The Active Minds chapter of Kent State University launched its spring event schedule during their first meeting of the semester Wednesday.

Active Minds is a national nonprofit organization that strives to change the conversation and stigma around mental health, said the club’s president, Hunter Frey-Burkart.

“We work to create an environment where people can share their experiences, and also to provide information that isn’t necessarily spread by the university, or in general,” Frey-Burkart said, who has been a member of Active Minds for two years. 

Active Minds has a wide variety of activities planned for students this semester, he said. In February, they will host a “Self-Love” event where students will work on Valentine’s Day related crafts and create affirmations to promote positive self-esteem.

This chapter currently has 30 members. Frey-Burkart said they hope to grow the organization through hosting more events, but also by spreading awareness and information about the importance of mental health.

“By doing activities that spread mental health awareness, love and positivity, people are able to see [mental health awareness] without necessarily being a part of Active Minds,” Frey-Burkart said.

Frey-Burkart is most looking forward to Active Minds “Mental Wellness Rocks” event, where they will paint rocks with inspirational messages on them and place the rocks around campus for other students to see. 

The club’s events can be found on Active Minds at KSU through KSU Engage.

Kaitlyn Roth is a reporter. Contact her at [email protected].