In preparation for Mental Health Awareness Month in May, the Juvenile Justice Council of Iroquois County recently hosted its third annual contest, inviting Iroquois County students to create a written 30-second Public Service Announcement focused on the important topic of teen mental health. This year’s contest was open to both junior high and senior high school students, who could participate individually or as part of a team, class, or organization.
According to information from the council, students were challenged to develop PSAs that promote mental health awareness, encourage positive decision-making, and inspire teens to connect with others and seek help when needed. Entries were due April 3. The submissions were especially powerful, as they reflected the authentic voices and perspectives of youth speaking to their peers and parents about the challenges their generation faces today.
A total of 71 entries were submitted, making the judging process especially competitive. Special thanks go to JJC members from Birth to Five, Harbor House Resale Shoppe, Iroquois-Kankakee Regional Office of Education, Iroquois County Board, Iroquois County Probation Department, Iroquois County Public Health Department, Iroquois County Sheriff’s Department, Iroquois County State’s Attorney Office, Iroquois Memorial Hospital, Iroquois Mental Health Center, the National Guard, WGFA Radio 94.1 FM, as well as parent representatives and student ambassadors, for serving as impartial judges.
This year’s winners are: Central High School – Hailie Renollet; Cissna Park Junior High School – Kelsey Maul; Iroquois West High School – Aubrey Chandler; Iroquois West Middle School – Korbin Breen, Gavin Kollmann, Easton Markley, and Eli Matthews; Milford Grade School – Trenton Clyden, Easton Handy, and Hudson Hill; Milford High School – Owen Baker, Brady Brassard, and Avery Martinez; St. John’s Lutheran School – Vera Vaughn; and Watseka High School – Aspen Eades, Addison Morris, and Betsy Newell.
The winning PSAs addressed a wide range of important topics, including stress and anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, substance use, bullying, coping strategies, and where to find help.
Students had the opportunity to record their winning PSAs either at the WGFA radio station or through a mobile app. These messages will air frequently on WGFA 94.1 FM and The Buckle 96.9 FM throughout May in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.
Beyond having their voices broadcast on the radio and making a meaningful impact in their community, contest winners were each honored with an award certificate and a collection of fun prizes: a family-size bag of Ruffles potato chips (a nod to life’s ups and downs), a can of Mini Doritos (for boldly stepping up and taking it to the next level), a bottle of Sprite (for not bottling things up, but instead encouraging open, free-flowing conversations), and sunglasses.
All 138 student participants, along with their 9 dedicated teachers, were recognized with a Cosmic Brownie (to celebrate the sweetness they shared) and a rubber bracelet. Participating teachers were additionally given a pen, notepad, and a handwritten thank-you note in appreciation of the time and care they invested in addressing this important topic with their students despite their busy schedules.
All contest entries will be featured throughout May as part of TIP the Scale’s Mental Health Awareness social media campaign. Community members are encouraged to follow the TIP the Scale Facebook page to view the creative and meaningful submissions.
The JJC extends its sincere appreciation to the students, teachers, and organization sponsors who contributed to the success of this year’s contest. By sharing their voices, these students are helping to reduce stigma, promote mental wellness, and offer encouragement to peers who may be struggling. When communities come together to support teen mental health, everyone benefits.