Molly is passionate about advocacy work, as well as giving a voice to those who live with mental illness.
Where I Stand, Inc. is a mental health organization that works towards the prevention and intervention of mental illness through education, awareness, and hope. Molly began her work with this nonprofit in 2015 as an advocate and blogger. After going viral through several of her pieces on eating disorder recovery, Molly began managing the blog. She helped writers create motivating topics, collaborated on their pieces, and edited all of their work.
Where I Stand is not currently active, but you can still visit the Facebook page today.
Advocacy in the News
While attending college, Molly was active in Take Back The Night rallies on her campus. She is pictured below in the local newspaper, leading the march and holding a megaphone.
Supporters of the annual Take Back the Night march along downtown Iowa City streets Thursday, April 28, 2011, in Iowa City, Iowa. Supporters have been meeting since 1979 to call attention to the plight of sexual abuse and other violence against women victims. (Jim Slosiarek/SourceMedia Group News) -THE GAZETTE
In spring of 2015, Molly participated in a voluntary research study done by the University of Iowa regarding her experience with eating disorder treatment and recovery. She conducted a television interview about her experience, and the story was broadcasted on local news one week later.
Molly used her story to highlight the lack of resources and eating disorder care in many states, but specifically the state of Iowa, where she lived at the time of interview. Gaining access to appropriate treatment and care is a topic that she is passionate about. The goal of sharing her story was to raise awareness, plant seeds, and help others feel less alone.
For Hillery, sharing her story with others is an important part of that effort.
“I’m not saying I’m perfect by any means, but I had willingness and support and I think it’s important for people to know that it can get better,” Hillery said. “Even if people are in a tough spot, being vulnerable and being honest and sharing what they went through is powerful.” -Sarah McCarthy, KCRG-TV News
