DENVER (KDVR) — One local high school student is uniting teens across the metro area to address the mental health crisis.
Sophomore Sophia Richie is partnering with Project Helping to, a Denver-based nonprofit. Create a Teen Advisory Board Discussing youth mental health challenges and working towards a brighter future.
“We want to destigmatize mental health and create a safe community where we can really make a difference and help people across the state,” Ritchie said. “Depending on where you go, things can be different. The more people can share their voices and stories, the better we can work to make things better.”
With a little help, Project help CEO Justine Krueger, she's turning her vision into reality.
“We've always wanted to do something for teens, by teens, and led by teens, so when Sophia contacted us, we were excited to see what that would look like. It was natural to brainstorm what it could be,” Krueger said.
Project Healing is a mental health-focused nonprofit organization based in Denver and currently in seven other cities across the United States.
“We focus on the mental health benefits of serving others,” Krueger said. “We work with our nonprofit partners to find meaningful volunteer opportunities and create events that individuals can jump right into.”
The two parties are currently collaborating to establish a Youth Advisory Council that will discuss the root causes of youth mental health issues and work to implement solutions across the metropolitan area.
“As a parent of teenagers, I know very little about what teenagers want and need, but I am the best person to create solutions for them.'' are teenagers,” Krueger said.
Sophia said she is actively looking for teens to apply and join the team.
“I think this is important because it gives teens a voice and they get help from adults who want to help them make changes. “I think it also gives us an opportunity to bring something to the table and feel like we're doing something for the community in a positive way,” Ritchie said.
Interested teens can apply through Project Helping. The application deadline is December 15th.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or battling suicidal thoughts, there is help.
colorado crisis services provides free, confidential, and immediate support from trained professionals at any time. Call 844-493-TALK (8255) or text TALK to 38255. Dial 988 to reach the national phone number. Lifeline for suicide and crisisalways available for free.
