Dear Editors, 

As a member of the Bandana Project, I am writing on the group’s behalf to explain what we do as well as to promote our upcoming event. The following information can be found on the group’s home page on PioneerLink:

“The Bandana Protect is a campaign with the goal of spreading awareness in order to support those struggling with mental health issues, including those who have been affected by suicide. As an organization, we spread this support by giving out free green bandanas and informational resource cards to any interested student. The green bandanas can then be tied onto the student’s backpack in a display of solidarity and support for those struggling with mental health issues. The resource cards contain valuable, relevant contact information for mental health resources, both on campus and in the local community. 

Students who tie a bandana to their backpack showcase that they are someone who may be approached by strangers in time of need. It could be as little as just having a bad day and wanting to make a new friend, or as big as having dangerous thoughts of self-harm. No matter what, the carrier of the green bandana will assist the person in need until they are safe!”

To further promote the Bandana Project’s agenda, the group put on a game night March 3 to give some joy to the campus community. The Bandana Project is a safe space for anyone struggling with mental illnesses to come find support for their needs as well as have fellowship with other students.  

On May 3 at 7:00 p.m., Candace Yoder will be speaking on sensitive topics dealing with suicide and offering hopeful advice to attendees. The location is still undecided. 

To stay informed about this event and upcoming meetings, follow the Bandana Project on PioneerLink or email the group’s president, Daniel Mincemoyer, at: [email protected].