FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2025
SENT Launches First-Ever Summer Session of Creative Expressions to Support Teen Mental Health
Topeka, KS — For the first time ever, SENT, Inc. is launching a summer edition of its Creative Expressions program, offering teens a safe, supportive, and engaging space to explore their emotions, connect with others, and build mental health resilience. Running biweekly from June 12 through July 24, the program invites teens from across the community to gather for creative activities, conversation, and lunch in a welcoming environment.
Held at SENT’s headquarters (Room 107), each session includes a shared lunch, a check-in activity, a main creative experience, and time for both group and personal reflection. The program is led by a team of trusted facilitators who bring a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to guiding teens through expressive and connection-building experiences.
“We know that summer can be an emotionally vulnerable time for teens, especially those without consistent structure or access to supportive relationships. Creative Expressions is more than just a program—it’s a lifeline. When we give teens space to explore who they are, build healthy connections, and reflect on their emotions, we’re investing in their long-term mental wellness.” said Tricia Sublet, LSCSW, SENT’s Mental Health Director.
Each session follows a thematic focus:
- June 12 – Knowing the Real Me: Teens will create expressive self-collages and explore what makes them unique.
- June 26 – Boundaries and Safety: Participants will build “boundary bubbles” to visualize and process who belongs in their safe spaces.
- July 10 – Talking and Vibing: Teens will engage in back-to-back partner drawing to explore the challenges and power of communication.
- July 24 – With My People: The summer concludes with a community mural, reflection, and a celebratory lunch.
Creative Expressions has traditionally been a school-year program, but this marks the first time it will run over the summer months. Organizers say the demand for safe, healing spaces for teens—especially during the less structured summer—was too important to ignore.
About SENT, Inc.
SENT is a nonprofit organization committed to holistic neighborhood transformation in Topeka’s underserved communities. By investing in education, wellness, housing, and economic empowerment, SENT walks alongside families and youth to create pathways for lasting change.