In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Boston Red Sox have launched “Changeup the Conversation,” a season-long initiative designed to raise awareness and enhance mental health support across New England. This program officially kicked off on May 7 with pregame ceremonies at Fenway Park before the Red Sox faced the Rangers. During the event, the team honored six nonprofit organizations that focus on mental health.
Throughout the season, the Red Sox will spotlight one New England-based mental health nonprofit each month. The team will feature these organizations in both in-park activities and via social media storytelling, shining a light on various aspects of mental health such as sports’ role in emotional well-being, stress management, and suicide prevention.
Each month, participants from the featured organizations will have the opportunity to attend Fenway Park, watch batting practice, meet Red Sox players, and enjoy the game. Additionally, the organizations will have informational tables set up in the concourse, where they can share details about their programs with visitors. Attendees will also receive “Changeup the Conversation” t-shirts and goody bags, with their personal stories featured on the Red Sox Community Relations social media channels to encourage open dialogue and reduce the stigma around mental health.
The six partner organizations represent a wide range of approaches to mental health, including peer-led support, LGBTQ+ affirming spaces, sport-based therapy, and suicide prevention. These organizations and their missions are:
Active Minds: Aimed at mobilizing young adults to discuss mental health openly and create supportive communities in schools and universities nationwide.
Doc Wayne: Focuses on using sports and play to address mental health issues, offering therapy sessions for youth and adults, as well as training for caregivers and professionals.
KyleCares: Dedicated to raising awareness about mental health challenges faced by teens and young adults, with a focus on suicide prevention in high schools and colleges across New England.
OUT MetroWest: Provides supportive communities for LGBTQ+ youth, connecting them with peers and affirming adult role models.
Samaritans: A Massachusetts-based organization offering suicide prevention services, including a 24/7 helpline, peer-to-peer texting for youth, community education, and grief support.
The Jed Foundation: Focuses on preventing suicide and safeguarding emotional health among teenagers and young adults, partnering with schools to strengthen mental health and prevention programs.
Spearheaded by the Red Sox Community Relations team, “Changeup the Conversation” is part of Major League Baseball’s broader commitment to promoting mental wellness. By partnering with local organizations and sharing authentic experiences, the initiative aims to create a culture of openness and support both at Fenway Park and across the community.
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