TWO – or, The Word’s Out – is a committee at SCS that strives to foster a greater understanding of mental health by encouraging open discussion within a safe and accepting community.
Led by Upper School students and supported by the LINCWell team, TWO has confidently embarked on the road to ending the stigma associated with mental illness. The committee developed a mission statement, strategic plan, logo and promotional video, and also maintained SCS’ partnership with The Jack Project, an organization founded by Eric Windeler following the unexpected and tragic death of his son Jack by suicide. The Jack Project started out running workshops for students, and developed into a focus on youth engagement and youth-led initiatives. This transformation speaks strongly to the student-led TWO committee and their stated mission.
TWO was a driving force behind the LINCWell Speaker Series panel discussion on the topic of adolescent mental health. The panelists included the panelists included The Jack Project Founder Eric Windeler; Child and Youth Psychiatrist Dr. Doug Weir; The Jack Project Youth Think Tank Lead Justin Scaini; and SCS alumna and mental health advocate Elle Bulger ’09. Elle was particularly candid about her own struggles with mental illness, which began during her time at SCS. She offered courageous inspiration to fellow Clementines, and has been an ongoing resource.
In a similar vein, the members of TWO will continue to speak up, and speak out, to advocate for mental health support and awareness – enabling students to discuss mental health openly and without stigma.