Simpson College’s Active Minds created a fundraiser to raise awareness and monetary donations for mental health that will continue through Dec. 31.

Junior Jordyn Wilson, Simpson College’s Active Minds president and public relations chair, describes Active Minds as “a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising mental health awareness among college students through peer-to-peer dialogue and interaction.”

Although mental health is not typically talked about as much as physical, it is just as important. Often, mental health can have an impact on one’s physical health.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, over 47 million adults experienced mental health concerns in 2018, and the numbers continue to increase.

John Hopkins University, a globally known university for its excellence in research and medical education, states that nearly 1 in 4 American adults are diagnosed with a mental health disorder.

“Active Minds has a very special place in my heart,” Wilson said.

Wilson used to be nervous and hesitant to talk about mental health, but joining Active Minds has helped to give her confidence in speaking about this important health concern that impacts so many.

“After coming to campus and hearing about Active Minds, I knew I wanted to be a part of the organization, but it also showed me that it’s not only okay to have a mental illness, but it’s important to talk about it and show others that they aren’t alone,” Wilson said.

Active Minds has already reached their fundraising goal with weeks left to go.

“Our fundraiser is going fairly well. My goal was to raise at least $250 by Dec. 31, and as of Tuesday, we actually met and exceeded our goal with $311. So, that’s really awesome, but I hope we can raise that total even more before the deadline.”

All of the funds raised go directly to help start more Active Minds clubs on college campuses to raise more awareness and break the negative stigma attached to mental health and provide tools and support for those impacted by mental health.

To donate, Venmo @jordynwilson99, or check out their donation link: https://www.classy.org/team/325148. 

For more information about Active Minds, check out their Instagram (@simpcoactiveminds) or email president Jordyn Wilson at her Simpson College email address.