Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC)
Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved communities through education, mentorship, and resources in mental and behavioral health. We aim to create pathways to careers, provide vital support, and foster a culture of mental wellness and inclusivity.
Partner With Us!
At the Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC), we believe that collaboration is the key to creating lasting change. We are actively seeking partnerships with organizations, educational institutions, businesses, and community leaders who share our commitment to empowering underserved communities and advancing mental health equity
Why Partner With Us:
- Impactful Initiatives: Join us in developing programs that promote representation, education, and mental health advocacy.
- Shared Goals: Work together to address systemic inequities and foster inclusive opportunities for growth.
- Community Engagement: Collaborate on events, workshops, and initiatives that make a tangible difference in underserved communities.
Who We’re Looking to Partner With:
- Educational Institutions: Schools, colleges, and universities to promote career pathways in mental health and STEM.
- Corporate Sponsors: Businesses interested in supporting community-based programs and events.
- Nonprofit Organizations: Groups aligned with our mission to promote mental health equity.
- Community Leaders: Advocates and organizers who want to bring resources and programs to their local areas.
- Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals: Collaborate with us to mentor students, lead workshops, or share insights into career pathways.
Call-to-Action:
"Let’s work together to create a healthier, more inclusive future. If you're interested in partnering with us, reach out to us today!"
Looking to collaborate with C&WC? Join us in creating impactful programs and initiatives.
Interested in mentoring?
About Us
Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC) is committed to enhancing well-being in underserved communities. We provide culturally tailored health education, career pathways, and mentorship to increase representation in the mental and behavioral health fields.
Our mission is to empower individuals to thrive personally and professionally by creating equitable opportunities for all. We strive for a diverse and culturally responsive mental health profession, ensuring that mental health care is accessible and equitable for everyone, particularly in underserved communities.
Meet the Founder
Founder, Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC)
Candy Cannon is the founder of the Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC). She is currently pursuing a doctorate in behavioral health while working on her second master’s degree in clinical counseling. Candy holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in forensic psychology from Southern New Hampshire University.
Born and raised on the North Side of St. Louis near Fairground Park, an underserved community, Candy grew up in an environment where mental health resources were scarce, and open discussions about mental well-being were rare. Her personal experiences, shaped by the challenges of inadequate mental health education and resources, inspired her mantra: “Be who you needed when you were younger.”
Candy began her career in the mental health field as a direct support professional (DSP), taking on roles such as counselor, mentor, job coach, and workforce development specialist. Currently, she serves as a crisis clinician for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and as a community health educator, where she facilitates social-emotional learning (SEL) programs for youth. Her work involves supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds and creating pathways for growth and resilience.
Through her leadership at C&WC, Candy continues to address systemic inequities, promote mental health advocacy, and foster representation. Her culturally tailored programs, mentorship initiatives, and community outreach empower individuals from underserved communities to thrive and succeed. Candy is dedicated to creating equitable opportunities and building a world where everyone has access to the resources and representation they need to flourish.
Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to enhance community well-being by delivering culturally tailored health education and services while fostering inclusion, proportional representation, and equity, particularly within underserved communities. We are committed to empowering diverse voices by promoting equitable access to resources and supporting career opportunities in mental health and STEM fields. Through group-based mentorship, comprehensive resource guides, and educational workshops, we equip individuals with the tools they need to succeed. By advocating for systemic change and providing education, mentorship, and support, we strive to ensure everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Together, we work to build a healthier, more inclusive, and equitable society for all.
Empowerment
We empower individuals from underserved communities by providing culturally tailored education, mentorship, and career pathways in mental and behavioral health. Our programs equip people with the tools to succeed and promote equitable access to opportunities.
Connection
We foster meaningful connections through group-based mentorship and community initiatives. By creating opportunities for networking and support, we build a sense of belonging and shared growth.
Well-being
We take a holistic approach to well-being, addressing mental, emotional, and social health. Our workshops and resources help individuals prioritize their health and access the support they need to thrive.
Sustainability
We are dedicated to creating long-term, sustainable solutions for underserved communities. Our programs ensure accessibility, equity, and lasting impact while promoting responsible resource use.
Community: What It Means to Us
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Building Bridges
We focus on connecting individuals and organizations, fostering opportunities to share experiences and learn from one another. We create a welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can actively participate.
Shared Resources
We believe in the equitable sharing of resources within our community. Our commitment includes providing access to essential resources like healthcare, education, and housing, ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive.
Collective Action
We recognize the power of collective action in addressing community needs. By working together, we encourage active participation in shaping the future of our community, driving lasting, positive change.
At C&WC, "Community" represents the heart of our organization. We believe in the transformative power of community, where a strong foundation is built on trust, respect, and a shared purpose. Our goal is to create a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to contribute to the greater good.
Wellness: Our Holistic Approach
At C&WC, we take a holistic approach to well-being by integrating mental, emotional, and social health into all of our services. We believe that fostering wellness requires addressing multiple aspects of a person’s life, and we tailor our programs to ensure individuals feel supported from all angles.
Mental Health
We offer educational workshops and resources to help individuals advocate for their mental well-being. Through support groups and awareness programs, participants gain the tools needed to manage mental health challenges and thrive.
Community Connection
Our group-based mentorship programs facilitate meaningful connections between peers and professionals, fostering strong community ties essential for personal and professional growth.
Career and Educational Exploration
We are committed to increasing representation in mental and behavioral health by providing mentorship and educational resources that guide individuals from underserved communities toward leadership roles in these fields.
Articles
Explore our insightful articles, designed to empower you on your wellness journey. Delve into topics like: • Mental health resources and strategies for managing stress and anxiety. • Building strong community connections and fostering meaningful relationships. • Navigating career paths in mental health, empowering future leaders in the field.
Collective: Building Unity
C&WC believes in the power of collective action. We understand that by working together, we can achieve greater things than we could alone. We strive to build a sense of unity and collaboration within our community, empowering individuals to work together to create a better future.
Collaboration
We believe in the power of collaboration. We work with community partners to create a network of support and resources for everyone. We encourage individuals to work together to achieve shared goals.
Inclusion
We are committed to building an inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and valued. We strive to create a space where people from all backgrounds and walks of life can connect and thrive.
Empowerment
We believe in empowering individuals to take an active role in their communities. We provide opportunities for people to learn new skills, develop leadership abilities, and contribute to the collective good.
Equity
We are committed to creating an equitable community where everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. We strive to address systemic barriers and create a level playing field for all.
Educational and Career Pathways
Empowerment Through Education and Career Pathways is an initiative rooted in C&WC’s belief in the power of education and lifelong learning. We understand that education is essential for personal and professional growth. To help individuals, especially those from underserved communities, acquire new skills, advance their careers, and reach their full potential, we offer a variety of educational and career pathways. This initiative includes mentorship, educational resources, career fairs, and a comprehensive guide, all designed to bridge the gap between aspirations and opportunities, fostering a diverse and inclusive mental health workforce.
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Connection to Success Mentorship Program
- Provides educational resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
- Aims to help individuals, especially from underserved communities, achieve their career and educational goals.
- Can include elements such as workshops, webinars, career fairs, and other events.
- Focuses on mental and behavioral health professions.
- Delivery methods are flexible and will be tailored to meet participants' needs.
- Bridges the gap between aspirations and opportunities through targeted support and access to essential resources.
Education and Career Fairs
- Offers opportunities for participants to connect with educational institutions and potential employers.
- Helps individuals explore various psychology and mental health programs.
- Provides access to information about scholarships, financial aid, and educational pathways.
- Focuses on opening doors to meaningful careers in the mental and behavioral health field.
- Encourages networking and building professional connections within the industry.
Comprehensive Guide to Behavioral Health
- A detailed resource covering educational pathways, career opportunities, and mental health professions.
- Includes information on scholarships, financial aid, and support networks.
- Offers guidance on navigating the mental and behavioral health field, especially for those from underserved communities.
- Serves as a tool to empower individuals by providing essential knowledge and resources.
- Focuses on promoting mental health equity and diversity within the profession.
Lack of Diversity in Behavioral and Mental Health
- Only 4% of psychologists in the U.S. identify as Black, compared to 13.6% of the population identifying as Black or African American. Additionally, only 4% of psychiatrists in the U.S. are Black.
(Source: American Psychological Association, 2021 & American Psychiatric Association, 2021)
- 5% of social workers identify as Hispanic or Latino, compared to 18.9% of the U.S. population identifying as Hispanic or Latino.
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020)
- Native Americans make up less than 1% of mental health professionals, while they represent 2.9% of the U.S. population and experience disproportionately high rates of suicide and substance abuse.
(Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2020 & U.S. Census Bureau, 2020)
- Asian Americans account for only 4% of psychologists, despite being 7% of the U.S. population. Cultural stigma and systemic barriers contribute to the underrepresentation of Asian mental health professionals.
(Source: American Psychological Association, 2021)
- Women are overrepresented in many mental health fields, making up nearly 80% of psychologists and social workers, while men account for only 20%, leading to a gender imbalance in available providers.
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020)
- 83.6% of behavioral health providers identify as White, compared to White individuals making up 57.8% of the U.S. population, highlighting the significant gap in representation for people of color.
(Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2020 & U.S. Census Bureau, 2020)
- Fewer than 10% of mental health professionals are fluent in a language other than English, even though 21.6% of the U.S. population speaks a language other than English at home.
(Source: American Psychological Association, 2020 & U.S. Census Bureau, 2020)
How the Lack of Diversity Impacts Care
The lack of diversity in mental and behavioral health fields has serious implications for care quality and accessibility:
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Mistrust in Healthcare Systems
Patients from underrepresented groups may feel misunderstood or dismissed by providers who lack cultural competence.
Barriers to Communication
Limited language fluency among providers prevents accurate understanding and diagnosis for non-English speaking patients.
Misdiagnoses or Inadequate Treatment
Cultural factors influencing symptoms may go unrecognized, leading to improper care.
Underutilization of Services
Communities with fewer relatable providers are less likely to seek or continue care.
Gender-Specific Needs
The underrepresentation of men in mental health fields can limit gender-matched care for male patients who feel more comfortable discussing personal issues with male providers.
How C&WC Addresses This Issue
At the Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC), we are committed to addressing these disparities by:
- Promoting representation through culturally tailored mentorship programs that encourage individuals from underserved communities to pursue careers in mental and behavioral health.
- Providing educational workshops to equip aspiring professionals with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
- Advocating for systemic change to increase awareness of the importance of diversity in mental health care.
By empowering individuals from all backgrounds to enter these critical roles, C&WC aims to create a future where mental health care is inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the communities it serves.
Mental & Behavioral Health Workshops
C&WC recognizes the importance of mental and behavioral health. We offer a variety of foundational workshops designed to promote mental well-being, reduce stigma, and provide individuals with the basic tools and resources they need to thrive. These workshops are tailored to educate, empower, and engage community members on essential topics related to mental health, focusing on building a strong foundation for understanding and managing mental health challenges, particularly in underserved communities.
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Introduction to Empowerment and Equity in Mental Health
Achieve a foundational understanding of mental and behavioral health with a focus on equity and community support. Explore key concepts, resilience-building techniques, and strategies for promoting mental health in underserved communities. You will be introduced to educational and career pathways in mental and behavioral health, offering students practical insights into advocating for mental health equity.
Date: February 20th, 2025 & February 27th, 2025 6pm-8pm
Location: St. Louis Community College-Florissant Valley Campus Business Building RM 119
Click link to Sign up!
Understanding Mental Health Conditions
Gain a deeper understanding of common mental health conditions and how to access support.
Date: TBA
Sign up: https://www.cwcforall.org/workshops
Informative Articles
C&WC publishes insightful articles to increase understanding and awareness around various mental health topics. • • Coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety • The role of stigma in mental health • Resources and support networks Stay tuned for new articles and resources, published regularly on our website.
Resource and Connection Guide
C&WC provides a comprehensive resource and connection guide to help individuals navigate their community and access the support they need. We understand that life can be challenging, and we strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment where everyone feels connected and empowered.
(Click each toggle to learn more)
Resources
Our resource guide includes information on a wide range of topics, including healthcare, education, housing, employment, legal aid, and more.
Connections
We provide a directory of community organizations, support groups, and volunteer opportunities to help individuals connect with others and build a strong support network.
Access
We are committed to making our resources accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. We offer translation services, transportation assistance, and other support services to ensure that everyone has access to the information and support they need.
To access our comprehensive PDF guide, simply click the arrow button below.
Articles
Our website also features a collection of articles on mental health, well-being, and related topics. These articles offer valuable insights, tips, and resources to support your journey towards a healthier and happier
Get Involved
C&WC is always looking for passionate individuals to join our mission and make a difference in our community. There are many ways to get involved, from volunteering your time to donating to our organization. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps us create a brighter future for everyone.
Connect with C&WC
We would love to hear from you! Whether you have a question, feedback, or want to learn more about our organization, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are here to support you on your journey to well-being.
Our Phone Number
Call/Text (314) 399-8782