In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Rapids are reaching out to the community and looking internally to better provide access and knowledge about mental health to fans, staff, and players. Through a month's worth of activations and celebrations, the club is acknowledging the issue of mental health and the stigma around it, as one in five Coloradans have some form of mental health illness.
In 2023, the Rapids launched the New Day Kit and partnered with Mental Health Colorado, and kit sponsor UCHealth, to bring attention to the current mental health crisis in Colorado. The goal is to reduce the stigma of seeking help and amplify awareness of public resources. The club supported mental health initiatives throughout the year, while also donating a combined $25,000 to various nonprofits serving mental health needs in the state, including MHC.
Social media break (April 29-May 3)
To kick off the month, the club will unplug by taking a break from its social media platforms from April 29 to May 3. The Rapids will return for regular gameday coverage on May 4 when Colorado travels east to take on NYCFC. Fans can stay up to date on breaking club news and regular team coverage on ColoradoRapids.com and on Apple TV during that time.
Mental Health Awareness Night (May 25)
Highlighting the Rapids' recognition of this cause is Mental Health Awareness Night. Colorado hosts Minnesota United that evening and offers fans the opportunity to learn more about access to mental health resources and how they can make a difference to improve the lives of those in their community. The team will wear the New Day Kits at home for this matchup and throughout the month of May.
Fans can get their own New Day Kit on AltitudeAuthentics.com.
Fan experience
The Rapids will also be hosting a Mental Health Awareness Drive with WellPower, a program dedicated to recovery, resilience and well-being. Accepted items include sensory toys (fidget spinner, stress balls, etc.), art supplies and children's books in both English and Spanish.
On the concourse, Mental Health Colorado and Project Helping will be set up and educating fans on their efforts in the community. Stop by to learn more about their work to reduce the stigma around mental health!
Mental Health & Wellness Clinic ft. Zack Steffen and VOYCENOW
On Thursday, May 16 the Rapids will host a mental health clinic at Suncor Boys & Girls Club in Commerce City to educate and engage with youth in the community. Rapids goalkeeper Zack Steffen's foundation, VOYCENOW, will be spreading awareness about their mission to empower the next generation during the clinic as well!
Therapy Dogs at Rapids Training
Your favorite Rapids players will welcome some special guests at training on May 1—therapy dogs provided by UCHealth! Studies in mental health have shown that dogs and other pets can have numerous mental and physical health benefits.
Stories from the Club
The club heard from coaches and staff members this month about what mental health means to them. The club is committed to doing their part to reduce the stigma around mental health and open discussion for its fans and community.
A new story will be released each week of May, check back in on our social channels and ColoradoRapids.com to hear from us!
Celebrating Teachers in the Community
As we recognize Teacher Appreciation Week from May 6-10, we’ll be going out into our community to celebrate those who mentor, guide and lead the voices of the future: school counselors! We will be giving away pieces from the New Day collection, including jerseys, scarves, socks, and other tools to inspire students’ positive mental health journeys at Adams City High School on May 9.
