<html><head><meta http-equiv="content-type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"></head><body dir="auto"><span style="font-size: 19pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">Hello All, </span><br><div dir="ltr"><div class="WordSection1"><p style="margin:0in;text-indent:.5in"><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">Join Us for an Important Conversation on Mental Health & Wellness for Blind Black Men</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">The NFB-National Organization of Blind Black Leaders (NOBBL) Men\u2019s Group is inviting you to a meaningful Zoom gathering focused on mental health and wellness in the lives of blind Black men.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">We\u2019re honored to welcome Dr. </span><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;color:black">Virgil L. </span><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> Gregory , Jr., and Dr. Bishop Rutledge, two highly respected professionals who bring both medical expertise and powerful personal experiences to this discussion. They\u2019ll help us explore the cultural barriers and deep-rooted stigmas that often keep blind Black men from seeking support and taking care of their mental and physical health.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">This will be a real, honest, and engaging conversation centered around the questions, concerns, and voices of our community.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">We encourage everyone to attend, listen, and take part in this much-needed dialogue.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p align="center" style="margin:0in;text-align:center;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">---</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Bio of guest:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Virgil L. Gregory, Jr., PhD</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">is an associate professor at the Indiana University School of Social Work. Dr. Gregory is a licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical addictions counselor. Dr. Gregory has clinical experience in using cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of Black Americans and other persons with mood, anxiety, psychotic, and substance use disorders. His research evaluates cognitive-behavioral therapy for substance use disorders, affective disorders, and Black Americans. Dr. Gregory's research has placed specific emphasis on the intersection of Black male mental health and social injustice. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist and researcher, Dr. Gregory's studies include scale development and psychometric evaluation of the aforementioned topic areas. A consistent theme is the translation of research into clinical practice. His research also incorporates systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials. Dr. Gregory also has a new book coming out in October of 2025 called, </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">"</span><i><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:Helvetica-Oblique">Cognitive-behavioral therapy with Black Americans: A principle and structurally informed perspective</span></i><span style="font-size:18.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">"</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">---</span><span style="font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><b><span style="font-size:20.5pt;font-family:system-ui">Dr. Bishop D. Rutledge</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><b><span style="font-size:20.5pt;font-family:system-ui">Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Founding Bishop | Community Activist | Advocate for the Blind</span></b><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:20.5pt;font-family:system-ui">Dr. Bishop D. Rutledge is a licensed clinical psychologist with a specialized focus on individuals with disabilities. As the Founding Bishop and Prelate of <b>God is First Ministries, LLC</b> and <b>One Step Closer to God Ministries, Inc.</b>, Dr. Rutledge integrates spiritual leadership with psychological care to holistically uplift underserved and marginalized communities.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:20.5pt;font-family:system-ui">A passionate community activist, Dr. Rutledge is deeply committed to the advancement and empowerment of <b>Black men and young boys</b>, especially those who are blind or visually impaired. As a <b>licensed life coach</b> and <b>mentor</b>, he focuses on guiding young Black men toward purpose, healing, and leadership. His work is rooted in advocacy for <b>equity and equality</b>, particularly addressing the social, psychological, and legislative needs of <b>blind African American men and women</b>.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:20.5pt;font-family:system-ui">Dr. Rutledge is also a visionary change agent, known for pioneering programs that support <b>blind Black families</b>, fostering innovation in mental health, community engagement, and intergenerational healing. He serves as the <b>Legislative Director for the National Federation of the Blind of Alabama</b>, where he leads civic initiatives focused on <b>voter empowerment, policy reform</b>, and inclusive representation.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:20.5pt;font-family:system-ui">A devoted researcher and thought leader, Dr. Rutledge is especially proud of his personal work on the <b>ancestral wisdom of Black communities</b>, emphasizing the importance of legacy, identity, and cultural continuity. He believes in \u201c<b>standing on the shoulders of our Black ancestors</b>\u201d to carry forward a <b>divine legacy</b> of knowledge, resilience, and spiritual truth for future generations.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt">Date: <u>Aug 26, 2025</u> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="margin:0in;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white">Time: <u>08:00P.M. Eastern Time</u> (US and Canada)</span><span style="color:white"><br></span><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white">Join Zoom Meeting:</span><span style="color:white"><br><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86713876056?pwd=iliaBRPIWQl0Ha6iahOCI1IkCWsiGa1" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:purple">https://us02webzoom.us/j/86713876056?pwd=iliaBRPIWQl0Ha6iahOCI1IkCWsiGa.1</span></a><br><br></span><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white">Meeting ID: </span><u><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:purple">867 1387 6056</span></u><span style="color:white"><br></span><u><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:purple">Passcode: 690276</span></u><span style="color:white"><br><br></span><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white">One tap mobile:</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt:auto;mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto;font-variant-caps:normal;font-size-adjust:none;font-kerning:auto;font-variant-alternates:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-variant-numeric:normal;font-variant-east-asian:normal;font-feature-settings:normal"><u><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:purple">+13017158592,,86713876056#,,,,*690276#</span></u><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white"> US (<u>Washington DC</u>)</span><span style="color:white"><br></span><u><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white">+13052241968,,86713876056#,,,,*690276#</span></u><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white"> US</span><span style="color:white"><br><br></span><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:white">Join instructions</span><span style="color:white"><br><a href="https://us02web.zoom.us/meetings/86713876056/invitations?signature=-8IzMbZrtzh5JmiN2NYaw8suMEpQQTJKGg_yX-kpGsY" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:19.0pt;color:purple">https://us02web.zoomus/meetings/86713876056/invitations?signature=-8IzMbZrtzh5JmiN2NYaw8suMEpQQTJKGg_yX-kpGsY</span></a></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br clear="all"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif"><o:p> </o:p></span></p></div></div><style>@font-face { font-family: Helvetica; }
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