By Paige Cummings, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Compeer of Greater Buffalo

Every May, Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us how important connection really is. At Compeer, we believe that even the smallest gestures can make a meaningful impact on someone’s day.

That’s why I love our Compeer Rocks campaign. 

By now, you have hopefully spotted colorful painted rocks around Western New York with uplifting messages and unique designs. What may look like a simple painted rock is something much bigger: a reminder that people are not alone. 

As the Marketing & Communications Coordinator at Compeer, I spend a lot of time thinking about how we can make conversations around mental health feel more approachable. Mental health awareness can sometimes feel heavy. That’s because it is. Many people are struggling silently. But campaigns like Compeer Rocks create opportunities for human connection in unexpected places. 

Maybe someone finds a rock on their morning walk after a difficult week. Maybe someone is missing a loved one this month and finds a rock that reminds them of that person. Maybe it simply becomes a moment to pause, reflect, and check in with themselves. 

What I especially love about this campaign is that it invites everyone to participate. You don’t need special training, a large platform, or a big donation to support mental health awareness. You just need a rock, some paint, and a willingness to spread kindness. After painting your rock, simply hide it somewhere in your community and post it on social media using the hashtag #CompeerRocks.

Compeer is built on friendship and connection. Through our programs, volunteers help combat loneliness and isolation by building supportive relationships with youth, adults, veterans, and families. The Compeer Rocks campaign reflects that same mission in a creative and visible way throughout the community. 

In the spirit of connection, many local businesses and nonprofits have already signed on to support the cause. Sweet Buffalo, Eco-Serve Pest Services, and Richmond Vona LLC, and Sweet Jenny’s are all having their teams paint rocks and spread them throughout the community. We are always looking for more people to get involved in this initiative. 

This Mental Health Awareness Month, I encourage everyone to look for simple ways to spread kindness in their community. Whether you decide to paint a rock, volunteer with a mental health organization, share resources, or donate, your actions can make a difference. While we are launching this initiative now, it is something people can participate in all year long. 

Connection doesn’t always have to be complicated. Sometimes, it can start with something as small as a rock.