Luther College "Active Minds" chapter wins national recognition

The national organization called "Active Minds" has recognized its Luther College chapter for its creative outreach and awareness programs.

The Luther chapter's "Red Umbrella" program was hand-selected to be featured to provide other chapters with the opportunity to learn about and re-create the innovative programs and events chapters from across the country.

Luther's Red Umbrella program was launched in October 2009 to raise awareness of mental health issues, in observance of National Day Without Stigma.  Umbrellas were suspended across campus from trees, lampposts and signs.  Each umbrella had words encouraging people to talk openly about mental health.

Luther College Active Minds president Katie Roberts said, "This project is about getting people talking."  The project delivered that message, as students, faculty and staff paused at the surreal sight of red umbrellas seemingly floating in the morning light on campus.

The project may be particularly attractive to other Active Minds groups due to its low upstart cost.  "We spent just $50 or $60 for the startup," Roberts said. "And the materials can be re-used."