Helping Improve the Lives of People Who Live With a Mental Illness or Disorder

The study of the human mind and the myriad associated maladies that can arise from it is considered by many […more…]

Friends of the Semel Institute

Donate now!

www.friendsofsemelinstitute.org
Executive Director: Wendy Kelman, MSW
(310) 825-3119

Mission

To the study of mind, brain, and behavior. Since its founding five decades ago, the Institute has assembled more than 370 physicians, clinical researchers, and scientists who work collaboratively to study psychiatric and neurological disorders and to develop new and effective treatments that improve lives.

Begin to Build a Relationship

We know you care about where your money goes and how it is used. Connect with this organization’s leadership in order to begin to build this important relationship. Your email will be sent directly to this organization’s director of development and/or Executive Director.

Metta Sandiford-Artest, L.A. Laker legend, inspired everyone at the Gen Z Wellness Summit with his message of “staying true to oneself and the importance of taking care of one’s mental health.
Metta Sandiford-Artest

Help The Friends Accomplish Their Important Mission

The Friends of the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA is dedicated to improving the lives of people with mental illness through research, educational programs, and advancing treatments. 

    •$1,000: Helps fund the Teen Advisory Council and its Gen Z Wellness Summit 2025, where over 600 teens have conversations about their unique mental health issues. Tools and solutions are provided so they can become emotionally sturdier and more resilient. 

    •$2,500: Supports the educational Open Mind Community Lecture and Film Series. 25-30 programs anually about mental health with thought leaders in culture and science are presented.  

    •$5,000 – $10,000: Helps support mental health research, treatment, and education.

    •$25,000: Naming Grant. Supports the research of a UCLA early-career neuroscientist through the Friends Research Scholar Program. The grant may be named for you, your family, or anyone you would like to honor.

Key Supporters

Selena Gomez Rare Impact Fund
Deloitte
Unlikely Collaborators
The Wonderful Company
The Ornest Foundation
Friars Charitable Foundation
Madhappy