At Give Basic Needs, we operate on a simple but powerful belief: happy people solve problems more effectively. While much of our work in Northern Ghana focuses on critical infrastructure such as clean water and healthcare, we understand that true well-being extends beyond physical needs. Mental health remains the invisible foundation of a thriving and resilient community.
On April 20, 2026, our team hosted a dedicated mental health and arts initiative across two locations in the Gushegu Municipality. The day was designed to support emotional well-being through both creativity and physical activity, creating meaningful experiences that engaged the minds, bodies, and spirits of young people in the community.
Morning Mindfulness at Zamashigu Primary School
The day began at Zamashigu Primary School, where we organized a structured art workshop aimed at creating a safe space for emotional expression and mindfulness. We were delighted to welcome 162 students, each of whom participated in guided activities designed to encourage reflection, creativity, and focus.
Students were introduced to a period of “quiet time,” where they engaged in drawing and coloring, allowing them to process their thoughts and emotions through art. To further spark imagination and joy, they learned simple origami techniques, folding paper into shapes such as hearts and airplanes.
Each participating student received a custom backpack filled with art supplies, ensuring that the benefits of the session extended beyond the day itself. To broaden our impact, we also prepared materials for 40 additional children who were unable to attend and left extra supplies to support over 100 other students within the school.
Evening Energy at the Gushegu Astroturf
As the day progressed, the focus shifted from quiet reflection to active engagement at the Gushegu Astroturf. The evening session brought together participants for a lively and inclusive sports event centered around football.
A total of 60 participants took part in the games, with teams ranging from under-13 to 18+ age groups. The mixed-gender format encouraged inclusivity and strengthened social bonds across different age groups. Each of the four participating teams received football jerseys, a football, and a pump, while exercise books and other educational supplies were also distributed at the field.
The event also served as a moment of community engagement, where the President of the Foundation, Abbie Colussi, addressed participants and recognized their dedication, teamwork, and enthusiasm. Volunteers from the United States joined local players on the field, demonstrating unity and inclusion in a practical and meaningful way.
Why It Matters: Mental Health as a Shared Responsibility
Mental health is not a luxury; it is a universal human necessity. In communities facing economic challenges or limited access to infrastructure, the psychological burden can be significant. Addressing mental well-being requires intentional efforts to create safe spaces, foster connection, and encourage positive engagement.
Through both artistic expression and physical activity, this initiative demonstrated how simple, well-designed interventions can build confidence, reduce social barriers, and strengthen community cohesion. Whether through a quiet moment of creativity or the shared excitement of a football match, these experiences contribute to building emotionally resilient individuals and communities.
A Collective Call to Action
Investing in the mental well-being of young people is an investment in the future. We invite individuals, organizations, and communities everywhere to prioritize mental health by supporting initiatives that promote connection, creativity, and joy.
You can be part of this impact. Share this story, advocate for mental health in your community, and support programs that uplift and empower vulnerable populations.
To support our ongoing work in Northern Ghana, visit:
https://donate.givebasicneeds.org
Giving Event No. PROJ-0080
Location: Kpatinga, Ghana
Donation Amount: $4567.73
People Gifted: 262
Activity Coordinator: Salam Mahamudu
Event Type: Medical
