The Black Parachute Is Bringing Mental Wellness Resources Directly to Black Men Across the Twin Cities This Summer
The Black Parachute founder Josh Cobb is distributing free guided journals and mental wellness resources at pop-up events across the Twin Cities through August, bringing his nonprofit's mission of healing, reflection and community directly to Black men at Juneteenth celebrations and community events during Men's Mental Health Month.
Josh Cobb wants Black men to have a soft landing place, and he is bringing that mission directly to the community through a series of pop-up events across the Twin Cities.
What The Black Parachute Does
Cobb is the founder of The Black Parachute, a Twin Cities-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering healing, reflection, and community for Black men. Through journal distribution, pop-up activations, and access to mental wellness resources, the organization creates space for honest conversation and personal growth, partnering with organizations and supporters to expand access to tools that promote wellness and long-term impact. At the center of the organization’s work is a guided journal he created specifically for African-American men, featuring 365 questions, one for each day of the year, designed to encourage reflection and emotional expression.
“It’s about getting Black men the access that they need and deserve and doing it in a way that doesn’t belittle you,” Cobb said. “You don’t lose your dignity by sitting in your room and writing about your thoughts.”
Why It Matters
Research shows suicide is the third leading cause of death for young Black men, who often face higher rates of depression due to trauma, discrimination, and systemic racism. Cobb says many do not seek help because of cultural stigma, distrust of the health care system, and a lack of Black mental health professionals. The journal is designed to help break down that stigma and give Black men a safe, private space to reflect and heal.
Mental Wellness Is Part of Freedom
June is Men’s Mental Health Month, and The Black Parachute is meeting the community where they are.
This month, the organization will be at two Juneteenth celebrations sharing free guided journals as part of a broader message: mental wellness is part of freedom, and every Black man deserves the opportunity to prioritize his well-being without stigma or shame.
“If you see us at an upcoming event, stop by, grab a journal, and say hello,” the organization said.
Where to Find Them
The Black Parachute will be distributing free journals at pop-up events across the Twin Cities through August. Journals are available while supplies last.
Saturday, June 13 | Juneteenth Black Market, 767 Eustis St., St. Paul, MN 55114 | 2-6 p.m.
Tuesday, June 17 | MPLS College Juneteenth, 1501 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55403 | 5-7 p.m.
Thursday, July 2 | Strive Publishing and Bookstore, 825 Nicollet Mall, Suite 160, Minneapolis, MN 55402 | 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Friday, July 10 | Christmas in July (Project Hope), 5th St. and Minnesota St., St. Paul, MN 55101 | 2-6 p.m.
Saturday, July 11 | The Black Market, 767 Eustis St., St. Paul, MN 55114 | 2-6 p.m.
Friday, July 25 | Are U Down 2 Urth? at 825 Arts, 825 University Ave. W., St. Paul, MN 55104 | 7-9 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8 | Human Roots Health and Wellness Awareness Event, 1063 Iglehart Ave., St. Paul, MN 55104 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
For more information, visit https://linktr.ee/blackparachute