Building brotherhood.
Breaking the stigma.
The Brotherhood Project is a student-led community at Indiana University Bloomington where men build real friendships, open up to one another, and learn practical tools to support their mental health — because no one should have to carry it alone.
Why The Brotherhood Project exists
Too many men are taught to handle their struggles alone, no matter what year they're in. We're building something different — a brotherhood open to freshmen and upperclassmen alike.
Open to all IU students, with a focus on men's mental well-being — this is the place for you whether you're looking to make new friends, grow personally, get involved in events and fundraisers, or hear from professionals and peers about their own experiences with mental health.
Small Group Discussions
Consistent peer circles where members can speak honestly about what they're carrying, in a confidential space.
Guest Speakers
Athletes, alumni, psychologists, and other professionals share real experiences and practical mental health tools.
Social & Wellness Events
From the Brotherhood BBQ and sports games to mindfulness workshops and guided talks on stress and relationships.
Service & Outreach
Community initiatives like the Brotherhood 5K, raising funds and awareness for men's mental health.
Our core values
Three principles guide everything we do, from a one-on-one conversation to a campus-wide event.
Respect & Confidentiality
Men's mental wellness is deep, personal territory. We ask every member to keep peer conversations about mental health confidential.
Personal Growth
Becoming a member is a commitment to growth. Every member's journey looks different, but by year's end, you'll see real development in your mental wellness and wellbeing.
Brotherhood
Showing up for one another through successes and challenges. Every member deserves a community where they feel welcomed, respected, and cared for.
Meetings & Programming
We're finalizing exact dates and our campus meeting space as part of the registration process. Here's what to expect:
Weekly Brotherhood Circle
Small group discussions · day & time TBD · location TBD (pending IU room reservation)
Guest Speaker Series
Athletes, alumni, and psychologists share their experiences with mental health throughout the year
Brotherhood BBQ
A social cookout to build community · planned for Fall 2026
Mindfulness & Wellness Workshops
Guided discussions on stress and relationships, plus brief check-ins during high-stress academic stretches
Brotherhood 5K
End-of-semester community 5K open to all IU students & alumni · proceeds support men's mental health organizations
Sign up below and we'll email you the moment dates and locations are confirmed.
A culture where asking for help is seen as courage — not weakness.
We're committed to building a lasting culture at IU Bloomington where seeking support is a sign of strength, and to leaving a positive, lasting impact on this campus and beyond.
Help us build this from day one
We're a founding chapter, which means every early member helps shape what this organization becomes. Sign up below to get updates and be counted as a founding member.
- No experience or commitment required to express interest
- Open to all IU Bloomington students, any year or major
- You'll be first to know about our founding interest meeting
Get in touch
The Brotherhood Project is currently seeking official registration with IU Student Involvement & Leadership Center. Have questions, ideas, or want to help found this chapter?
The six students behind The Brotherhood Project
Jonah Bar-or
Founder
Ethan Ruderman
Co-Founder
Benjamin Brenner
Co-Founder
Ethan Rubin
Co-Founder
Noah Shafranek
Co-Founder
Sam Biehl
Co-Founder