Bill Lawrence & Karl‑Anthony Towns spark Tribeca—find out the surprise

Project Healthy Minds has announced the lineups for two upcoming New York City gatherings that spotlight mental‑health advocacy. The fourth annual World Mental Health Day Gala on October 8 will honor television producer Bill Lawrence with the organization’s Storyteller of the Year Award.

The next day, a complimentary festival on October 10 will feature NBA champion Karl‑Anthony Towns and actor Terry Crews on panels about grief, loss and personal change. Both events will be staged at Spring Studios in Tribeca.

## Background & Context

Founded to expand access to mental‑health services across the United States, Project Healthy Minds has grown into a national platform that blends celebrity influence with expert insight. The World Mental Health Day Gala marks its fourth annual edition, celebrating creators whose storytelling elevates conversations about well‑being.

The companion festival, now in its fifth year, is free to the public and offers a broader range of sessions that include psychology, fitness, fashion and mindfulness. Both gatherings are held at Spring Studios in New York’s Tribeca neighborhood, a venue that has hosted numerous cultural events aimed at community outreach.

Bill Lawrence, known for producing hit series such as *Scrubs*, *Ted Lasso*, *Rooster* and *Bad Monkey*, will be named Storyteller of the Year. Carson Daly—co‑anchor of *Today* and a producer of *The Voice* who also serves on the organization’s board—will host the gala.

The event will feature speeches, a photo‑op, and a moment of recognition for Lawrence’s contributions to mental‑health discourse through his work in television.

## What People Are Saying

Phillip Schermer, Project Healthy Minds founder and CEO, emphasized the scope of the organization’s mission: “Mental health is not one issue among many facing modern culture.

It’s the thread running through every other question we’re asking about who we’re asking about who we are and where we’re going.” He added that understanding the century requires more than technology, politics or economics—it demands insight into mindset.

Carson Daly expressed personal motivation behind his involvement: “The two annual fall events remind me why I keep showing up for this work. The festival and gala have grown into something bigger than an event.

They’re proof that when people talk openly about mental health, real change follows.” These remarks underscore the organization’s focus on creating spaces where public figures and experts can share authentic narratives.

Karl‑Anthony Towns, a pivotal player in the New York Knicks’ championship run last season, will join a panel titled “Turning Tragedy Into Triumph: New York Knicks Star & NBA Champion Karl‑Anthony Towns on Grief, Loss, and High Performance.” He has previously spoken about the influence of his late mother’s memory during that title campaign.

Terry Crews will lead the session “Who Am I Now: Getting Ready for Change,” offering a perspective from his own journey toward personal growth.

## What Happens Next

Further details about speakers and sessions will be released later, as Project Healthy Minds notes that more participants will be announced. The festival’s open‑to‑public format encourages broad community engagement, allowing attendees to access workshops and panels without cost.

Both the gala and festival are expected to attract a mix of fans, mental‑health professionals, athletes, and artists who share the organization’s vision.

The events represent a continued effort by Project Healthy Minds to weave mental‑health conversations into mainstream culture. By aligning storytelling, sports performance, and personal testimony, the organization aims to shift public perception and foster tangible support for expanded access to services across the country.