Service Spotlight: The Seen Project

The Smile Project is always connecting me with inspiring people who are making a difference in their corner of the world. I got connected to Alexis Trischler, Founder of The Seen Project, originally on Instagram and then was completely delighted when I realized we had the Pittsburgh connection. To quote WPXI, one of our local newstations, I’m proud to be from Pittsburgh and I’m thrilled to share her story here.

Liz: Let’s start in traditional Smile Project fashion. Fill in the blank: Happiness is..

Alexis: Happiness is... finding the good in everything. 

Liz: Tell me about The Seen Project.

Alexis: The Seen Project is a mental health and invisible illness campaign created to help anyone struggling with an invisible illness or mental illness.

Liz: What is the driving force behind what you do?

Alexis: My driving force is to help as many people as possible know that they are seen and loved. I created my project to find comfort and support after being diagnosed with Depression and Anxiety at 16. When I was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease at just 8 years old, I felt incredibly alone. I never wanted to feel that way again—and I didn’t want anyone else to feel that way either.

Liz: What does service mean to you?

Alexis: Service to me is helping others. Volunteering and donating my time is one of my favorite activities. I also love acts of kindness such as holding the door for someone, helping with a chore or being a listening ear! 

Liz: How can people get involved?

Alexis: People can get involved in my community by simply commenting, sharing, supporting, or submitting their mental health and/or invisible illness story 100% anonymously through a Google form. I also have a buddy system called "Best Friends but with a purpose." When people fill out a get-to-know-me form, they are then paired up with someone with similar interests and health/mental health struggles! You can learn more about my work at the website.

Liz: Do you have a favorite piece of advice to leave us with?

Alexis: "You are seen and loved, everything will be okay!”