SALEM – he City of Salem and Mayor Dominick Pangallo’s Office are proud to announce that the Salem Youth Mental Health Task Force (SYMHTF), established in October 2024, will host a series of community events throughout September in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month.
The Salem Youth Mental Health Task Force was created to strengthen collaboration among schools, service providers, families, and community partners in addressing the growing mental health needs of Salem’s young people. By fostering trust, sharing resources, and centering youth and family voices, the Task Force works to create proactive, coordinated solutions that ensure every child and teen has access to the support they need to thrive.
“Addressing youth mental health challenges requires us to come together as a community of providers, caregivers, and leaders,” said Sarah Roy, Director of the Salem Children’s Alliance and Task Force sponsor. “Through the Task Force, we are breaking down silos, building stronger connections, and ensuring that Salem’s youth and families know they are not alone in facing these challenges. These September events are an important opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide meaningful support.”
“The mental health and well-being of our young people is a top priority for Salem.” Mayor Pangallo stated, emphasizing the City’s commitment, “By working collaboratively through the Youth Mental Health Task Force, we are ensuring that families, providers, and community leaders are united in providing the care and resources our youth deserve. Suicide Prevention Month reminds us that every conversation, every connection, and every act of support can save a life.”
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, the SYMHTF will host the following events:
- September 11: Family Dinner at ROOT (invite-only) for families connected to the Pathways Family Resource Center, offering caregivers a chance to relax, enjoy activities, and access information about counseling resources.
- September 18: Community Art Chalking at the Salem Farmers Market (3–7 p.m.), in partnership with The NAN Project, spreading messages of hope and connection while providing suicide prevention resources.
- September 26: Listening Lab with NAGLY (4–6 p.m.), focused on suicide prevention for teens and young adults, with local clinicians offering confidential group support.
- September 29: Self-Care Fair at The Artful Life Counseling Center (6–8 p.m.) for parents and caregivers, providing self-care strategies, access to mental health professionals, and on-site childcare.
Through these efforts, the City of Salem and the Salem Youth Mental Health Task Force reaffirm their shared commitment to addressing youth mental health with compassion, collaboration, and community-wide action.
For more information about the Salem Youth Mental Health Task Force, please contact Sarah Roy, Director of the Salem Children’s Alliance, at sroy@salem.com.
