AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire and Monadnock Community Hospital Bring Hope Squad to ConVal Schools

Manchester, N.H. — The size and scope of the impact of suicide on young people in New Hampshire is heartbreaking.

Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people between the ages of 10 and 24 in the state. And the prevalence of New Hampshire high schoolers who have seriously considered suicide has been on the rise for the past two decades.

Behavioral health support can offer a lifeline to children at risk of self-harm. That is why AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire and Monadnock Community Hospital are teaming up to bring the Hope Squad program to Contoocook Valley (ConVal) School District to help increase outreach and access to students most at risk.

Hope Squad is a peer-driven program that empowers its peer-elected student members to be a resource for classmates who may be struggling emotionally. ConVal Schools will be the first district in the Granite State to roll out Hope Squad.

"The Hope Squad at South Meadow School is taking off with amazing support from students and families. With student-led committees, kids are stepping up, taking responsibility, and really feeling like they belong,” said Tim Conway, principal of South Meadow School. “It has been great to see our student leaders grow into mentors, creating a strong, supportive community. The energy is contagious—they’re always eager to learn, connect, and do more. Huge shoutout to the students/advisors for their incredible leadership in making this program such a success!"

School staff members, who are certified Hope Squad Advisors, train and guide student members on how to best look out for their peers. Those students can refer peers in need of emotional support to their advisors, who work through the school’s partnership with Monadnock Community Hospital.

“We hope bringing Hope Squad, with its proven track record of connecting kids with resources at times when they truly need them, to New Hampshire will save lives,” said Bill Keena, AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire Market President.

AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire and Monadnock Community Hospital are funding the implementation of the program and ongoing training for advisors in the ConVal School District. Additionally, AmeriHealth Caritas New Hampshire associates, who are also Hope Squad Master Trainers, will provide ongoing coaching and resources for school advisors.

“As we continue to prioritize the well-being of our community, this collaboration with ConVal High School and the Hope Squad program represents a vital step in creating a safe, supportive environment for our youth,” said Cynthia McGuire, President and CEO of Monadnock Community Hospital. “By empowering students to take an active role in mental health awareness and suicide prevention, we are helping to foster a culture of empathy, connection, and resilience. Monadnock Community Hospital is committed to the long-term mental wellness of the ConVal community, and we are proud to be a part of this transformative initiative.”

Hope Squad launched in 2004, and there are currently 1,700 squads across the U.S. and Canada. Researchers showed the program helps reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health support.