The initiative, aimed at promoting emotional well-being, resilience, mutual support, and mental health awareness, is located in Central Park. Various entities collaborated, including the José Germain University Hospital, Save The Children, Spanish Commission for Refugee Aid (CEAR), Association of Alcoholics in Abstinence, Parkinson's Association (APARKAM), Diabetes Association, Red Cross, YMCA, Fundación Manantial, Health and Life Alternatives Association (ASAV), and El Sitio de Nuestro Recreo.
The ‘Leganés for Emotional Balance’ program, developed by the Health Department, was launched in October 2024 to raise visibility for mental health, destigmatize its issues, and promote emotional well-being through a positive and community-based approach.
The ‘Fortresses Ribbon’ marks the conclusion of an activity designed under the slogan “Share your strength,” coinciding with key dates such as Mental Health Day and Suicide Prevention Day. Its objectives include fostering citizen participation, strengthening social cohesion, creating community support networks, and promoting community resilience.
The Councilor for Health, Virginia Benito, highlighted that the initiative will help in facing difficult situations and inspire support and hope. "It is an act of solidarity and generosity that will fuel our continuous construction of personal strengths," she stated.
Benito added that the most valuable aspect was the willingness of individuals to share their strengths. "The best way we could think of to give them the visibility they deserve is this ‘Fortresses Ribbon’ in Central Park. Obviously, it wasn't possible for all 400+ to be here; this is a representation of all of them," explained the councilor.
The most frequently mentioned strengths included: Resilience, Perseverance, Spirituality, Hope, Commitment, Gratitude, Patience, Sense of Humor, Family, Being close to loved ones, Healthy social relationships, Mutual aid and respect for others, Self-care and listening without judgment, and remembering past successes in overcoming difficult times.
