Thank you for being interested in making a difference in helping to end youth suicide.  Connor’s Climb Foundation knows that we CAN save lives with education and inspiration, but we need your help to spread the word throughout New Hampshire! 

ABOUT US: 

Connor’s Climb Foundation was formed in 2011 after the tragic death of Connor Ball, a high school first-year student from Exeter, NH (New Hampshire).  His family and friends formed this foundation to ensure that no other family would have to suffer the same loss. The MISSION of the foundation is to provide suicide prevention education to New Hampshire youth and the community.  Our secondary goal is to end the stigma around mental health (#StickItToStigma) so people, young and old, understand that it is OK to talk about it.  

TIMELINE:

A One (1) year Ambassador term starts in September and ends in May.

Option of one (1) or two (2) year term(s)

EDUCATE: 

Connor’s Climb will provide a 60-minute kick-off training session with you, your trusted adult(s), and other teen ambassadors on the magnitude of the problem, the warning signs, and the tools for prevention. Here is an outline of what we will cover:  

• The Problem: Suicide is the SECOND leading cause of death in youth ages 11-17
• The Warning Signs of Suicide (SOS)
• Risk Factors, Warning Signs, and Precipitating Events 
• The Tools to ACT: ACT = Acknowledge, Care, Tell
• Acknowledge: Be there for a friend by acknowledging their pain
• Care: Let the friend know you care by listening and asking questions
• Tell: Never keep a friend’s suicidal thoughts to yourself. No Exceptions. Identify who you can turn to for help and guidance, such as a parent, teacher, coach, or other trusted adult.
• What the goals and expectations are of a youth ambassador for Connor’s Climb Foundation

INSPIRE: 

• Things you can do with friends, your school, and your community.
  • Connor’s Climb will provide each ambassador with a Tool Kit to get started, which will include stickers, information pamphlets, and a Connor’s Climb Ambassador Shirt.
  • Participate in Monthly Mission Challenges such as:
    • End the stigma around mental health by wearing your Connor’s Climb gear loud and proud! Use this gear as an opportunity to start a conversation with your friends and trusted adults about mental health and suicide prevention.

• #StickItToStigma by giving out stickers whenever and wherever it is allowed and appropriate.  Stickers are also an excellent opportunity to start the conversation.

• Follow and Share @ConnorsClimb on Instagram and Facebook to keep track of Connor’s Climb events and information.

• Join every other month Zoom calls with Youth Ambassadors across the state to learn, motivate, and share
• Write a Blog Post
• Participate in Connor’s Climb events virtually or in person
• Create a team for the Annual 5K & Family Fun Walk.
• Host or attend a #StickItToStigma event.

BENEFITS:

• Leadership Development: By becoming a Teen Ambassador, students can develop and strengthen their leadership skills. They will learn how to organize and lead awareness campaigns, events, and activities both within their school and local community.
• Mental Health Education: Ambassadors will receive a comprehensive Tool Kit containing information pamphlets and resources on mental health and suicide prevention. Through participation in monthly mission challenges and Zoom calls with other Youth Ambassadors, they will deepen their understanding of mental health issues and learn practical ways to promote mental wellness among their peers.
• Community Engagement: Ambassadors will actively engage with their peers and community members to promote mental health awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental illness. By participating in Connor’s Climb events, such as the Annual 5K & Family Fun Walk and #StickItToStigma events, they will contribute to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
• Networking Opportunities: Through participation in Zoom calls with Youth Ambassadors across the state, Ambassadors can connect with like-minded peers, share experiences, and learn from each other. This networking can foster friendships, support systems, and future collaborations.
• Community Service Hours: Each hour spent, whether passing out stickers, a zoom call or community event will count and be recorded as community service hours.
• Recognition and Achievement: Ambassadors will be recognized for their dedication and contributions to mental health advocacy. They will have the opportunity to write blog posts sharing their experiences, which can be featured on Connor’s Climb website and social media platforms. Additionally, at the end of their term, Ambassadors can nominate their successor, leaving a legacy and contributing to the program’s growth and sustainability.
• Exclusive Gear: Ambassadors will receive an exclusive Connor’s Climb Ambassador t-shirt, stickers, and other giveaway merch as part of their Tool Kit. This exclusive gear not only serves as a uniform for spreading awareness but also fosters a sense of belonging and pride in being part of Connor’s Climb community.

Overall, participation in the Teen Ambassador program offers high school students a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others while developing valuable skills, building connections, and leaving a lasting impact on their community.