September 19, 2022
SIU hosts Fresh Check Day to support student mental health
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is hosting Fresh Check Day from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm on Thursday, September 22nd. This fun and informative event brings the entire campus community together and serves as a “check in” on SIU student wellness and mental health and to ensure they have access to valuable resources.
The free event is organized by Student Health Services in collaboration with departments and units across campus, student volunteers and representatives from The Jordan Porco Foundation, which created the concept. The Morris Library lawn will be transformed into a delightful display with interactive exhibits and booths, snow cones and other treats, prizes and giveaways. There will be peer-to-peer discussions and information about resources, all presented in a positive, community-focused environment.
SIU held its inaugural Fresh Check Day in 2017, courtesy of the Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant and the Jordan Porco Foundation, a nonprofit organization created by Ernie and Marisa Porco in honor of their son who died by suicide as college freshman. The foundation seeks to promote mental health and prevent suicide by reducing the stigma of seeking help and giving young people a message of hope and support. Likewise, SIU and its Student Health Services, along with partners across campus, strive to provide support and information and create connections.
In case of inclement weather, Fresh Check Day will be held in the Fanner Breezeway.
For more information, visit event website or contact Shelly Ridgeway at rachelle.ridgeway@siu.edu or 618-536-4441.
Contact SIU Counseling and Psychological Services at 618-453-5371 if you or someone you know needs support or assistance. The National Suicide and Crisis Line is open 24/7 and accessible by calling or texting 988.
