“Just as anxiety can feed on itself, so can courage.”
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
“All it takes is a beautiful fake smile to hide an injured soul, and they will never notice how broken you really are.”
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.

Our Team
Founders
Fran Kilinski, MA
Co-Founder, President
Astoria, New York
Noah Trofimow
Founder, Vice President
Boston, Massachusetts
Board Members
Jenny Joseph-Hayle, MPA
Lecturer at Suffolk University
Boston, Massachusetts
Dr. Erika Scilipoti, PhD
Psychologist
Providence County, Rhode Island
Stephen Czarkowski, MM
Conductor & Cellist
Washington D.C.
Nichole Vatcher, MS
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Boston, Massachusetts
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
Teacher & Author of Yes, You Can
Boston, Massachusetts
Channi Silence, MS
4th Year Medical Student
Boston, Massachusetts