Advancing the DREAM

Advancing the DREAM - What it means to me

As my action pledge to advance the DREAM in 2025, I commit to raising awareness about healthcare disparities and advocating for equitable health policies in my community. My focus will be on mental health support, especially for students and marginalized groups. I will actively participate in local outreach programs, work with student organizations, and volunteer with initiatives that promote mental health education and resources. By focusing on mental health, I can address a critical issue that often goes unaddressed in many communities, especially among those who already face systemic inequalities.

In doing so, I will pledge to ensure that people from all backgrounds have access to the tools and support they need to prioritize their mental well-being. By educating myself, volunteering, and advocating for better healthcare policies, I aim to make a meaningful impact in advancing Dr. King’s vision of a society where equality and equity are realities for all.

My Action Pledge to Advance the DREAM?

To contribute to better outcomes for everyone, I pledge to focus on increasing awareness and access to mental health resources within my community, especially among students and marginalized groups. Mental health is often overlooked, and its impact on overall well-being can be profound. In 2025, I will take concrete actions by volunteering with local mental health initiatives, supporting mental health education, and advocating for better access to resources for those in need.

I will commit to organizing events, workshops, and peer support groups that bring mental health discussions into open spaces. My goal is to reduce the stigma around mental health, foster an inclusive environment, and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the support they need to thrive.

General Information

Background

Organization	loyalist college
Professional Title	Student, General Arts and Science Program, Loyalist College, Ontario, Canada
Bio and Background	My name is Rajdeep Singh, and I am from Patiala, Punjab, India. I completed my senior secondary education in Punjab and am currently pursuing a General Arts and Science program at Loyalist College in Ontario, Canada. My academic journey has provided me with valuable knowledge that I hope to build upon in the future to contribute meaningfully to society.
Why I am a Force for Health® Member...	I joined the Force for Health® Network because I believe in the power of collective action towards improving health and wellness. As a student, I aim to leverage the resources, tools, and connections from the network to make a positive impact in my personal life and the community around me. I want to stay informed, educated, and empowered as I work towards my academic and career goals.
How I use the Force for Health Network Tools	The Force for Health® Network tools help me stay on track with my health and wellness goals. I use the resources available to stay informed about physical and mental health strategies that I can apply in my everyday life as a student. The network also provides valuable insights into health trends, which is important as I continue to grow academically and personally in Canada.
My inspiration	I find inspiration in many people around me, but one person who truly stands out is my mother. Her unwavering strength, dedication to our family, and ability to stay positive despite facing hardships has always motivated me. She taught me the importance of hard work, resilience, and kindness in everything I do. Her ability to balance her personal dreams with responsibilities has inspired me to pursue my own goals with the same determination and compassion. Seeing her navigate life’s challenges with grace has shaped my mindset and keeps me grounded in my pursuit of success.
Location	loyalist college belleville ontario canada
What would you like people to know about your community?	Belleville, located in Ontario, is a welcoming and vibrant community that offers a beautiful mix of urban and rural life. As a student at Loyalist College, I’ve come to appreciate the small-town charm of Belleville, where there’s a strong sense of community, and people genuinely care about one another. The city is rich in history and culture, with a variety of parks, outdoor activities, and local businesses that give it a unique, close-knit feel. For students like me, it provides a perfect balance of a peaceful environment for studying, while still being close enough to bigger cities for exploration. The supportive atmosphere and friendly residents make it a wonderful place to live and learn.

My Citizenship Health Factors

Some of the factors that have been challenging for me have been...	One of the biggest challenges for me has been adjusting to life in a new country and balancing the demands of studying with the need to maintain my health and well-being. Being far from home in India can sometimes feel isolating, and managing the stress of academic responsibilities in a new cultural environment has required a lot of adaptation. However, I am learning how to overcome these challenges by staying focused on my goals and building connections with people around me
It's important for me to be part of my community's health because...	I believe that health is not just an individual pursuit, but a collective one. Being part of my community’s health means contributing to the well-being of everyone around me. As a student, I feel it’s crucial to advocate for healthy lifestyles, mental well-being, and the importance of preventive care. If everyone does their part, the community as a whole becomes stronger and more resilient. Being engaged in my community’s health also allows me to give back, learn, and grow in a meaningful way.
Some of the strength of my community health factors are:	One of the strengths of my community is its access to green spaces and outdoor activities, which promote physical activity and mental health. The residents of Belleville are supportive, and there’s a strong focus on making health resources accessible to all. Local initiatives and health programs encourage active lifestyles, and there is a visible effort to create a safe and nurturing environment for both young people and families.
Some of the challenges in my community regarding certain health factors are:	One of the challenges in my community is the availability of mental health resources. While physical health initiatives are strong, there is still a need for more support systems and outreach for mental well-being, especially among students and younger residents. Additionally, there are socioeconomic disparities that affect access to healthcare for certain individuals, which creates barriers to achieving overall health equity.
I believe I can help improve my community's health by...	I believe that by staying informed and getting involved in local health initiatives, I can contribute to raising awareness about important health issues. Whether through volunteering, spreading awareness about mental health, or encouraging healthier lifestyle choices among my peers, I can be a positive force in my community. As an international student, I can also serve as a bridge to raise awareness about the needs of diverse populations and advocate for more inclusive health programs.

Name	Rajdeep
Last Name	Singh
Nickname	Rajdeep-Singh

Rajdeep-Singh