FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Monica McDougal
Social Media Coordinator
Cell: 913-206-9565
monica.mcdougal@washburn.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Washburn student organization to host Hope-n-Mic night

TOPEKA, Kan.The Washburn University chapter of To Write Love On Her Arms will be
hosting a Hope-n-Mic for suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Washburn students
and community members are invited to attend or perform at the event which will take place at
Billy Vanilly on Friday, Nov. 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This is the second annual Hope-n-Mic night that TWLOHA-WU has hosted in Topeka. Last
years event also took place at Billy Vanilly and featured poetry readings, performances of
original songs and covers, comedy routines and personal testimonies from students about the
effects of mental illness.
Last years Hope-n-Mic was super successful. We had about 15 performers and 30 or so people
in the audience, said former TWLOHA-WU member and former president Molly Walter.
TWLOHA-WU is looking for people to perform at the event. They encourage people to sign up
to sing, rap, play instruments, read poetry, and provide personal testimonies. They suggest
avoiding pieces which may include triggering words or images that might lead someone
struggling with mental health issues to feel uncomfortable.
We are hoping this years event will be as meaningful and moving as last year. I remember
walking away from Billy Vanilly feeling so inspired and encouraged. My hope is that another
person, even if its just one, will feel the same this year, said co-president Rachel Proffitt.
TWLOHA-WU is a student organization that works to raise awareness about mental health on
Washburns campus. Specifically, TWLOHA-WU focuses its work on reducing the stigma
surrounding suicide, addiction, self-injury and depression. TWLOHA-WU held its first meeting
at Washburn in March of 2012.
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For further details about this event and TWLOHA-WU, or to schedule an interview with any
TWLOHA-WU officers or members, please contact Monica McDougal on her cell, 913-2069565, or at monica.mcdougal@washburn.edu