Want to learn more about our mission? Here’s a little clip from today!
Full video Here!
Welcome!
Welcome to 13 Reasons to Fly! Thank you so much for visiting and joining the fight against stigma surrounding mental illness. We hope you find a way to uphold our mission in your daily lives! Each of you have the power to make a difference. It’s time we start the conversation. Below you’ll see our recent projects and what we are doing to spread our message!
Youth Involvement- Warrior Wednesdays
13 Reasons to Fly’s 2020 Goal is to increase Youth Involvement in on an organizational level. We believe strongly in the Power of Young People, and even more strongly about Using Your Voice for Good.
Combined, these two beliefs make an unstoppable force. Join us in the fight against the stigma surrounding mental illness. What’s your story?
Are you a Warrior that has struggled or is struggling with mental illness? Are you an advocate for mental wellness, or an ally that wants to help? We want to highlight you! By using this #WarriorWednesday form, you allow us to do just that- strengthen our mission, destigmatize mental illness!
Your Voice Matters.
Loss into Light
Last month, I had the privilege to spend time in Iola, Kansas with an incredible team of advocates. In June, the community lost a beloved young man to suicide, and his family and this town is determined to never let a tragedy like this happen again. After a weekend of hope, inspiration, and education we all left better equipped to be stewards, carrying a light into our sometimes dark world. Thank you to the entire community for welcoming in this message, and for paving the way for our world to start this vital conversation. I have never felt so inspired.
The weekend was covered by the Iola Register, you can find their article here! Another note of gratitude to Paige Olson who captured the weekend, more photos are available here!
You are never alone. This community proves that. Be the light.
If you’re interested in starting a chapter of 13 Reasons to Fly or wish to know more about us please contact 13reasonstofly@gmail.com
Kansas City, Missouri- Finding Hope
Last month we had the honor to host a workshop at Youth 2019, a convention with thousands of other young people!
Our workshop (titled Finding Hope) was an informal discussion on mental health challenges and ways to battle stigma. We began by sharing the story and origin of 13 Reasons to Fly, and then invited people to brainstorm & share their reasons to fly.
We were blown away by the openness, bravery, and strength of the young people that attended. Recounting on this experience gives us inspiration to propel forward and continue doing this much needed work! So incredibly grateful for all the people we had the opportunity to meet.
Keep spreading your wings.
Youth Ambassadors/ Volunteers
Interested in joining our team?
We’re looking for passionate, young people to help spread our message & share their own! 13 Reasons to Fly is looking to expand our program and bring more people on board. After all, this program is all about youth voice.
To express interest please fill out this quick Youth Ambassador Questionnaire! We’re excited for our future- these young people are the future!
Legislative Breakfast
Today I had the honor of bringing our message to The State House through the Department of Mental Health. I’m so grateful for this opportunity, and to have met many amazing people, survivors, and activists. A reminder that the work we’re doing to eradicate stigma is vital and our voices are needed. Thank you DMH!
Pegasus House, Daybreak Shelter
Had an amazing time working with the young women at Pegasus House in Lawrence! We had a lot of fun developing Reasons to Fly on kites!
We also discussed the pressure of stigma , and took great pride in working to make their labels ‘disappear’.Thank you to Robin, the staff and all the strong young people from Pegasus House!
Holbrook Library
Join us this Saturday! We will be discussing ways to start the conversation and spread hope in our daily lives! We have a fun activity planned- All are welcome.
Start of School
As school is right around the corner or has already begun for young people, we want to remind you all to relax! I hope you all enjoy Labor Day weekend and get the opportunity to do something for yourself!
And don’t forget, if you want to start the conversation at your school, please contact us!
Weekly Wednesday’s
Hi All! I know it’s been a while, but don’t worry, our work hasn’t stopped! Behind the scenes, has been traveling to Cohannet Academy: a JRI youth residential program in Taunton State Hospital. Today we had our 3rd Group and the youth did an activity highlighting values and why they matter to us!
If you’re interested in hearing more about what we do, or if you’d like to bring a chapter to your school/program/place of worship feel free to Contact Us at 13reasonstofly@gmail.com
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