501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC)
Strength in unity. Wellness for all
Supporting mental and behavioral well-being through education, connection, and care
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.
LEADERSHIP
Meet the Founder
Founder, Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC)
Candy Cannon
Candy Cannon is the founder of the Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC). She is a behavioral health professional dedicated to expanding access to mental health education, mentorship, and resources for underserved communities.
Born and raised on the North Side of St. Louis near Fairground Park, an underserved community, Candy grew up where mental health resources were limited and conversations about wellness were rare. These early experiences shaped her commitment to ensuring others have access to the support she once lacked.
“Be who you needed when you were younger.”
Candy is currently pursuing a doctorate in behavioral health while completing a second master's degree in clinical counseling. She holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in forensic psychology from Southern New Hampshire University.
- Crisis clinician for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Community health educator facilitating SEL programs for youth
- Experience as counselor, mentor, job coach, and workforce development specialist
Through her leadership at C&WC, Candy works to address systemic inequities, promote mental health advocacy, and expand culturally responsive programs that empower individuals and communities to thrive.
Collaboration
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 to their local areas.
- Mental/Behavioral Health Professionals: Collaborate to mentor students, lead workshops, or share insights into career pathways.
Ready to Partner with C&WC?
Help us create impactful programs that support mental health equity and community well-being.
Not ready to partner, but want to get involved? Mentorship Interest Form
Who We Are
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 work centers on culturally responsive programs that increase representation and access within mental and behavioral health fields. By partnering with communities, educators, and professionals, we help create pathways to opportunity and long-term well-being.
Our Mission Statement
Our mission is to enhance community well-being by delivering culturally tailored health education, mentorship, and resources that promote inclusion, 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 education, career pathways, and community-based support, we equip individuals with the tools they need to thrive while advocating for systems that create lasting, equitable change.
Our work is guided by four core principles:
Our work is guided by four core principles:
Empowerment
We empower individuals from underserved communities by providing culturally tailored education, mentorship, and career pathways in mental and behavioral health.
Connection
We foster meaningful connections through group-based mentorship and community initiatives, building a sense of belonging and shared growth.
Well-being
We take a holistic approach to well-being, addressing mental, emotional, and social health through workshops and resources.
Sustainability
We are dedicated to creating long-term, sustainable solutions for underserved communities, ensuring accessibility, equity, and lasting impact.
Community: What It Means to Us
Click each item to learn more
Building Bridges
We focus on connecting individuals and organizations, fostering opportunities to share experiences and learn from one anoth
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.
Our Community Vision
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.
Programs
Wellness: Our Holistic Approach
At C&WC, wellness is approached as a whole-person experience. We integrate mental health support, community connection, and career exploration to help individuals feel supported, informed, and empowered. Our programs are designed to meet people where they are while creating pathways to long-term well-being.
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 & 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.
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.
Our Values
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 work with community partners to create a network of support and resources for everyone, encouraging individuals to work together to achieve shared goals.
Inclusion
We are committed to building an inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of background or walk of life.
Empowerment
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.
Calendar
Upcoming Events
Stay connected with C&WC. Join us for impactful events that bring mental wellness to life. Whether we're hosting or partnering, each experience offers education, empowerment, and community connection. Register through Eventbrite.
🔴 PAST EVENT | March 5, 2026
Dateless™: Dating Less. Loving With Intention
Date: March 5, 2026 · Thursday · 6:00–7:30PM
Location: Ferguson Municipal Public Library
Free event (18+)
Location: Ferguson Municipal Public Library
Free event (18+)
Valentine’s Day may be over, but loving with intention never goes out of season. Join us for a thoughtful conversation on modern relationships, emotional wellness, and intentional dating.
Secure your spot
Education
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.
Introduction to Empowerment and Equity in Mental Health
This workshop introduces participants to the concepts of empowerment and equity as they relate to mental health. We explore how systemic barriers affect access to care and discuss strategies for advocating for equitable mental health resources in underserved communities.
Understanding Mental Health Conditions
Participants gain foundational knowledge about common mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. This workshop reduces stigma and equips individuals with language and tools to support themselves and their communities.
Informative Articles and Resources
C&WC publishes insightful articles to increase understanding and awareness around various mental health topics, including coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety, the role of stigma in mental health, and resources and support networks. Stay tuned for new articles published regularly.
Don't See an Event or Workshop That Fits You Yet?
New workshops, panels, and community conversations are added regularly.
Opportunity
Educational & 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. Through mentorship, education, and practical resources, we work to bridge the gap between interest and opportunity while strengthening a diverse and inclusive workforce.
What This Pathway Includes
- Mentorship and career guidance from professionals in mental and behavioral health
- Educational resources and career exploration tools
- Career fairs, panels, and professional development opportunities
- A comprehensive guide to navigating education and career pathways
Lack of Diversity in Behavioral and Mental Health
The following statistics highlight the critical need for increased representation in mental health fields:
4%
of psychologists in the U.S. identify as Black, compared to 13.6% of the population. (APA, 2021)
<1%
of mental health professionals are Native American, while they represent 2.9% of the U.S. population.
5%
of social workers identify as Hispanic or Latino, compared to 18.9% of the U.S. population. (BLS, 2020)
83.6%
of behavioral health providers identify as White, compared to 57.8% of the U.S. population. (SAMHSA, 2020)
See the Full Breakdown: Diversity in Mental Health Fields
- 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
Mistrust in Healthcare Systems
Historical and ongoing systemic racism has led many communities of color to distrust healthcare providers, reducing willingness to seek mental health support.
Barriers to Communication
Language barriers and cultural differences can impede effective communication between providers and patients, leading to misunderstandings and inadequate care.
Misdiagnoses or Inadequate Treatment
Without culturally competent care, individuals from underserved communities may receive misdiagnoses or treatment plans that do not account for their cultural context.
Underutilization of Services
When communities do not see themselves reflected in mental health providers, they are less likely to seek care, leading to underutilization of available services.
Gender-Specific Needs
The gender imbalance in mental health fields means that gender-specific needs may not always be adequately addressed, particularly for men who may face stigma in seeking help.
How C&WC Addresses This Issue
- 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 foundational knowledge and skills.
- Advocating for systemic change to increase awareness of the importance of diversity in mental health care.
Summer 2026
Internships & Volunteer Opportunities
Explore Summer 2026 internship and volunteer opportunities supporting mental wellness, community engagement, and program initiatives. Click on a role below to learn more about each position.
Website & Digital Experience Intern
Remote | Support the digital presence and user experience of C&WC's online platforms.
Social Media & Marketing Intern
Remote | Develop and manage social media content to amplify C&WC's mission and reach.
Community Outreach & Partnerships Intern
Hybrid | Build and maintain relationships with community organizations and partners.
Program Coordinator Intern
Hybrid | Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing C&WC programs and events.
Get in Touch
We're Here to Connect
We're here to connect, listen, and support. Whether you have questions, feedback, or want to explore partnership opportunities, reach out using any of the methods below.
© 2025 Community & Wellness Collective (C&WC) — 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization | info@cawcollective.org | (314) 399-8782