Harcourts foundation supports ‘it’s OK not to be OK’

The Harcourts Foundation is proud to announce its donation of $20,000 to support the impactful "Backpack for Life" program, an initiative by the registered charity It’s Okay Not to Be Okay.

This program, developed for Grade 5 and 6 primary school students, aims to build mental health literacy, resilience, and equip young minds with the tools to manage life’s challenges. 

Founded in 2016 by three sisters grieving the loss of their brother to suicide, It’s Okay Not to Be Okay has been steadfast in its mission to advocate for mental health awareness, grief support, and suicide prevention.

Their "Backpack for Life" workshop is an innovative and interactive session designed to create a safe and engaging environment where children can begin to understand their emotions, learn coping mechanisms, and foster a healthy relationship with mental health. 

The workshops run for one hour and explore key themes such as understanding mental health, recognising feelings and emotions, and identifying tools to cope with tough times.

With 75% of mental illness developing before the age of 25, early intervention and education are critical, and It’s Okay Not to Be Okay believes that this prevention work must begin in primary schools. 

Harcourts Foundation Supporting Vital Initiatives 

Sharon Kupsch, Harcourts Foundation Victoria Ambassador, expressed the significance of the grant, stating, "It was an honour and a privilege to witness a workshop and present the Foundation cheque for the very special work they do.

Backpack for Life is such a fantastic idea, and it was just as fantastic to see the kids embracing it." 

Kaitlyn Schepisi from Harcourts Carrum Downs also championed the initiative, commenting, "Mental health is such a prevalent issue in so many areas of life now—our families, friends, co-workers, and even our clients.

We are all human, and sometimes all we need to hear is ‘It’s OK not to be OK.’ I cannot think of a more important cause to support than It’s Okay Not to Be Okay. They should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved and the support they bring to the community." 

A Lifelong Impact on Young Minds 

The Backpack for Life program leverages interactive activities and open discussions to help children understand and process what impacts mental health—as well as the importance of addressing emotions in a safe and fun way.

By doing so, the program not only equips students with essential tools for tough times but also starts reshaping societal attitudes towards mental health from a young age. 

The $20,000 support from Harcourts Foundation ensures that more children will benefit from this meaningful program, fostering resilience and mental health awareness long before significant challenges arise. 

The Harcourts Foundation is proud to stand alongside It’s Okay Not to Be Okay in promoting mental health advocacy and education.

Learn more about the Backpack for Life program and It’s Okay Not to Be Okay HERE.