CALEXICO — In an effort to dismantle the long-standing stigma surrounding mental wellness, the Imperial Regional Detention Facility (IRDF) announced it will host its second annual mental health fair on May 13.
The event, held in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, represents a growing bridge between the facility and the surrounding Imperial Valley community. By opening its gates to the public, the facility aims to transform a traditionally private conversation about mental health into a collective community mission.
The fair is scheduled to take place in the facility’s parking lot from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering a space where residents can access professional resources and local support networks. The event is about more than just sharing information; it aims to humanize a struggle that affects one in five U.S. adults.
“It is imperative that we all do our part to combat mental health concerns today,” said Jeremy Casey, Imperial’s facility administrator. “MTC’s mission is to provide a social impact in the communities that we operate in.”
Last year’s inaugural event drew over 15 local organizations, creating a blueprint for the “meaningful partnerships” Casey hopes to expand this year.
Management & Training Corporation (MTC) has been operating the facility in partnership with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) since 2014. While the facility’s primary function is administrative, leadership emphasizes that the well-being of the individuals within its walls—and the community outside of them—remains a top priority.
MTC claims its commitment to providing residents with a “safe, clean, caring, and productive environment” throughout their stay. This fair extends that philosophy of care to the broader Calexico public.
Event detailsDate: Wednesday, May 13, 2026Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Location: 1572 Gateway Road, Calexico, CA 92231Amenities: Water will be provided for attendeesFor more information regarding the facility’s mission and community initiatives, visit www.mtctrains.com.