American International College (AIC) has launched the Green Bandana Project, a peer-to-peer mental health support initiative that helps students recognize when classmates may be struggling and connect them with appropriate resources.

Developed by SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education), the nationwide program equips high school and college students with the knowledge and tools to support their peers, encourage conversations about mental health, and help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges.

Recognizing the Signs and Connecting Peers With Help

The Green Bandana Project is active at more than 90 schools across the country. Through training, students learn to recognize warning signs of a mental health crisis, offer peer support, and connect classmates with campus and community resources.

Students who complete the training wear a green bandana on their backpacks or person to signal that they are approachable and can help peers find appropriate support. Participants also receive resource cards to help connect classmates with available services.

“The Green Bandana Project is just one way for students to learn how to support their peers, engage with suicide prevention and mental health advocacy, and find their voices in campus communities,” said Jennifer Carranza, the program’s coordinator.

Building a Culture of Support at AIC

The initiative reflects AIC’s commitment to raising awareness of mental health resources and encouraging students to look out for one another.

“American International College is committed to expanding awareness of available mental health resources both on campus and in our community, as well as empowering students to support one another,” said Kaelly Ryan, PA-C, executive director of Health Services and Student Wellness. Ryan serves as the campus team lead, overseeing the program and facilitating student training.

Through education and visible peer support, the College aims to help normalize conversations about mental health, encourage students to seek help when needed, and reinforce that support is available.

Get Involved

AIC encourages students to participate in the Green Bandana Project and become part of a campus network that helps connect peers with mental health resources.

To learn more about the initiative, visit The Green Bandana Project website.

For information about mental health and wellness resources at AIC, visit the College’s Dexter Counseling Center at 413.205.3248 or dexter.counseling@aic.edu.

About SAVE

Founded in 1989, SAVE (Suicide Awareness Voices of Education) is a national nonprofit dedicated to preventing suicide through education and training, advocacy, lethal means safety, and support for people affected by suicide. The organization works to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and equip individuals and communities with the knowledge and resources to help prevent suicide.

Learn more at save.org.