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Christopher LeMark is the founder ofCoffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Healthwhich is a unique nonprofit organization based in Chicago, Illinois.
Growing up in challenging circumstances, he found solace in hip-hop. As an adult, he discovered the power of therapy and saw how it transformed his life.
He hopes to help as many Black people in Chicago gain the same opportunity to receive therapy through his organization.
Christopher LeMark is one of our top 25 thought leaders, experts, and advocates making a difference in mental healthSee 2023 Honorees
Christopher LeMark is one of our top 25 thought leaders, experts, and advocates making a difference in mental health
See 2023 Honorees
How Music Can Be Therapeutic
Why Christopher LeMark Created CHH&MH
Christopher has experienced different life hurdles. As a result, he understands the devastation ofhomelessnessandpoverty.
Without parents, family, orresources to turn to, Christopher’s childhood consisted of moving from different foster homes and shelters, which, in some cases, exposed him toabusive environments.
An excerpt from the website’s bio writes, “As a Black man living in poverty, experiencing years ofhomelessness, multiplesuicide attempts, andPTSD, one must rely on an already limited amount of strength andresilienceto believe that there is a light at the end of the tunnel."
Discovering a love for music, especially Hip-Hop, at a young age offered him solace. This passion inspired a career as a Christian rap artist. His recorded music includes the 2011 album"MOTH (Matters of The Heart)“and various singles, such as “March On” featuring Shaynn.
Without parents, family, or resources to turn to, Christopher’s childhood consisted of moving from different foster homes and shelters, which, in some cases, exposed him to abusive environments.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
How Therapy Changed Christopher’s Life
Growing up in the Southside of Chicago, where many Black individuals struggle with hardship, he experienced little hope of ever being the successful man he is today. Although Hip-Hop offered some comfort to his life, he realized he needed to givetherapya try to unpack his childhood trauma.
The decision to go to therapy changed his life and helped him see the world more clearly.
Now a business owner, public figure, and founder, Christopher emphasize in his bio that “one of his greatest joys and accomplishments” is “the birth of his son and the cultivation of beautifulchosen family.”
The work of Christopher LeMark has had a tremendous influence on the Chicago community. Many Chicago residents are allowed the opportunity to experience therapy because of Christopher’s nonprofit organization.
Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health’s Mission
Coffee, Hip Hop & Mental Health’s mission is to help the Black community receive mental health care free of financial burden.
Coffee, Hip Hop & Mental Health University
Coffee Hip Hop & Mental Health grants Black Chicago residents the opportunity to receive free therapy through their CHH&MH University (CHH&MH-U) program. Donations and profits from the café award 10free therapy sessionsto 20 applicants at a time.
CHH&MH partners with a selection of therapists that willing to make a difference in the lives of Chicago residents who don’t have the finances to obtain therapy sessions on their own.
Donations and profits from the café award 10 free therapy sessions to 20 applicants at a time.
What CHH&MH Offers
The café acts as a beacon to the community, providing a safe space for individuals to commune in a wholesome environment. There are also volunteer opportunities for members of the community.
The community can also rent out the café for events, and proceeds will go to the therapy program. Individuals can even hire LeMark for speaking engagements.
Yoga, Open Mic Nights, and More
The cafe’s social media provides information onyogaclasses, fundraising events, and open mic nights. They even have their first Annual Black Tie Fundraiser event, including live performances, dancing, food, and auctions.
In March, the café orchestrates an annual Woman’s Month award ceremony, known as The Debra Diane Handley Awards, in honor of his deceased mother. Thirty-one women in Chicago within the mental health field are nominated for this award.
6453—A Live Recording Experience
Later this year, LeMark is debuting 6453, which according to the Coffee, Hip Hop & Mental Health website, “is a live album recording experience that takes you on a musical journey.”
This album will portray different stages of LeMark’s life that led to his establishing Coffee, Hip Hop & Mental Health. It is a celebration of the café’s four-year anniversary, doubling as a fundraising event for the CHH&MH University free therapy program.
Virtual Café Latte
CHH&MH established a creative donation option for those visiting the website to purchase virtual lattes.
Selecting a $10 latte will contribute to operations, free therapy, andfood insecurity, and a $5 virtual donut goes towards the Therapy University Program.
The Impact of CHH&MH
Understanding the impact that therapy had on his life, LeMark hopes other Black people experiencing similar stories of poverty, trauma, and distress can gain the same opportunity of receiving help as he did.
The work of Christopher LeMark has had a tremendous influence on the Chicago community. Many Chicago residents are allowed the opportunity to experience therapy because of Christopher’s continued efforts in the mental health space.
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