DENMARK, S.C. – Voorhees University Student Health Ambassadors and members of the Rural Community Development Institute have completed a series of mental health trainings — Mental Health 101, S.A.D. (Sadness, Anxiety, Depression), Compassion Fatigue, and Stress & Anxiety for Teens — and will receive certificates of completion from Mental Health America of South Carolina.
The trainings strengthen participants’ knowledge and skills to recognize signs of mental distress, provide peer support, practice self-care, and make appropriate referrals. With certification from Mental Health America of SC, the ambassadors and Rural Community Development Institute members are better equipped to support Voorhees’ campus wide mental health initiative, ROAR (Resilience, Outreach, Awareness, Recovery).
Having successfully completed the courses, they will take leadership roles as the university implements a series of mental health training courses and campus programming. Responsibilities include facilitating workshops with partners from Mental Health America of SC, leading peer-support sessions, creating resource booths, conducting outreach to at-risk populations, and coordinating referrals to campus and community services.
“Having knowledgeable, compassionate student leaders is vital to campus well‑being,” said Nurse Williams, Student Ambassador Coordinator. “These trainings and certifications ensure our ambassadors and community partners can provide immediate, appropriate support and help build a resilient campus culture.” Student Health Ambassador, Jaydon Robinson added, “I am grateful that I was able to take the trainings so that I can be a better advocate and resource for my peers and community.”