Outside the Box Institute
Outside the Box Institute
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Our Story

2020: Life in a Pandemic

 Outside the Box began in 2020 as Outside the Box Series, LLC 

— a creative initiative born in the midst of the pandemic 

to spark connection and hope during a time of isolation. 

What started as an idea to nurture both mind and spirit

 grew into a community dedicated to 

mental wellness and social impact.


The success of those early projects inspired the launch of the 

Outside the Box Institute (OTBI) in 2025 

— a nonprofit committed to advancing mental fitness, 

reducing stigma, and creating spaces for connection 

and healing. What began as a response to crisis

 has become a mission for change.

The Journey of OTBI

Unpacking Student Mental Health Post-Pandemic

Creating Spaces for Connection, Creativity, and Tech-Free Moments

Unpacking Student Mental Health Post-Pandemic

 Over the past four years, Founder & CEO Dr. Janeane Bernstein has been developing and pilot-testing activities and workshops in collaboration with college students to foster meaningful conversations around self-care, mental health, coping skills, and human connection. 

Letting Students Take the Lead

Creating Spaces for Connection, Creativity, and Tech-Free Moments

Unpacking Student Mental Health Post-Pandemic

 By empowering students to lead and design these experiences, Bernstein has witnessed the transformative impact of peer-to-peer initiatives in addressing the growing loneliness epidemic and other mental health struggles on college campuses.  




Creating Spaces for Connection, Creativity, and Tech-Free Moments

Creating Spaces for Connection, Creativity, and Tech-Free Moments

Creating Spaces for Connection, Creativity, and Tech-Free Moments

At Outside the Box Institute, we believe in a holistic approach to wellness that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable and supported.

  • Privacy Policy

OUTSIDE THE BOX INSTITUTE | A 501(C)(3) NONProfit

contact@otb-i.org

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