The challenge
Young men are facing challenges in their transition to adulthood, including a notable decline in college enrolment, an increase in substance misuse, and a troubling overrepresentation of young men in suicide statistics. Each of these issues are exacerbated by unhealthy masculinity norms, stigmatization, and limited access to mental health resources. Collectively, this propels the mental health crisis among emerging adult men.
Turning challenge into opportunity
RELEASEU is addressing the mental health crisis among young men directly. Through an innovative resource and engagement platform that supports the unique needs of men, their team ensures that a comprehensive support system is within hands reach.
Through partnering with academic institutions RELEASEU dismantles the stigma associated with seeking help and improves the utilization of mental health and other support services on campus. All to create a more inclusive and accessible support system that empowers emerging adult men to thrive.
Visit websiteFounder
Matthew Stefanko
Geography
Washington DC, United States
Organizational type
Thematic area
Time of investment
2024
Co-investors
Tangible impact
40+
academic partners
50,000
men served
63%
increase in openness to discuss health issues
54%
increase in likelihood to graduate
“There are a lot of funds you meet that discuss the importance of creating an impact in the mental healthcare space – there are few that mean it in the way the Inner Foundation does.
They not only care about expanding access to mental health resources, but they also care about ensuring it gets in the hands of those who do not normally access it, a key differentiator in the space.”
Matthew Stefanko, Co-founder & CEO
