Arkansas Crisis Center is launching AR Teen Connect, a new program designed to expand mental health support for Arkansas youth by connecting teens with peer support to prevent mental health crises. The initiative aims to intervene before youth reach crisis points rather than waiting for calls to the 988 crisis hotline.
Joshua Gonzalez, chairman of the Arkansas Crisis Center Board of Directors, explained the program’s preventive philosophy: “We want 988 to be there as that final measure. But I don’t believe that people should have to get to that point with the amount of resources we have, and we can get people before that point. And that’s what ultimately we’re trying to do, is have that upstream measure.” The program will roll out in early 2026, with announcements coming through ACC’s social media channels.
Support and Ongoing Services
The Arkansas Crisis Center continues to offer 24/7 crisis support during the holidays through its hotline—available by call or text at 988. The program has been made possible through a grant from the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas. Teens interested in joining Arkansas Crisis Center’s Youth Advisory Board of Directors can apply through the organization’s website.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.thv11.com/article/news/local/arkansas-crisis-center-new-mental-health-program-teens/91-759b8783-681e-475d-94d6-14236260d8fb