What is #RetrieverProject?
#RetrieverProject is an initiative designed to encompass all core values of UMBC Athletics' mental health programming for our student-athletes, coaches, and staff. The "RetrieverProject" name, as well as the mission statement, was selected and drafted by UMBC student-athletes with guidance from Assistant Athletic Director - Academic Services Abbie Day, Associate AD/Sports Medicine Stacy Carone and members of UMBC Health & Wellness offices. As we move forward, #RetrieverProject will look to work closely with all Student-Athletes, members of our campus and the Catonsville community to take on the challenges of mental health in today's world of college athletics.
For the past two years, mental health conversations have been a priority for not only the Retrievers but also the America East Conference. The #RetrieverProject was born out of the collaboration between student-athletes at an America East event.
Today, this peer lead group is learning how to support each other and fight the stigma against mental health. Retriever Athletics is proud of our student-athletes' work in this area and will continue to support and care for our student-athletes who are struggling with mental health issues.
"The Retriever Project is a great way to get involved in our athletic community in a way that spreads awareness of mental health. Our group's goal is to break the mental health stigma through education and support," said volleyball's Taylor Dunn, a peer leader for #RetrieverProject. "Whether you are experiencing mental illness or know someone who is, everyone can benefit from this group. We are so excited to expand on this group from last year and make a change in our community!"
"The Retriever Project is an amazing way for student-athletes to voice their mental issues to others with similar issues. Our main goal is to emphasize the importance of mental health, especially for student-athletes," said men's lacrosse's Justin Barragan. "We also want student-athletes to have an outlet to help others that might not be comfortable enough to do so. It's only as a team, that we can break the mental health stigma!"
#RetrieverProject Mission Statement:
#RetrieverProject is a UMBC Student-Athlete Mental Health initiative that will work diligently to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
#RetrieverProject is committed to enhancing the importance of mental health and wellness in all areas of life.
#RetrieverProject objectives are built on three pillars:
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Reduce Stigma
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Raise Awareness
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Harvest Resiliency
Important Dates:
Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 9:00 a.m. - UMBC Better Together Games
#RetrieverProject Resources on Campus for Students
Counseling Center – 410-455-2472
Mind Spa – 3rd Floor of AOK Library Room 367 - 410-455-2472
UMBC Police – 410-455-5555
Student Affairs – 410-455-2393
University Health Services – 410-455-2542
Community Resources Available to the Public
Maryland suicide Prevention Program – Dial 211 – Press 1
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255
Veteran's Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, Press 1
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741 to reach a trained crisis counselor
In case of a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.
