MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
Every May, we focus on elevating awareness of mental health issues with a series of community events and programs.
J.A.M (Jana’s Art and Music) Fest
J.A.M. Fest is a community-wide mental wellness day designed to help increase well-being, build connections, and foster self-expression. Held annually in downtown State College, the event features live music, yoga, meditation, stations for creative expression, artwork to view, and more.
Art, music, and creative expression are lifelong sources of resilience, self-confidence, and happiness – so save the date for this fun-filled event.
Save the date for 2025: May 17, 2025, 12pm – 5pm
Art with a Theme
Take a stroll through Downtown State College this May and experience the magic of community, creativity, and connection through Jana Marie Foundation’s annual Art with a Theme installation.
This year’s inspiring theme—Snail —celebrates the beauty of growing at your own pace.
Much like the snail, this theme reminds us that progress doesn’t have to be fast to be meaningful. Whether navigating life’s challenges or embracing personal growth, we all move forward in our own time and in our own way. The snail symbolizes patience, persistence, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going.
Dozens of local youth, artists, and supporters of Jana Marie Foundation have brought this symbol to life through these unique and heartfelt creations displayed in storefront windows across downtown. Whether you’re admiring a pen and ink, marker, paint, or collage rendition, each snail contributes to a larger message: we all have the power to grow together.
Come view the art, be inspired, and feel the heartbeat of our community through every snail on display.
Courses
Each year, Jana Marie Foundation offers a series of courses in May to promote mental health awareness. Check our events calendar for more information.
QPR Suicide Prevention for Gatekeepers: Learn three simple steps to help save a life. No cost public courses will be offered throughout the month and as always, feel free to email us to learn how you can bring this training to your workplace or community group! Pre-registration is required. Please register at https://janamariefoundation.org/qpr-registration. Thank you.
Youth Mental Health First Aid: This evidence-based course teaches a 5-step action plan to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. We will discuss typical adolescent development and when it might be something more, look at various signs and symptoms, and discuss ways that we can engage in courageous conversations. Dates coming soon! A two-hour self-paced introduction will be required to take the course. Please email info@janamariefoundation.org to enroll.
Adult Mental Health First Aid: This evidence-based course teaches a 5-step action plan to help someone who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. We will discuss mental health in the United States, signs and symptoms, and how to assist someone who may be experiencing early, worsening or crisis situations. Dates coming soon! A two-hour self-paced introduction will be required to take the course. Please email info@janamariefoundation.org to enroll.
A Good Laugh
A Good Laugh is an evening of comedy and live music in support of the Jana Marie Foundation! Enjoy a hilarious stand-up performance by Tommy LaMotta, great tunes by Eric Ian Farmer and Free Range, yummy food provided by Sysco, and a night full of fun—all for a great cause. Join us to laugh, connect, and make a difference!
Tentative Schedule of Events
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6pm: Doors Open
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6:30pm: Music by Eric Ian Farmer
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7:15pm: Music by Free Range
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8:00pm: Comedy by Tommy LaMotta
Throughout the night you will learn about Jana Marie Foundation and the impactful work that happens in Centre County and beyond. Thanks to Sysco, dinner will be provided. Menu includes pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, mac and cheese, corn bread and sandwiches. This is a night you won’t want to miss!