In collaboration with StreetSquash and the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem, HEAF hosted the second annual Community Wellness Retreat. The retreat brought together members of the community for a day of fun and wellness during Mental Health Awareness Month, celebrated in May.
The day kicked off with speeches from Keisha Sutton-James, Deputy Manhattan Borough President; Kara Young, Tony Award Winning Actress and Harlem Native; Michael Johnson, HEAF President and CEO; and Dilim Dieke, HEAF Director of Community Wellness.
“The Community Wellness Retreat was more than just a day of fun; it was a celebration of healing, connection, and community, said Dilim Dieke, HEAF Director of Community Wellness. “In Harlem, we understand the power of coming together to uplift and support one another. This event gave us all the chance to recharge, reflect, and reaffirm that mental health truly matters. I’m grateful to have collaborated with fellow program leaders for this experience; another beautiful reminder that partnership is essential in the work of community care and mental wellness.”
There was a variety of stations for the community to participate in throughout the day, including:
- A Creative Expression Corner – succulent plants and pot decorating, DIY affirmation cards and canvas painting and positive affirmation jewelry making
- Relax & Restore Zone – chair massages, face painting and making sugar scrubs
- Movement Hub – participants spun the wellness wheel to receive prizes
- Healthy Creations Corner – a make-your-own yogurt parfait highlighting the importance of nutrition
The Community Wellness Retreat also featured five different Wellness Adventure breakout sessions that were a massive hit. These interactive sessions were designed to engage the mind, body, and spirit—offering fun, accessible ways for participants to explore wellness through movement, creativity, mindfulness, nutrition, and play. They included:
- Art & Empowerment: Body Positivity & Self-Love Workshop
- Dance Fusion: Dance Cardio Party
- Relax & Recenter: Gentle Yoga & Breathwork Session
- Taste of Wellness: Healthy Eating Workshop & Cooking Demo
- Squash & Play: Field Game Challenges
Special thanks to StreetSquash and the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem for helping make the Community Wellness Retreat an unforgettable day filled with joy and community connection!
Click here for photos from the 2025 Community Wellness Retreat!