Mike Epps brings free concert to Washington Park in Indianapolis
Comedian and actor Mike Epps hosted his second annual free community concert at Washington Park on Sept. 6.
Thousands of people filled an east side park with music and the smells of BBQ on Sept. 6, as kids played in bounce houses, young men ran up and down basketball courts and many more sat in chairs with drinks in their hands, enjoying the performances on a stage.
All were gathered for comedian and actor Mike Epps’ second annual free community concert at Washington Park — an event focused on supporting the positive impacts of art and culture on mental health and well-being, especially in the Black community.
“Mental health is everything. That’s all we have as humans is our mind,” Epps told IndyStar. “We all know in the inner cities of these communities that one of the number one things that we deal with every day is mental health.”
Epps said he is well aware of some of the issues the city faces. Bringing people together for fun and celebration is his way of combating the isolation that some people may feel. The hope is that by bringing together from different neighborhoods, they’re able to connect with not only resources on-site at the event, but also each other.
“Every year it looks like it’s growing bigger, and it’s such a pleasure to see people enjoy themselves, especially during the hard times,” Epps said.
Mike Epps community concert in Indianapolis emphasizes mental health
While Epps was busy hosting, he wasn’t too busy to stop for photos with supporters like Tasha Dial, who stood behind a barricade to meet him. She missed the free community event in 2024.
Dial grew up on the east side and works with youth. She said there aren’t a lot of resources for young people and adults, as the state faces a shortage of mental health professionals. A 2024 report from Mental Health America (MHA) found two in three Indiana youth who experienced major depression did not receive necessary treatment.
The National Alliance on Mental Health said barriers to services based on socioeconomic backgrounds, stigmas surrounding mental health and provider bias can cause inequalities in care and lead to misdiagnosis or people not receiving care at all.
“I always hear about stuff (Epps has) done as far as just rebuilding communities since I was a kid,” Dial said. “That’s what makes me want to meet him, because this type of impact is important since he’s from Indianapolis and the community.”
Where to find mental health resources in Indianapolis
Corburn Place offers these organizations as resources for anyone looking for local support.
Be Well Crisis HelplineThe Be Well Crisis Helpline is accessible to Indiana residents via Indiana 211. The free service line connects callers with service providers across the state. To reach the helpline, dial 211 and enter your zip code. When prompted, select option 3 to be connected with a representative.
Black Emotional and Mental Health (BEAM)BEAM is a training, movement-building and grant-making organization dedicated to the healing, wellness and liberation of Black communities. BEAM envisions a world where there are no barriers to Black healing.
The Association of Black PsychologistsIndividuals can find a Black mental health and wellness professional near them.
Therapy and Resource GuideThis is a directory of mental health providers and programs that serve the Black community. It includes therapists, support groups, digital content, faith-based programs, educational programs and more.
Therapy for Black GirlsTherapy for Black Girls is an online space encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls.
Therapist Directory for Black GirlsFind trusted therapists that can help you navigate being a strong, Black woman. Search for in-office therapists by your location or virtual therapists.
Therapy for Black MenA therapist directory for Black men seeking therapy.
The Loveland FoundationProvides financial assistance to Black women and girls seeking therapy.
Dr. Ebony’s My Therapy CardsSelf-exploration card deck created by a Black female psychologist for other women of color with the intention of growing and elevating emotional and mental health.
Safe Black SpaceSafe Black Space is the umbrella under which various services are offered to address people of African ancestry’s individual and community reactions to cultural and racial trauma.
Trauma & Resilience Initiative Inc.The Trauma & Resilience Initiative (TRI) is a nonprofit organization that educates and promotes healing and resilience in individuals, families, organizations and communities.
Jade Jackson is a Public Safety Reporter for the Indianapolis Star. You can email her at Jade.Jackson@IndyStar.com and follow her on X, formerly Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON.Â