Nearly 80 Residents Gather at Howard County’s New AAPI Cultural Center
On June 26, 2026, Community Health Initiative (CHI) hosted its Growing Together Community Mental Health Forum at the newly opened Howard County AAPI Cultural Center in Ellicott City, Maryland. Nearly 80 residents from Howard County, Montgomery County, and neighboring communities attended the event for an evening of learning, conversation, and connection focused on mental health and well-being.
The forum marked CHI’s first event at the newly opened Howard County AAPI Cultural Center, introducing the new community space as a venue for health education, meaningful dialogue, and community engagement.
The program featured two distinguished mental health professionals.
Dr. Ian Qian, Clinical Instructor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and psychiatrist at the Advanced Depression Treatment Center (ADEPT), presented “Mental Health Medications: Benefits, Risks, and What You Need to Know.” He discussed how psychiatric medications work, their potential benefits and risks, and the importance of making informed treatment decisions in partnership with healthcare providers.
Dr. Xiaofang Wang Lanterman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, presented “Family Relationships and Mental Health: How Our Closest Relationships Shape Stress, Emotions, and Well-Being, with a Special Focus on Couples.” Drawing on her clinical experience, she shared practical strategies for improving communication, strengthening resilience, and building healthier family relationships.
Following the presentations, Maryland House Delegate Dr. Chao Wu and Dr. Lanlan Xu, Commissioner of the Howard County AAPI Commission and candidate for the Howard County Board of Education, delivered brief remarks. They recognized CHI’s ongoing commitment to community health education, thanked the speakers for sharing their expertise, and encouraged residents to continue prioritizing mental wellness and community engagement.
The evening concluded with a community dinner, where attendees continued conversations, exchanged ideas, and built new connections in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Many participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn from mental health professionals and connect with others in the community.
CHI Founder Jiabin Zhao thanked everyone who attended the forum, along with the speakers, volunteers, and community partners whose support made the event possible. He reaffirmed CHI’s commitment to collaborating with healthcare professionals, community organizations, and local partners to expand access to health education, promote mental wellness, and build healthier, stronger, and more connected communities.
(Special thanks to Xiaoyan for photography)
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