Hope Squad. This name may not mean anything to you but when I read a recent People Magazine article (June 2019) I was inspired to learn more. Hope Squad started over 15 years ago in Utah and is now operating in 18 American States with one branch in Alberta. Its mission is to reduce the number of youth suicides by using a peer to peer based support system. The premise on which the Hope Squad operates is that peers will lean on peers before approaching an adult with their mental health concerns. If we can only educate these peers how to support and direct ‘at risk’ youth to the appropriate resources we will have potentially saved a life. Since the implementation of Hope Squad groups in schools throughout Utah and the greater USA the statistics have been impressive.
Now is the time for Ontario to examine and implement new initiatives, such as the Hope Squad. Our youth are struggling and mental health issues are on the rise. The Hope Squad operates within a school from Grades 4-12 and are the eyes and ears of ‘at risk’ youth. Hope Squad members are nominated by their peers and with the support of their parents become involved in training programs that are age specific. The training program begins in the junior grades with a focus on anti-bullying, compassion and resiliency and then explores stress, stigma and suicide prevention in the senior grades. Through the educational process children learn about connecting with others, inclusion and promote school spirit, all the while encouraging a compassionate and supportive environment.
Below are links to Hope Squad videos and media coverage:
People Magazine Article June 2019
NBC Nightly News Hope Squad
Circles4Hope Community Model
Hope Squad Program
Springville High Hope Squad Member A Peer Based Support System
ABC 4 Utah Hope Squad Elementary
Please contact us if you wish to learn more.
Alter, Stuckler & Associates are a team of registered psychologists and a social worker that provide compassionate psychological care. We have provided service to individuals, couples and families from Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and throughout the Greater Toronto Area for more than 30 years. Have a question for our team? Contact us today.
