MLK Youth Symposium
January 18, 2026 | Clinton College, Rock Hill
For two years in a row, we’ve participated in the annual MLK Symposium hosted by the City of Rock Hill Community Relations Council to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of service, equality, and hope. This year’s focus was on youth empowerment: giving local students a chance to learn, connect, and give back.
How Palmetto Took Part
Our therapist Alycia Toohey and Client Services & Accounts Coordinator Kelly Mabe represented Palmetto Counseling at the symposium. Throughout the day, they talked with students and staff about our services and explained how to access mental health support when it’s needed. Making care feel approachable starts with conversations like these, especially for young people who may not know where to turn.
Alycia and Kelly also joined students and community members in a hands-on service project, assembling care packages for local homeless shelters. Working side by side, everyone helped bring comfort and essentials to neighbors facing some of life’s hardest challenges.
“Showing up for our community means more than simply being present—it means serving with compassion, creating meaningful connections, and helping ensure that those who may be facing greater challenges feel seen, valued, and supported. It is about turning compassion into action and making a tangible difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate.”
—Alycia Toohey, LMFT, Outreach & Training Manager and Outpatient Therapist, Palmetto Counseling & Consulting
A Memorable Moment
For our team, the highlight of the day was being surrounded by the students’ energy and curiosity. Their eagerness to help and connect with others shows just how bright our community’s future is.
“Showing our support as a part of our community by helping with the service project and providing resources as needed, while seeing how engaged the students were in assisting others and hearing the wonderful, insightful questions they asked, was an incredible experience for us.”
—Kelly Mabe, Client Services & Accounts Coordinator, Palmetto Counseling & Consulting
Learn More: City of Rock Hill’s Community Relations Council Website
Follow: Facebook
We’d Love to Be a Part of Your Event
Do you have an upcoming event and would like Palmetto Counseling to participate? We would love to explore how we can get involved. Please fill out our quick questionnaire so we can learn more about your event.
