The IMALIVE Mental Health Fair is a program that collaborates with various colleges’ Student Life and Health and Wellness teams to host a unique venue at each college campus, and next week, it’s our turn!
On Wednesday, Feb. 26, from 12-4pm, Whatcom Community College (WCC) will be hosting an IMALIVE Mental Health Fair with many activities on campus. This fair is an interactive and educational event designed to raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention. The program was created by the same people behind the 1-800-SUICIDE project, who are the nation’s first suicide prevention network, and the world’s first virtual crisis center.
The fair will feature four activity stations facilitated by trained professional in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. One of these four activities will include a graffiti canvas, where students can express themselves, and which will remain on campus after the event to act as a lasting symbol of awareness and support. The event will also include a raffle with prizes including Bluetooth headphones, speakers, earbuds, and more.
But more importantly, the IMALIVE Mental Health Fair will provide students with essential mental health resources, while fostering a supportive community aimed to break the stigma around mental health challenges. Starting these meaningful conversations gives students an outlet to talk about their mental health, whatever the challenge may be.
Since 2010, the IMALIVE organization has posted over 300 events across North America. Many Directors of Student Life and Counseling Services endorse the IMALIVE project for its ability to educate young adults on recognizing warning signs and starting supporting consultations.
Everyone is welcome to this event; however, to be eligible for raffle prizes, make sure to bring your Orca student ID! To request an accommodation, visit the Access & Disability Services in advance. If you are currently in a crisis and would like to contact IMALIVE, please call 988 or text HOME to 741741.
This WCC fair fits in a line of events arranged in partnerships with the WCC Counseling Department, the most recent being a tabling event centered around raising drug and alcohol awareness on Jan. 30 on Whatcom’s campus, arranged by the WCC Counseling Department. Each of these begins with the principle that simply reaching out and offering a supporting hand is the best place to start.
