Boulder nonprofit prioritizes kids' mental health over holiday toys

In Colorado, a nonprofit organization named Rise Against Suicide has been actively addressing the youth mental health crisis since its inception in 2009. The organization specifically focuses on assisting teenagers aged 12-19 who are experiencing suicidal thoughts. It connects these at-risk youths with free therapy services, ensuring that the care provided is not only timely but also high-quality. Unlike many other organizations, Rise Against Suicide does not accept walk-in clients but rather receives referrals from the Boulder Valley School District and the St. Vrain Valley School District, effectively catering to those who need support while operating within educational environments. Operating out of donated office space in Boulder, the nonprofit employs only four full-time staff members, including Program Director Bill Heaston. Heaston advocates for the notion that mental health is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all. The organization's model emphasizes meeting individuals where they are, including at school, to enhance accessibility for students struggling with their mental health. The rise in cases of youth mental health issues prompted the establishment of such an organization, highlighting the overwhelming demand for effective support systems and immediate mental health care for teens in crisis. Timeliness is a core principle for Rise Against Suicide, which endeavors to provide therapy sessions within 24 to 72 hours of receiving a referral. In a landscape where mental health systems are often overwhelmed and overworked, this urgency speaks to the needs of young people who may otherwise feel abandoned or isolated in their struggles. As part of its outreach, the organization has set up giving trees during the holiday season, which serve as a fundraising initiative that emphasizes the importance of giving the gift of mental health and hope, as well as a reminder of those who are in need of support. Heaston emphasizes that beyond offering immediate care, the organization provides insight into the potential for healing and growth. With a network of 40 therapists, Rise Against Suicide has successfully funded mental health care for over 1,500 children since its establishment, with nearly 400 seeking assistance just last year. This proactive and focused approach has garnered support and testimonials from the community that underscore the importance of such services. By reaching out to vulnerable youth with compassion and timely interventions, Rise Against Suicide aims not just to counter the rising mental health crisis, but to foster resilience and recovery among Colorado's youth, proving that when the community comes together, they can make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling the most.