Newsletter: September 2024

As the campus buzzes with the energy of first year students, many are also struggling, nervous, scared, and unsure of themselves. Perhaps you’ve observed this in the young people you know, even if they aren’t admitting it. The stories in this letter highlight how Student Open Circles helps with these struggles: Mariam came out of her shell through volunteering with us after the isolation of the pandemic, being part of our group reflections supported Emma through difficulties in her first year, and our Spiritual Companioning and Becoming Yourself series propelled Elizabeth on “a path of immense growth.”

A recent Toronto mental health study found that 44% of young adults feel lonely 3 or more days each week and recommended solutions that are exactly what Student Open Circles provides: in-person care and activities that foster well-being and connection among young adults.

Our SOC community takes many shapes, and is perhaps best summed up in a note Emma included in some recent event planning meeting minutes: “Reminder: you are so loved J” Thank you for sharing love with so many students and underserved people in the Hamilton community through your support and encouragement of Student Open Circles! May you too remember that “you are so loved!”

- Marybeth and Jeff