The Project ORF event, “Where Community Connects,” is set to take place on April 11th in Norfolk and aims to revolutionize mental health for teens and young adults in inner-city communities. The event will be hosted by Hot 91’s Alana Mercedes and will feature beats from Chef Dro and delicious bites from Pour & Stay Full. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to educate, empower and build resilience through mental health resources, offering attendees an opportunity to learn more about its vision, connect with community pioneers, and potentially become a volunteer or founding funder. The event, described as a “call to action” by Shawnice Hernandez, MSW, the driving force behind Project ORF, is open to the public but RSVP is required.

Introduction

By Tim Ryan

Event Details

Hey Innovate Hampton Roads! We’re stoked to spotlight a game-changer shaking up Norfolk—Project ORF. This nonprofit is flipping the script on mental health for teens and young adults in our inner-city communities, and they’re kicking things off with a can’t-miss event: “Where Community Connects.” Mark your calendars for April 11th, 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM at Assembly Norfolk—this is where innovation meets heart, and we’re all invited!

Event Highlights

Picture this: Hot 91’s Alana Mercedes hosting, Chef Dro spinning beats, and Pour & Stay Full serving up tasty bites. It’s not just a party—it’s a movement. Project ORF is on a mission to educate, empower, and build resilience through mental health resources, and this event is their big hello to Hampton Roads. You’ll get the scoop on their vision, connect with community trailblazers, and maybe even jump in as a volunteer or founding funder. Plus, it’s a chance to network with the movers and shakers who are all about making our region thrive.

Call to Action

Shawnice Hernandez, MSW, the powerhouse behind Project ORF, is calling this a “call to action” after their first event in July 2024 with then-Councilwoman Danica Royster and Norfolk CSB. Now, they’re leveling up, and we’re here for it. While we usually geek out over tech startups and entrepreneurial wins, this fits right into our vibe—innovation isn’t just apps and gadgets; it’s creative solutions that lift our community. Mental health advocacy? That’s the kind of positivity we invite.

RSVP and Conclusion

Open to the public, but RSVP on Eventbrite to lock in your spot. This isn’t just an event—it’s a spark for collaboration, a boost for well-being, and a testament to Hampton Roads’ unstoppable spirit. Let’s show up, support, and build a future where every young person has the tools to shine. See you there, innovators!

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Question & Answer

1. When is the Project ORF event “Where Community Connects” scheduled to take place?

The event is set to take place on April 11th in Norfolk.

2. Who will be hosting the Project ORF event?

The event will be hosted by Hot 91’s Alana Mercedes.

3. What can attendees expect at the Project ORF event?

Attendees can expect beats from Chef Dro and delicious bites from Pour & Stay Full, along with an opportunity to learn more about the organization’s vision and potentially become a volunteer or founding funder.