‘Healing Minds Matter’ – The First Spark is Illuminated

The Rotary District 3220 ‘Healing Minds Matter’ project is a collaborative initiative by the Rotary Club of Colombo Port City and the Rotary Club of Colombo Mid Town.

It has two key components which happen simultaneously.

It involves the refurbishment a 10,000 square foot area for Mental health-care at the University of Colombo. This will establish the very first Rotary Wellbeing Center for Mental Health (operated by both Rotary clubs).

The other half of the Project includes conducting awareness programs for 10,000 people – advocating for mental health and suicide prevention all across the Island.

The first in a series of planned programs for the Healing Minds Matter project was successfully concluded on 28 August 2024 igniting a light of hope in Tangalle.

The Clubs are humbled to have reached a significant milestone, positively impacting 1,500 students and teachers (in 48 hours) across seven high schools: Gatamanna Dakuna Maha Vidyalaya,Ishwaraya Kanishta Vidyalaya, Ambala Maha Vidyalaya, Vijaya Jathika Vidyalaya, Nayakawaththa Rajapaksha Kanishta Vidyalaya, Ruhunu Vijayaba Jathika Pasala, and Tangalle Balika Vidyalaya.

They are thankful to all those who supported with the first training programme – Rear Admiral Damian Fernando, Captain Chandana Pawuluge, and Lieutenant Commander Tharindu Subasinghe (for accommodation and facilitation).

Great efforts by Chalith Gallearachch (coordination of the entire event), President Rasini Bandara, Past President Numan Zarajudeen from Rotary Club of Colombo Mid Town, President Michael Jayawardana, Asst. Governor & Past President Ian Iddamalgoda and Dulika Jayamanne from Rotary Club of Colombo Port City and Mr Ranil Thilakarathne made the first session possible as mentioned above.

A very special thank you to Atlas Axillia for providing gift packs for all these schools

With each step forward the clubs are fueled by the support of all those committed to the cause.

Together, the Clubs are making significant strides in promoting mental health and well-being across our beautiful island.