Heal Foundation
Sign up for our upcoming experiences!
How do we make a difference?
Human connection, genuine friendship, and staying active are the keys to addressing mental illness.
Heal is a 501c non profit that offers a lifeline, a vibrant community of volunteers ready to share their time and passions to those that need it most. Whether it be hiking, painting, cooking, snowboarding, gardening, or simply playing video games at home, these friends are eager to reconnect you with your passions or introduce you to new ones.
Heal monetarily subsidizes these experiences. For example, we will cover the cost of the cooking class or ski lift ticket to remove the barriers to connection.
Please contact us using the form below if you would like learn more about how you can volunteer your time to combat mental illness in a meaningful way. Together, we will lift each other up.
Past Experiences
Meet our Ambassadors!
NYC, NY
Adam Whitaker
Hello! How’s it going? I’m Adam, originally from Berwyn, PA. After studying in Boston and spending a good five years in San Francisco, I recently made the jump to NYC. I believe mental health is a lifelong journey—filled with highs, challenges, and everything in between. It changes, often more than we expect, and having the right people around us makes all the difference.
Life brings a lot of evolving stressors, but I’m all about finding passion and surrounding ourselves with those who truly believe in us. Personally, music and humor are my go-to outlets, so if you’re into playing/swapping tunes or a good laugh, I’m all in! I’m also always down for a comedy show, anything sporty, or an art gallery. Can’t wait to meet you!
Interests: Guitar, singing / songwriting, jam bands, soccer, running, squash, skiing, movies
Availability: Flexible to meet up around New York City
Bay Area, CA
Amanda Lim
I’m Amanda and I’m a bit of a homebody and introvert. I’ve personally struggled with depression and postpartum depression and feel that activities that bring me joy really help my mental health. I love helping people and hope that I can help others discover their passions to spark moments of happiness, encouragement, and motivation.
Interests: Doing puzzles, reading, photography, videography and video editing, rock painting, golfing at the driving range, modern calligraphy & lettering, romantic comedy movies, Korean dramas, Chinese dramas, and sitcom shows (huge Friends fan here!) Also open to taking classes in cooking, baking, pottery, candle-making, hip-hop dance, ballet, and barre.
Availability: Open to meeting in the San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Livermore, CA areas.
NYC, NY
Paige Kronauer
Hi, I’m Paige! I’ve lived in NYC the past four years after traveling around the world. I think my favorite part about New York is that it reminds me there are new and different experiences right around the corner — including new connections waiting to be made.
Creating, maintaining and sustaining connections is paramount to being human. I believe that togetherness is a cornerstone in supporting our mental health and helping us stay grounded.
So excited to connect with you!
Interests: scuba diving, trying out new restaurants, watching movies, exploring the city, getting out to the beach, trying out new hobbies, pilates, yoga
Availability: Flexible to meet up in the NYC area (ideally weekday evenings, weekend days)
San Diego, CA
Dillon Travis
What’s up! I was born and raised in southern California, and after completing college in Boston I returned to the west coast calling San Diego my home for the last 7 years. Staying physically active, interacting with nature, and spending time with my friends and family is how I keep mentally healthy and feeling good. I’m looking forward to making a meaningful connection with you and having some fun along the way.
Interests: Ceramics, live music, making art, looking at art, hiking, biking, snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, meditation, and eating
Availability: I’m generally available to meet or pick up anywhere in San Diego county, and possibly as far north as Los Angeles county.
Killington, VT
Colby Prestash
Hey Everyone! My name is Colby and I am the original founder of Heal Collective. For as long as I can remember, my mind has never been actively on my side. Daily struggle and perseverance are two things that I have become very familiar with, however it's important to note that the latter gives me hope. Say yes to new and good opportunities, even if it scares you... that's how we grow. Never ever forget, the present is your gift, you just have to own it.
Interests: Golfing, spin-fishing, fly fishing, skiing, kayaking, hiking, cooking, camping, cliff jumping, video games
San Francisco, CA
Sunny Patel
Hey! Originally from Boston, I’ve spent the last several years living in San Francisco. I am a firm believer that maintaining mental health requires daily effort, just like going to the gym or eating healthy for physical health. That’s why I try my best to embrace life to the fullest by seeking out new adventures and meeting new people. I’m excited to connect with you and explore any of the activities listed below, or try something completely new!
Interests: Flying (currently working on my private pilot's license), scuba diving, hiking, snowboarding, video games, sci-fi shows/movies, camping, traveling, product management, trying new food
Availability: Flexible to meet or pick up anywhere in the Bay Area
Boston, MA
Justin Hawk
Hi, I’m Justin! Born and raised in New England, I’ve called Boston home for 10 years now. I believe in the power of real human connections - whether an old friend, a family member or a complete stranger. I’ve also learned how important it can be to get outside your comfort zone and discover new hobbies, passions or interests. Taking risks and exploring is where the beauty of life happens, the rest is simply existing. I look forward to seeing you on a Heal Experience soon!
Interests: Hiking, skiing, biking, photography, movies, museums
Availability: Flexible to meet or pick up anywhere in the New England area.
Why is it worth your time?
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You Are Not Alone
46% of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life. Half will develop one by the age of 14.
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What is Mental Illness?
Mental illness is a health condition involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior. This includes conditions such as; Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Schizophrenia, and many more.
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Help Save Lives
Suicide is the second-leading cause of death among those 10-34 years old.
