Hope Squad is a peer-to-peer suicide prevention program that was recently added to Palo Verde High School in order to reduce teen suicide in ways such as education, training and peer intervention.

They hold their meetings every 2 weeks in the library where they discuss ways to help students. 

In order to become a member of this program, one is nominated by their peers. Members are then trained by trustworthy advisors in order to create an environment where students feel safe. 

Junior, Kate Gorey, said, “I accepted when I got nominated because I thought it would be a great way to get involved with the school while doing something beneficial to help the students in the school and around the community. When I first heard of the idea, I was super excited and wanted to be a part of it before I even got nominated!”

Hope Squad was created to raise a healthier and safer community amongst the Palo Verde community after quarantine. It encourages mental health wellness, anti-bullying, reduced substance abuse and much more. 

Sophomore, Evin Huyghe, said, “it’s okay to not be okay. We understand that mental health is a huge problem that is a lot of the time pushed aside and ignored. We want to do the exact opposite of that, and create connections that can save lives.” 

Hope Squad connects students with mental health resources and has many other processes in order to help with situations, which can be very beneficial to students here at Palo Verde High School.

Senior, Olivia Silverstri, said, “Hope Squad provides students with a defined group of trusted peers who have undergone training on how to respond to those struggling with their mental health. Hope Squad members are trained to give advice and be supportive of Palo students.” 

If you are in a circumstance where you need someone to talk to or to trust, please contact one of their many members (such as Olivia Silvestri, Ella Silvestri, Ethan Kane, Abbie Millman, Evin Huyghe, Kate Gorey, Ethan Hsiao, Kennedy Longley, Sophia Thomas, Ashley Sisco, etc.) or advisors (such as Mr. Mitchell, Ms. Jean, Ms. Nelson, or Ms. Nicholson) either through email or their social media (@pvhshopesquad). Everything is confidential. These people truly care about you and your needs so please don’t be afraid to speak up when you need help.