About Us
Everyone struggles with mental health at some point in their life. We understand that, because we and people we love have been through it.
It’s tough, but we hope that our community reminds you that you’re not alone.
Why does art help us?
Art provides us with a method of catharsis, and in the process, it enriches the world around us. Some of the greatest artists are said to have expressed their pain and emotions through their creations, such as Vincent Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, and Edvard Munch. Humans have always drifted toward art as a means of releasing their emotions–it’s tangible in the dances, songs, images, and stories of our ancestors.
From L to R: Anxiety (1894) by Edvard Munch; Sin Esperanza [“Without Hope”] (1945) by Frida Kahlo; Starry Night (1889) by Vincent Van Gogh
Art doesn’t discriminate; no matter who you identify as, who you love, or how you look, you can create meaningful art and benefit from the creation process. Finally, art is what makes life so enjoyable. Some of the most intrinsic elements of our cultures–movies, songs, architecture–are, at their core, art. Whether it’s creating love, uniting us for a cause, or expressing empathy, art transcends all boundaries–it reminds us that, at the end of the day, we’re all human.
I get it; I was skeptical at first too. “How is making art going to fix anything?”
What we don’t realize is how integral art is to our lives. We come home after a long day itching to put on a comfort movie or listen to our favorite songs; we write poems while crying and we splatter paint on canvas to vent our anger.
Such forms of cathartic artistic expression are so normalized, we don’t even recognize them – however, they’re arguably the easiest way to communicate inexplicable feelings.
Priyanka Antony
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Co-Founder, President
Art comes in many, many forms. I’ve never been traditionally artsy, but art is still an integral part of my life and self-expression. Writing creative stories is my go-to activity when I’m feeling stressed. Sharing my stories with my friends has helped me articulate feelings that I haven’t been able to express otherwise.
Harrison Foster
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Co-Founder, Vice President
Art isn’t just about creating pretty things; it’s a powerful tool for mental well-being. Think about it—when you’re lost in the flow of painting, drawing or sculpting, you’re not just making art; you’re expressing what can be tough to put into words. It is not about skill level, it’s just about creation.
Art can take your brain in new directions. This kind of expression can be a lifesaver for managing stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s like art gives you a break from the world, helping you live in the moment and chill out. Plus, when you see what you’ve created, it’s a real confidence booster, making you feel good about yourself.
Sharing your art with others can make you feel less alone, it can open you up to others in new ways. All in all, creating art can really benefit your mental wellness, helping you explore, relax, and connect.
Kim Bouldin-Jones
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Member of the Board
Hello World
Meet Our Team
Co-Founder, President
Priya Antony
I’m Priya Antony, and I’m a junior in high school. I’ve been passionate about mental health ever since I understood what it was. I’ve encountered mental health issues from afar, up close, and inside my head. Frankly, no struggle scares me more. I’ve dreamed of being able to solve the problem, or at least contribute to the solution, for years now–that’s why I’m so excited to see how far One in Five can go. I hope that we can not only direct people to a cathartic method of expression, but also to create a community that actively works toward a happier future for all.
Above are some photos of me, my brother Josh, and the view from my house (one of my favorite places).
Co-Founder, Vice President
Harrison Foster
My name is Harrison Foster and I am currently a junior in high school. I have seen mental health in the world around me since a young age – in the problems I have personally faced and the problems my friends have confided in me. My support systems like my friends and family have kept me going during even my lowest points, and I want One in Five to cultivate a similar community on a worldwide scale.
To get to know me, here are some photos of me, my dog, my grandparent’s house, and a beach in Florida that I love.
Student Ambassador
RJ Del Rosario
I’m Raphael “RJ” del Rosario, a junior in high school right now. Mental health issues have long since affected my family, friends, and community, and I’ve had the experience firsthand hearing the struggles visible and invisible from those close to me. I think so much of who we are is how we deal with challenges in our life, and for everyone to embrace and confront these challenges in a positive and healthy manner is a passion of mine. I hope to grow One in Five to be a resource and beacon to navigate these issues in a positive way, and to destigmatize decades of preconceived notions on mental health.
Above are a few pictures I love: a photo of me and friends at our school’s Equity Night, me and my mom at Acadia National Park, and one of my favorite pieces from the Montréal Art Museum!
Listen to our Stories here
volunteer with us
Opportunities
We’re excited to see the change you can create.
Social Media + Marketing
Remote/In-Person
Run our Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, and other social media platforms. 2 – 3 people working on a team. Screening required.
Recurring role
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10-15 service hours/month
In-Person
Senior photographer with minimal prior experience in photography and editing. Screening required.
Recurring role
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10-15 service hours/month
Changemakers
Remote
Contribute art, writing, or any supported form of media inspired by our monthly prompts to our blog. Upload it using this form to receive your service hours.
Non-recurring role
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2 service hours/contribution