In Arizona, much like the rest of the country, student deaths from suicide have increased at an alarming rate — and too many were preventable if only someone had known what to do. 36% of Arizona students have reported feeling hopeless for two weeks or more, and more than one in ten have attempted suicide. Behind every number is a name, a family, and a future that should never have been lost.

We saw a need for leadership — not in title, but in action. As community leaders and educators, we knew that awareness wasn’t enough. Real change required courage, collaboration, and a unified effort between schools, law enforcement, and caring adults. That’s why Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life was created — to empower students to recognize warning signs, to give adults the tools to listen and respond, and to remind everyone that connection can save lives.

Since the first conference, thousands of students, teachers, and law enforcement officers have joined this movement. They’ve turned pain into purpose, isolation into understanding, and silence into action. What began as one event has grown into a statewide call to leadership — proving that together, we can change the culture around mental health and prevention.

We are filled with pride for what we have achieved together. We hope this movement serves as a blueprint for communities across the nation to unite and protect the most precious gift of all — life. There is nothing more important than ensuring our youth have a bright and hopeful future. We invite you to join us, to stand with us, and to Speak Up, Stand Up, and Save a Life.

With determination and hope,
Gina Godbehere, Esq. & Dr. Lily Matos DeBlieux
Co-Founders, Speak Up, Stand Up, Save a Life