Cart 0
 
 
Just as anxiety can feed on itself, so can courage.
— Dr. John J. Ratey
 
 
unsplash-image-frRrn5ASwzo.jpg
 
 

 oUR MISSION

WHO WE ARE


The Paper Bag Mask Foundation is an organization driven by EMPOWERING individuals affected by mental illness with tools to supplement their treatment, CREATING opportunities to help young adults build confidence through positive coping mechanisms, and PUTTING and end to discrimination and stigmas surrounding mental health issues. We strive to make a lasting impact by:

  • offering classes

  • coordinating and funding community outreach programs and research

  • participating in mental health education and advocacy efforts

Paper Bag Mask Inc. is a Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

What does the name “Paper Bag Mask®” mean?

1 In 5 Americans Experiences A Mental Illness…

We all know someone who wears a mask whether we realize it or not. Unlike a Halloween costume, this mask is intangible and more common than many of us realize.

This mask may manifest as a fake smile, hiding our true feelings, or pretending we are okay when we want to break down and cry.

It’s worn so our loved ones and peers don’t know we are hurting on the inside so we won’t feel like a burden. It’s worn to avoid criticism, labels, and judgment.

Let’s stand together by spreading awareness and removing the stigmas that surround mental illness and seeking treatment. We must create a safe zone where these masks can be removed by letting our family, friends, and peers know that we are here for them.

 
 
 
 
 

Mentioned in the Media

 
76DFB16C-4523-4459-8003-1FF20A745EF4.JPEG
 
 
 
All it takes is a beautiful fake smile to hide an injured soul, and they will never notice how broken you really are.
— Robin Williams
 
 

 Important Reminder

While many of us are eager for ourselves or loved ones to reach remission, The Paper Bag Mask Foundation's multi-pronged approach is not the end all be all. Using physical activity, creativity, and meditation should not be used in place of seeking help from your healthcare professionals.

Everyone is different and we must keep an open mind when exploring alternative methods of treatment.

Please reach out to us if you have any questions.

 
unsplash-image-jUCQRQeRs3k.jpg
 
 

 Our Team



Founders

 
Fran KilinskiCo-Founder, Vice President

Fran Kilinski, MA

Co-Founder, President

Astoria, New York

Noah TrofimowFounder, President

Noah Trofimow

Founder, Vice President

Boston, Massachusetts

 
 
 
 

Board Members

Jenny Joseph-Hayle

Jenny Joseph-Hayle, MPA

Lecturer at Suffolk University

Boston, Massachusetts

Erika Scilipoti, PhD

Dr. Erika Scilipoti, PhD

Psychologist

Providence County, Rhode Island

Stephen Czarkowski

Stephen Czarkowski, MM

Conductor & Cellist

Washington D.C.

Nichole Vatcher, MS

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Boston, Massachusetts

Susie Lecker

Susie Lecker

Former CEO of FitSwoop

Los Angeles, California

Michael Soares

Founder of New Human & Open Up Podcast

Boston, Massachusetts

Dr. Heather S. Lonczak, PhD

Psychologist

Seattle, Washington

Diana Katsikaris

Diana Katsikaris

Teacher & Author of Yes, You Can

Boston, Massachusetts

Channi Silence, MS

4th Year Medical Student

Boston, Massachusetts