Across the United States, mental health challenges among young people are on the rise. And while adults often try to step in, many teens find it too intimidating to ask for help.
That’s why peer-to-peer solutions are so powerful—and why four students at Paulding High School in Ohio are stepping up to lead the way.
Certified in Teen Mental Health First Aid, these high schoolers created “Lunch Chats”, a safe, welcoming space where their peers—especially those who struggle to make friends—can find connection and support without judgment. The goal, they said, “is for kids to have something to look forward to and friends to lean on.”
The impact was immediate. Thirty-five middle and high school students joined the first Lunch Chat and asked for the program to continue.
The compassionate teens behind the Lunch Chats didn’t just wait for students to come to them. Instead, they were proactive, collaborating with guidance counselors to identify students who might benefit most. They also secured a United Way grant to purchase snacks and supplies, ensuring the program would feel as warm and inclusive as they intended.
For many, Lunch Chats have become a lifeline—a place where students find not just social support but also hope. Lead4Change was honored to support the longevity of the project through a $1,000 grant to purchase board games, additional snacks, and other materials to enhance the students’ experiences.
At Lead4Change, we believe in empowering students to drive meaningful change.
Our free leadership program for 6th-12th graders equips educators with a step-by-step playbook to inspire young leaders to take action. Ready to help your students make a difference?