Hope For The Day (HFTD) is a non-profit striving to change the negative perceptions of mental health. As a Veteran and advocate for mental health awareness myself, what Hope For The Day is doing in their community is beyond inspiring. They’ve created a mental health awareness program that focuses on suicide prevention and provides education on the importance of self-love. At HFTD, 100% of all profits go directly to supporting suicide prevention and awareness projects. With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s an important time to remember: It’s OK Not To Be OK.
The Origin
Founder and CEO Jonathan (Jonny) Boucher, started Hope For The Day in 2011, a year after Mike Scanland, his boss and mentor, died by suicide. Mike was the ninth person Jonny knew to take their own life, so he took action. Hope For The Day is a way to honor everyone Jonny knew who died by suicide.
“If we are going to be proactive about mental health, we must meet people where they are and not where we expect them to be.”
Jonny Boucher
Jonny has brought together a diverse community of survivors, lived experience peer supporters, clinicians, and advocates who all share his sense of urgency. Since 2011, HFTD has been having powerful conversations and enabling individuals to take back their lives.
Mental health is part of the human condition. We all go through highs and lows. It’s important to normalize conversations about mental health so that those in need of relief are comfortable reaching out for help. It’s hard to talk about the pain we feel, but always know, you are not alone.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 800-273-TALK (8255) or through chat available 24/7. You can also text a professional for help with the Crisis Text Line at 741741.