Jacob Latimore champions mental health with Boys & Girls Clubs

Actor and musician Jacob Latimore, known for his role in the Showtime series “The Chi,” recently partnered with Kohl’s and Boys & Girls Clubs of America to promote youth mental health awareness. The collaboration culminated in a panel discussion on June 29th featuring Latimore and youth from Atlanta-area Boys & Girls Clubs, marking the end of National Boys & Girls Club Week.

Latimore, a Milwaukee native, has long-standing ties to the Boys & Girls Clubs. “It’s extremely important because when I was going to school and promoting my music at a young age, the Boys and Girls Club and schools were where I went to spread my name,” Latimore shared. He emphasized the significance of giving back to a new generation, stating, “If I could install something or protect them from the journey ahead, I definitely want to speak on it.”

The actor, who is preparing for the upcoming season of “The Chi,” has been open about his own mental health journey. “I’ve been doing therapy for the past year, on and off,” Latimore revealed. “It’s definitely encouraging me to take care of my own mental health.”

Latimore discussed the challenges young people face, particularly in underserved communities. He stressed the importance of positive influences and making tough choices: “If you’re around people that’s not helping you grow, it’s time to isolate or switch your audience.” He acknowledged the difficulty of this, especially in neighborhoods where peer pressure is strong.

Tara Geiter, Kohl’s director of community relations, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting youth mental health. “We started to think about working in this space ahead of the pandemic, and I think we all know what happened when we were stuck at home in isolation for a long time,” Geiter noted. She emphasized the importance of reducing stigma and helping everyone understand that “it’s okay to not be okay.”

Latimore also shared his recent shift in focus, prioritizing speaking engagements over club appearances. “I only want to do fireside chat speaking engagements where I can speak to the youth and I could leave without having a drink in my hand,” he explained. This change reflects his desire to be a positive role model and make a meaningful impact.

The collaboration between Latimore, Kohl’s, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America aims to provide resources and support for young people navigating mental health challenges. They hope to equip the next generation with tools for emotional well-being and success by fostering open conversations and providing guidance.

As “The Chi” prepares to return for a new season, Latimore continues to use his platform to advocate for youth mental health, demonstrating that success in the entertainment industry can be accompanied by social responsibility and personal growth.