The Parkesburg POINT youth center will present a Youth Mental Health Awareness Event featuring Philadelphia Eagles player Brian Dawkins on Wednesday, March 16. The event will begin at 7 p.m. in the auditorium at Octorara Junior-Senior High School, 226 Highland Road, Atglen.

Faced with mental health struggles early in his career, including depression and thoughts of suicide, Dawkins will discuss how to overcome and conquer life's challenges. "We felt we needed to bring someone in who struggled with mental health - even though he was a very successful football player - to show others that mental health is important to everyone," said Debbie Shupp, development director for The POINT.

Shupp said youths who visit The Parkesburg POINT have reported struggling with mental health issues during the pandemic because of being isolated from friends and social activities.

"Dwayne (Walton, The POINT's executive director), believes that the pandemic has enhanced the mental health issues that we have," said Shupp, citing the increased use of opioids and recent suicides by Chester County youths.

Introducing Dawkins on March 16 will be sports radio talk show host Rob Maaddi. "He has a syndicated talk show, 'Faith on the Field.' He is coming in to serve as host, and he will feature the (Dawkins' event) on his program," Shupp noted.

Those who attend the event will also be able to browse among tables of information regarding local agencies that offer related services. "There will be a list of mental health resources outside the gymnasium," Shupp noted. "One of them will be the Chester County Teen Talk Line."

Dawkins, a well-known speaker who recently presented a mental health program in the Downingtown Area School District, attended Clemson University and was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 1996 NFL draft. During his 13 seasons with the Eagles, he led the team to the playoffs eight times and to the NFL championship following the 2004 season. While an Eagle, Dawkins became the first player in League history to record a sack, an interception, a touchdown reception and a forced fumble in the same game. He completed his career with the Denver Broncos.

In 2016, Dawkins returned to the Philadelphia Eagles as a full-time front office executive. The Eagles retired his No. 20 jersey in 2012. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

Off the field, Dawkins established the Brian Dawkins Impact Foundation to help disadvantaged young people, families and communities while promoting spiritual, mental and physical wellness.

Tickets will be required to attend, with separate prices for adults and students. There will be no tickets sold at the door and no autographs. For tickets or more information, visit http://www.parkesburgpoint.com. A link to order tickets is also available at http://www.facebook.com/parkesburg.point.

Sponsorships are also available. Interested sponsors should contact Shupp at 610-857-3392, ext. 102, or dshupp@parkesburgpoint.com.