Kristie Alsagar, lead organizer of the 2026 Youth Pathways to Hope Mental Wellness Conference brought our briefing about the why’s, how’s, and when’s of this critically important portion of this year’s Pathways. BTW, all ages are welcome to attend the 2nd day, Youth Pathways, August 29.
The meeting focused on the upcoming Pathways to Hope conference, with a strong emphasis on the Youth Pathways component. Ann opened by highlighting the group’s ongoing work at the intersection of faith, community, and civic leadership to address citywide concerns, particularly mental health and older adults. Kristie detailed the Youth Pathways conference, explaining its goal to create a space where young people feel heard, learn they are not alone, and discover their power. She described interactive sessions like the Mental Health Toolbox Arcade and workshops addressing topics such as the school-to-prison pipeline. Rich praised the youth’s involvement and preparation for the event. Kendra and Kristie discussed the need for restorative justice in schools. Doug added that the main Pathways to Hope conference would feature the governor of New Mexico and focus on community action. The meeting closed with reminders about the afternoon roundtable and the importance of community support for youth.
Faith-Community Leadership Transformation Initiative
Ann opened the meeting by discussing the ongoing importance of the intersection between faith, community, and civic leaders in driving transformational change in the city and beyond. She highlighted recent focus areas, including mental health and support for older adults, and announced an upcoming roundtable discussion at Morgan’s Assistance Center. Ann also promoted the Pathways to Hope conference, noting strong registration numbers and encouraging attendees to invite others, particularly focusing on youth-related initiatives. Kristie was introduced as the lead coordinator for the youth portion of Pathways to Hope, with over 500 registrations to date.
Youth Mental Health Event Planning
Kristie discussed the purpose and structure of Youth Pathways to Hope, an event focused on youth mental health that aims to empower young people by involving them directly in the conversation rather than just talking about them. She outlined various tracks including “By Youth For Youth,” “Care on Campus 101,” and a Mental Health Toolbox Arcade, with youth leading many of the workshops this year. Rich expressed pride in the young people’s involvement and mentioned they have been actively participating in back-to-school events and registering people for the Pathways to Hope conference.
Mental Health Toolbox Arcade
Kristie discussed the Mental Health Toolbox Arcade, an interactive space featuring eight organizations including Art Your Way and SA Youth, led by Nick Holstein with Hug Me Inc. The arcade will offer activities like dance skills, journaling, and making stress balls at home, aimed at teaching youth skills to help them understand and manage their mental health. Kristie also outlined new morning sessions including a “Get Ready With Me” session led by Monster Moms with Tia Gibson and a Spiritual Salutations session featuring youth representatives from various faiths across San Antonio.
Pathways to Hope Conference Planning
Kristie discussed upcoming presentations at the Pathways to Hope conference, including speeches by youth leaders and a workshop on school discipline policies. She expressed concerns about the “Zero Tolerance Policy” in schools, advocating for restorative justice approaches that address underlying mental health issues rather than punitive measures. The group discussed the importance of implementing restorative justice programs in schools and the need for better mental health support for students.
Community Events Planning Meeting
The meeting focused on upcoming community events and initiatives. Doug announced that the governor of New Mexico will be the keynote speaker at noon on Friday, followed by a panel on community issues including hospital beds and jail diversion. The group discussed a youth conference planned by those who work with youth, covering topics like the school-to-prison pipeline, with emphasis on the importance of adults supporting young people. Ann encouraged attendance at an afternoon roundtable and reminded participants to bring promotional materials to share.