Gilbert students join statewide Messages of Hope campaign

A group of 11 students from Gilbert-area high schools is participating in Teen Lifeline's annual Messages of Hope campaign, a statewide effort that encourages teenagers to seek help when facing personal challenges.

The students are among 63 participants from 38 Arizona high schools taking part in the campaign during Teen Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September.

Participants include student-athletes, cheerleaders and other student leaders who recorded public service announcement-style videos promoting help-seeking behavior and peer support.

The campaign uses student voices to share messages of encouragement and raise awareness about available mental health resources for teens.

Gilbert participants include:

• Emma Watkins, cheerleader, Campo Verde High School;
• Jonah Lubno, varsity football player, Campo Verde High School;
• Paige Dille, cheerleader, Campo Verde High School;
• Jasmin Guerrero, flag football player, Gilbert High School;
• Paige Broadbent, cheerleader, Highland High School;
• Oakley Dobratz-Blevins, cheerleader, Higley High School;
• Colby Dille, cheerleader, Higley High School;
• Addison Farnsworth, cheerleader, Higley High School;
• Natalia Sanchez, cheerleader, Higley High School;
• Amos Augustine, varsity football player, Perry High School;
• Miyanah Gonzalez, cheerleader, Williams Field High School.

The Messages of Hope campaign began in 2019 and has expanded into a statewide initiative involving students from high schools across Arizona.

Videos recorded by participants are expected to be shared through school, team and student social media channels, and some schools may also feature the messages during campus announcements.

Teen Lifeline, which provides peer-to-peer crisis support for teenagers, traditionally sees increased demand as students return to school in August and September.

The organization operates a year-round hotline and text service for teens seeking support.