Grand Rapids Community College students gathered in the Juan R. Olivarez Plaza on April 10 to create several drawings – including a giant mural that read “GRCC.” This community gathering was hosted by Honors students Lila Sweet, Sailor Lawrence and McKinney Dejong as part of their project about mental health.
“For this project, they are addressing the global epidemic of mental health,” stated GRCC Experiential Learning via Instagram. Chalk About It is an all-inclusive project where students (and anyone that wants to join are invited to make a giant chalk mural) in the Cesar E. Chavez sidewalk…”
There were several drawings that included inspirational quotes, music notes, flowers, shapes and pop culture references such as the famous children’s book by Erik Carle, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.”
Liz Galvan was one of many who happened upon the event.
“I really liked the event. I wasn’t anticipating it… but being able to do a fun silly chalk drawing or nonfood centered school events just help break up the monotony of school/class,” stated Galvan in a text via Instagram.
“Chalk About It” also aimed to connect students together and help create a sense of community to help aid student mental health.
“This team was trying to give another outlet where students can meet and make new friends, as well as express their stresses and emotions through their artwork with bright and expressive colors,” stated GRCC Experiential Learning via Instagram. “It’s also meant to teach impertinence, where all struggles are impermanent, and not lasting. That no matter what, as long as we have a good outlet and people to lean on, we can get through anything and everything.”
To make an appointment or ask questions about GRCC’s mental health services, you can contact Counseling & Career Development staff at (616) 234-4130 or by email at counseling@grcc.edu. Their office is located on the third floor of the Student Community Center in Room 368.
