Thanks to the generosity of our donors and funding partners, Elyssa’s Mission provides the Hope Squad program to elementary, middle, and high schools throughout Illinois at no cost. Our team works alongside schools every step of the way—from planning and training to implementation and ongoing support. Hope Squad empowers students to recognize warning signs, encourage help-seeking, and support one another through a peer-to-peer approach. Our goal is to create a culture of connection, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and make suicide prevention a lasting part of each school’s community.
What is Hope Squad?
Hope Squad is a school-based peer-to-peer suicide prevention program that empowers, trains and mentors peer nominated students to perform intentional outreach with fellow students.
Partnership Details
We are proud to bring the Hope Squad program to your school at no cost to your school. As a partner, your school will receive:
- Year-Round Support for new and returning schools, including support during meetings
- Annual Curriculum and Program Support from Hope Squad staff
- T-Shirts for Advisors and Squad Members
- Funding for Hope Week
Partnership Requirements
As an Elyssa’s Mission partner, schools are expected to:
- Actively implement the SOS Program in partnership with Elyssa’s Mission.
- Maintain the integrity of the SOS Program by following program guidelines and implementation requirements.
- Complete all Hope Squad surveys, including:
- Student Pre- and Post-Surveys
- Data Collection Survey
- Advisor End-of-Year Survey
- Complete the Elyssa’s Mission End-of-Year Survey.
- Maintain updated school protocols for responding to:
- A potentially suicidal student
- Bullying
Already an SOS Signs of Suicide Prevention Partner?
Your school is eligible to bring Hope Squad to your school community. Complete our School Intake Form to get started.