In 2009, we launched the University Chapters program. UChapters is a network of student organizations on college and university campuses that exists to embody the mission and vision of To Write Love on Her Arms. Through organized meetings and events, each chapter serves as a voice of hope, inspiration, and support for students and their surrounding communities.
Why UChapters?
It is estimated that more than 1,100 US college students die by suicide each year. 1 in 12 have created a suicide plan. 90% of college students who die by suicide have a psychiatric disorder, and 60% of those have severe depression. 10% of college students have been diagnosed with depression disorder, the majority of which never receive treatment.
We share statistics not to shock but instead to offer a clearer picture of the state of things. College campuses are a places of transition, and the difficult realities of transition are not often talked about openly, especially when they are associated with mental health. We believe that by giving stories of hope and help a home on campuses across the country, we will see students choosing to continue living their story and helping those around them do the same. UChapters is a movement of students committed to changing the statistics and building a community of honesty and hope.
Starting a Chapter
Step 1: MOVE Community Conference.
Becoming an active TWLOHA UChapter starts with attending a TWLOHA MOVE Community Conference to gain the tools necessary to effectively lead a chapter on your campus. At MOVE, you will not only learn about the issues TWLOHA addresses, but you will also be able to network with other student leaders, interact with TWLOHA staff, and begin to build a network of support and encouragement as you begin the registration process.
Step 2: Submit an Application.
After MOVE, you will need to submit an online application, to which access is granted in the final session of the conference. The application is your opportunity to tell us why starting a TWLOHA UChapter is important to you and your campus, as well as your own vision for your UChapter community.
Step 3: Getting Registered.
If approved, you will begin a registration process, during which TWLOHA will guide you in finding an adviser, creating chapter documents, and developing action plans to keep your community strong. This registration process will allow you to begin building the foundation that your chapter will stand on in the future.
Step 4: Becoming Official.
Finally, TWLOHA will walk you through registering your chapter with your school's student activities office. Chapters should not be registered with schools until the registration process with TWLOHA is completed and approved. Once the chapter is recognized by TWLOHA as well as the school, the chapter will be launched as an official TWLOHA UChapter.
If you are a college student, or are about to become one, and want to start chapter on your campus please email chapters@twloha.com for more information. Also, we encourage you to check out the UChapter FAQ page for quicker answers to program questions.
Check Out Our Active UChapters
To see a list of our active UChapters click here. As a student at one of these schools, we encourage you to email the UChapter directly to find out how to get involved on your campus, meeting times, and locations.
