At Slam The Stigma, we believe every teen deserves the chance to live their best life. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we’re dedicated to helping high school students navigate mental health challenges, find support, and build confidence in themselves.
Our mission is simple: “Ending the stigma of mental health in young adults through awareness, support, and resources.” By creating open conversations and connecting teens with the tools they need, we’re working to make mental health something no one has to face alone.
Our Executive Director – Matthew Schrad
I grew up in Carroll, Iowa, where I stayed busy participating in sports, plays, musicals, and a variety of other activities. While I knew many of my classmates, I often felt like I lacked the deep connections I was looking for. After high school, I played college basketball for Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas, trying to move far away. A year latter I transferred to the University of Iowa to be closer to home.
Following college, I moved to the Chaska area and began a career in transportation. My passion for sports continued, and I started coaching high school boys basketball, a role I have now enjoyed for more than 16 years.
Throughout much of my life, I unknowingly struggled with my own mental health. Depression and anxiety gradually made their way into my life, but because mental health was rarely discussed while I was growing up, I did not recognize what I was experiencing. In February 2018, I reached a low point and experienced overwhelming suicidal thoughts. One day, while at basketball practice, two of my sophomore players simply asked how my day was going. That small act of kindness snapped me out of my mindset and became a turning point. It made me realize I needed to take action and prioritize my mental health.
Since then, I have committed to my own healing and personal growth. Through that journey, my passion for mental health advocacy grew alongside my desire to support young people. Those passions came together and inspired me to start Slam The Stigma.
By sharing my story, I hope to show others that they are not alone and that it is okay to talk about mental health struggles. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and meaningful conversations can change lives.
Hear my story on the “What’s the Point?” podcast with the Face It Foundation.
Thumbs Up
Thumbs Up is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and providing support and resources to all. Our mission focuses on fostering understanding and advocacy surrounding mental health issues for all demographics.
Thumbs Up High 5K was founded in 2014 by Katie Shatusky after losing her grandfather to suicide. Katie, along with several community members, decided to host a 5K run, walk, and bike race in Elk River to raise awareness about mental health and suicide.
The 2014 event was so successful that, by 2016, they had formed a non-profit organization named Thumbs Up High 5K, Inc. Committees were established to plan additional events for children, youth, adults, and seniors. Thumbs Up also supports bereaved families who have lost a loved one to suicide.
Bringing the community together is a cornerstone of Thumbs Up’s programs, as it plays a vital role in promoting mental health awareness and support. By fostering a sense of belonging and connection, Thumbs Up helps combat isolation and stigma associated with mental health issues.
To achieve this mission, Thumbs Up implements a variety of programs, including:
Adultish – A program aimed at supporting young adults during their transition into adulthood, focusing on mental health resources relevant to this stage of life.
Bereavement Outreach – Providing resources and support to individuals dealing with loss, helping them navigate their grief journey.
Cheer Bags – Distributing bags filled with uplifting items and resources to individuals facing mental health challenges, designed to provide comfort and encouragement.
Community Outreach Events – Organizing activities that bring the community together to learn about mental health, share experiences, and promote support.
Nana’s Calming Corner – A designated space providing tools and activities for relaxation and stress relief, catering especially to those needing a calming environment.
No One Sits Solo – An initiative aimed at reducing loneliness and isolation by encouraging social connections among individuals, especially in group settings.
Referral Assistance – Offering guidance and referrals to mental health resources and professionals to ensure individuals receive the help they need.
Teen After-School Program – Providing a safe and supportive environment for teenagers to engage in activities and discussions around mental health, fostering peer support.
Youth Mental Health Awareness and Initiatives – Conducting programs focused on educating young people about mental health issues, reducing stigma, and promoting healthy conversations.
Through these diverse initiatives, Thumbs Up plays a vital role in enhancing mental health awareness and support within the community.