Community Comes Together for “Stop the Bleed, Heal the Mind” Event at Loretta Johnson Middle School

AAFA, Monroe County Family Coalition, and Council VP LaShay Harris partner to bring trauma response and mental health education to Rochester youth and families

Rochester, NY- The Rochester African American Firearms Association (RAAFA), in collaboration with the Monroe County Family Coalition and Rochester City Council Vice President LaShay Harris, is hosting a powerful, community-centered event titled “Stop the Bleed, Heal the Mind” on Wednesday, October 10, from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Loretta Johnson Middle School Gymnasium (200 Genesee St, Rochester, NY).

This free, all-ages event is designed to equip residents with life-saving emergency first-aid training and provide a supportive space for mental health awareness and healing conversations.

“Our goal is to empower the community, especially our youth and families, with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to take care of each other in times of crisis,” said Paul Adell Jr., President of RAAFA. “Violence, trauma, and stress affect too many of our neighborhoods. This event is a chance to address those issues head-on through education, connection, and practical tools.”

Program Highlights:

• “Stop the Bleed” Training – Certified instructors will teach participants how to control life-

threatening bleeding using tourniquets and pressure techniques.

• Mental Health Dialogue – Featuring Mental Health Provider & Advocate Dina Johnson and

Nafisah Clay, LMHC, leading a community conversation on resilience, trauma, and healing.

• Wellness Kits & Free Tourniquets – Available to all participants (while supplies last).

• Gift Card Giveaway – The first 100 participants will each receive a $10 Walmart gift card.