By Alejandra Wells
When I think about the power of conversation, I think about that moment at the Governor’s Youth Summit when I introduced myself to Craig Wolf, a board member from The Kim Foundation. I told him about Hiya, what we stand for, and why mental health matters so much to me.
He smiled, nodded, and said, "You have to come to our next event."
The Kim Foundation is an incredible organization that helps connect people with mental health and substance use disorder services across Nebraska. Their mission is to make mental health care more accessible, and their presence in the community is deep.
Thanks to that board member, my mom and I were not only invited to attend their event. We got front row seats. Literally.
The event was filled with advocates, professionals, and people who care deeply about mental health. It wasn’t just a networking space. It was a healing space — full of stories, laughter, and purpose.
One of the most powerful moments came from the featured comedian. She opened with jokes (of course), but ended with something even more real. Her journey with mental health. That blend of humor and honesty made everything hit deeper. It reminded me that we all carry something, and when we speak our truth, we make it easier for others to speak theirs.
I left that event feeling recharged and reminded that Hiya is part of a much bigger movement. A movement of people showing up, telling the truth, and choosing empathy.
The Kim Foundation creates space for connection and care, and I’m so grateful I got to be in the room. Mental health isn’t a side conversation. It’s the conversation.
