Program Components
1. Coping Skills Workshops:
- Frequency: as needed and directed, workshops (2 hours each)
- Content: Addressing diverse mental health topics utilizing various art therapy techniques for mindfulness, stress management, emotional regulation, conflict resolution and resilience-building. Topics include: Mindfulness and Meditation Techniques, Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution, Strategies for Building Resilience, Suicide Prevention and awareness, Anti-bullying, Grief, Self care and Empowerment.
- Art therapy is an integral part of Project W.I.N.G.S, offering a creative outlet for participants to express themselves creatively. Exercises included: journaling, creative writing, collage, drawing, coloring, painting, sculpturing and mindfulness meditation practices.
- Facilitators: Licensed therapists, art therapy practitioners and/or trained facilitators with expertise in mental health and/or art therapy techniques.
- Outcome: Equip individuals with practical coping skills to manage their mental health effectively.
2. Support Groups
- Frequency: Bi-weekly meetings or as needed (1.5 hours each)
- Structure: Peer-led support groups focusing on various mental health topics such as suicide awareness/prevention, anti-bullying, anxiety, stress relief, self care, depression, chronic pain and grief.
Topics will vary based on participant needs, promoting open dialogue and shared experiences.
- Outcome: Enhance feelings of belonging, reduce isolation and mental health stigma.
3. Community Engagement Events
- Frequency: Quarterly outreach events to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health.
- Activities: Guest speakers, resource fairs, and wellness activities.
- Utilize digital platforms for broader engagement and resource sharing.
- Outcome: Conduct outreach programs in collaboration with local organizations to raise awareness and promote participation.
Our Inspiration
At 11 years old I wrote my first suicide letter and attempted suicide for the first time at age 16. Throughout the years I struggled with suicidal behavior and attempted suicide many times. I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, depression, social-anxiety disorder and PTSD. This resulted in me self medicating, with alcohol and prescription drugs that I used to numb a very wounded journey that was often judged, misunderstood and never discussed in my family. In December of 2009, a high school classmate and close friend, Stepf Hiser, took his life just a few weeks after our high school reunion. I did not attend and regret till this day, missing seeing him that last time. It was so devasting for everyone because very few knew he struggled, yet we had been soldiers in the trenches of our mental health battle together, my comrade and confidante. Then in 2012, I lost yet another dear loved one to suicide. In 2014, Stepf came to me in dream, put his arms around me and we talked about helping others in the struggle to avoid such a painful existence and exit. I awoke from that drean visit with a promise in my heart, yet that would not reach fruition until after seasons full of many losses sealing my commitment to being sober and to one day help others who struggle with mental health. I started walking and volunteering with AFSP since. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, domestic abuse, community violence, substance abuse addiction, who has a mental health condition and suicide attempts under my belt; I use to be ashamed to feel or be viewed as this "Posterchild of tragedy." But once the most high gave me the strength, I finally found the courage to #BeTheVoice to share my story with others to promote healing, bring awareness and love. I then humbly became a "Posterchild of testimony." It's been a challenging journey of tenacity; yet from 2017 to 2022, with a group of other survivors, I am one of the co-founders and President of Project W.I.N.G.S Mental-Spiritual health and wellness ministry at Scott United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our mission "We Inspire Nurture Guide and Support anyone affected by a mental heart disorder and/or a mental health crisis within our community." In 2022 I relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina and incorporated Project W.I.N.G.S as a nonprofit in 2024. I am so grateful to be here to represent not only the organization, but every survivor and thriver everywhere.
Our and their story is not over ;
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