Fraternity Puts Spotlight on Mental Health

Kappa Sigma hosts its first Kick the Stigma event to raise awareness and fundraise for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

The activities this Sunday on Tech Green may look like any other recreational event, but the students who gather to play kickball, cornhole, and bocce will be participating in an event aimed at bringing awareness to the stigma of suicide and mental health issues.

The Kappa Sigma fraternity is hosting "Kappa Sigma Games: Kick the Stigma" in response to losing one of its own members in February of last year.

“It was a devastating time that left us with more questions than answers, but it also brought out the best in our organization,” said John Merlie, president of Kappa Sigma.

Campus groups such as the Counseling Center and Active Minds will be on site, along with some external organizations, to provide information to students about resources and involvement opportunities. 

This is the Kappa Sigma’s first event of this kind. The goal is to help students in need and also equip other students to help if someone is struggling with mental health issues, and to couple these awareness efforts with a stress-relieving day of games.

“Each one of us wants a world where everyone knows it’s OK to seek help,” Merlie said.

Kick the Stigma will take place Sunday, Nov. 23, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Registration is $15 per person or $150 for a group of 10. Registration includes a free T-shirt and entry for kickball, bocce, cornhole, and a three-legged race.

All proceeds benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Donations are also being accepted. Learn more or sign up at www.kappasigmagames.com.

 

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