Since starting at HHS, my passion for music and its importance and impact on my life has only grown. I plan to utilize my time with GCP to be productive with this passion and strive for change within my community, specifically regarding mental health and unity among youth. Throughout my Service Learning class, I have worked towards learning about the social and mental benefits of music and establishing a creative outlet for youth in my community to seek a sense of belonging, stability, and identity. Lauren and I have experienced first hand how quickly the art of music can uinite people, and we intend to practice it in our school and community.

Mental health is a topic that should be held in high priority as its effects are detrimental to physical health, academic performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. The CDC declared that our nation is experiencing a mental health crisis that is especially affecting youth, whose mental health is worsened by a lack of belonging and sense of community. To strengthen the unity and welfare of our community, we must first target sources of distress and improve overall mental health and the ways in which the people of Holliston alleviate mental health concerns. It is vital that we eliminate stigma and any barriers preventing Holliston youth from seeking help or treatment by making it readily available and providing inviting avenues to do so. Feelings of isolation often worsen symptoms of mental illness, so establishing as strong sense of a supportive and creative community is one of MHH's biggest goals. By bringing people together over shared passion, we can create a truly valuable space for youth to establish a firmer sense of self and develope healthier coping skills.