Crystal: Mental Health Nonprofit Work (Mentor: Aditi) ~ Nov Progress

1. Initiative Overview: Mental Health Key

Mental Health Key is the nonprofit I created to address an issue I saw in my community. It is focused on reducing mental health stigma and providing resources for teens and underserved communities in Katy, Texas. The goal is to alleviate the shortage of mental health workers by offering a blog, care packages, and affordable therapy through partnerships, while also encouraging students to get involved by volunteering and publishing content.

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2. November Progress

What you worked on this month: This month, I mostly worked on the setup of my non-profit including what the purpose was, future events, etc.

Key Achievements: I am happy about the progress I’ve made this month from forming my team to hosting officer elections and contacting clinics nearby to promote their subsidized therapy programs. Although there’s still much to do, every step counts towards establishing the vision I have in mind.

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3. Challenges and Growth

Obstacles Faced: Before joining Project Ruby, I was hesitant to register my organization for 501(c)(3) status because of the costs of filing documents, creating a bank account, and doing taxes every year. It was a lot of responsibility that I wasn’t sure I could balance. My mentor gave advice on how to avoid those costs and responsibilities through a fiscal sponsorship. Moreover, she helped me create a detailed plan specific to my goals. 

New Skills: This month, I have learned interpersonal communication and organization.

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4. Reflections on Mentor

Support Received: My mentor, Aditi, has made the process of starting a non-profit organization much easier by providing resources to get fiscal sponsorship, advice on how to make connections, etc.

What you appreciate: Aditi is remarkably skilled and experienced yet remains down-to-earth and humble. I love that she’s relatable and a good listener. She listens to what you want to accomplish and uses her skills to help. 

Impact of Mentorship: I was initially shy about starting a non-profit because of the cost, legal responsibilities, etc. However, Aditi showed me an organization that helped her when she made her non-profit. 

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5. Future Goals

Goals for Next Month: My top goals for next month are to gain 50+ members for my non-profit, collaborate with other organizations or clubs, partner with 2+ clinics nearby.

Resources Needed: To complete these goals, I would need networking skills to secure partnerships with organizations and clinics and marketing skills to gain new members.

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