BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — The Arkansas Crisis Center’s new teen program has begun training over 30 high school students to support their peers.
AR Teen Connect is a new program that is scheduled to launch later this year, training teenagers to provide mental health support and connect with their peers.
During the upcoming months, the students will complete more than 50 hours of training on topics such as communication skills and crisis recognition, as well as participating in You Mental Health First Aid, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, role-play exercises and mentorship programs.
“This program represents an exciting new approach to supporting young people across Arkansas,” Arkansas Crisis Center Executive Director Luke See said in a news release. “We know that connection is one of the most powerful protective factors for mental health. AR Teen Connect is about creating opportunities for youth to support one another, strengthen help-seeking behaviors, and build a culture where reaching out is seen as a sign of strength. We are incredibly inspired by the students who have stepped forward to be part of this first cohort.”
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The program has been working in partnership with Los Angeles-based Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services’ Teen Line, the nation’s leading peer youth support hotline. It is also supported by the Blue and You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas.
The students will also work to design outreach campaigns, develop social media content and help introduce the program to communities across the state.
“One of the most exciting aspects of this program is that youth are helping shape it from the ground up,” Arkansas Crisis Center Director of Advancement and Strategy Debra Capps said in a news release. “These students aren’t just receiving training—they’re becoming ambassadors, storytellers, advocates, and leaders. They will help drive marketing and awareness efforts, engage with schools and community events, and ensure the program speaks authentically to the young people it is designed to serve. We can’t wait to see the creativity, energy, and innovation they bring to this movement.”
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