Highlight Mental Health Week Returns: GEF Seeks Community Support!

September 8–12, 2025, marks the return of Highlight Mental Health Week—an empowering initiative hosted by the Greenwood Education Foundation (GEF) in partnership with Greenwood Community Schools. What started as a small idea to destigmatize mental health has grown into one of the most meaningful and energizing weeks of the year in our community.

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline signs line Woodmen Boulevard.

Each day features awareness activities, kindness campaigns, and wellness resources that lead up to a huge tailgate event on Friday night—where students, families, and educators gather in celebration and support.

But beyond the celebration is a sobering truth:

1 in 5 teens lives with a diagnosable mental health condition, and more than half don’t receive the help they need.

That’s why this week is so critical.

Students show their support by wearing their "Highlight Mental Health" neon shirts to the Friday football game.

Why We Need Your Support Now More Than Ever

Historically, this event has been supported by generous donors and grants. But due to recent shifts in state and federal funding, many of our previous sponsors are no longer able to contribute. Unfortunately, the needs haven’t disappeared—they’ve grown.

This year, GEF is committed to using proceeds from Highlight Mental Health Week to fund two essential student services at no cost to families:

• Music Therapy for K-8 students, and

• DBT Therapy Groups for high school students at Greenwood Community High School.

These programs aren’t “extras”—they are lifelines. We hear from students and families year-round about the impact these services make on their well-being, academic engagement, and long-term resilience.

Student yoga was offered for free during the week.

How You Can Help

We are currently seeking sponsors for this year’s event, with giving levels starting at $350. Sponsors will be recognized on our event t-shirts (a community favorite!), marketing materials, and signage during the week. Some levels also include the option to host an activity or resource table during the Friday night tailgate.

Your support directly funds free, school-based therapy for students who need it most—no red tape, no barriers, just help.

Be Part of the Change

If you or your business are interested in making a lasting impact, we’d love to connect with you. Sponsorship packages are available now, and we’re happy to answer any questions or discuss how your brand can align with this important work.

📩 Reach out to Tiffany Woods, Executive Director of the Greenwood Education Foundation, at twoods@greenwoodeducationfoundation.org or visit www.greenwoodeducationfoundation.org to learn more.

Together, we can highlight mental health, offer real solutions, and show our students that their wellness matters.