This April, the 2026 Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Summit will bring the MHFA community to Denver to connect, learn and be inspired. As Colorado prepares to welcome attendees from across the country, Betsy Molgano (pictured right), program director of Mental Health First Aid Colorado at the Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council (CBHC), shares what makes this community so special and why MHFA matters more than ever.
Why is Colorado such a great place for this community to come together?
“It is a great honor to welcome the 2026 MHFA Summit to the great state of Colorado, home to more than 100,000 certified First Aiders. We are thrilled to host attendees from across the country in the Denver area and showcase both our strong behavioral health community and the unique spirit of the Mile High City.”
The Summit will bring together Instructors, Coordinators and National Trainers from across the country. What stands out to you most about this community?
“The CBHC is excited to welcome Instructors, Coordinators and National Trainers from across the country. This community is truly special because of its shared commitment to learning, collaboration and innovation in mental health. We are especially proud that more than 30 members of the Mental Health First Aid Colorado network will be participating in this year’s Summit, bringing local expertise into a national conversation.”
What are you most excited about for this year’s Summit?
“CBHC is looking forward to sharing Colorado’s state-level expertise in MHFA implementation while also learning from peers across the country. Just as importantly, we’re excited to welcome attendees to Colorado and create opportunities for connection, collaboration and inspiration.”
What would you say to someone who’s on the fence about attending?
“If you’re considering attending, I would strongly encourage you to take the opportunity. The Summit offers a unique space to explore diverse approaches to MHFA implementation from across the country, while also highlighting best practices and emerging ideas. Having attended multiple Summits myself, I’ve consistently walked away with fresh perspectives, practical strategies, and meaningful connections both nationally and within Colorado.”
Why does MHFA matter so much right now?
“As access to care and resources continues to face challenges within an increasingly complex system, MHFA is more important than ever. It empowers everyday people with the tools to recognize and respond to mental health needs not by providing clinical care, but by fostering stronger, more supportive communities through evidence-based practices.”
How have you seen MHFA make a real difference in your community?
“MHFA is not just a training, it is a catalyst for advocacy and awareness. It helps start important conversations and brings real behavioral health challenges to the forefront of community and policy discussions. In settings like schools, we hear directly from First Aiders about the growing mental health needs they are witnessing. These insights help inform how community leaders, educators and policymakers respond and advocate for meaningful change.”
Ready to make an even bigger impact in your community? Join us at the 2026 MHFA Summit in Denver on Sunday, April 26, for a full day of inspiration, learning and collaboration.
