By: Megan Dick | Staff Writer
Nobody Goes Solo is the message behind NOSOLO, the local nonprofit making waves. It was established in 2021 by founders John and Sarah Toracinta with the focus that no one is alone in their mental health struggles. This is expressed through the brand’s apparel and charitable contributions. Since its inception, NOSOLO has raised over $200,000 to support those affected by mental illness.
I sat down with Matt Williams, a local and NOSOLO’s Content and Social Media Coordinator, to find out more about the brand and its ties to Salve.
A Brand With a Purpose
Matt found NOSOLO through a familial connection. He expressed interest and interned there in Summer 2025; Matt was then offered his current position after graduating from Lasell University.
Matt typically edits content on the weekdays and tries to maintain a consistent posting schedule to increase engagement. On the weekends, he works at the NOSOLO store on Long Wharf Mall in Newport. One of the things Matt has enjoyed most has been meeting many different people through the different events the organization hosts around Rhode Island and New England.
“The most rewarding aspect of working for NOSOLO is that I’m working for a company that has a purpose. I’m selling a product but I’m also selling and spreading a message. There is a clear direction for the brand and a proven purpose,” Matt said.
The brand’s purpose is evident through the recent creation of the NOSOLO Give Back Foundation. 20% of all profits earned from apparel sales go directly toward the foundation. NOSOLO continues to give back to national and local organizations as well, including The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI).
Campus, Community, Connection
Matt expressed how the brand has many impactful partnerships, one being with Salve. Founders John and Sarah live locally and are Salve alums who want to give back to the community. They knew from the start they would want to work with Salve.
While NOSOLO has been connected to Salve Athletics for years, they have recently broadened their partnership’s scope. Through the NOSOLO Give Back Foundation, the organization has funded counseling and therapy for Salve students as well as started a speaking series.
A highlight so far was the first event in the speaking series: former professional basketball player and motivational speaker Chris Herren. Matt said it was a captivating talk where Herren spoke on his personal mental health journey to over 500 Salve student athletes.
The partnership’s goal is for students to know they are not alone.
“Mental health is huge and that’s never going to change. College is a stressful time so we want students to know there are people to help them,” Matt said.
Getting Involved
Matt encouraged anyone interested to stop by the store or DM NOSOLO’s Instagram, @nosolobrand. Although it is a community brand, the more people associated with it will increase its growth.
He then gave some final advice. “Anyone can put a smile on. Anyone can say they’re fine. Don’t turn a blind eye to something you think might be off with someone close to you.”
Photos provided by Matt Williams
