As part of their standard coursework in CM-356: Advertising & PR Campaigns, students are organized into groups where they are required to reach out to local nonprofits to apply their public relations knowledge and gain firsthand experience assisting real campaigns.
One group in particular is taking on a partnership with Positive Directions, with the ultimate goal of spreading awareness for their upcoming Spinathon fundraiser.
“Our mission is to be innovative leaders in mental health and provide well-being for all,” said Jessica Branson, CEO and Creative Director of Positive Directions. “We do our best to never turn anyone away—whoever walks through our doors has access to the support and services they need.”
Serving the Fairfield County area for over 50 years, Positive Directions offers a range of services including counseling, prevention education and community outreach programs aimed at improving overall mental wellness.
“We see hundreds of clients and families each year, and watching individuals come in struggling with trauma or anxiety and leave feeling supported and heard is incredibly rewarding,” said Branson.
As part of the campaign, students have taken on a hands-on role in promoting the event through targeted outreach efforts. Experiences like this highlight the value of service-learning, where students apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges while making a direct impact in the community.
“You are the future—you represent the choices, values, and conversations that will shape communities for decades,” said Branson. “Being able to reach students now and remove the stigma around these topics is incredibly powerful.”
The Spinathon will take place on May 3 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Westport YMCA, bringing together students and community members to participate in cycling sessions that raise funds for mental health and substance use prevention. Participants can reserve a bike with a $100 registration and commit to a $500 fundraising goal, contributing to an overall goal of $50,000 to support expanded counseling and prevention services.
Students and community members interested in participating can find additional event details by scanning the QR code on the event flyer.
The Spinathon also highlights the connection between physical activity and mental well-being, which further reinforces the organization’s broader mission beyond traditional counseling services.
“Mental health and physical health are intrinsically linked,” said Branson. “Something as simple as getting up, moving your body, or taking a break can have a real impact on your mindset and overall well-being.”
Events like the Spinathon aim to promote not only fundraising, but also everyday habits that support both mental and physical health.
