration is required.
Date Night – A Support Group for Couples Navigating Mental Health
- Thursday, July 10, 2025 | 8:00 PM CDT
- Designed for couples facing mental health challenges together, this group offers support and tools to strengthen relationships. Registration is required.
All webinars are free to attend and include certificates of attendance for participants. Recordings are made available to registrants 24 hours after the live event. Please note that Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are not provided.
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2025 Mental Health & Wellness Expo
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
4:00–6:30 PM CDT
Sioux City Convention Center, 801 4th Street, Sioux City, IA 51101
This free community event features over 20 vendors offering health and mental wellness resources and support. Enjoy complimentary food, fun activities for the kids, and explore strategies for self-care, stress management, and overall wellness.
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LivingWorks safeTALK Training
Friday, July 25, 2025
8:30 AM–12:30 PM CDT
Lindquist Center, N116, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Cost: $45
safeTALK is a half-day alertness training that prepares anyone, regardless of prior experience or training, to become a suicide-alert helper. Participants will learn to recognize invitations for help, talk to a person about suicide, and connect them to an intervention resource for further support.
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Crescent’s STEPPIN’ IT UP 3.1/1 Mile Fun Run/Walk
Saturday, August 9, 2025
8:00–11:00 AM
Crescent Community Health Center, 1690 Elm Street, Dubuque, IA 52001
A family-friendly event promoting physical activity and wellness. Participants can choose between a 5K run or a 1-mile walk. The event is free, but registration is required by July 21.
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NAMI Back-to-School Mental Health Resources
As a new school year approaches, NAMI has curated a collection of resources to support students, parents, caregivers, and educators in fostering mental wellness from day one.
These tools are designed to help young people build lifelong habits that support emotional well-being—whether it’s learning how to set healthy boundaries, manage time effectively, use social media mindfully, or support a friend in need.
Whether you’re heading back to the classroom or helping someone who is, these resources offer practical guidance for a smooth and mentally healthy start to the school year.
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Human Rights Campaign: New Issue of Equality Magazine
This issue, themed “These Colors Don’t Run,” is a powerful rallying cry in the face of ongoing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights in 2025.
Inside, you’ll find stories of resilience and activism, including:
- HRC’s intensified grassroots mobilization efforts to protect equality nationwide
- The vital work of families advocating for transgender youth and their access to care
- The continued push for the Equality Act to secure legal protections for all LGBTQ+ Americans
As Pride month closes, Equality reminds us of the strength and unity of over 3.6 million supporters standing together in the fight for fairness and inclusion. We encourage everyone to stay engaged and consider supporting HRC’s efforts as these battles for rights continue.
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| | Stay connected with The Gay Agenda, a dynamic guide from the Dubuque LGBTQ+ Resource Network. It provides the latest info on local LGBTQ+ events, services, and support. Your go-to resource for everything LGBTQ+ in Dubuque! | | | | |
Depression doesn’t look the same for everyone—it’s a personal experience that varies from person to person. The Depression Looks Like Me campaign, created by Johnson & Johnson, aims to break the stigma around mental health, especially in underrepresented communities.
Explore real stories, find therapist directories, and access tools to help you talk to your doctor at DepressionLooksLikeMe.com.
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Contact Us
info@mhadbq.org
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