August 29, 2017
University will host ‘Fresh Check Day’ to promote student mental health
CARBONDALE, Ill. – With fun activities and a supportive atmosphere, Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Fresh Check Day will serve as an uplifting way of promoting awareness and discussions about mental health and suicide prevention.
Fresh Check Day is set for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 8 on the Morris Library lawn. Numerous campus departments and groups are collaborating for the interactive event which will feature giveaways, free food, special entertainment, peer-to-peer discussions, expo booths and information about available resources.
“This is a great way for students to get connected and have fun,” said Beth Morrison, wellness coordinator. “We want to create an approachable atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage in dialogue about mental health. We also want to build bridges between them and the many mental health resources available.”
SIU is sponsoring its inaugural Fresh Check Day thanks to the “Salukis on Your Side” Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant and the Jordan Porco Foundation. The Jordan Porco Foundation is a non-profit organization created by Ernie and Marisa Porco in honor of their son, Jordan, who died by suicide when he was a college freshman. The foundation seeks to promote mental health and prevent suicide, striving to reduce the stigma of seeking help and giving young adults a message of hope and support. Similar events are slated at dozens of schools across the country.
In the event of rain, SIU’s Fresh Check Day will be in the Student Recreation Center’s Alumni Lounge. Visit www.freshcheckday.com/SIUC to learn more.