Posted by Detroit, MI – Royce Da 5’9 has launched The Ryan Montgomery Foundation to combat the stigmas against seeking mental health treatment and help provide care to people in need. As part of his first initiative, the veteran MC has partnered with the Michigan affiliate of The National Alliance On Mental Illness and CNS Healthcare, which are both based in Detroit.
“As a person of color who has seen a therapist for many years now, I know how important it is to talk about your issues with an unbiased mental health care professional,” Royce said in a press release. “My people often think seeking a therapist is taboo. It’s my mission to dispel that myth and give light to those who believe there is no way out of the darkness.”
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The Ryan Montgomery Foundation is named after Royce’s government name. The organization’s mission is “to empower underprivileged communities through advocacy, education and personal enrichment by implementing sustainable community programs that give individuals and families access to resources and opportunities needed to achieve their fullest potential.”
Royce is planning to fully unveil his initiative and partnership with NAMI Michigan and CNS Healthcare at an upcoming press conference. His foundation will begin offering free care coordination by sharing a toll-free number for its services during the presser.
“NAMI Michigan is excited to collaborate with international recording artist Royce Da 5’9,” NAMI Michigan’s executive director Kevin Fischer said. “His transparency and celebrity, combined with his passion to raise mental health awareness, specifically in communities of color, will have an incredible impact on our mission to eliminate the stigma associated with seeking mental healthcare, which we consider the leading barrier to the early diagnoses and treatment that leads to better outcomes. His advocacy is needed and sincerely appreciated.”
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Royce and Fischer are scheduled to appear together on TV20 Detroit’s Mind Matters with Dr. Michele on October 10. Nickel Nine will return to the show with CNS Healthcare CEO Michael Garrett and Detroit community activist Mouchette Muhammad on October 17.
All of the guests, Dr. Michele Leno and Marcus Harris of the Detroit Police Department will be speaking at The Ryan Montgomery Foundation press conference. The event is taking place at the Hart Plaza in Detroit on October 14.