In most affected communities, mental health and counseling services for survivors run out before the first year of recovery is up. Through connecting with a number of affected communities and getting to know many survivors personally, we have found that by the time the first anniversary of a survivor's event comes around, the intensity of their various post-event symptoms and experiences (PTSD, depression, suicidal thoughts, isolation, etc.) are more likely to increase after that first year.
The first year of recovery is often met with an overwhelming amount of community response. Though this immediate response does serve an important purpose, most survivors need continuing support that lasts years after their community has stopped responding.
Amy's goal in coordinating Project Journey is to make sure survivors have long-term funding for mental health and counseling services.
In developing this newly-launched program, Amy recognizes that healing and mental health looks different for everyone, and therefore wants to provide financial support that serves survivors within their diverse and individual journeys.