This year, Two’s Stand UP Campaign is focused on three primary goals: raising money for therapy programs, organizing children’s book drives for sick kids, and advocating for greater awareness and access to youth mental health resources. While Kansas City has a number of free or affordable family mental health programs, one of the biggest challenges is making sure that kids and teens can actually access the help they need.

Two’s want to bring greater awareness to the importance of parents and guardians checking in with their children and recognizing when they may need additional support. We also recognize that not everyone has the ability to donate money or participate in mental health advocacy. That’s why we are pairing our Stand Up campaign with a children’s book drive. Through regional conventions, community fundraising events, and council events, we will collect new coloring books and stories to donate to Children’s Mercy. This initiative complements our broader efforts to support children’s emotional well-being by providing comfort, entertainment, and a sense of connection during difficult times.

A large part of our campaign will also focus on our own chapter. We will hold educational programs to help our members better understand mental health, how to recognize when someone may be struggling, and how to support one another. We will also conduct monthly Two’s check-ins with our fellow Alephs, creating opportunities to connect, listen, and make sure no one feels like they have to face their struggles alone. Because while we want to create change in our community, we believe true change starts with us.

Two’s will work with our partner NAMI to advocate for mental health changes. NAMI works with policymakers to advance priority issues and ensure that the voice of people affected by mental illness is considered in policymaking. Read NAMI’s recent letters to federal leaders, submitted comments and testimony and other resources.