Red Sox partner with local nonprofits to "Changeup the Conversation" around mental health

BOSTON, MA - In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Boston Red Sox today announced the launch of Changeup the Conversation, a new season-long initiative that will spotlight six partner nonprofit organizations working to expand mental health support and access across New England. In celebration of the program launch, Changeup the Conversation’s six community-based partners will be recognized in pregame ceremonies on May 7, preceding the 6:45 p.m. Red Sox-Rangers game.

Each month during the season, the club will spotlight a New England-based mental health nonprofit through in-park experiences and social media storytelling, each centered on a theme such as mental health in sports, stress management, or suicide prevention. Youth and staff from the featured organization will be invited to Fenway Park to watch batting practice, meet Red Sox players, and enjoy a game. Each nonprofit will have a table in the concourse with additional information about their programs. As part of their visit, participants will receive goody bags and “Changeup the Conversation” t-shirts, and their stories will be shared across Red Sox Community Relations social channels to help foster open dialogue and reduce the stigma around emotional well-being.

The six partner organizations each represent a diverse range of approaches to mental wellness, from peer-driven support and LGBTQ+ affirming spaces to sport-based therapy and suicide prevention. Please see attached document for quotes from each of the partner organizations.

• Active Minds - Mobilizes young adults to speak openly about mental health and create communities of support on campuses and in schools nationwide.
• Doc Wayne - A therapy provider that uses sports and play to support mental health, offering group and individual sessions for kids and adults, as well as training for caregivers and professionals.
• KyleCares - Encourages open, honest conversations about the mental health struggles facing teens and young adults, with a focus on education, awareness, and suicide prevention programs for high schools and colleges throughout New England.
• OUT MetroWest - Builds supportive communities for LGBTQ+ youth through programs that connect them with peers and affirming adult role models.
• Samaritans - Offers suicide prevention and grief support services across Massachusetts through a 24/7 helpline, a peer-to-peer texting service for young people, community education, and survivor programs.
• The Jed Foundation is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. By partnering with high schools, colleges, and school districts to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems, they’re equipping teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. JED is encouraging community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health.

Changeup the Conversation is led by the Red Sox Community Relations team and builds on Major League Baseball’s broader efforts to promote mental wellness across the league. By connecting fans to local partners and using the team’s platform to elevate real experiences, the program seeks to foster a culture of openness, support, and resilience both inside and outside of Fenway Park. For more information, visit redsox.com/changeup.