About RENEW

About RENEW

Realizing Everyone’s Need for Emotional Wellness (RENEW) was founded in Fall 2005 by 19 Florida State University students. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest peer-education programs in the country, training 45-50 undergraduate students as mental health advocates.

Members are carefully selected based on their strong academic performance, time-management skills, and commitment to mental health advocacy. RENEW’s contributions were recognized by the Division of Student Affairs, earning the **2008-09 “Program of the Year” award** and later being honored again in 2017 for outstanding collaboration and commitment to fostering a supportive campus environment.

What We Do

RENEW serves the FSU community by providing:

• Individualized peer-to-peer instructional sessions
• Workshops on stress and time management
• Study skills coaching and academic success strategies
• Healthy relationship education and emotional wellness training
• Guidance on accessing Counseling & Psychological Services (CPS)

Each RENEW member dedicates at least 25 hours per semester toward campus outreach, presentations, and mental health advocacy. We strive to challenge negative stereotypes about mental health and inspire students to prioritize their emotional well-being.

Campus Engagement

RENEW collaborates with various FSU organizations to host events such as:

• Stress-Buster Day – Providing relaxation and self-care resources
• Love Your Body Day – Promoting positive body image and self-acceptance
• Nole Your Health – Encouraging students to prioritize overall well-being
• Welcome Week – Introducing new students to campus mental health resources

Additionally, our members conduct presentations for classes, student organizations, Greek life, and residence halls, ensuring mental health awareness reaches all areas of campus life.

Why Join RENEW?

Being part of RENEW is a rewarding experience that allows students to make a real impact while gaining valuable skills in:

• Leadership and public speaking
• Effective communication and outreach
• Academic success and personal growth
• Advocating for mental health awareness

One former RENEW member shared, "I want to reach out to those who feel too embarrassed to seek help or don’t know where to find it." Another reflected, “Giving emotional health presentations around campus has given me the opportunity to help other students as well as myself.”