In a significant development since our initial report on July 5th regarding the local wellness initiative aimed at improving mental health in Mackney, community leaders have taken proactive steps to address concerns raised by residents about their exclusion from the decision-making process. The initiative, which is set to launch later this month, has faced backlash from various community members who felt sidelined during the planning stages. Local geochemist Craig Richardson, 39, expressed a common sentiment among residents: "We all want to support mental health initiatives, but it’s crucial that the community feels heard and involved. We want this to be a program that genuinely reflects our needs, not just a top-down solution." In response to these concerns, the Mackney Wellness Coalition has organized a series of community forums, encouraging residents to voice their opinions and suggest modifications to the program. The first forum will be held on July 15 at the Mackney Community Center on Kennedy Lane, where residents are invited to engage with local health officials and share their insights. Coalition spokesperson, Linda Harmon, emphasized the importance of community involvement: "We recognize that our initial approach lacked inclusivity. We are committed to making adjustments based on community feedback and ensuring that this initiative truly serves everyone in Mackney. Our goal is to create a supportive environment for mental health that resonates with the diverse needs of our population." Moreover, local businesses like the West L Diner are rallying behind the initiative by offering discounts to residents who participate in the forums, fostering community engagement. Diner owner Marcy Jewel stated, "We’re excited to be part of a project that aims to support mental health in our town. Everyone deserves to feel seen and heard, and we hope our small contribution can encourage people to join the conversation." As the launch date approaches, the coalition remains optimistic that these measures will not only alleviate residents’ concerns but also strengthen community ties. The success of the initiative will largely depend on how well it integrates feedback from the community, ensuring that it is a collaborative effort rather than a solitary endeavor. In the coming weeks, residents are urged to participate in the forums and share their thoughts. The coalition hopes that through open dialogue, Mackney can move forward together, creating a mental health initiative that all can support and benefit from.