Our Programs
We welcome volunteers who would like to participate in our programs and events.
Our programs focus on improving mental health outcomes by:
Raising public awareness and educating the public on mental health issues.
Building communities of support and providing resources for those facing mental health challenges.
Developing and fostering activities that build mental resilience.
Advocating for improved mental health treatment options and resources.
Clarence Program
Part of nurturing a healthy mind and maintaining mental wellness is having someone that you can talk to, someone you feel safe with, and someone who will see your fear and be there to help. It may be a family member or a friend, but it’s always someone who has your back and knows your worth. This program encourages people to find their “Clarence” — a trusted friend, mentor, or confidant who can help support them in challenging times. At the same time, it encourages people to be a Clarence to others — a shining light, helping hand, or real-life guardian angel.
Clarence is the fictional character who plays the guardian angel of George Bailey, a despaired banker in the classic Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life. Bailey sacrifices his dreams to help his community to the point where he feels life has passed him by. Eventually, due to significant difficulties with his work, Bailey falls into despair and contemplates suicide. His guardian angel, Clarence Odbody, gives him a valuable perspective by showing him what life would be like if he didn’t have his wife, Mary, and his children and friends. Clarence also shows him what their lives would be like without George. Ultimately, George chooses to live — for himself and for those he loves — thanks to the kindness, friendship, and perspective offered by Clarence.
Since kindergarten in Shawnee, Okla, Brett Bowers was the ‘Clarence’ to Tim Jones, and Tim was the ‘Clarence’ to Brett. Brett died suddenly and unexpectedly from Covid-19 complications in Feb. 2021.
The Clarence Program will serve as the first major fund-raising event for The Mom & Mitchell Foundation.
Community Bootcamps
Exercise and music are two interventions that have been shown to be beneficial in helping to control anxiety and depression. We plan to offer a community based bootcamp with music as one way to help build mental and physical resilience. Stay tuned for more details on this program.
Music is Proven to Boost Health and Happiness
- Listening to music releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, which enhances feelings of happiness and well-being.
- Upbeat music can elevate mood and reduce stress, making it a natural way to combat anxiety and improve emotional health.
- Group activities involving music, such as singing in a choir or attending concerts, can foster a sense of community and social connection, further boosting happiness.
- Playing a musical instrument has been linked to increased self-esteem, providing a sense of accomplishment and joy.