Spilling Tea with Kelly Kline

  1. Tell us about you please?

    My name is Flembrick Wright and I’m a Texas native. Born in Dallas, Texas but raised in Waco. I have a passion for supporting mental health and wellbeing, particularly within the Black community. I am a proud graduate from the University of Phoenix with a master’s in psychology, as well as having extensive experience in HIV prevention, treatment, and education.
  2. Tell me about your position with Ashwell and why is it important?

    I currently work at Ashwell Health and Wellness in Austin, Texas, where I am committed to promoting holistic health and empowerment. My team and I are dedicated to helping our community members access affordable insurance coverage, particularly for individuals who are uninsured or struggling to afford medications like PrEP or HIV treatments. We leverage a variety of medication assistance programs, such as Gilead Copay Assistance, Gilead Advancing Access, ViiV Connect, and others to work alongside our patients’ insurance plans, ensuring that their medication costs are covered at no out-of-pocket expense. Our goal is to eliminate financial barriers and ensure our patients can get the medications they need without delay or hardship.
  3. Who are some of your local inspirations and why?

    I’m deeply inspired every day by the incredible individuals I work alongside in the field of HIV/ AIDS prevention. People like Sheira Gentle, Alberto Barragan, Velda Clinton, Sylvia Lopez, and Jesse Sandoval who dedicate themselves tirelessly to providing compassionate care to our community. Their commitment fueled my own desire to make a difference, and it’s what led me to this meaningful journey. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this work, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
  4. What are some of your favorite Holiday memories?

    As a child, my family and I would gather at my cousin Evelyn’s house for Thanksgiving every year. During our visit, we would each draw names to determine who we’d buy Christmas gifts for. I dreaded this tradition because everyone was much older than me, so I already knew that whatever I received would likely be socks, underwear, or something practical like that. What I really wanted were toys or money! So, one year, I decided to take matters into my own hands and made a special request: I told everyone that whoever drew my name, I only wanted money—no gifts, please and thank you!
  5. What do you think our community needs to do to thrive during this political climate?

    To thrive in today’s political climate, our community needs to stay united, resilient, and proactive. It’s crucial that we continue to support each other, particularly the most vulnerable among us, and advocate for policies that ensure access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. We also need to focus on building strong networks of mutual aid and solidarity, so that we’re not relying solely on external systems that may not always have our best interests at heart. We must stay informed and engaged, pushing back against harmful rhetoric and misinformation, while lifting up the voices of those who are often marginalized. And, equally important, we must practice self-care and take care of our mental and emotional health as we navigate the challenges ahead. By remaining connected, compassionate, and determined, our community can not only survive but thrive, no matter what the political landscape brings.
  6. What do you do for self care?

    For self-care, I love working out—it’s my go-to way to unwind and clear my mind. It’s not just about the physical benefits, though. After a great workout, I always feel better, more energized, and more centered. It helps me reset, both mentally and physically, and gives me the space I need to recharge.
  7. In your opinion what do you feel is an area of opportunity in our community?

    In my view, one of the greatest opportunities for growth in our community is expanding access to mental health resources. Mental health is too often overlooked or stigmatized, particularly in Black and Brown communities, despite being such a vital component of overall well-being. Research has shown that over 62% of Black men have experienced a traumatic event in their lifetime, yet a significant portion of them still don’t seek help. By increasing investment in accessible counseling, therapy, and community-based support programs, we can begin to break down these barriers. This would not only help individuals better cope with life’s challenges but also foster a stronger, more resilient community.
  8. Do you feel that it is important for people to volunteer their time with organizations like yours?

    Absolutely, I believe it’s incredibly important for people to volunteer with organizations like Ashwell. Volunteering is a powerful way to make a tangible impact in the community, especially when it comes to addressing critical issues like healthcare access, mental health, and wellness. At Ashwell, we work to remove barriers to care, support individuals in need, and help create a healthier, more equitable community. Volunteers are essential in driving these efforts forward whether it’s through providing direct support, raising awareness, or assisting with outreach.
  9. What can we expect from you in the next 5 years?

    In the next five years, you can expect me to continue growing both personally and professionally. I’m currently working towards my Doctorate degree, and my goal is to have that completed within this time frame. But beyond academics, I’m deeply committed to creating meaningful change in the lives of Black men. One of my key aspirations is to establish a space where Black men can openly share their struggles, trauma, and suppressed pain in a safe, supportive environment. There’s a critical need for Black men to feel heard and understood, and I want to help facilitate that. Whether I create this space myself or partner with an organization that shares this vision, my aim is to ensure that young Black men know they have a place to voice their experiences and heal. We need to break the silence around mental health and trauma in our community, and I want to be part of that movement.
  10. I know that you love to sing in your church choir, tell me about it and what do you feel when you sing for others?

    I am honored to serve as the Minister of Music at CrossWork Christian Center in Round Rock, Texas. While I don’t consider myself to be a “great” singer, I embrace the role of leading and teaching musical parts to our music ministry. Music has always been an integral part of my life, as well as my faith in Christ. There’s nothing more fulfilling or spiritually rewarding than using my gifts and talents to honor God through worship in the church. It’s a true blessing to be able to contribute to the ministry in this way.
  11. What events do you have coming up in the next few months?

    In the coming months, we have some exciting events at CrossWork Christian Center, and I’m thrilled to be involved. One of the biggest highlights will be celebrating our church’s 15th Anniversary on December 8, and we’re planning to mark this milestone in a big way! Additionally, we’re in the process of planning new ministry initiatives for 2025 that will have a significant impact and provide much needed support to our community. I’m excited for what’s ahead and look forward to all the ways we’ll continue to grow and serve. Ashwell On Wheels is off to a strong start in our community, and we’re already seeing a meaningful impact. It’s exciting to witness how this initiative is making a difference and reaching those who need it most. On a personal note, I’m also focused on my educational journey, so I’ll be working toward some key milestones in my Doctorate program. I’m excited about the opportunities these upcoming months will bring, both in terms of service to my community and continued personal growth.
  12. What advice can you give to people who might feel a little uneasy or overwhelmed right now?

    If you’re feeling uneasy or overwhelmed right now, my advice is to take a step back and give yourself permission to breathe. It’s okay to not have everything figured out, and it’s important to be kind to yourself during challenging times. Start by focusing on the small things you can control, even if it’s just one task at a time. Break things down into manageable steps and celebrate the small victories along the way. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Whether it’s talking to a friend, seeking professional help, or engaging in a community, you don’t have to go through it alone. Lean on the people who care about you and know that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Lastly, take it one day at a time, practice self-care, and give yourself the grace to rest and reset. You’ve navigated challenges before, and you have the strength to get through this one, too.

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