Danny Trejo Inspires Students at Club Thrive in Joy's "Talk About It" Event at Alliance Dr. Olga Mohan High School

Danny Trejo was the star attraction at Club Thrive in Joy’s “Talk About It” event at Alliance Dr. Olga Mohan High School! Entering campus via a red carpet and to enthusiastic cheers from students, Mr. Trejo took the stage to share his life experiences as they connected perfectly to the event's theme of men opening up about their mental health and seeking support from others. Mr. Trejo told students one of his guiding insights is his realization that everything good that’s ever happened in his life is a direct result of doing something good for others. After speaking, Mr. Trejo signed copies of his memoir, “Trejo: My Life of Crime, Redemption, and Hollywood,” for 50 lucky students.

Following Mr. Trejo’s talk, students were able to visit various booths offering stress release activities as well as booths hosted by National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and The Wall Las Memorias. The Book Truck booth, hosted by student book ambassadors, provided every student with two free books of their choice, specifically geared to teen readers.

“Talk About It” was the vision of Club Thrive in Joy Co-leads, Melanie Ramos and Jose Argon, who both wanted to call attention to the reality that men’s mental health affects everyone and the importance of men being able to talk about their mental health. Recognizing that often the only acceptable emotion for men is anger—the event called attention to the reality that asking for help is a sign of strength rather than weakness. Over 200 students, parents, faculty, and community members filled every available seat, thanks to the incredible team of student volunteers which Melanie and Jose organized and coached to ensure the event’s success. “Talk About It’ was one of three student-led Entrepreneurial Social Impact Projects (ESIPs) hosted by Club Thrive in Joy this spring, which had a combined impact on over 380 students, faculty, and community members..