Oak Forest High School is proud to announce that it has been recognized by Create Connect Care, a youth mental health campaign through the Creative Visions Foundation, for its impactful contribution to youth mental health advocacy.
Last year, the school partnered with Create Connect Care to design a schoolwide art project for Mental Health Awareness Week, centered around the theme “Your Mind, Your Power.” As part of the initiative, an affirmation station was set up during lunch periods, giving students the opportunity to write positive, encouraging messages to themselves. These affirmations were then collected and transformed into a collaborative poster created by the art department.
The project was a resounding success—students enthusiastically engaged with the activity, sharing uplifting and empowering words that highlighted the importance of self-care and mental health. The finished work was submitted to Create Connect Care, where it earned an award honoring the school’s creativity, passion, and impactful contribution to the campaign.
According to the award, the school’s entry “highlighted the importance of youth mental health, challenged stigma, and amplified the voices of young people in advocating for a future that prioritizes well-being.”
In addition to national recognition, the award also includes funding to support this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, allowing the school to continue building a supportive and positive environment for students.