Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas Hope Squad Students
*Photo by Simon Luna Studios*

More than 1,500 students, educators and volunteers from across North Texas gathered April 1–2 for the 4th annual Texas-Sized Peer-to-Peer Youth Mental Health Conference, a two-day event focused on building connection, resilience and life-saving peer support skills.

Hosted by three leading suicide prevention nonprofits—The Grace Loncar Foundation, Grant Halliburton Foundation and The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation—the conference brought together participants from 22 school districts, as well as charter and private schools, representing more than 55 middle and high schools.

Held at the Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual & Performing Arts in Arlington, this year’s conference centered around the theme “Let Hope Rise,” highlighting the power of peer leadership and the importance of creating supportive school communities.

“This conference reflects what’s possible when organizations, schools and students come together around a shared mission—saving lives,” Matt Vereecke, CEO of The Jordan Elizabeth Harris Foundation, said. “The level of participation speaks to the growing commitment across North Texas to support youth mental health and strengthen peer connection.”

Emma Benoit, nationally recognized mental health advocate
*Photo by Simon Luna Studios*

The conference opened with a keynote address from nationally recognized mental health advocate Emma Benoit, whose message resonated deeply with students.

“Stigma around mental health is complex and shows up in many ways,” Benoit said. “For me, it was the idea that someone with a seemingly good life isn’t allowed to struggle or doesn’t have space to suffer. That belief can keep people from asking for help.”

Throughout the event, attendees participated in peer-led breakout sessions, interactive workshops and leadership panels designed to equip them with practical tools to support themselves and others.

“The energy and engagement from students throughout the conference was incredible,” Kevin Hall, president of Grant Halliburton Foundation, said. “You can see the impact when young people feel empowered to support one another.”

Ashley Baker, yoga instructor at BumbleBee Yoga
*Photo by Simon Luna Studios*

Additional programming included special appearances and sessions designed to engage and inspire students, including CHAMP, the Dallas Mavericks mascot, and Fort Worth Opera, which integrated the arts into mental health advocacy.

“When you’re in a situation that feels beyond your control, take time to pause, shift your perspective and take care of yourself,” Allison Moore, co-founder and president of ThriveWay, said. “Focus on what is within your influence and practice gratitude, not just knowing it but truly experiencing it.”

The two-day structure allowed for age-appropriate programming, with high school students attending on April 1 and middle school students on April 2. Students left the conference with tools to recognize signs of emotional distress, support peers, reduce stigma around mental health conversations and strengthen peer-led initiatives within their schools.

“By centering youth voices and fostering meaningful connection, this conference continues to play a critical role in building safer, more compassionate school communities across North Texas,” Jennifer Eckert, executive director of The Grace Loncar Foundation, said.

To learn more about the partner organizations, visit graceloncarfoundation.com, granthalliburton.org, and jordanelizabethharrisfoundation.org.

Conference sponsors include:

Title Sponsor