Behind the Scenes at MENtal MATTERs: Building a Stronger Organization for the Men We Serve

At the end of 2025, MENtal MATTERs received exciting news: we were awarded an Industry Workforce Training (IWT) Grant from the Texas Workforce Commission. This grant is helping us strengthen the systems, skills, and leadership needed to support the men we serve.

Behind the Scenes

Most people know MENtal MATTERs for Chop It Ups!, community programs, and conversations around Black men’s mental health. What they don’t always see is the work happening behind the scenes—planning, training, and building systems that ensure our programs are professional, effective, and culturally grounded.

Investing in Our Team

The IWT grant provides professional development in areas including:

• Human Resources and Organizational Management

• Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technology

• Designing Web-Based Learning Experiences

• Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Certification

• Governance and Nonprofit Leadership

• Financial Management and Sustainability

These trainings strengthen the organization so we can protect and prioritize Black men’s mental health, delivering programs that are impactful and sustainable.

Why This Matters

MENtal MATTERs was founded on the belief that Black men deserve spaces where their mental health and well-being are taken seriously. This grant helps us ensure our services are supported by skilled staff, strong systems, and strategic leadership—so that every initiative we launch meets the high standard our community deserves.

Looking Ahead

This is more than professional development—it’s an investment in excellence, accountability, and sustainability. MENtal MATTERs continues to grow as a top-tier organization, building programs and services that truly promote, protect, and prioritize Black men’s mental health.