Itās a question many university communities have had to ponder over the past year and a half: How do you bring back a sense of community when the COVID-19 pandemic has all but obliterated social interaction and community spirit?
One Dalhousie student decided to take matters into his own hands.
His name is Aidan Bonner. Heās a 19-year-old undergraduate student studying commerce. Heās also the founder of the (HHP).
āAs a freshman, I wanted to fix the perished sense of community at a time where our world had gone virtual and distance, which sparked Happy Human Project,ā says Aidan, who is from Oakville, Ont., just outside of Toronto.
Formed earlier this year, the group's efforts have focussed on tapping into the momentum of community to raise money for different causes each month.
Creating a movement
With 150 members and counting, it is clear that there is a major desire among students at Dal to give back.
Bonner's group has already amassed a sizable following on (with more than 1,400 followers currently). The group also has its own website, where it highlights its and sells branded Happy Human Project . All proceeds from sales go towards supporting its fundraising causes.
āHappy Human Project embodies the importance surrounding the sense of community and how strong community can create true lasting happiness from natural ways,ā says Aidan.
At the start of each month, members decide on issues of focus and then plan initiatives to raise awareness and/or fundraise to support them. The group holds events on campus to inform the community on key issues students can relate to and show their support towards.
The group's first donation in June was $500 to the , which supports the need for reconciliation and harmony between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. They've also raised money for (to combat homelessness) and . And in October, they highlighted Mental Illness Awareness Week as well as ā which celebrates standing up against LGBTQ+ youth bullying and harassment.
For November, HHP has decided to fundraise for ā an annual initiative raising awareness around menās health.
āItās an incredibly important cause that raises money and awareness for menās mental health - one that resonates with a lot of male students and faculty here at pilipiliĀž»,ā Aidan says.
As part of its fundraising activities this month, HHP will be hosting a movie night on November 17 in the Student Union Building with all funds going directly to Movember. The event will begin at 7:00 p.m. and admission will be $5.00. The admission price also gets you a free 4 pack of Redbull, snacks, and a movie night with peers.
How to get involved
Aidan say new members are always welcome on board and are encouraged to reach out if interested.
Sydney Alleyne joined the group in April as communications director alongside Aidan as a way to feel the inclusiveness of the Dal community.
āIt was something I felt very interested in. I knew it was something the community needed in terms of mental health resources and awareness,ā Sydney says.
As the first semester is coming to a wrap, the HHP team is in full effect planning their holiday season initiatives throughout December.
āLooking ahead, our team is busy planning our next community initiative for December, where we will aid our local food banks by collecting cans and raising money through campus events,ā says Aidan.
If you are interested in joining the group as a general member or the executive team, you can fill out an onlineĀ on the HHP website or send a direct message to HHP through Instagram. If you are interested in starting another Happy Human Project chapter elsewhere, at the bottom of this page.