Mental health resources and support network illustration

About A Safe Space For Men

Breaking barriers, building community, and fostering resilience in men's mental health across Detroit and beyond.

We create safe, supportive, and non-judgmental spaces where men can openly explore and prioritize their emotional well-being.

Our Story

A Safe Space For Men was founded on the belief that every man deserves a place where vulnerability is viewed as strength, not weakness. Our journey began with recognizing the significant barriers that prevent men from seeking mental health support and the devastating impact of untreated mental health challenges in our communities.

Rooted in the Detroit community, our organization emerged from a deep understanding of the unique cultural, social, and economic factors that affect men's willingness to prioritize their mental health. We saw the need for culturally relevant support systems that speak to men's experiences and challenges without judgment or stigma.

Today, we continue to grow our community of men who support each other through shared experiences, professional resources, and the simple yet powerful understanding that seeking help is an act of courage, not surrender.

Handshake wordcloud representing cooperation, support, and community connection

Our Mission & Vision

Guided by our commitment to creating lasting change in men's mental health

Our Mission

A Safe Space For Men is dedicated to men's mental health and emotional well-being through community connection, education, and support.

We create a safe, non-judgmental space where men can openly address the real challenges they face—anxiety, depression, grief, relationship struggles, and the weight of isolation—before they reach crisis. Through peer support groups, mental health education, and referrals to culturally competent therapists, we break down the stigma that tells men they must carry everything alone.

We believe that emotional well-being isn't a luxury or a sign of weakness—it's essential. By fostering open dialogue, building genuine connections, and linking men to the resources they need, we're working to prevent the tragic outcomes that too often result from silence and shame.

In Detroit and beyond, we're cultivating a culture where every man feels seen, heard, and valued—and where asking for help is an act of strength, not surrender.

Our Vision

We envision a future where men in Detroit and beyond can embrace their emotional well-being without stigma, access culturally relevant support systems, and build strong, supportive communities that empower them to thrive. Through education, community engagement, and advocacy, we strive to normalize conversations about mental health and ensure every man has the tools and connections needed to prioritize his well-being.

The Challenge We Address

Understanding the scope of men's mental health challenges

77%

of men experience symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression

40%

have never discussed their mental health with anyone

14%

of Black men seek mental health treatment

1 in 4

men lack close friends and social support

Our Strategic Approach

Three focus areas guide our community-centered work

Community Awareness & Engagement

We develop campaigns to highlight the importance of men's mental health, organize educational workshops, and share personal stories to foster empathy and understanding.

  • Awareness campaigns across various media platforms
  • Educational workshops addressing mental health topics
  • Storytelling initiatives to reduce stigma

Community Resources & Referrals

We create comprehensive directories of mental health services and develop user-friendly platforms offering tools and access to support communities.

  • Comprehensive directory of mental health services
  • Digital platforms with self-assessment tools
  • Access to in-person and virtual support communities

Community Partnerships

We partner with local and national men's mental health organizations to build an accessible network that serves all men in various formats.

  • Partnerships with other men's organizations
  • Collaborative networks for broader impact
  • Resource sharing and joint initiatives

Our Leadership Team

Meet the dedicated leaders driving our mission forward with expertise, passion, and commitment to men's mental health advocacy.

William J. Word, Founder & Board President

William J. Word

Founder & Board President

Andrea E. Frazier, MBA, Business Operations Consultant

Andrea E. Frazier, MBA

Business Operations Consultant

Douglas A. Monds, Legal & Compliance

Douglas A. Monds

Legal & Compliance

Michael Ross, Fundraising

Michael Ross

Fundraising

Darryl Woods, Sr., Community Outreach

Darryl Woods, Sr.

Community Outreach

Our diverse leadership team brings together decades of experience in mental health advocacy, community organizing, business leadership, and lived experience to create meaningful change.

Our Growing Impact

Building stronger communities through connection and support

Community workshop showcasing men supporting each other in mental health advocacy

Breaking the Stigma

Empowering men through education and awareness

Community Impact 2

Building connections and fostering support

Community Impact 3

Building connections and fostering support

Community Impact 4

Building connections and fostering support

Community Impact 5

Building connections and fostering support

Community Impact 6

Building connections and fostering support

Ready to Join Our Community?

Take the first step towards prioritizing your mental health and connecting with others on the same journey.