Inspiring Conversations with Jason Hopcus of Connection Project

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Hopcus

Hi Jason, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My early career was spent in the private sector, working for my family’s road construction business. I believed it would be a long-term path. However, no amount of success, comfort, or resources could alleviate the deep sense of hopelessness and dread that crept in over time. Being misaligned with my true purpose, I eventually unraveled, losing my money, my mind, and my way.

With dedicated focus and intentional recovery, as well as immense support from my loved ones and community, I got involved with the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Arapahoe and Douglas Counties (NAMI ADCO). I began leading a NAMI ADCO Connection peer support group and delving into the effects of poor mental health on vulnerable populations. My passion for NAMI ADCO’s mission grew, and in 2016, I was appointed its President and CEO.

As President, I connect our region’s most vulnerable individuals to research-backed programs and initiatives that support their mental health journeys. To do so, I founded Connection Project, with our current focus on Nobody’s Perfect Community. This all-in-one resource hub offers more than 100 categorized, clinically-approved resources, including the Nobody’s Perfect Podcast, aimed at supporting youth, families, caregivers, providers, and educators connected to the mental health world.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Smooth is the last word I’d use to describe my journey! In fact, the best leaders I’ve had the privilege of crossing paths with have endured some form of struggle at one point or another. For me, and especially for anyone battling mental health, my struggles ranged from feeling a sense of purpose to learning more about myself and how I fit into the world. These are chapters of my life I am constantly rewriting. As humans, I think it’s more important for us to focus on the progress we make, regardless of how big or small. Our struggles are important to acknowledge as part of our journeys, but how we move forward and focus on cultivating self-empowerment deserves just as much, if not more, attention.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The mission of Connection Project is to strengthen and deepen connections with ourselves and others while creating a community of self-empowerment, wellbeing, and awareness of struggles that can influence the human experience.

One of Connection Project’s latest initiatives is the Nobody’s Perfect Community – a free, publicly-accessible digital resource hub with over 100 clinically-approved resources designed to meet people where they are. Nobody’s Perfect Community, or Community, provides users with a self-guided experience based on the types of mental health conditions communities can face. What makes our product unique is that it was made for youth, by youth – and creates a seamless, accessible experience with potential to grow into an even more impactful tool over time.

We take tremendous pride in and remain exhilarated by this work because we’ve spent intentional time listening to youth and families to understand the types of support they’re looking for. This all-in-one user experience focuses on reaching as many vulnerable groups as possible, ensuring anyone in search of support can access it at the click of a button. Interested individuals can visit the Nobody’s Perfect Community website for more information on the initiative and access the Nobody’s Perfect Podcast, which launched in October 2023.

What was your favorite childhood memory?
Summers with my grandmother were a highlight of my childhood, a treasure trove of memories in her quaint hometown. As school ended and June’s warmth set in, I eagerly anticipated our time together at her cozy, whitewashed house adorned with a beautiful mix of plants and flowers- many specimens she had nurtured with love and attention.

Days often began in her garden, a colorful oasis where we tended plants, pulled weeds, and pruned bushes. She was always thoughtful in telling me details of each plant, which was an education worthy of any textbook. In these moments, I learned patience and the joy of growth.

We loved taking long car rides through town and along winding country roads. Without fail, we would see someone she knew, which instilled in me a sense of the close-knit community found in small-town life. No car ride was complete without a stop at a local shop or for a sweet treat.

These summers were more than a break from school; they were life lessons woven with love. Her garden taught me care, our car rides revealed hidden wonders, and our shared experiences instilled a deep appreciation for simple joys. Now, whenever I see a blooming garden or take a winding drive, I’m reminded of those magical summers. The memories of my grandmother continue to inspire and comfort me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nobodysperfect.community
• Instagram: @nobodysperfectcommunity
• Facebook: @Nobody’s Perfect Community
• Youtube: @NobodysPerfectCommunity
• Other: https://www.realpeoplereallife.org