Frequently Asked Questions:

Organization Info

  • Future Wellness Foundation (FWF) is a national nonprofit organization that promotes positive mental health and educational activities geared toward young people.

  • The Future Wellness Foundation was established in 2020, inspired by a commitment from Will Smith. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Black communities, the foundation was created to bridge the gap between mental health resources and those who need them most. Through our programs, we strive to cultivate environments where young people can access the tools, knowledge, and support necessary to thrive, breaking down barriers to mental wellness and fostering a future where every young Black individual can achieve their full potential. To learn more about Will’s story, click here. (see attached page)

  • In 2020, a growing recognition emerged that, while society had made significant strides in addressing physical health, mental health remained in the shadows—particularly within Black communities. The stigma surrounding mental health was a formidable barrier, preventing many from seeking the help they needed. This divide between physical and mental health care left countless individuals suffering in silence, with their emotional and psychological needs unmet.

    Will Smith, a passionate advocate for the well-being of young Black youth, saw the devastating impact of this divide firsthand. He witnessed how the stigma associated with mental health issues kept many from accessing the care they deserved, and how the lack of integration between physical and mental health services only exacerbated the problem. Determined to change this, he envisioned an organization that would not only break down the stigma surrounding mental health but also bridge the gap between physical and mental well-being.

    Thus, the Future Wellness Foundation was born. The foundation was established with a clear mission: to ensure that all young BIPOC youth feel supported, enlightened, and empowered to lead mentally healthy lives. It sought to create a future where mental health was no longer seen as separate or secondary to physical health, but as an integral part of overall well-being.

    By bringing together mental health professionals, educators, and community leaders, the Future Wellness Foundation began its work to address the critical health and wellness issues that had long been neglected. The foundation’s programs were designed to be culturally relevant and accessible, offering a safe space for young people to explore their mental health, learn effective coping strategies, and find the support they needed.

    Through its efforts, the Future Wellness Foundation has become a beacon of hope, leading the charge to dismantle the stigma of mental health and close the divide between physical and mental care. The foundation continues to inspire and empower young BIPOC individuals to embrace their mental wellness, ensuring that no one is left behind on the journey to a healthy, fulfilling life.

  • We were incorporated in 2020 and received our 501(c)(3) tax-deductible status in early 2024.

Getting Involved

  • Future Wellness Foundation unapologetically centers the needs and experiences of BIPOC youth. Due to the lack of gender-responsive and culturally affirming safe spaces for young BIPOC people, our desire is to ensure we provide that nuanced support. However, we also understand that mental health literacy and awareness is important for all. Therefore, we ask that all those interested in our programming, regardless of age, gender or race enter into the space (whether virtually or in-person) understanding that our work speaks directly to the experiences of BIPOC youth and non-binary folks, and their support system.

  • FWF is honored to partner with providers/therapists throughout N. America that serve and stand for the mental health and well-being of BIPOC people. To be added to FWF' Preferred Provider & Practice list we provide to our Therapy Assistance recipients and our community please complete the following form: (See Preferred Provider Preferred Practice Form)

  • FWF team loves to partner with providers, community leaders, healers and so many more qualified and experience facilitators to offer diverse and relevant workshops and programming to our community. If you are interested in facilitating a workshop or program with FWF please complete this form HERE

  • We were incorporated in 2020 and received our 501(c)(3) tax-deductible status in early 2024.

Programming Info

  • We are always looking for dedicated and passionate individuals to help us further our work. Please visit our Volunteer page to learn about available volunteer opportunities and to fill out the Volunteer Form.

  • FWF aims to create meaningful and impactful volunteer opportunities that can fit anyone's needs including virtual, in-person, on-time and continuous. During the COVID- 19 pandemic many of our volunteer opportunities are virtual however we do have several IRL experiences for in-person programming that in which we follow all CDC guidelines and FWF specific protocols. If you are interest in getting more information about Volunteer experiences we encourage you to check out our Volunteer Page and contact our team HERE if you have any additional questions.

  • Yes, We have various corporate volunteer experiences that can be offered both virtually and in-person for Corporate Partner and Groups. Please let our team know HERE if you are interested in Corporate Partnership Volunteerism or Group Volunteer experiences.

Donations

  • Yes, We received our 501(c)(3) status in June 2024, allowing donations to be tax- deductible. If you would like to donate, click here.

  • Yes, When you donate through our Donation platform you can designate a specific program to donate to.

  • Yes, When you donate through our Donation platform you can designate "Tribute" to donate in honor of another.

  • All donations to FWF are used for programming and general operating expenses.