"
Our goal with the exhibit is to let young people know that they’re not alone with their thoughts. There are others out there,” said
AIR Co-Founder Tricia Baker
. “AIR has been bringing the powerful In Their Shoes display to OCC for five years and each time it is exhibited, there have always been students who come forward to ask for help. We are grateful for our partnership with OCC.”
“One of my favorite colleges to visit is Ocean County College,” continued Tricia, who brought her therapy dog, Goober. “The students are so friendly and open, and the staff are amazing. They recognize how their students struggle and they take actions to support them.”
The college’s
Counseling Services Department
offers wellness workshops, hosts mental health events including AIR’s visit, counseling and mental health resources.
“In Their Shoes always has an impact on our students, faculty and staff. As a result of this exhibit, we are able to open much needed conversation and bring the topic of mental health and suicide prevention to our entire campus community,” said Katie Hueth, OCC Prevention Education Coordinator. “Thank you Tricia, Goober, and the AIR team for sharing a day of support and awareness on our campus this September.”