Michael Vick to Join African American Male Wellness Agency’s Free Real Men Real Talk Summit in Columbus
Former NFL quarterback to encourage Black men and Central Ohio student-athletes to prioritize mental health, leadership, and resilience
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Former NFL quarterback Michael Vick will travel to Columbus on Thursday, July 16, to headline the African American Male Wellness Agency’s (AAMWA) Real Men Real Talk Summit. The event will be held at East High School from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., doors will open at 4:30 p.m. This is a free event designed to foster honest conversations about mental health, leadership, resilience, and personal growth among Black men.
The summit brings together community leaders, mental health professionals, mentors, and influential voices to encourage men to speak openly about the pressures they face while connecting them with resources that support their overall well-being.
“I’m honored to join the Real Men Real Talk Summit,” said Vick. “The African American Male Wellness Agency provides spaces where Black men can have real conversations about leadership, mental health, and growth. I want every man who’s carrying something in silence to join us.”
While the summit welcomes men of all ages, student-athletes from high schools, colleges, and universities across Central Ohio are encouraged to attend as well. As home to one of the nation’s premier athletic communities, including nationally recognized high school programs and The Ohio State University, Central Ohio is uniquely positioned to engage young men who often face intense expectations to perform academically, athletically, and personally.
Vick’s journey, from becoming one of football’s most electrifying athletes to rebuilding his life and career after public setbacks, offers a perspective on accountability, resilience, and personal growth that extends far beyond the game. His message serves as a reminder that true strength includes the courage to confront adversity, seek support, and continue moving forward.
“Michael Vick’s story is one of talent, adversity, accountability, and perseverance, experiences that resonate with many men who are navigating challenges of their own,” said Kenny R. Hampton, president of the African American Male Wellness Agency. “Real Men Real Talk is about creating a space where men can be honest about what they’re facing, learn from one another, and take meaningful steps toward healthier lives. We believe every man deserves the opportunity to rewrite his story, and we’re excited to bring that message to Columbus alongside Michael Vick.”
(Caption: Michael Vick serves as the head football coach for the Norfolk State University Spartans in Virginia.)
Real Men Real Talk has become one of Central Ohio’s leading initiatives focused on improving the mental health and well-being of Black men. In 2025 alone, more than 3,500 people attended Real Men Real Talk sessions throughout Franklin County. During those sessions, nearly 500 mental health screenings were administered, and more than 120 men were referred for continued mental health care, demonstrating the program’s ability to move meaningful conversations into life-changing action.
(Caption: 2025 Real Men Real Talk Franklin County Impact Report.)
“The Real Men Real Talk program gives Black men a place to be heard without judgment,” said Dr. Anthony King, licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “For many, it is the first step toward acknowledging what they are carrying and beginning to heal.”
The Real Men Real Talk Summit is part of the African American Male Wellness Agency’s year-round commitment to addressing health disparities by creating culturally relevant spaces where Black men can openly discuss mental health, relationships, fatherhood, finances, leadership, and personal wellness. Through candid conversations, professional support, and community engagement, the initiative empowers men to prioritize their health and seek help without stigma.
With the summit taking place Thursday evening, organizers encourage men to attend and bring a friend, teammate, son, father, mentor, or colleague for an evening of candid conversation, inspiration, and community.
“My hope is that every man who attends leaves knowing that no matter where you’ve been, your story isn’t over,” said Vick.
