Why Quell?
We are thrilled to share the exciting news that our Third Annual Founder’s Day is just around the corner on December 11th, 2023! This is a special time for us to come together and celebrate the incredible progress we’ve made to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Founder’s Day isn’t just a day event; it’s a celebration of resilience, unity, and the power of community.
Leading up to this momentous day, we have something truly special in store for you. We’ll be opening the pages of our collective narrative and will share heartfelt stories from our community members. Today, our team is eager to share their own stories—how they found their way to Quell and what being a part of this organization means to them. Through their eyes, you’ll gain insight into the passion and dedication that fuels our mission.
Amber Chembars Meyerl – Executive Director
“I’m so thankful my life’s path intersected with that of The Quell Foundation. From the very first conversations with Kevin and the Board of Directors, I knew this foundation was special. Several months later, having worked and collaborated hand-in-hand with our team, volunteers, sponsors, students, and other partners and supporters, I’ve never felt so refreshed. The Quell Foundation is authentic, purposeful, and tirelessly committed to improving our community’s perception of mental health challenges. The feeling of belonging, judgment-free support, and beautiful connection to one another is what sets Quell apart. I’m so thankful to be a part of it all.”
Ashley Persaud – Marketing Coordinator
“I’ve always believed that if my experiences can make a positive impact on at least one person, then every hardship I’ve overcome was entirely worthwhile. The Quell Foundation empowers me to leverage my voice and personal journey to raise awareness and foster an environment where mental health holds the same significance as physical well-being.”
Emily Abbott – Assistant Director of Development
“I first joined The Quell Foundation as one of the first recipients of the Fighter Scholarship, awarded to college students struggling with a mental health challenge. Since my involvement with The Quell Foundation, whether it be as a Quell scholar, intern, or Junior Board member, I have felt so much more confident in my ability to share my story and inspire others to do the same. Quell’s mission drives me every day to encourage others to seek treatment and continue toward a culture where individuals struggling don’t feel like they have to hide behind a mask. It is incredibly rewarding to see the impact of the Foundation’s work through documentary screenings, awareness events, and our prestigious scholarship program. I am honored to be a part of Team Quell and sincerely cannot wait for what’s to come.”
Vlad Radu – Senior Video Editor
“My involvement with the Quell Foundation was a happy coincidence. I was an employee at MOD, one of the Foundation’s media partners, and was tasked with putting together the Student Thank You Video for the 2020 Masquerade Ball. I had no experience with mental health or wellness when I first started, and was overcome by the difficulties that some of the students had faced. I was even more shocked when I realized that I had similar experiences and could relate to many of them. I had been struggling with mental health throughout my life and had not even realized it. This realization sparked in me a desire to learn more, and to help institute change. From then on, I volunteered for any Quell Project that came down the pipeline and was thrilled when Kevin extended me an invitation to join Team Quell, because it meant that I could dedicate myself to social change and pursue my newfound passion.“
Maya Kaufman – FRRP Assistant Program Director
“I was first introduced to Quell as a senior in college. As part of my major, it was a requirement that we hold a full-time internship prior to graduation. Because of my interest in the health field, my professor introduced me to The Quell Foundation. As someone who has struggled with mental health, I was immediately drawn to their mission and excited by the work they do. I have now been with the Foundation for three years and absolutely love what I do. I feel so proud to work with first responders and to continue the fight for greater mental health care.”
Allie Rosenburg – Development Intern
“At Quell, the team is filled with people who are so dedicated to the mission. Being a part of a community that is so passionate and constantly striving for more makes me feel like I have a greater purpose in life. Their passion for what they do is clear and contagious, and shows in every project and event.”
Julia Penchuk – Marketing Intern
“Quell has given me the unbelievable opportunity to use my voice to advocate for mental health awareness. Here at Quell, I am encouraged to use my creativity and passion to educate and engage with the community. I have learned so much from the welcoming community and finally feel like I am making a difference in the world. Quell has become a second family for me, and I will forever be grateful for them helping me grow as an individual and to share my story.”
Your support fuels our efforts to make a lasting impact on mental health awareness and advocacy. Every contribution, whether it’s sharing your story or donating– no matter the size, plays a vital role. As we approach this special day, let’s stand together in our commitment to reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness.