Ally Castro’s “You’ve Been Sparked!” project was borne of her own experience with anxiety and depression, and her determination to advocate for others who struggle.

“The goal for my project is to ‘spark’ a light in someone else’s darkness, to bring a smile to someone’s face and remind them that they aren’t alone and that people care.” Her mission starts with gift bags filled with items such as stress balls, tea, pen and notepaper, and seed packages, “all things that can make someone feel good and warm inside,” Ally noted.  

Each bag also has a handmade, beaded bracelet with an inspirational message, and a personalized card. She plans to give them to people she knows who are struggling with personal issues.

“Feelings of anxiety and depression have increased as it’s gotten harder to socialize and go out into the world,” notes Ally, referring to the social isolation of the past 18 months. She’s hoping the project will open the floor for conversations and get people thinking about mental health.