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Date: 2/2/2022
CHICOPEE – With a goal of raising awareness about eating disorders and body image, Founder and Executive Director of Hiding in Plain Sight Elizabeth Allen wants her nonprofit organization to be a supportive pillar for people dealing with an often-overlooked issue.
The organization’s mission is a personal one to Allen, who shared she felt misunderstood in her personal struggles with an eating disorder as a person of color. “I was not diagnosed until I was 35-years-old. I believe it was because I was overlooked, whether it be because I was an average build or fit the stereotypical image,” said Allen. She said a central goal of her organization is showcasing the realities of eating disorders versus society’s preconceived notions about who is impacted.
Allen believes a central component in combating the disorder is establishing a positive body image for people, especially those at a young age. “Social media and different outlets sensationalize a certain body type. We focus on younger age groups with workshops that build self-esteem and positive body image,” said Allen, who stressed that the isolation caused by the pandemic magnified different health issues with youths.
With different programs working with youth, she hopes Hiding in Plain Sight can educate people on positive self-image before that idea is combated by the notions of flashy media.
One program Allen is in the process of establishing is called Reset, which will offer after-school workshops that raise awareness about body image. “Sometimes larger size doesn’t always mean unhealthy…teachers and service providers can unknowingly trigger children,” said Allen. She hopes the program can be placed within different communities across Western Mass.
Another key objective of Allen’s is creating awareness through different platforms. As a member of 413 Influencers, the nonprofit founder shared that interactive artistic tools serve as a viable tool to educate and connect with people.
“I believe that art is a way for people to express themselves for those who struggle to express verbally. Art has helped me, whether it be writing poems or painting. It’s very therapeutic,” said Allen.
One way Allen raised money for the organization while confronting her own demons came with the creation of a line of donut-themed socks. She shared that re-purposing one of her common fear foods helped her further establish pride in her personal battle.
Allen expressed her hopes to establish Hiding in Plain Sight as a resource for eating disorders considering the dearth of local options. “I know what it’s like to have an eating disorder and I know the struggles that come along with it,” said Allen.
Readers can learn more about Hiding in Plain Sight and support their mission at https://hidinginplainsightinc.org/.