Join us for Countdown to World Mental Health Day
On September 30, 2025 6:30 - 8:30 pm, for an inspiring evening of networking with wine, elegant hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a brief program featuring special guests, honorees, and grantees in support of children’s mental health.
Dr. Joyce Harrison
Outstanding Mental Health Clinician
Hear from Our Honorees.
Delegate Jamila Woods
Outstanding Public Service Award
Dr. Harrison is a child and adolescent psychiatrist at the Center for Developmental Behavioral Health at Kennedy Krieger Institute, and an associate professor of psychiatry at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. A nationally recognized expert and advocate, Dr. Harrison is transforming access to youth mental health care through compassion, clinical excellence, and fearless advocacy.
Delegate Woods has advanced groundbreaking legislation to ensure children across Maryland have access to safe, supportive, and responsive mental health care in schools and communities. Her work in public service brings hope, resources, and real solutions to youth struggling with mental health. She represents District 26, Prince George's County.
Stroll Magazine
Outstanding Partner
Through its thoughtful storytelling and community reach, Stroll magazines have elevated the importance of children’s mental health to audiences across neighborhoods and generations. Their partnership is not transactional—it’s mission-aligned and deeply human, reflecting a genuine commitment to stronger, more connected communities.
Register today to attend, to sponsor
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Register today to attend, to sponsor 〰️
Our powerful program at the beautiful Strathmore Mansion highlights community champions and organizations working to break stigma and expand access to mental health resources.Let’s come together ahead of World Mental Health Day to spark change and uplift voices across our community.
Meet the Grantees.
We are a network of women using our voices to raise awareness and funds to impact the children’s mental health crisis.
A welcome from our president.
The Problem.
The national youth mental health crisis is experiencing increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide; often the suffering is unheard or undiagnosed, resulting in insufficient care and treatment.
50%
of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14
7.7 million
children experience a mental disorder each year
60%
of youth with major depression receive no treatment
Our communities in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area are no different. Whether caused by social media, performance pressure, the loss of social connection throughout the pandemic, or other trauma, the toll on the mental health of our future generations is real and must be healed.
The Solution.
This is why a committed network of women have come together to inspire, influence, and leverage our experience and relationships to move from awareness to action by raising funds to support organizations that deliver these services. This group of determined and dedicated women created Champions for Children to respond to the increasing mental health needs that families and children are facing.
Our Vision.
A world where every child has access to the resources they need to grow, learn and thrive.
“When you get smart women together, things get done! We have made a significant impact in our first year by helping young children who face adversity and trauma. I am excited about the future because as we grow and expand our reach, we can make an even bigger difference for more children and families.”
Paula Widerlite, President
Follow our journey.
