The Wildcat Haven: A Safe Space for Students and Staff to Focus on Mental Health

The project at Franklin County HS was led by senior Jackson Williams and Achievement School leader Chad Gutzwiller.

Achievement School leader Chad Gutziller (left) and senior Jackson Williams. Photos courtesy Franklin County Community School Corporation. 

(Brookville, Ind.) - The Wildcat Haven at Franklin County High School was officially dedicated on Tuesday night. 

But what is the Wildcat Haven?

It was established to be a place where students and staff can "remember those we love, care for ourselves, care for others, and step away from the world to find the strength to move forward." 

The project was led by senior Jackson Williams and Achievement School leader Chad Gutzwiller. Williams was a seventh grader when he first met Gutzwiller and their relationship has grown to become an incredible bond built through mentorship and friendship.

Earlier this year, Williams approached Gutzwiller about an idea he had. “Shouldn’t we do something for the students and others we have lost,” he asked.

That idea helped transform a vacant courtyard outside of the library into a safe space for all students and staff, with a focus on mental health. 

“Sometimes people simply need a safe place to go when life gets chaotic and this was created for any member of our Wildcat family. Thank you, Jackson, for stepping up and doing something about it,” Gutzwiller said during the dedication.

The project was made possible by the help of numerous community members and organizations who donated items such as benches, picnic tables, a performance stage, inspirational stones, and landscaping.

There are several others who also provided guidance, expertise, mental health resources and financial support.