A group of Southside Charter High School students has been working to bring to light the importance of mental health awareness to the school and the community.
They began by forming a club at school, which has since become the first chapter of the Bring Change To Mind Club in Arkansas. Students have researched and found several tools and resources that will aid others who may struggle with mental health issues.
A committee has presented its ideas to several businesses in the community to help generate funds to provide some of these resources. Their goal is to pave the path for students and families now and in the future to have proper resources and coping skills to combat the issues that come with growing up.
Along with traditional resources, the students are excited to bring to fruition their plan to adopt a therapy dog for the high school. The hypoallergenic dog has been donated by a generous Southside family, and funding has been secured to send the dog for the appropriate training, vet fees, and any other expenses that will incur.
The elementary school is having a competition between classes to have the chance to name the dog. This is a wonderful opportunity that will benefit many students.
In correlation with ongoing projects, a color run 5K has been organized and will take place on Southside School’s campus on Friday, April 22 at 6:30 p.m. The event is titled ‘Meet You At the Big Top,’ and will feature a carnival-like atmosphere with games, food trucks, and prizes.
Sponsors will have tents set up as well with games and resources about mental health. Registration to run, walk, or donate can be found by following this link: https://runsignup.com/Race/AR/Batesville/MentalHealthAwareness5KColorRun.
