Free Aug. 1 event at Jaisohn Community Wellness Plaza will bring together youth, parents, educators and mental health professionals for a day of discussion, resources and support
As conversations surrounding mental health continue to gain momentum nationwide, one Montgomery County organization hopes to help break longstanding cultural barriers by creating a space where families can have honest conversations together.
Registration is now open for the AAPI Youth & Family Mental Wellness Forum: Bridging Cultures, Strengthening Relationships, a free, daylong event hosted by the Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation/JaisohnCenter – AAPI Coalition on Saturday, Aug. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Jaisohn Community Wellness Plaza, 1180 Welsh Road in Upper Gwynedd Township.
While the forum focuses on the unique experiences of Asian American and Pacific Islander youth and families, organizers emphasize that the event is open to everyone, welcoming residents, educators, health care providers, community leaders and families from all backgrounds interested in learning more about youth mental wellness and available community resources.
(Credit: Jaisohn Center)
Addressing a growing need
The forum was inspired by findings from the recently released “Understanding Asian American Diversity & Growth: A Community Profile in Montgomery County, PA,” which identified mental health as one of the community’s most pressing concerns.
According to the report, mental illness remains heavily stigmatized in many Asian cultures, often preventing individuals and families from openly discussing emotional struggles or seeking professional help. Young people also described challenges balancing family expectations, academic pressure, cultural identity and relationships with parents.
Organizers say those findings underscored the need for an event centered on education, understanding and connection.
“The mental health needs identified through our community profile reinforce the importance of creating spaces where families, youth, and community partners can have open and meaningful conversations,” said George Choe, president and CEO of the Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation, in a recent news release.
“Through the Jaisohn Center – AAPI Coalition and our community partnerships, we are committed to bringing people together, reducing stigma, and connecting individuals and families with resources that promote well-being,” Choe said.
A full day of programming
The forum will feature nationally recognized speakers, interactive workshops and opportunities for participants to connect directly with mental health professionals and community organizations.
Highlights include:
A keynote address by Michelle Garcia, founder of Thriving Asians
Separate breakout sessions tailored for youth, college students and parents
Panel discussions featuring mental health experts and community leaders
Resource tables showcasing local health and human service organizations
Networking opportunities for families, educators and professionals
Rather than focusing solely on clinical treatment, organizers say the event is designed to encourage healthy family communication, cultural understanding and practical strategies for supporting emotional well-being.
Breaking down barriers
Mental health advocates have long noted that cultural stigma, language barriers and misconceptions surrounding counseling can discourage many Asian Americans from seeking help until problems become severe.
By bringing multiple generations together in one setting, organizers hope families will leave feeling more comfortable discussing mental health at home while learning where to turn if additional support is needed.
The forum also reflects the Jaisohn Center’s broader mission of providing culturally and linguistically responsive services to Asian American communities throughout Montgomery and Bucks counties while fostering partnerships that improve health and quality of life across the region.
Founded in 1975, the Philip Jaisohn Memorial Foundation offers health care, senior services, education, advocacy and social programs while working with leaders representing eight Asian American ethnic communities.
Registration is free
Advance registration is encouraged for the free event.
AAPI Youth & Family Mental Wellness Forum: Bridging Cultures, Strengthening Relationships
Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Jaisohn Community Wellness Plaza, 1180 Welsh Road, North Wales (Upper Gwynedd Township)
Cost: Free
Organizers hope the forum will not only provide valuable information and resources but also help normalize conversations around mental health, reminding families that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.