A remarkable team of eighth graders at St. Ignatius of Loyola School has taken a meaningful step to support the mental wellness of their peers. Their dedication culminated in a successful grant proposal, which enabled the school to create personalized mental health wellness kits for every student in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades—approximately 360 kits, each individually decorated with the student’s name.
Each wellness kit includes thoughtful items such as a sensory sticker, fidget toys, a rosary ring, and a personalized note, all designed to promote mental well-being. This initiative was made possible through a partnership with bi3, Interact for Health, @HopefulEmpoweredYouth, and The Joe Burrow Foundation. St. Ignatius was one of 83 local schools awarded grants of up to $1,000.
“There’s no better way to encourage positive mental wellness in middle school students than through middle school students themselves. This was a brand new initiative for our school, so as the trail was being blazed, the core team of students didn’t hesitate to think creatively. It was a beautiful reminder that there truly is power in numbers, and this power can be utilized to create positive change in entire school cultures, for good,” said Ms. Van Berkel, school counselor.
What began as a small team of seven eighth graders grew to over 15 current students and two alumni, all dedicated to personalizing each mental health kit. This project not only fosters a sense of community but also allows students to develop team-building and leadership skills while encouraging them to think beyond themselves.
Our students emphasize that support is always available, whether through friends, family, teachers, or mental health resources. You are never alone.
