Mariajose Garza/THE RIDER
Compassion RGV is an organization that aims to enhance mental health resources in the Rio Grande Valley while focusing on changing the stigma around mental health in the Hispanic community, according to the organization’s president.
“Our main mission is to honestly alter the most perspectives we can on mental health here in the RGV,” said Natalia Del Castillo, the president and founder of Compassion RGV.
The organization hosts fundraisers and awareness events; for example, Del Castillo said one of the “main things” is at the farmer’s market, where members sell treats they bake to fundraise for psychiatric centers.
Alethia Garcia, the club’s vice president, said one of its yearly initiatives is raising money for the Rio Grande State Center’s Christmas wishlist, located at 1401 S. Rangerville Road in Harlingen.
“Last year, we were able to raise $1,250 in funds for the wishlist,” Garcia said.
Del Castillo added the club has expanded from three to 14 members.
“Our goals are to recruit more volunteers and raise more money than before, also doing more events that have a direct impact,” she said .
Garcia said members can gain knowledge on current mental health issues, which is important because “mental health here in the Valley mostly goes unnoticed.”
Del Castillo added the organization is planning pilates and pet therapy events for later in the semester.
“Usually at our events, people will just be there to enjoy the atmosphere, but being able to start a conversation about mental health really just brings back the cause,” she said.
Garcia said the club is in the process of starting a volunteer program. Students interested in joining can email compassionrgv@gmail.com.
“All students are welcome to come to our events and support us,” she said.
