who are we
Open Arms is a Non Profit Organization reaching out to Undergraduate and High School students across Canada. We hope to create and inspire incremental positive societal change and mental health awareness through one conversation at a time.
our story
Welcome to Open Arms! We're delighted you're here to join us in our mission to improve mental health for everyone. Let's get to know each other a bit better.
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The Founders' Vision
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Open Arms was born out of the experiences and observations of two undergraduate students who saw a pressing need for mental health support among their peers. They witnessed firsthand the emotional and psychological toll that academic stress, social challenges, and other pressures can have on students. Driven by the need to make a difference, they created Open Arms as a haven for open dialogue and mental health support.
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The Power of Conversation and The Pledge
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Our founders were deeply moved by the transformative potential of a simple question: "How are you?" It's a question that often goes unasked but has the power to change lives. That's why we introduced "The Pledge." By signing it, you commit to asking this crucial question and engaging in meaningful conversations with those around you. It's a small but impactful step toward creating a more empathetic and understanding world.
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Educational Courses
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We're excited to announce the launch of our Open Conversations Course in 2024. This free course is designed to equip you with the skills you need to have effective, empathetic conversations about mental health.
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Crisis Support and Resources
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One of the cornerstones of Open Arms is our commitment to providing immediate, accessible support in times of crisis. Our resources page is a comprehensive guide to national crisis support numbers and community-specific initiatives. Whether you're facing a personal crisis or concerned about someone else, you'll find a wealth of information to guide you through challenging times.
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Content-Rich Forums
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Our forums are a treasure trove of information, support, and community engagement. Whether you're looking to share your own mental health journey, seek advice, or offer support to others, our forums are the place to be. We have categories ranging from crisis support to educational resources, all aimed at fostering a supportive and informed community.
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Events and Partnerships
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We have an exciting lineup of events planned for 2024, aimed at fostering community engagement and spreading mental health awareness. Additionally, we're in the process of forming partnerships with schools and organizations to bring you even more resources and opportunities. (More Information Coming Soon!)
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Schools Across the Country
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Open Arms has a modest but growing presence in schools across Canada. We're continually working to expand our reach and bring our mission to more educational communities. If you're a student passionate about mental health, we offer campus ambassador opportunities that allow you to be the face of Open Arms at your school.
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Join Us
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So, are you ready to be a part of our vibrant community? Whether you're here to learn, share your story, or offer support, there's a place for you at Open Arms. You can sign the pledge, explore our courses, or become a campus ambassador—there are numerous ways to get involved.
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Thank you for being a part of our journey. We look forward to being a part of yours.
