What we do

1. Peer Support Programs: Establish peer mentorship programs where teens can connect with others who have had similar experiences, creating a safe space for sharing and mutual support.

2. Support Groups: Organize regular support groups for teens dealing with depression, as well as separate groups for families who have lost a child or are navigating mental health challenges.

3. Helplines and Chat Support: Partner with mental health organizations to set up a helpline or online chat service where teens and families can access immediate emotional support.

4. Workshops and Training: Offer specialized workshops for teens on coping skills, resilience, and stress management, focusing on practical techniques for handling pressures from school, sports, and social life.

5. Awareness Campaigns: Launch school and community campaigns to destigmatize mental health discussions and educate young people about recognizing the signs of depression in themselves and their peers.

6. Art and Creative Therapy: Introduce art, music, or writing therapy sessions as an outlet for teens to express emotions they might struggle to articulate otherwise.

7. Memorial Events: Hold remembrance events to honor those who’ve been lost while fostering a sense of hope and community among surviving families.

8. School Partnerships: Collaborate with schools to integrate mental health education into the curriculum, ensuring that teens and teachers alike are equipped with knowledge and resources.

9. Parental Support Resources: Develop guidance materials or host workshops specifically for parents, helping them understand teen mental health and providing tools to foster open dialogue at home.

10. Scholarships or Funded Initiative: Create scholarships in Matthew’s memory to support mental health education, or fund initiatives aimed at improving school environments and access to counseling services.