UK Prevent Community-Engaged Alliance

The Building Bridges team participated in CODE RED, a universal safety planning training, yesterday through the PREVENT Alliance.

Developed at the University of Kentucky by Dr. Julie Cerel, CODE RED is an evidence-based approach that encourages people to create a simple, customized plan they can access during a crisis. The training was hosted at the Fayette County Extension Office, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to continue strengthening su***de prevention skills across our team.

Our director, Dr. Melinda Ickes, leads with heart, vision, and a deep commitment to community-engaged work. So it’s no surprise she was recently honored with a Mentor Recognition Award at the 2025 University of Kentucky Center for Clinical & Translational Science Spring Conference!

Whether mentoring students, staff, and faculty in the UK College of Education, or advancing community-driven research, Dr. Ickes inspires all of us to pursue work that truly makes lives better. Join us in celebrating her award and the difference she’s making every day!

You can learn more about her award and the CCTS conference here: https://www.ccts.uky.edu/news/20th-annual-spring-ccts-conference-largest-ever-1150-participants

Do you have a way with words, or do you enjoy poetry and spoken word? Come share your experiences during the open mic night at EPIC – An Annual Urban Art Hop Celebrating Community Voice!

📅: Friday, February 21, from 5:00 - 7:30 PM
📍: LexArts (161 N Mill St., Lexington)

Youth and adults are invited to share original poetry/prose pieces that reflect their experiences with to***co marketing, social influence, and opportunities to support health for all in their communities. This event will also feature a powerful performance by Taca Hollis, spoken word artist and 2024-25 Project Ricochet Artist-in-Residence.

EPIC and the Champions of Change Open Mic Night are presented by Empower KY, Project Ricochet, and the Urban Art Collective. Learn more here: https://uknow.uky.edu/uk-happenings/uk-to***co-prevention-initiative-hosts-open-mic-night-inspire-change